petty sessions

American  

noun

English Law.

1. a court of summary jurisdiction for minor offenses that is held without a jury.

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petty sessions British  

noun

1. (functioning as singular or plural) another term for magistrates' court

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

petty sessions

As it was market day, the magistrates were holding their usual petty sessions.

From Christmas Stories by Edward Berens

Then they should appoint petty sessions for the signing of certificates at such times and places that the royal officers may attend and be heard.

From Bygone Cumberland and Westmorland by Daniel Scott

Now, in the report of the trial at assizes in 1830 there is not one word about the 'ghost,' though he is conspicuous in the hearing at petty sessions.

From The Valet's tragedy, and other studies by Andrew Lang

They were sold at once, and with the proceeds she built a village market-house and a room for the magistrate's petty sessions.

From Maria Edgeworth by Helen Zimmern

The principal solicitor, Mr. Stork, was clerk of the petty sessions and registrar.

From A Book of Ghosts by S. (Sabine) Baring-Gould