Criminal courts
Crown Court
Types of cases the Crown Court deals with
A Crown Court deals with serious criminal cases, for example:
- murder
- rape
- robbery
It also deals with:
- appeals against a magistrates’ court conviction or sentence
- cases passed from a magistrates’ court for trial or sentencing
You can see what cases a court is hearing each day and check their progress on the court lists.
Who does what in the court
A Crown Court:
- normally has a jury - which decides if you’re guilty or not
- has a judge - who decides what sentence you get
Your solicitor (if you have one) can explain what happens in court - the judge and court staff will also give instructions about the trial.
Sentences a Crown Court can give
A Crown Court can give a range of sentences including:
- community sentences
- prison sentences - including life sentences
Appealing a sentence or conviction
If you disagree with the Crown Court’s verdict, you may be able to appeal.