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, Surrey
- 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
- The MA’s national chair and deputy chairs
More information
If you have any questions about this committee, please contact Samira Ali, Policy and Research Officer.