skip to content

Refine results


Search by

Search by Algolia
Law Handbook banner image

The verdict

After hearing all of the evidence and the addresses, the Magistrate has the duty (without referring to anyone else) to decide whether the defendant is guilty. The magistrate may adjourn the case to consider whether the defendant is guilty or not, but in many cases the decision is given straight away.

If there is any reasonable doubt about whether the defendant is guilty, the defendant is given the benefit of that doubt and found not guilty, the charge is dismissed.

If satisfied beyond reasonable doubt that the defendant is guilty, the magistrate will find the charge proved and will then consider what penalty should be imposed, see The Sentencing Process (and following sub-sections discussing the matters affecting sentences etc).

The verdict  :  Last Revised: Tue Jan 5th 2016
The content of the Law Handbook is made available as a public service for information purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for legal advice. See Disclaimer for details. For free and confidential legal advice in South Australia call 1300 366 424.