Learn about magistrates
Magistrates make many of the legal decisions in England and Wales.
We exist to help the magistracy be its best for all of society
We're the only membership body and independent voice for magistrates. We promote the sound administration of the law, campaign on policy and practice relating to the magistracy, provide support and development guidance to magistrates, and inform the public about the magistracy and the justice system
1 July 2026
Wider justice system
MA calls for open approach to justice data
The MA has warned that a lack of accessible, useable justice data in England and Wales is undermining public confidence in justice and causing policy decisions to be made without full evidence.
30 June 2026
Addictions and drug issues Practicalities of being a magistrate
Guidance on summertime anti-social behaviour
By understanding the behavioural patterns associated with warmer months, magistrates can better manage the increase in cases and contribute to safer communities.
26 June 2026
Domestic abuse Family court matters Wider justice system Youth court matters
Latest sector updates for Magistrates: June 2026
Read our updates from across the justice sector. This month includes our latest briefing on Leveson Part 2 and what 'efficiency' should look like in magistrates' courts. Just for members.
19 June 2026
Wider justice system
MA members in King's birthday honours list
Five members were honoured for their services to the magistracy and justice, including current Deputy Chair Val Castell and former National Chair Mark Beattie.
Where would you like to go?
Here are some pages you might like to visit
Visit MA learn
We provide tools to develop magistrates’ knowledge and skills. Our member-only learning hub, MA learn, contains more than 240 high-quality resources.
Search our publications library
Browse our advocacy reports, briefing notes, consultation responses and position statements published to support our policy work.
Get updates on news and influencing
We advocate on behalf of our members and inform others about the vital role of the magistracy.
Get involved
Attend an event, join a diversity and inclusion network, participate in our community outreach initiative, volunteer for us, recruit a new member or leave us a gift.
Upcoming events
- Online
Diversity and inclusion networks drop-in
This webinar brings together magistrates from across the Diversity and Inclusion Networks for an opportunity to connect, share experiences, and shape future work. With more than 1,400 magistrates involved, the Networks play a vital role in informing the Magistrates’ Association’s Diversity and Inclusion Committee and supporting the development of inclusive policies and practice.
The event is open to members of all four networks: LGBT+ Magistrates, Black, Asian and Global Majority Magistrates, Young Magistrates, and Disabled Magistrates. Following the main session, participants will join network-specific breakout groups to meet peers and discuss the issues that matter most to them.
Supporting change: Switchback’s approach to reintegration
Join this webinar to learn how, through intensive 1 to 1 support and real work training, the London based charity Switchback, enable young prison leavers to build a stable rewarding life. Their whole-person approach means that when prison leavers enter work or housing, they have the stability to stay there long-term through the ups and downs. Hear how Switchback have supported over 2,000 young men by providing a frank, non-judgemental relationship with someone who is there for them on a daily basis, helping them to navigate the turbulent transition from prison to community.
City of London Police
This webinar will offer a unique insight into cyber crime and the investigation techniques that are in use today. It is designed to offer an engaging alternative to conventional training, providing a behind-the-scenes look into an offender’s criminal activity and the subsequent Police investigation.
Our year in numbers
Between July 2024 and June 2025, we were busy influencing on behalf of our members and building opportunities for them to learn, develop and connect.
20
webinars on topics from child exploitation to the Probation service
830
new members joined us during the year
13
consultation responses and one advocacy report published
233
learning resources on MA learn, our online magistrates' training hub
3
parliamentary committee appearances
118
meetings with MoJ ministers and officials, the judiciary and others
58200
people engaged with by our 'Magistrates in the Community' teams
4
issues of Magistrate magazine published
2345
pieces of digital, print and broadcast media coverage secured
80700
visitors to our website
4
workshops for new magistrates held
84%
of our members said they would recommend MA membership to others
78%
of our members said they think MA membership is good value for money
Become a member
As a member, you’ll get access to a wealth of benefits to assist you to be the best magistrate you can be, including:
- A learning hub with over 240 resources
- Monthly webinars on topical issues
- A support line run by fellow magistrates
- Engaging e-newsletters and our magazine
- Events where you can meet colleagues
Latest blogs and news
- Addictions and drug issues
- Practicalities of being a magistrate
Guidance on summertime anti-social behaviour
- Domestic abuse
- Family court matters
- Wider justice system
- Youth court matters
Latest sector updates for Magistrates: June 2026
