What does the adult court committee do?
The committee has a broad remit to develop MA policy in the adult court.
Committee members also represent the MA at a variety of different stakeholder meetings, including those hosted by the Ministry of Justice, Probation Service, and the Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency.
Current priorities
The committee is working to:
- Inform responses to pertinent issues, such as the increase in the court surcharge and changes to local justice areas
- Better understand the support that magistrates need to do their work in the adult crime courts
- Working to promote better quality and availability of community sentences, including alternatives to fines where appropriate
- Promote better working with other committees on cross-over issues, such as young adult offenders and the use of out-of-court disposals
Appointment to the committee
Vacancies on the committee are advertised in the summer each year. Appointment is based on merit and to ensure a balanced committee. Candidates are put forward by the chair of the committee to the MA policy board, who have final approval of appointments to committees.
Committee members
- Chair: Jane Smith JP, Central and North London
- Deputy Chairs: Roger King JP, North West London and Andrew Karno JP, Dorset
- Sarah Butters, West Yorkshire LJA
- Stephen Bubb, North & East Hertfordshire LJA
- Peter Candon JP, Norfolk
- Louise Dutton JP, Dorset
- Richard Goodacre, North Yorkshire LJA
- Julia Hurrell JP, Gloucestershire
- Neil Masters, Humber LJA
- Philip Rushbrook JP, Oxford LJA
- The MA’s national chair and deputy chairs
Vacancies
There are currently no vacancies in this committee. Check back in summer 2027.
More information
If you have any questions about this committee, please contact Hannah Bondi, Policy and Research Officer.