County Courts

The County Courts deal with all except the most complicated and the most simple civil cases (including most matters under the value of £5000), such as claims for repayment of debts, breach of contract involving goods or property, personal injury, family issues (including adoption and divorce), housing issues (including recovery of mortgage and rent arrears, and re-possession), and enforcement of previous County Court judgments. Cases are heard by a judge, without a jury. Decisions of the County Courts may be appealed to the appropriate Division of the High Court.

Crown Court

The Crown Court deals with indictable criminal cases that have been transferred from the Magistrates’ Courts, including hearing of serious criminal cases (such as murder, rape and robbery), cases sent for sentencing, and appeals. Cases are heard by a judge and a jury. Decisions of the Crown Court may be appealed to the Criminal Division of the Court of Appeal.

Magistrates’ Courts

The Magistrates’ Courts deal with summary criminal cases and committals to the Crown Court, with simple civil cases including family proceedings courts and youth courts, and with licensing of betting, gaming and liquor. Cases are normally heard by either a panel of 3 magistrates or by a District Judge, without a jury. Criminal decisions of the Magistrates’ Courts may be appealed to the Crown Court. Civil decisions may be appealed to the County Courts.

Tribunals Service

The Tribunals Service makes decisions on matters including asylum, immigration, criminal injuries compensation, social security, education, employment, child support, pensions, tax and lands. Decisions of the Tribunals Service may be appealed to the appropriate Division of the High Court.