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

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10 August 2026

Practicalities of being a magistrate Wider justice system Youth court matters

Speaking up for members: August 2026

Your latest update on our policy, advocacy and media work.

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29 July 2026

Shape the future of the magistracy - join an MA policy committee

Applications are open for 16 vacancies on five different MA policy committees covering adult courts, family courts, youth courts, training, learning and development, and diversity and inclusion.

24 July 2026

Practicalities of being a magistrate

Help shape the conversation – Join our Member Engagement Group

You're invited to join our new network of sitting members, where we'll periodically ask views on issues that are impacting your roles, to help us get a sense-check on how our members view.

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24 July 2026

Diversity, disparity and inclusion Domestic abuse Wider justice system

Latest sector updates for magistrates: July 2026

Read our latest updates from across the justice sector. This month includes the Cabinet reshuffle, the National Audit Office's report on electronic monitoring, and the DA Commissioner's strategic plan. Just for members.

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Learn about magistrates

Magistrates make many of the legal decisions in England and Wales.

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Visit MA learn

We provide tools to develop magistrates’ knowledge and skills. Our member-only learning hub, MA learn, contains more than 330 high-quality resources.

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Search our publications library

Browse our advocacy reports, briefing notes, consultation responses and position statements published to support our policy work.

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Get updates on news and influencing

We advocate on behalf of our members and inform others about the vital role of the magistracy.

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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.

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Get support

We provide peer support when being a magistrate feels tough.

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Upcoming events

15 September 2026, 5:00 PM

Online

New Magistrates: Meet the Magistrates’ Association

Have you recently become a magistrate? Join us for a warm welcome to the Magistrates’ Association, meet the team and connect with others who are also beginning their journey in the magistracy. This webinar is open to both MA members and non-members.

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17 September 2026, 5:00 PM

Supporting women impacted by the Criminal Justice System

Join us for this insightful webinar with Sonya Ruparel, CEO of the national charity Women in Prison, as she shares how the organisation supports women who are in contact with, or at risk of entering, the criminal justice system.

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14 October 2026, 1:00 PM

Safety and security in the magistrates’ court

Join Policy Officer Adam Chaddock as we revisit the MA’s safety and security report, reflecting on its key findings and recommendations, what has changed over the past year, and what safety and security in magistrates’ courts looks like one year on.

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