This book details changes to 'summary justice' in the lower tier magistrates' courts in England and Wales. It contextualises these within notions of modernisation and economic efficiency, and critically analyses whether 'procedural due process' is being challenged. It incorporates empirical research with magistrates and appraises 'lay justice' in this changing environment.

Preface

1. Introduction

2. Transformations to Lower Court Summary Justice

3. The Magistrates' Courts, Magistrates and Lay Justice

4. Magistrates, Motivations and Contributions to Justice

5. Magistrates' Courts, Modernisation and the Future

6. Social Justice Meets Criminal Justice

7. Conclusion

Jennifer Ward is a Senior Lecturer in Criminology of the School of Law at Middlesex University, London.