A magistrate has explained what the ‘job’ really involves and has busted a number of myths as he encourages others to volunteer for the role. With a system under pressure and a need for more diversity, the Ministry of Justice is on the lookout for new volunteers to serve as magistrates.
Magistrate Andrew, 44, from Truro, has explained what the job actually entails. Not only do you not require a law degree to become a magistrate, you do not need any legal background or experience. You’ll get support from a fully-qualified legal adviser to help with every case and all new magistrates will have training to understand their role.
The judiciary want as many people from as many different walks of life as possible, as magistrates will listen to cases concerning people from right across the community. What matters are strong communication skills, a sense of fairness, and an ability to consider different sides of an argument in a professional way.
Andrew said: “I am the CEO of a consultancy company and I wanted to do something a bit different. Now I sit with two other volunteer magistrates and make decisions that can change lives.
“It is a lot of responsibility but we have legal advisers on hand to make sure we know what we are doing. I wanted to see how things are dealt with in our community. There had to be way of helping the community and this is my way of doing it.”
Magistrates are volunteers – which means they are not paid – who must serve at least 13 days per year, plus training. Many magistrates do more days than this but it depends on every person’s situation.
Employers are legally required to allow time off for this important public role. If your employer does not allow paid time off, or you are self employed, you can claim loss of earnings of up to £134.96 per day. Andrew said: “If you are interested in becoming a magistrate then speak to your manager straight away. Being a magistrate has made me better at my day job.
“I’ve got three children, two dogs and a mortgage so I have had to make some sacrifices but it’s very achievable. I sit for one day a month on average, but they give you a diary and you fill in when you can sit.
“There are many transferable skills. You have discussions, it enhances your leadership, logical thinking and conflict resolution. Working well as a panel is important, we all have a say. We discuss our opinions and come to a decision. Being a magistrate helps with public speaking, and gives you the opportunity to improve yourself.”
The number of magistrates who volunteer while in full-time employment is growing. The minimum age is 18 and there is flexibility around sitting days which could be ideal for somebody who works shifts or is still in education.
After an initial half-day training session, magistrates have a three or five-day introductory training programme and then are assigned a mentor to help them learn and develop as they settle into the role. Andrew said: “I was 39 when I became a magistrate and I definitely wish I had done it sooner. It would have really helped with my career.
“My background helps me to make decisions and I feel that I understand normal life. I work alongside teachers who are magistrates at the weekends and holidays. Whatever your work pattern, you can make it work.
“The common misconception is you spend time locking people up but there is a massive amount of work in rehabilitation. We can change someone’s life and make sure they get the support they need. There are hundreds of examples I have seen of people in a spiral of committing offences but when they are given a helping hand to find housing, tackle debt etc they don’t offend any more. You should never look down on anyone unless you are helping them up.”
All training is free, and magistrates receive expenses for the days they attend. Find out how to apply here.