Lay Magistrates

Question 1

Qualifications:

Answer 1

Aged between 18-65

Do the necessary training

Question 2

Disqualifications:

Answer 2

If you have a criminal conviction

Question 3

Selection & appointment:

Answer 3

Applications made to the local advisory committee
2 stage interview process
Appointed by lord chancellor

Question 4

What is the 2 stage interview process?

Answer 4

Panel finds out more about the candidate

Discussion/role play

Question 5

Composition of the bench

Answer 5

‘Middle-class, middle-aged and middle-minded’

53% of magistrates are women

Question 6

Role of magistrates:

Answer 6

Decide verdict and sentence
Deal with all summary matters - guilty/not guilty
Triable-either way offences - ‘plea before venue’

Question 7

Training:

Answer 7

Initial training
Mentoring
Core training
Consolidation
Appraisal

Question 8

Magistrates clerk:

Answer 8

Legal advisor

Makes sure that everything is done properly

Question 9

Advantages:

Answer 9

Local knowledge 
Lack of bias
Cost/time
Improved training
Few appeals

Question 10

Disadvantages:

Answer 10

Prosecution bias
Reliance on clerk
Inconsistency in sentencing
Not legally qualified