How to become a magistrate
You can get into this role through:
- official appointment
Volunteering
You can get insight into the work of a magistrate's court by arranging to visit one in your local area. This may help if you later apply for selection to be a magistrate.
You should contact the court before you go, so that staff can direct you to the most appropriate court open to the public.
Other Routes
Magistrates are selected for appointment by a local advisory committee.
You do not need a legal background or law qualification to become a magistrate but you do need to be:
- of good character
- aware of local social issues
- an understanding person
- mature, with a sense of fairness
- committed to serving the community
If you're appointed, you'll be given training before you sit in court, which usually includes a prison visit and meeting with the probation service. You'll also be assigned a mentor, who will support you during your first 12 months.
You'll continue to receive professional development training and have regular in-court assessments of your work.
More Information
Career tips
As a volunteer magistrate, you'll be expected to work at least 13 full days in a year, or 26 half days. You will not be paid as a magistrate but you can claim an allowance for expenses.
Further information
You can find out more about how to become a magistrate from the: