Anyone a Magistrate?

[Tillymint10]

Just that really!

It’s something I’m really interested in doing, now that my little one has started school.

What background do you have, are the roles extremely competitive, would you recommend it?

Anything about your experiences really would be interesting!

I have a medical background but in a community role, I work closely with vulnerable families, social services etc.
I also come from a deprived background with associated issues growing up although now in a middle class job in a middle class area, volunteer for the Samaritans …. I’m hoping that all gives me a good background & experiences in different areas to ‘help make a difference’ which is something Im passionate about!

As cheesy & eye rolling as that may sound!

Hi Op, I'm not that helpful in that I know as much about it as you do!! I'm currently looking into it. Read the online blurb on gov.uk. It says they expect you visit a magistrates court a few times - so had 1st visit yesterday. It was easy to arrange, just call your local court. There's a public gallery anyway, so in theory you can just turn up. It was interesting, pretty much what I would have expected. In terms of knowledge / experience, I may not have enough...I'm just going to give it a shot. I taught social science subjects for a while (FE / adults going onto nursing & social work), recently did an MSc in Public Health and now work coaching policing (degree apprenticeship) students at local uni. I've always been interested in this stuff - did A level sociology / volunteered in a prison at that time. Did fair bit of criminology at uni. But, nothing that really singles me out as a candidate. Your background sounds more relevant to be honest!! Let me know how you get on?! Pm me if you want. Good luck.

My DD has just been appointed as a magistrate. She is in her early 20s, has worked in schools in pastoral roles and done hotel receptionist work. She is currently studying at university. Magistrates courts are looking for people of all ages and all walks of life, especially those who have had non-managerial roles, younger than 50 and from under-represented groups.

The interviews are rigorous and intense. You really have to think on your feet and show you can adapt your thinking and judgement as new evidence is presented and dismiss non-relavent information.

Do give it a shot and don't worry about not being qualified.