They are representitive and have more knowledge of the local community
There are hardly any successful appeals which show that the right decision is made
A bench of three allows an unbias, balanced opinion
1 of 3
Disadvantages of magistrates? (5)
They take longer to come to a decision because they have to discuss it in a bench of three and rely on the court clerk
Too reliant of the police version of events
Some magistrates become 'case hardened' so does not base decision on merits
Magistrates are criticised for inconsistancy of sentencing for the same crime in different areas
Some are unrepresentitive of local community (normally middle-aged, middle-class men)
2 of 3
What does 'case hardened' mean?
Magistrates see the same types of cases on a regular basis so may hear same defences or excuses. This means that they don't judge a case purely on its own merits.
Comments
No comments have yet been made