Could you be a magistrate?

[Netcurtainnelly]

There's a big volunteer recruitment drive for magistrates at the moment?
Does it interest you?

Yes and I am thinking quite seriously about doing it. I think it would be really interesting and I want to so something of actual value to society after decades making money for other people.

It seems to attract a certain type. Definitely needs a more diverse make-up. Fewer full of themselves white middle class people who think they’re Malcom Muggeridge because they listen to The Archers

I had a friend at work who did it, sounded really interesting and our employer gives paid time off.

I was just looking into it before everything shut for covid. I have gone off it somewhat, I would worry about reprisals too - SM fueled hate is rife these days, who needs facts!

Without being big headed, I think I’d be quite good at it. However, I couldn’t do it alongside my current job or just for expenses so it’s a no from me.

I investigated this previously and went on an open day where you watch the court process and speak to current magistrates.

90% of the cases were people stuck in a cycle of theft to fund drug addiction, get clean in prison, relapse on release, steal again etc etc. I didn't want to be part of that system personally so went into local government instead.

I am a magistrate.

Remember its not just criminal court, there's family court too. I only do family.

As part of your training. I believe you have to visit a prison. Not for me. Dealing with crime is depressing also. I want happiness.

No i would not do it .
I have known 2 women - unconnected, who were magistrates and they were two of the vilest people you could ever meet and not that intelligent either , actually just thought of a 3rd nicer but not someone i would want judging me.
I think a certain type of 'self important ' people are attracted to this role ,not the kind of group i would want to be part of.

What is similar?

I just don’t understand why people are expected to work for free in crucial roles such as magistrates, school governors etc

Or there are those of us who truly want the best outcomes for children.
I became a magistrate during a period where I was in a job that wasn't pushing me and whilst I loved the job, I needed a bit 'more'. I've found it has given me a real boost and has got me engaged in thinking about different things again.

You dont get paid for jury service either, maybe its connected.

I looked into it a few years ago but they weren't interested because I was a retired woman over 60.
I have done various tribunal posts both professionally and as a volunteer (education admissions). I like the pedantic nature of the law.
I actually think my youngest DC would be good at this, he's 27 so in the target age group and has been looking for some volunteering work. The issue would be time off work.

The commitment is 13 days per year, so it isn't hugely onerous. A lot of workplaces give you special leave too. He can but ask.

What does “twoc-ing Lime bikes” mean?

TWOC = Taking without owners consent.

I looked at it a couple of years ago but I have a £145 CCJ from a mobile phone that expires this year 🙄 so I have to wait for that first as I don't want to risk it. I intend applying to the first vacancy after that though.

I work in a job that pays fairly well but I can now do with my eyes closed. Totally unchallenged. But until youngest dc is out of Primary, I just don't want to try for a promotion. My Company provides fully paid leave for Magistrates so it seems like a great idea to me.

And whilst i'm white and MC ish i'm hoping the fact that i'm in my 30's and didn't go to Private school will give me a boost 😂

That's interesting - I thought magistrates had a legal adviser at all times, is there still significant preparation and research needed on top of that?

Same here. First time ever my education had acted against me! And the fact I went to private school cast me out beyond The Pale.

Magistrates do have a legal advisor at all times...when you're in court.
If you sit in family court you get the bundle to read about 48 hours ahead of the hearing.
There are various different strands within criminal so I'm not sure if there are any specific courts where they might get papers ahead of time too.

Yes, I work in the justice system, but I couldn't afford to give up work to do it. The expenses wouldn't replace my salary and it would be a conflict of interest if I did it while in my current role

For adult crime magistrates, no preparation ahead of time: you deal with what's in front of you on the day and then go home. Family requires reading of bundles.

Yes you always have a legal adviser to guide you on the points of law.

I’m one, and started an AMA some time ago. Happy to answer questions there or here.

FWIW, I’ve done voluntary work for longer than I care to think about, and it’s by far the best fit for me. The work is broadly as you might expect, the commitment is modest, and there’s a good deal of flexibility.

I have very seriously considered this role as I am keen and have time to volunteer and I have a UK law degree. I didnt ever complete a training contract so I’m not a solicitor but I did very well in my degree and love law. I’m white but not British - (South African), under 45 and did not go to private school.

The only thing that has put me off is that I have wondered if it is dangerous and negative. I can cope with dealing with the darker elements of life but worry it’s a depressing job.

And on that note, I have been wondering if anyone know of any similar voluntary roles in law that might lean more towards supporting and advising people. As I said above, I have a UK law degree but am not a solicitor or barrister.