A mention hearing, shown on court lists as "for mention" or "mention", is a short hearing used to deal with a specific point in a case before the trial or sentence. It is not a trial and no evidence is heard. It exists so that a problem or a decision does not have to wait for the next big hearing.
Why a case is listed for mention
Common reasons include:
- A change to bail conditions, or a bail application.
- A problem with the timetable, such as evidence that has not been served or a witness who is not available.
- An application by either side, for example to adjourn the trial, to add or drop a charge, or to decide whether a piece of evidence can be used.
- Checking that a case is ready for trial, sometimes called a readiness hearing or a further case management hearing.
- A change of plea. A defendant who wants to plead guilty before the trial date can ask for the case to be listed for mention so the plea can be entered.
- Sentencing matters, such as whether a pre-sentence report is ready.
The court can list a case for mention of its own accord, or either side can ask for one.
Do I have to attend?
Usually yes, unless the court has said that your attendance is excused. The daily list sometimes shows "defendant excused" or "attendance not required". If you are on bail and in doubt, go: failing to attend a hearing you were required to attend is an offence and can lead to a warrant. If you are in custody you will normally appear by video link from prison.
How long it takes
Mention hearings are often listed in a block at the start of the day, for example at 10am with several cases together, and each may take only a few minutes. You may still wait an hour or more for your case to be called. The daily list may give a short time estimate, such as "mention (15 mins)".
What happens on the day
Your advocate will tell the judge what the issue is and what order is sought. The other side responds. The judge decides, and may give directions with dates. You will usually be asked to confirm your name and that you understand any bail conditions. You will not normally be asked questions about the case itself.
What to do beforehand
- Make sure your solicitor knows about the hearing and whether you need to attend.
- If you want something raised, such as a change to your bail conditions, tell your solicitor well before the day so an application can be prepared.
- Bring your court letter and ID.
Mention versus other hearings
- A plea hearing or PTPH is where you enter your plea.
- A pre-trial review checks readiness for trial.
- A mention is for anything else that needs a judge's attention between hearings.
On the daily list a mention normally appears with the courtroom, the judge, a time, and your case reference, in the same way as any other hearing.
This is general information for England and Wales, not legal advice. Speak to a solicitor about your own case.