OZKES, Aydin

Mention hearings are used to keep the case on track. They ensure both the prosecution and defense are complying with court timetables, preventing unnecessary delays on the trial day.

In some instances, if the defendant is represented by a solicitor or barrister, the court may excuse their personal attendance for purely administrative mention hearings. You must confirm this with your legal representative.

For a single summary/either-way offence, magistrates can sentence a defendant to a maximum of 6 months in prison (or up to 12 months for multiple either-way offences), alongside unlimited fines and community orders.

Magistrates are trained volunteers from the local community who sit in panels of three. A District Judge is a qualified legal professional who sits alone. Both have the same sentencing powers.

It is an offence to drive, attempt to drive, or be in charge of a motor vehicle on a public road or place after consuming so much alcohol or drugs that the proportion in your breath, blood, or urine exceeds the prescribed limit.

Dealt with in the Magistrates' Court. Penalties include a mandatory minimum 12-month driving disqualification (36 months for a second offence within 10 years), an unlimited fine, community service, or up to 6 months imprisonment.

Engaging in a course of conduct (on at least two occasions) that causes alarm, distress, or fear of violence to another person, knowing or ought to know it amounts to harassment.

Summary harassment carries up to 6 months imprisonment and/or a fine. If the harassment causes fear of violence, or is racially or religiously motivated, it is triable either way and carries a maximum of 5 to 14 years imprisonment.