Book excerpt: The new edition of the bestselling Blackstone's Magistrates' Court Handbook provides a complete, trustworthy practical guide for the busy practitioner. Covering all the key aspects of magistrates' court practice, the book focuses on the areas most likely to arise at short notice requiring an instant response from the advocate, as well as on those offences most frequently experienced at court, such as assault, public order, dishonesty, drugs, weapons, driving, criminal damage, and sexual offences. Blackstone's Magistrates' Court Handbook's easy-to-use pocket-sized format facilitates quick reading and instant decision-making. Tables, flow-charts, and a clear system of icons aid comprehension and speedy navigation. Users are signposted to the relevant sentencing guidelines for each offence, allowing for prompt access to the up-to-date guideline online. Cross-referencing to Blackstone's Criminal Practice 2024 provides you with easy access to in-depth commentary.