Ringwood Magistrates' Court — practical guide

• Read the charge sheet, summons or notice carefully and note the listed date, time and venue.
• If you have not already, obtain legal advice before the listing date.
• Consider whether a diversion, plea negotiation or bail variation should be raised.
• Arrange character references from people who know you well and can speak to your circumstances.
• If you are attending in support, plan travel and arrival together.

• Photo identification.
• Original charge sheet, summons, notice to appear or bail notice.
• Any police brief of evidence provided.
• Character references, medical or psychological reports.
• A pen and notebook — proceedings are not routinely recorded for you.

Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before the listed start time. Court screening queues can be long, particularly at the start of a sitting day. Being present when your matter is called avoids adverse inferences and, in some cases, warrants for arrest.

• Dress neatly and conservatively.
• Remove hats and sunglasses inside the courtroom.
• Silence your phone; do not record proceedings.
• Stand when the Magistrate enters and leaves the courtroom.
• Address the Magistrate as 'Your Honour'.

• Do not consume alcohol or drugs before court.
• Do not bring prohibited items — they will be confiscated at security.
• Do not interrupt the Magistrate, prosecutor or your own lawyer.
• Do not approach the other party, complainant or witnesses in the precinct.
• Do not post about the matter on social media.

• Is diversion a realistic option for this charge?
• What is a realistic sentencing range on a plea of guilty?
• What evidence is likely to be led against me if I plead not guilty?
• What character references or reports would help?
• What are the likely licence, employment or travel consequences?

If you have been charged, served with an intervention order application, or issued a court date, do not wait until the day of court to seek advice. Contact Holt & Macdonald’s Ringwood office and see our Criminal & Traffic Charges page. For a fuller explanation of what happens on the day, read our companion article What to expect at Ringwood Magistrates’ Court.