Do You Need a Lawyer at a Clerk Magistrate Hearing?

Yes—if you’re serious about avoiding criminal charges.

Clerk magistrate hearings, often called “show cause” hearings, decide whether a criminal complaint will issue against you. The outcome of this hearing can mean the difference between staying off the criminal record and facing public prosecution.

An attorney does more than argue on your behalf. A good lawyer can:
- Challenge whether probable cause exists.
- Cross-examine the complainant or officer.
- Present favorable facts or mitigating context.
- Negotiate informal resolutions that keep charges from issuing.

Many people make the mistake of showing up alone, thinking the hearing isn’t serious. But the magistrate’s decision can follow you for years. If a complaint issues, it becomes part of your criminal history—even if the case is later dismissed.

At my firm, I handle these hearings regularly. I know what clerks are looking for, and I can help keep the matter out of court.

If you’ve received a summons for a show cause hearing, contact me. This may be your only chance to resolve things quietly—and successfully.