Five defendants are appearing on the same day in the magistr…
Five defendants are appearing on the same day in the magistrates’ court jointly charged with burglary of commercial premises. Each of the defendants is intending to plead not guilty. None of them has previous convictions. Having heard the prosecution case and consulted the relevant sentencing guidelines, the district judge has formed the view that although the offence crosses the custody threshold, the magistrates’ court’s sentencing powers are sufficient to deal with each defendant should they be convicted. What is the best approach for the district judge to take to the allocation (mode of trial) hearing?