West Hertfordshire Magistrates
Magistrates are drawn from all sections of our community in West Hertfordshire. We are lay people without legal qualifications, who work on a voluntary basis. Many of us are also in paid employment, and agree time away from work with our employers to fulfil our duties as magistrates.
These pages will tell you about the application process, and what we are looking for when we interview applicants and make recommendations for appointment. You are very welcome to visit your local magistrate’s court at any time to see the work of the court, and decide whether you would like to be a magistrate. It's advisable, but not essential, to ring the courthouse beforehand to find our what kind of cases are scheduled on the day you intend to visit. We also hold open evenings at the courts, when you can watch mock trials and talk to magistrates about their work.
If you would like to find out more about applying, you can click on the links above for the Ministry of Justice and Magistrates’ Association websites, or contact us for an information pack.
Deborah Spring
Chair, West Hertfordshire Advisory Sub-Committee
There are about 30,000 magistrates in England and Wales. Why are they willing to commit their time and give their expertise voluntarily?
You don't need any formal or academic qualifications or previous legal training but there are six qualities that are essential.
A series of articles written by practising West Hertfordshire Magistrates looking at various aspects of life on the Bench.
Do you have a member of staff who wants to serve as a magistrate? Find out how it will benefit your business.
Become a Magistrate
Exactly what would I do as a magistrate? This section provides answers to many initial questions you may have.
Link to Ministry of Justice recruitment page. From here download the application form and guidance notes and find your local advisory committee application contact
Before applying to become a magistrate, visit your local courts to see what magistrates do.
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