Magistrates
What is a magistrate?
Many of the legal decisions made in England and Wales are made by magistrates. Magistrates are ordinary people who work in all sorts of fields and have no previous connection to the law profession. What they do have is a sense of fairness. They also have the ability to listen, make rational judgements and be proud representatives of their communities. These people are magistrates.
Magistrates are volunteers who come from all walks of life. They make vital decisions on a variety of cases in the criminal court and family court – helping to protect, enhance and transform people’s lives.
“You don’t need to be a lawyer. You just need a balanced view.”
Why become a magistrate?
“I just want to help people and make sure the right thing is done.”
You will make a difference to society, whichever court you work in.
How to volunteer
Volunteer to become a magistrate
This is a great opportunity to stretch your potential, develop new skills and make decisions that will help create positive change.
If you like what you’ve discovered about becoming a magistrate and you meet the requirements, it’s time to apply.