Being a magistrate

[Stepmama]

Does anyone know someone who has applied to become a magistrate, was successful and didn't fall into the "male, middle class, tory" stereotype? Have given it some thought but don't know how a 40 something mum of two living in not such a good area would fair?

[Ethel]

My friend is a magistrate. Early 40s mum of two.

[Doc Spock]

I believe they should get rid of the Magistrate system.

A mis mash of odd people with limited experience of life.


It is the clerk of the court who advises these silly magistrate types.


Ok ,until we have a better system we have to put up with them.

[mrs_overall]

OMG, twice in one day in agreement with Doc.
Why can't you go back to being your normal foul mouthed bigoted self?
I think I need a stiff drink for the shock.

[Stepmama]

Fancy the challenge of it all but the application form is a nightmare - asking if there is anything in mine or my partner's or close family and friends lives that could bring the whole thing into disrepute ... I'm no saint but think I am fair and objective ... just wondered how intrusive the whole selection process is?

[Doc Spock]

Mrs O. You hurt me, I am always nice (ish)

[Annlinda]

Magistrates are NOT all middle class, male ,tory types. We come from all walks of society and certainly in my area a 40something mum of two who is of good character would stand as good as if not better chance of joining the bench than your male,middle class tory. Ring up or go onto your local court website and get an application form. Go to the court and sit in public seats and observe proceedings on at least two occasions before you apply. If you can commit yourself to at least 26 sittings a year and be prepared to do the training fill in the form and be prepared for 2 interviews. Also take no notice of what some ignorant people write in some of the threads in AB . Sometimes I really have to laugh at the answers about the law that people who haven't got a clue about Magistrates court give.
Good Luck

[Stepmama]

Thank you for that ... I've spent some time in the forces and working with children (amongst other things) so have had a very diverse life. I know my local area (and it's problems) all too well so hopefully that will be a help. I also work from home so putting in 26 sittings would be no issue. I need to get down to my local court and watch a couple of proceedings so I will give them a ring ... many thanks