How to become a Magistrate

How to become a Magistrate Are you fascinated with the British justice system? Have you always thought you’d sound good as a Justice of the Peace? If yes, you could be the ideal candidate to become a Magistrate.Magistrates are volunteers and are responsible for passing serious crimes such as murder to the Crown Court after a preliminary hearing. They also make decisions about bail and give out punishments such as fines, community service and prison sentences.As a Magistrate, you might be required to sit in on cases involving:TheftMotoring offencesTV licence evasionChild custody and adoptionIs it right for me?Firstly, although can claim expenses for things like travel, you dont get paid for being a Magistrate because youre intended to be an impartial representative of the local area. So a passion for the profession is absolutely necessary to take this job.However, as youll only need to be in court for at around two weeks per year, its perfectly possible to do another job as well as being a Magistrate, as long as you clear the time off with your employer.Importantly, you cant be a Magistrate if you work in certain jobs (such as a Police Officer) and you must be able to demonstrate that you have visited a Magistrates Court at least once before you apply. All Magistrates will take the same judicial oath as a Judge before beginning training.Well aware of current social issuesMature and fairReliable and punctualExcellent at communicationAble to understand legal-related documentsGood at decision-makingWhat's it really like? I like being a Magistrate because it gives me the chance to work with people from all walks of life and the role itself is both interesting and rewarding. Of course, it can be difficult when you're faced with a tough decision, but knowing that I'm making a difference to the community reassures me and encourages me to always make the right choice. Get qualifiedNo legal training or formal qualifications are required.