The book examines how magistrates are appointed; what they are empowered to do; how their courts are organized and operated; the kinds of matters they deal with, such as criminal offenses, traffic matters and civil work (notably in family matters); how they assess evidence and decide what to accept as true; how they decide whether defendants should be released on bail or kept in custody; the sentences they may impose and how they endeavor to make the punishment fit the crime. Specific aspects of magistrates' professional lives and responsibilities that are detailed in the book include: initial training; the cost of the system; legal advisers, lawyers, and the probation service; the statutory framework of magistrates' courts; out-of-court duties; criminal proceedings, including sentencing; road traffic offenses; making decisions, including the standard of proof; legal advice and assistance; proposals for reform; and life as a magistrate. Index