A nationwide drive has been launched to recruit an extra 2,000 volunteer magistrates across England and Wales over the next year. The campaign aims to strengthen the local judiciary and ensure it better represents the diverse communities it serves.
Who Can Apply and What's Involved?
The Ministry of Justice has confirmed that no formal legal qualifications or background are required to apply for the role. Applicants must be aged between 18 and 75, demonstrate qualities like fairness and sound judgement, and be able to commit to at least 13 days of service per year, plus necessary training days. This makes the position accessible to people in full-time employment or with significant caring responsibilities.
Successful candidates will receive full training and be supported in court by a legal adviser. The selection process focuses on personal attributes, including effective communication, impartiality, and the ability to consider different perspectives. Applicants are encouraged to visit a magistrates' court twice before applying and must secure permission from their employer.
Diversity and Impact on Local Justice
The judiciary is actively working to create a magistracy that mirrors modern Britain. Current statistics show that 57% of sitting magistrates are women, while 14% come from an ethnic minority background. The recruitment push seeks to build on this foundation by attracting volunteers from all walks of life.
Deputy Prime Minister David Lammy emphasised the critical role these volunteers play. "Magistrates play a vital role in our court system," he said. "They are everyday heroes - and we need more people of every age and background to volunteer not just to deliver justice but to serve and represent their local communities." He highlighted that volunteering as a magistrate can make a profound difference to both the volunteer's life and the lives of others.
Recruitment Drive Follows Court Reforms
This call for new magistrates comes alongside recent government proposals to accelerate the criminal justice system. Key reforms include:
- The creation of 'swift courts' for cases likely to result in shorter sentences.
- An increase in magistrates' sentencing powers from 12 months to up to 18 months in prison, with a potential future rise to 24 months.
- Establishing a new Crown Court Bench Division to speed up case progression.
The campaign taps into a growing public willingness to volunteer, with studies suggesting 45% of residents in England and Wales are open to volunteering this year. Magistrates deal with a wide spectrum of cases, from criminal trials and youth crime to family proceedings, forming the backbone of the local legal system.
Interested individuals can find more information and apply online via the official GOV.UK website.
