We are pleased to announce the release of another comprehensive step-by-step guide for Western Australian practitioners, being Criminal Magistrates Court WA .

This publication covers all aspects of criminal practice and procedure, for both simple and indictable offences, when acting for the defendant in criminal proceedings in the Magistrates Court.

The guide assists practitioners with all aspects of conducting a criminal matter from arrest and bail, or a first appointment in the office, through to hearing and/or sentencing, including avenues of appeal and possible costs applications. The commentary is practical and easy to understand, with numerous helpful precedents and all current Magistrates Court forms included.

Key content includes:

• Law and procedures relating to arrest and bail, including the right to silence, the record of interview and practical tips for lawyers attending at the police station. Retainer instructions, including for a bail application, are included on the matter plan.
• Practical guidance in preparing for court, with detailed commentary on analysing the charge and conducting plea negotiations. Precedent letters to the Crown are included on the matter plan for this purpose, as well as an instruction sheet for a plea and mitigation.
• Procedures involved when attending court for both simple and indictable matters, pre-sentence reports and conducting the plea.
• Preparing for hearing when a plea of not guilty has been entered.
• Sentencing options and procedure for guilty pleas in the Magistrates Court.
• Client mental health considerations, with a letter instruction to a psychiatrist or psychologist.
• Example written submissions on sentence are included on the matter plan.
• Information on appeal rights.

This guide is a valuable tool for all practitioners who appear in the Magistrates Court, especially those with limited experience in criminal work, or those supervising younger lawyers.