Have you ever thought of becoming a magistrate? You do not need any formal qualifications, just the key qualities necessary to administer justice fairly.
Magistrates have been around since the 12th century, though their work has changed over the years. The majority of the work magistrates now do is in the criminal courts – 97% of all criminal cases are concluded in the magistrates’ court. The courts also deal with some civil work and family proceedings. Magistrates must listen to evidence and make objective decisions about whether a defendant is guilty or not as well as hand out sentences for those convicted. They also make decisions as to whether defendants should be granted bail or held in custody whilst awaiting their trial.
By becoming a magistrate you would help the community and develop your decision-making and team working skills. Magistrates who go on to become chairmen will also gain leadership skills. Sitting on the bench also gives magistrates a greater insight into the communities it serves. Employers also benefit from the skills their employees gain as magistrates and by supporting an institution that performs an essential role in the community.
There is an ongoing programme of training and development which supports magistrates throughout their career on the bench. If appointed you would be expected to sit at least twenty-six half days per year. Whilst you would not be paid for your work you can claim allowances for travelling and financial loss.
Courts sit in a number of towns in Leicestershire including Market Harborough, however although there are no current vacancies on the Harborough bench, the Advisory Committee is looking for magistrates who could sit at Leicester. You do not have to live in Leicester to serve on that bench, but you would need to show an understanding of the city, its make up and its problems.
Appointments are made by the Lord Chancellor on the recommendation of local Advisory Committees. The key qualities the Advisory Committee looks for are that applicants are of good character, can communicate well, are socially aware, have a mature and sound temperament, can exercise sound judgement and are reliable and able to make the necessary commitments to the bench. The Advisory Committee will consider applications from anyone aged between 18 and 70, although magistrates retire at 70 and the Lord Chancellor normally expects a period of five years before retirement.
More information on becoming a magistrate can be found at the Department for Constitutional Affairs website www.magistrates.gov.uk
For an application form and further information call Sheila Chapman on 01455 623039 or email her at sheila.chapman@hmcourts-service.gsi.gov.uk or visit the website.
