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Could you help decide criminal cases? National campaign urges taxi drivers and people from all backgrounds to become magistrates
A national campaign launched on 25 September is encouraging people from all backgrounds, including taxi drivers, to become magistrates and help deliver justice in their local communities.
Magistrates are trained volunteers who hear around 95% of criminal cases in England and Wales. Some also sit in the Family Court. Their decisions affect individuals and communities across the country.
The campaign aims to raise awareness of the role and address misconceptions about eligibility. Applicants do not need legal qualifications or experience. Magistrates receive full training and ongoing support.
Sir Nicholas Green, Senior Presiding Judge, said: “Magistrates play a vital role in our justice system and in the communities they serve. Every day, they make important decisions that affect people’s lives, bringing their experience, judgement and commitment to fairness to the courtroom.
“We want our magistracy to reflect the rich diversity of the communities of England and Wales. You do not need legal qualifications or legal experience to become a magistrate. What matters is having integrity, sound judgement and a commitment to public service.”
The campaign uses the message “You’ve got the makings of a magistrate” to encourage people with fairness, integrity, sound judgement, empathy and a commitment to their community to consider applying.
Justice Minister, Sarah Sackman KC MP, who visited Liverpool Magistrates' court to launch the campaign and meet existing magistrates, said: “Many people don’t know what magistrates do or think becoming a magistrate isn’t for them. But magistrates are ordinary people, members of the public making an extraordinary contribution to their communities.
“If you’re fair-minded, interested in the justice system, able to make balanced decisions and work well as part of a team, you already have the makings of a magistrate. This is about local people delivering local justice. From criminal to family matters, it hands real power and real trust to local people, so that justice is decided by the community it serves.”
Applicants must be aged 18 to 74 and meet the eligibility requirements. Magistrates volunteer for at least 13 days a year, with many combining the role with work, caring responsibilities and other commitments. The campaign says recruiting volunteers helps courts hear cases promptly and supports swifter justice for victims, witnesses and communities.
People interested in the role can find further information and apply through the magistrate recruitment website.
