How are defendants treated by the magistrates’ courts? Are they able to effectively participate in their hearings?

This report, based on observations of over 2,300 hearings in London magistrates’ courts, examines defendant treatment and participation in magistrates’ court proceedings.

As part of the second round of our CourtWatch London project, volunteer observers (courtwatchers) gathered extensive data on the prevalence and impact of legal representation, interpreters, video links, and the secure dock. They also noted how court professionals communicated with defendants – were they stern or solicitous? Did judges and magistrates pause to ask questions, or rush through?

While there were many examples of great practice, this report finds that judges and court professionals do not consistently treat defendants with respect, nor support them to understand and participate in their court hearings. We set out how this approach could be improved through developing professional standards, training and by increasing scrutiny.