Lay Magistrates

Question 1

What is a lay person

Answer 1

anyone not legally qualified.

Question 2

qualifications?

Answer 2

do not need legal quals.
aged 18-65 upon appointment.
must live/work in local area.
26 1/2 days a year.

Question 3

6 key qualities (set out by Lord Chancellor in 1998)

Answer 3

1. good character
2. understanding and communication
3. social awareness
4. maturity
5. sound judgement
6. commitment and reliability

Question 4

who cannot be appointed

Answer 4

if:
Serious criminal convictions.
Undischarged bankrupt.
Members of armed forces or police.
Relatives in CJS.
Hearing imparied, physically or mentally weak.

Question 5

what % of criminal cases do they try

Answer 5

97%