Being charged with a crime
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If you’re charged with a crime you’ll be given a ‘charge sheet’. This sets out the details of the crime you’re being charged with.
The police will decide if you:
- can be released from police custody until the court hearing - but you might have to follow certain rules, known as ‘bail’
- are kept in police custody until you’re taken to court for your hearing
Your first court hearing after you’re charged with a crime will be at a magistrates’ court - even if your trial will be at a Crown Court later on.
If you’re charged with a minor offence your case could be decided without going to court (‘single justice procedure’). If you get a single justice procedure notice you must respond within 21 days.
There are different rules if you’re charged with a crime in Scotland or charged with a crime in Northern Ireland.
Young people
If you’re under 18, your first hearing will usually be at a youth court.
If you’re under 17, the police must arrange for you to be held in local authority accommodation...
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