Criminal matters in the Magistrate Court primarily involve Summary Offences, which are less serious crimes resolved efficiently without a jury. Common examples of these include offences such as, minor assault, disorderly conduct, and harm. The court also manages the preliminary stages of more serious Indictable Offences, such as sexual offences, murder and large illegal drugs matter where the Magistrate determines if there is sufficient evidence to send the matter to the High Court. The Court daily deals with bail Applications to determine if a defendant can be released before trial. Furthermore, the court facilitates the Appeals process, allowing a defendant to challenge a judgement or conviction.
