Magistrates 1A

Question 1

Some possible exam questions:

Answer 1

Explain how a person qualifies to be a magistrate.

Explain the jurisdiction of the magistrates court.

Question 2

What happens pre-trial?

Answer 2

Application for bail or remand
Issue warrants
Issue summons
Extend time to hold suspect
Refer offences to crown court for trial

Question 3

What happens during trial?

Answer 3

Hear cases
Listen to evidence
Take legal advice from court clerk
Reach verdict

Question 4

What happens post trial?

Answer 4

Sentencing of the D
Hearing appeals against sentence in crown court with qualified judge.

Question 5

What does “lay people” mean?

Answer 5

People who are not experts or do not have detailed knowledge of a particular topic.

Question 6

What are the qualifications to be a magistrate?

Answer 6

18-74 Yrs
Live near local justice area of service
Commit to 13 days of work per year (or 26 half days)

Question 7

What are the six qualities of a magistrate?

Answer 7

1. Self awareness and will to learn
2. Sensitive and respectful communication
3. Understanding of different perspectives
4. Fair and impartial decisions
5. Good character
6. Work professionally

Question 8

Who can’t serve as magistrates?

Answer 8

Same as jury but also soldiers and officers of the law.

Question 9

How to become a magistrate?

Answer 9

1. Apply through gov web
2. Local Advisory Committee creates shortlist
3. Interviews arranged with two mags and one other person
4. Interview to examine character
5. Interview with trial and sentence exercises
6. LAC makes a balanced bench (race etc)
7. Submitted to Lord chief justice
8. LCJ makes the appointment