Magistrates are members of the local community who are appointed by the Lord Chancellor to hear both Criminal and Civil cases; they also administer the liquor licensing system.

WHAT?
As a Magistrate you would, after some fairly intensive training, sit as a member of your local bench. You have to sit for a minimum of 26 half days per year. In association with two other lay magistrates you would hear a wide variety of cases. The less serious, which are known as summary offences, are seen through to sentencing. More serious offences, known as 'either way' offences, may be referred on to crown court for either full hearing or sentencing when magistrates feel their sentencing powers are too limited.

Ideally, each bench reflects the community it serves in terms of occupation, political affiliation, gender, ethnic origin, etc. There is currently a particular need for more young and ethnic minority candidates for the magistracy.

Magistrates are unpaid but may receive allowances for travel expenses and subsistence. Employers must give their staff paid time off to sit on the bench.

WHO?
Magistrates must be of 'good character' with personal integrity, sound common sense and, of course, the ability to weigh evidence and reach reasoned decisions on the basis of that evidence. They must live or work in the area in which they sit and have a good local knowledge and understanding of that community.

Certain groups of people are ineligible. Members of the armed forces, police officers, traffic wardens and other related occupations that might be seen to pose possible conflicts of interest with the role of a magistrate will not be appointed. Candidates under the age of 27 are only appointed in exceptional circumstances; the upper age limit for appointment is 65. Magistrates retire at 70.

HOW?
Application forms and further information can be obtained from the Secretary of the local Advisory committee, whose name can be found at the office of the clerk to the justices in your local magistrates' court, or from the office of the Secretary of Commissions at:

Secretary of Commissions Office
Third Floor, Selborn House
54/60 Victoria Street
London
SW1E 6QW
TEL 0207 210 8990

Alternatively, try ringing your local magistrates court, you'll find them listed in your local telephone directory.