Magistrates Sentencing Guidelines
When you plead guilty or you are convicted the Magistrates then decide what sentence to impose.
They are guided by the court clerk in relation to their sentencing guidelines and after hearing the full facts of your case they decide on the appropriate sentence.
In relation to road traffic offences the Magistrates normally impose fines, court costs and penalty points.
The fine is dependant on the seriousness of the offence and your disposable income.
The court costs are dependant on how quickly the proceedings are resolved and whether or not you have a trial. If the case is resolved without a trial and you plead guilty at the first hearing the court costs will be a lot cheaper than if you have a trial.
