Marlborough Street: The story of a London court

Marlborough Street Court was once referred to as "the most troublesome court over which a magistrate is called upon to preside." There Oscar Wilde took the first steps in the litigation which led to his downfall, and there Prince Louis Napoleon attended--as a victim--in between attempts to establish his second empire. Its difficult reputation stemmed largely from the fame, power and influence of those likely to put in an appearance in or out of dock. But the everyday characters are just as colourful with their dramatic, sad and sometimes hilarious tales. Soho's refugees and emigres, imported Belgian and French prostitutes and (latterly) the world's shoplifters have ensured its place as the most cosmopolitan of magistrate's courts.