Skip Main Navigation
Share this page

MAGISTRATES’ ASSOCIATION CODE OF CONDUCT

The below is the Magistrates’ Association (MA) Code of Conduct for members. By joining the MA, or renewing membership, all members agree to abide by it.

Any suggestions or allegations that a member’s conduct has contravened the Code are reviewed under the MA’s Complaints and Disciplinary procedures.

1. Seven Principles of Public Life

In all my actions and interactions as a member of the Magistrates’ Association, I will apply the Seven Principles of Public Life (the ‘Nolan Principles’):

(i) Selflessness
(ii) Integrity
(iii) Objectivity
(iv) Accountability
(v) Openness
(vi) Honesty
(vii) Leading by example

2. Respect and communication

As a Magistrates’ Association member, I commit to:

• Listen attentively and respect the views of others during discussions
• Always use appropriate and respectful language and behaviour in all interactions
• Foster an environment that encourages open dialogue, diverse perspectives, and
constructive criticism.

3. Diversity and Inclusion

I will respect the rights, dignity, and worth of all individuals involved in the Magistrates’ Association (including fellow members and the MA’s staff), regardless of their gender, race, disability, sexuality, age, occupation, religion and political opinion.

4. Harassment

I will not engage in any form of harassment towards any other member of the Magistrates’ Association or any individual involved in the MA’s activities.

5. Reporting inappropriate behaviour

I am committed to maintaining a safe and respectful environment within the Magistrates’ Association. Therefore, I will endevour to:
• Report any inappropriate behaviour of a member promptly to the Association for proper investigation and resolution.
• Cooperate with any investigations conducted by the Association to the best of my ability.

6. Confidentiality

I will respect the confidentiality of sensitive information shared within the Magistrates’ Association and will not disclose such information without proper authorisation.
Safeguarding – at all times I will be mindful of safeguarding procedures and duties.

7. Managing conflicts of interest:

I will disclose any potential conflicts of interest that may arise affecting my involvement with the Magistrates’ Association.

8. Upholding this Code and other MA policies:

I will abide by this Code of Conduct, as well as any other policies that the Magistrates’ Association might publish for members.

By abiding by this code of conduct, I acknowledge my commitment to maintaining the highest standards of behaviour as a member of the Magistrates’ Association.