Fresh call for South East residents to become magistrates

A new campaign was launched on Friday, October 4, to encourage more people to volunteer for the magistracy across England and Wales.

The aim is to recruit magistrates for both criminal and family courts, ensuring the judiciary reflects the community it serves and effectively delivers justice.

Magistrates, who come from all walks of life, work in teams of three to make decisions during trials.

The role is voluntary, flexible, and part-time, allowing it to fit around other commitments, including full-time employment.

No qualifications, legal knowledge, or experience are required. Instead, an open mind, rational thinking, and a willingness to work in a team are valued qualities.

Support and training are provided to magistrates to help them fulfil their duties in the criminal or family court.

They are also assigned a mentor and supported by a legal adviser in court to help them follow the correct procedures.

The refreshed ‘I can be a magistrate’ campaign will be seen across social media, search engine results, and digital audio.

Richard, a retired professional from the housing association sector, has been a magistrate for 30 years.

Richard said he is proud to make a meaningful contribution to the justice system as a magistrate (Image: Kindred Agency) He said: "I’m really proud to be a magistrate and make a meaningful contribution to the justice system.

"It’s a role that enables me to make a real difference in my community and give something back.

"Personally, I have learnt valuable skills such as effective listening, critical thinking, decision making, making judgement, and teamwork.

"These transferrable skills have elevated me to more senior roles in my professional working life."

He added: "Anyone can apply to become a magistrate and it’s integral that the bench is representative of the community it serves.

"A more diverse judiciary will help cement the confidence of the public in a judiciary that broadly reflects society.

"The rule of law applies to everyone and we must treat all court users justly, with fairness and respect.

"It is fundamental that diversity and inclusion is front and centre to what judicial officer holders do.

"I’d really encourage you to find out more and apply when opportunities are available."

Being a magistrate offers a chance to develop skills such as negotiation, presentation, and decision-making skills.

Anyone aged between 18 and 74, who can commit to a minimum of 13 days a year for at least five years, is encouraged to register their interest.

For those in full-time or part-time employment, employers are legally obliged to allow time off to serve as a magistrate.