What Happens at Birmingham Crown Court

The Crown Court at Birmingham deals with serious criminal cases including fraud, violent crime, drugs trafficking, and cases sent from the magistrates' court. This guide explains what happens from the first hearing through to trial and sentencing.

The Crown Court at Birmingham

The Crown Court at Birmingham sits at 1 Newton Street, Birmingham B4 7NA. Cases are heard by a judge and jury. The judge decides questions of law; the jury decides the facts and returns the verdict.

First hearing (Plea and Trial Preparation Hearing)

The first Crown Court hearing is the Plea and Trial Preparation Hearing (PTPH). You will be asked to enter a plea. If you plead not guilty, a trial date is fixed and a timetable is set for service of evidence. David attends the PTPH and advises on the plea.

Trial preparation

David reviews all prosecution evidence, advises on the strength of the case and the available defences, instructs expert witnesses where needed, and works with counsel to prepare the defence case for trial.

Trial and sentencing

David stays with you throughout the trial, instructs and supports counsel, and ensures all available defence points are raised. If convicted, David argues for the lowest appropriate sentence.

Common questions

Do I need a solicitor and a barrister at the Crown Court?

In Crown Court cases, a solicitor (David Roy) instructs a barrister to present the case in court. David remains with you throughout and you deal with him directly at all times.

Is legal aid available at the Crown Court?

Legal aid is available for most Crown Court cases, subject to a means test and a merits test.

What happens if I am convicted at the Crown Court?

The judge will sentence you, either at the same hearing or after a pre-sentence report. David makes sentencing submissions and ensures the court has full information about your personal circumstances.

How long does a Crown Court trial take?

Crown Court trials vary considerably in length. A straightforward trial may be heard in a day or two. Complex cases can last weeks or months.