3. WHAT IS A MAGISTRATE?
Magistrates’ are un paid volunteers, also known as
justice of the peace. They come from all walks of life
and serve in Magistrates Courts across England and
Wales and are a representation of the community they
serve in.
4. WHAT CASES DO THEY
HEAR?
A Magistrate generally deals with 3 types of cases:
Civil matters – These usually include dealing with disputes
between organizations such as personal injuries, bankruptcy,
breach of contract or breach of contract.
Family matters – these include cases involving divorce, child
protection and custody battles.
criminal matters – these are cases where a crime has been
committed including rape, murder and robbery.
90-95% of these cases will start in a Magistrates court. The
most serious crimes, e.g. murder, rape and robbery are
passed to Crown Court.
5. CAN YOU BE A MAGISTRATE?
To become a magistrate you can be mixed in gender, aged
between 18 and 70, you must have a broad experience of
life and you must be available to sit at least 26 half day
court sittings a year!
You must must also posses these 6 qualities:
Good character
Understanding and communication
Social awareness
Sound judgment
Commitment and reliability
6. WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?
You do not need any formal qualifications and a
legal clerk will
All of your expenses are paid for.
You receive FREE training.
You will have the chance to make a difference as
well as having a broader knowledge of your
community!
Develop an understanding of your community.
Helping make your community safer.
7. WANT TO KNOW MORE?
Just watch this short clip on the magistrates’ court, it
tells you everything you need to know!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WeNDacwO5NA
8. GOOD TO KNOW..
Before you make a decision it is advised that you visit
a magistrates’ court and observe at least one court
sitting, to help you decide if this is the job for you!
Also you cannot become a magistrate if you have
been convicted of a serious offence.
9. HOW TO APPLY!
Applying is easy! All you need to go is visit the GOV.uk website and
fill out an application form:
https://www.gov.uk/become-magistrate/apply-to-be-a-magistrate
OR
You can apply through the advisory committee for your local court.
You can check the list of advisory committees and find out if there
are any vacancies available in your area.
