Magistrates' Allowances

Expenses can cover certain costs, including travel and subsistence where required. 

It is expected that magistrates will commit to a minimum of 26 half-day sittings in court each year. The law requires employers to grant magistrates sufficient time off work to enable them to fulfil their magisterial duties; please check the Employment Rights Act to ensure you know your rights.

Magistrates who suffer a loss of earnings as a result of their duties can claim a loss allowance, usually at a set rate; evidence of financial loss must be provided before magistrates can make a claim. 

Below you will see the rates of allowance for financial loss, travel and subsistence (as of May 2010). Please note that these are maximum figures. 

Financial Loss Allowance

Allowance Type	Allowance Rate
Gross Rate	(self employed justices)
Up to four hours	£58.29
Over four hours	£116.58
Net Rate	(other justices)
Up to four hours	£46.63
Over four hours	£93.27

Motor Vehicle Allowance

Description	Allowance Rate in Pence per Mile
Engine Capacity	Up to 1100cc	1101 – 1549cc	Over 1550cc
Standard MVA	36	44	58
Other Rates not dependent on engine size
Additional rate per passenger	6
Bicycle rate	29

Subsistence Allowances

Allowance Type	Allowance Rate
Night Subsistence: outside London	£100.00
Night Subsistence: within London	£120.00
Day Subsistence: 4 to 8 hours absence	£7.45
Day Subsistence: 8 to 12 hours absence	£10.38
Day Subsistence: over 12 hours absence	£19.60