Our history
Founded in 1920, the MA has grown from a small group into a national charity representing magistrates in England and Wales.
Our governance
We were granted a Royal Charter in 1962. Our charter, bylaws and standing orders set out our objectives, constitution and how we should be governed.
Our people
The MA has a small staff team, overseen by national officers and a board of trustees.
Our strategy
Our strategy outlines how we will continue our work to realise a fair and effective justice system that is powered by trained magistrates committed to their communities.
Work with us
Thanks for your interest in joining or collaborating with our small and friendly staff team. Check out our current vacancies and learn more about our culture, benefits and commitment to diversity and inclusion.
What we do
We campaign on policy and practice relating to the magistracy, provide support and development guidance to magistrates, and inform others about the magistracy.
We connect
We provide opportunities for members to meet, collaborate and network
We develop
We provide tools to develop magistrates’ knowledge and skills. Our member-only learning hub, MA learn, contains more than 120 high-quality resources.
We influence
We are the only collective and independent voice of the magistracy. We advocate on behalf of our members and inform others about the vital role of the magistracy.
We inform
We are the key source of news, updates and opinions on issues relevant to the magistracy
We support
We provide peer support when being a magistrate feels tough.
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 120 resources
- Monthly webinars on topical issues
- A support line run by versed magistrates
- Engaging newsletters and magazines
- Events where you can meet colleagues
What our community says
I joined the MA because I know it seeks to enhance the overall experience of magistrates. I wanted to attend the events and networking opportunities it puts on, and I appreciate its contributions to government policy making.