back to topThe Standing Committees of Council normally meet three times each year except for the Judicial Policy and Practice Committee which meets six times each year. The membership of the Standing Committees is fixed by Bye-laws 52 and 53. The Chairman and Deputy Chairman are ex officio members of all Standing Committees.
The role of the Family Courts Committee is to consider Family Panel issues raised by members or outside agencies, develop Association policy on family issues, liaise with the relevant government departments and initiate guidance where appropriate.
The Judicial Policy & Practice Committee considers the operation of the criminal justice system and all inter-agency issues, including new legislation. Its brief includes case management, judicial independence, civil appeals and relationship with Her Majesty's Courts Service (HMCS). Meeting six times a year, this committee is usually chaired by the Chairman with the two Deputy Chairmen of Council as Vice Chairmen.
The Road Traffic Committee deals with road crime, that is offences arising out of the use of vehicles. Offences routinely discussed, together with their penalties, include speeding, no insurance, overloading, drink driving.
The role of the Sentencing Policy and Practice Committee is to monitor sentencing practice, contribute to the Association's policy in all matters relating to sentencing and provide guidance on sentencing.
The Support, Training and Develeopment Committee monitors legislative changes to assess training needs, promotes and ensures quality and appropriate training is delivered to all magistrates and will support members on issues such as sittings, rotas, appraisal, mentoring, allowances, conduct, employment issues etc.
The role of the Youth Courts Committee is to initiate and progress beneficial changes in the youth justice system.