Are criminal case files public record?

Are criminal case files public record?

The public is allowed to look at court records for most cases. However, there are some court records the public is not allowed to see. This happens when a law or court order makes a record confidential. Court records for these cases are not available to the public.

What is the maximum sentence in a Crown Court?

If sentenced in the Crown Court the maximum sentence is 5 years’ imprisonment and/or a fine.

What kind of cases go to Crown Court?

A Crown Court deals with serious criminal cases, for example:murder.rape.robbery.

Can anyone go to Crown Court to watch?

The Crown Court almost always sits in public. As a general rule you will be able to gain access to any of the Crown Court rooms but be careful. The Crown Court often sits in a Combined Court Centre, i.e. a building where the Crown Court and County Court sits together. You should only try to enter Crown Court cases.

Is Crown Court higher than magistrates?

Virtually all criminal court cases start in a magistrates’ court, and around 95% will be completed there. The more serious offences are passed on to the Crown Court, either for sentencing after the defendant has been found guilty in a magistrates’ court, or for full trial with a judge and jury.

Can you sit in a court hearing?

As long as you are dressed reasonably and don’t create a disturbance, you may generally observe the proceedings in any courtroom. The exception would be courts that are hearing juvenile matters, some family law matters, and any other case in which the judge has decided to close the courtroom.