Explain how classification of offences is done in the first hearing before the magistrates' court under English law.

In the first hearing before the Magistrates' Court under English law, the classification of offenses is done based on the seriousness of the offense. Offenses in England and Wales are divided into two categories: summary offenses and either-way offenses. Summary offenses are the least serious type of offense and are dealt with by the Magistrates' Court. Examples of summary offenses include minor traffic offenses, disorderly conduct, and minor theft. At the first hearing, the court will determine whether the accused should be released on bail or detained in custody. If the accused pleads guilty, the court may proceed to sentence at the first hearing. If the accused pleads not guilty, the court will set a date for a trial. Either-way offenses are more serious than summary offenses and can be dealt with either by the Magistrates' Court or the Crown Court, depending on the circumstances of the case. Examples of either-way offenses include assault causing actual bodily harm, theft, and fraud. At the first hearing, the court will consider the circumstances of the case and the nature of the offense when determining whether the case should be dealt with by the Magistrates' Court or the Crown Court. If the case is to be dealt with by the Magistrates' Court, the court will determine whether the accused should be released on bail or detained in custody. If the case is to be dealt with by the Crown Court, the court will set a date for a trial and the accused may be remanded in custody or released on bail. In conclusion, the classification of offenses in the first hearing before the Magistrates' Court under English law is done based on the seriousness of the offense. Summary offenses are the least serious type of offense and are dealt with by the Magistrates' Court, while either-way offenses can be dealt with either by the Magistrates' Court or the Crown Court, depending on the circumstances of the case.