Going to Norwich Magistrates' Court for the first time

Most people who appear at Norwich Magistrates' Court have never been to a court before. Knowing what to expect takes a lot of the stress out of the day.

Where to go

Norwich Magistrates' Court is on Bishopgate, Norwich NR3 1UP. It's about 15 minutes' walk from Norwich rail station. Public car parks at St Andrew's and Rose Lane are within five minutes.

Arrive at least 30 minutes before your hearing time. There is airport-style security on entry — leave anything sharp at home.

What you'll need

Bring:

• Photo ID (passport or driving licence)
• Your court summons or charge sheet
• A list of your monthly income and outgoings (in case of a fine)
• Your solicitor's contact details if not already instructed

Who'll be in court

A typical Magistrates' Court hearing involves:

• Three lay magistrates (or a single District Judge) on the bench
• A legal advisor (formerly clerk) who advises on points of law
• The prosecutor — usually a CPS lawyer or police prosecutor
• Your solicitor (if you have one)
• The usher who calls cases and manages the courtroom

The public gallery may be occupied by friends, family, journalists or others waiting for their own cases.

What happens at a first hearing

For most offences your first hearing is short — often under 15 minutes. The court will:

1. Confirm your identity (name, address, date of birth)
2. Read the charge to you
3. Ask you to enter a plea — guilty, not guilty, or "no plea" if more information is needed
4. Decide on bail (unconditional, conditional, or remand in custody)
5. Set a date for the next hearing if needed

If you plead guilty to a simple offence, you may be sentenced the same day. For more serious offences or contested matters, the case will be adjourned for trial preparation.

Dress code

There isn't a formal dress code, but smart and respectful is the right pitch. Imagine attending an important interview.

What you'll be asked

The magistrates may want to hear:

• Your personal circumstances (employment, family)
• Any health issues relevant to the case
• Your means (for any fine or compensation order)

This is where a solicitor's mitigation can make a real difference to the sentence.

After the hearing

You'll either leave the court (with or without conditions), receive a summons for a future date, or — in serious cases — be taken into custody. Whatever the outcome, ask your solicitor to explain clearly what just happened and what comes next. Don't be afraid to ask the court usher to repeat anything.