Lay Magistrates 1

Question 1

What other title are lay magistrates known?

Answer 1

Justice of the Peace

Question 2

When did this role emerge?

Answer 2

1195 when Richard I began to appoint knights as ‘keepers of the peace’.

Question 3

Who are Magistrates?

Answer 3

Upstanding members of the community.

Question 4

What is meant by the term ‘lay people’?

Answer 4

Someone without a specialised qualification

Question 5

What qualifies a person to become a Magistrate?

Answer 5

1) Aged between 18-65 years old

2) Live or work near the area of Local Justice where they serve

Question 6

What are the 6 qualities?

Answer 6

1) Good character
2) Understanding and communication
3) Social awareness
4) Maturity and sound temperament
5) Sound judgement
6) Commitment and reliability

Question 7

Who CANNOT serve as a Magistrate?

Answer 7

• People with serious criminal convictions
• Undischarged bankrupts
• Members of the force
• Those whose work is compatible with sitting as a magistrate (i.e. police officer, traffic warden)

Question 8

What is the Selection and Appointment process?

Answer 8

1) Apply via directgov website or by post
2) Advisory Committee create a shortlift and check references
3) Interviews are arranged. Interview panel consists of two Magistrates and one other
4) Two interviews; examine 6 qualities and trial and sentence exercises
5) Reviewed by the committee to ensure a balanced bench e.g. Age, gender, ethnic background and occupation (11 categories max 15%)
6) Committee submits its recommendation to the Lord Chancellor
7) The Lord Chancellor makes the appointment