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Our history

Founded in 1920, the MA has grown from a small group into a national charity representing magistrates in England and Wales.

Our timeline

1920

The MA is founded

Alderman Wilkins, a magistrate for Derby, proposes to establish an association of magistrates.

1921

First official meeting

The first official meeting of the MA takes place in Westminster.

1921

Our magazine

Magistrate magazine is published for the first time.

1962

Royal charter

The MA is granted a royal charter and assigned a coat of arms.

2019

Magistrates in the Community

Magistrates in the Community, our community engagement initiative is launched.

2020

MA centenary

The charity celebrates 100 years.

2022

Advocacy wins

The MA secures two big influencing wins, after successfully advocating to increase magistrates' mandatory retirement age and for a national recruitment campaign.

2022

MA learn

We launch MA learn, an online learning hub for members.

2023

Support for members

Our exclusive support line launches, providing members with magistrate-to-magistrate support.