Lay magistrates

Question 1

Role of a lay magistrate 8m

Answer 1

try 97% of all criminal cases
undertake early administrative hearings
deal with summary matters (all way)
not qualified lawyers
issue search and arrest warrants
allow extension to custody time
specially trained panel for young offenders
sit with judge in crown court to hear appeals

Question 2

Training of a lay magistrate 8m

Answer 2

supervised by judicial studies board
initial introductory training, understand organisation, roles/responsibilities
core training, acquire/develop key skills
activities, observe court, visit prison
training based on competencies, make decisions, team work
Stages = initial introductory training, mentoring, core training, consolidation training, 1st appraisal

Question 3

Qualifications and requirements of a lay magistrate 8m

Answer 3

Qualifications = good character, social awareness, sound temperament, no legal qualification
Requirement = 18-65 when appointed, retire at 70, live or work within/near the local justice area they’re assigned to, must sit at least 26.5 days a year, must go to training sessions
Restrictions = serious criminal convictions, police officers, impaired hearing
Interviews = 1st interview find out about attributes and attitudes, 2nd interview judicial aptitude (scenario)