These are mainly about saving money. Ministers who previously opposed the bill say they have changed their minds because there is now a right of appeal against the magistrates' decision on venue. The Government argues that waiting for Crown Court hearings is distressing for witnesses and victims. One practical outcome of hearing more serious or complex cases in Magistrates' Courts is that cases could actually take longer to resolve. In any event there are also delays in hearings in Magistrates' Courts, and these are increasing.
Magistrates often sit for only half a day or one day a week.
Trials that over-run will have to be rescheduled at a time and date that the same three Magistrates are available. This will be just as distressing for victims. The right of appeal that is to be introduced for those objecting to the Magistrates' decision on venue will also lead to delays. Even an appeal to a single Crown Court judge will take time and is likely to delay listing of the case in the Magistrates' Courts. Additional delays for witnesses and victims will occur where defendants found guilty in Magistrates' Courts appeal for a re-hearing in the Crown Court.