The Government is urging people to consider becoming magistrates as it launches a national campaign aimed at recruiting thousands of new volunteers to help deliver justice in local communities.
The campaign, launched today (24th September), aims to challenge misconceptions about who can become a magistrate, highlighting everyday skills such as good judgement, empathy, listening and problem-solving.
The drive comes as the Government works towards building a 21,000-strong magistracy by 2028/29.
New research commissioned for the campaign found widespread confusion about the role. Only 32% of British adults surveyed correctly identified magistrates as volunteers from their local communities, while 61% incorrectly believed they were legal professionals such as judges or paid court staff.
Yet many people already possess the skills needed for the role.
Around three-quarters (75%) of those surveyed said they had good judgement, while 72% identified listening as one of their strengths. More than six in 10 said they were able to remain calm under pressure (64%) or showed empathy (62%), while 60% cited problem-solving skills.
The campaign, ‘You’ve got the makings of a magistrate’, stresses that applicants do not need a legal background or previous courtroom experience.
Magistrates are volunteers who currently hear around 95% of criminal cases. They receive training and support and are required to volunteer for a minimum of 13 days a year.
Thomas Wilson, a 33-year-old former RAF serviceman and magistrate from the North West, said: ‘After leaving the RAF, I was looking for a way to continue serving the public and making a positive contribution to my community. Becoming a magistrate gave me that opportunity.
‘From the outset, I received excellent training and support from both the judiciary and court staff. I was never expected to be an expert, and there was always someone available to guide and support me as I developed.
‘Serving as a magistrate has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life. Every sitting is different, and you know that the decisions you make help uphold justice and have a real impact on your local community.
‘What’s more, serving as a magistrate has helped me develop those skills even further, making me a more confident and impactful employee, which is something I know my employer benefits from too.’
Catherine Feast, chief executive of the Magistrates’ Association, said: ‘A good magistrate is a team player, a problem-solver, a good listener, and shows good judgement and empathy in court.
‘These are qualities that many people have, and we’d encourage anyone who thinks they have what it takes to do this demanding but rewarding role, to take the next step and apply to become a magistrate.’
The national recruitment campaign will run across television, audio and social media from today, as ministers seek to encourage people from a wider range of backgrounds to apply.
Photo: Sue Winston
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