Magistrates Flashcards
What qualfies someone to become a mag?
18-74 years old
Live in or near the area the local justice area where they serve
Commit to sitting at least 26 half days/13 whole days
Name the 6 personal qualities in a mag
Self awareness and open to learn
Communicate w sensitivity and respect
Understand different perspectives
Make fair, impartial and transparent decisions
Good character
Work and engage with people professionally
What does ‘lay’ people mean
a person without professional or specialized knowledge in a particular subject.
Where do you apply to become a mag
Apply via direct gov website or by post
Who creates a shortlift and checks mag references
Local advisory committee
How many mags does the interview panel consist of
2 mags and one other
What are the two interviews that are held?
- examines character
- includes trial and sentence excercises
Why are the candidates reviewed by the LAC
to ensure a balanced bench (age, gender, ethnicity, occupation)
How many job catagories are there?
11
Who does the commitee submit its recommendations to
Lord chief of justice who then makes an appointment
Are indictable offences tried by mags
no
mags prepare cases for trial at what court
crown
what two bails can mags grant
unconditional bail or impose conditions of bail
If the bail isnt granted by the mags, the defendant will be held on what
remand
if police wish to keep a suspect longer what do they need to do
apply to mags for an extension
max time 96 hours
if police want to search a property what do they need to do
ask the mags to issue a warrant
if someone is being called to attend a court hearing what do mags need to do
issue a summon
suspects between 10-17 are tried by mags in what court
youth court
what do 3 lay mags do during a hearing?
listen to evidence, get advice from court clerk and reach a verdict
if d is guilty what do the mags have to do
sentence d
whats the max sentece
6 months
if the mags powers are insufficient they transfer d to what court
crown
what do mags hear against sentences
appeals or convictions in crown court with a judge
For summary offences and triable offences that do not go up to the Crown, how many lay Magistrates will listen to the evidence in the case
3
