The investigator, often the police, takes statements and collects evidence to be used in criminal prosecutions.

We will go ahead with a prosecution if we can answer yes to two questions.  

If  charges are laid, the defendant will be notified of the charge, they could be sent a summons and the date...

At a committal hearing, a magistrate will listen to the evidence and decide if it’s enough for the defendant to be...

There is no jury and the magistrate makes all the decisions and judgments.      

A trial takes place before a judge and a jury.

After someone has been found guilty, the judge or magistrate will decide the appropriate penalty.

A defendant may lodge an appeal against being found guilty and/or against the sentence.