What comes before the magistrates court?

Before cases reach the magistrates' court, they typically begin with a police investigation, where evidence is gathered and charges may be formulated. Following this, the case may go through a preliminary hearing or a police station interview, where suspects can be questioned. In some instances, cases may also involve a decision by the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to determine if there is sufficient evidence to proceed. If the case is deemed to have merit, it is then brought before the magistrates' court for initial hearings and determinations.