Single Justice Procedure explained: what to do if you get a notice
Short answer: The Single Justice Procedure (SJP) is a way for a single magistrate to deal with minor offences on paper, without a hearing in a courtroom. If you receive an SJP notice, read it carefully and respond by the date it gives. Ignoring it can lead to the case being decided without your side.
Many people first meet the criminal courts through a letter, not a courtroom. If you have received a Single Justice Procedure notice, you may feel confused or worried. This page explains what the procedure is, what to do next and how its lists work.
What the Single Justice Procedure is
The Single Justice Procedure, usually shortened to SJP, lets a single magistrate, supported by a legal adviser, deal with certain minor offences. Rather than attending a courtroom, the case is decided on paper, using the information you send and the prosecution’s evidence.
It is meant for cases where the person charged is an adult, the offence is minor and there is no prison sentence for it. It saves time for the courts and for the people involved.
Which offences are dealt with this way
Examples include some minor traffic offences, such as certain speeding cases, and some fare evasion cases. The exact range can change, and your notice will say what you are accused of. We do not give a full list here, because it can change.
What to do if you receive a notice
- Read it all. It explains the charge, the date by which you must respond and how to do it.
- Respond on time. Use the method in the notice. Even if you plead guilty, you should still respond.
- Decide your plea. If you are guilty, you can often say so and explain your circumstances. If you are not, you can plead not guilty and the case will be dealt with in court.
- Give your financial details, if asked. The court uses them to decide any fine.
- Keep a copy of everything you send, and note the date.
- Get advice if you are unsure. A solicitor or advice charity can help.
What happens next
| If you… | Then… |
|---|---|
| Plead guilty | A magistrate considers the papers and decides the penalty, usually without you attending |
| Plead not guilty | The case is moved to a court hearing and a date is set |
| Do not respond | The case may be decided without hearing from you |
Penalties can include a fine, penalty points on your driving licence and costs. The notice and any later letter will tell you the amount and how to pay.
What an SJP list is
Although the cases are not heard in public, the court publishes lists so that the process is open to scrutiny. SJP lists can include a case reference and a short description of the offence. They are published on the official service. Names can be limited, and this website never shows them.
| Column | What it tells you |
|---|---|
| Case reference | Identifies the case |
| Offence | A short description of the alleged offence |
Why you might not find your case
SJP cases appear on different lists from ordinary hearings, and they may not be listed at all in some situations. Read why isn’t my case listed? if you cannot find yours. Follow your notice and contact the court if you are unsure. Never rely on a website to decide whether you have to respond.
If you disagree or want to explain
You can explain your situation in writing. If you think you are innocent, plead not guilty. If something has gone wrong, such as you did not receive a letter, contact the court and a solicitor straight away.
For journalists
SJP cases are decided without a public hearing, so reporters rely on lists and requests to the court. Check reporting rules, and read our guide for court reporters.
More help
If your case goes to court, read what to expect at a magistrates’ court and going to court as a defendant. Compare other lists on our list types page, and see the magistrates’ courts directory.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to go to court for a Single Justice Procedure case?
Usually not. The case is decided on paper by a single magistrate. You respond using the method in your notice, and you may be told if you need to attend. Always follow the instructions you receive.
What happens if I ignore a Single Justice Procedure notice?
The court can decide the case without hearing from you, which may lead to a conviction and penalty. Respond by the date in the notice, even if you plead guilty or want to explain your situation.
Can I ask for a court hearing instead?
In many cases you can say that you want your case dealt with in court. Your notice explains your options. If you are unsure, ask a solicitor or an advice charity.
Can the public see Single Justice Procedure cases?
The cases are decided without a public hearing, but the court publishes lists so that the process is transparent. The press can ask the court for details.