I first applied to become a magistrate back in May 2023 and was eventually through the process a couple of years later, in common with most of the people I met at the initial training. My first mentored sitting was in July 2025, so I am still very new. When I retired, I wanted to do something that used the skills I had acquired through working in further education to give something back to the community. As a great believer in lifelong learning, I also wanted a new challenge – it is certainly providing that.
In the family court the whole emphasis is on working as a team to produce the best outcomes for children, to help families resolve disputes, and to protect family members from abuse. The judgement and insight shown by my colleagues is sometimes very moving and it is a pleasure to work with and learn from a wide range of people outside of my usual social orbit.
LGBT+ representation in the whole of the judiciary is essential for increasing diversity and representing all in society. This is particularly true in the family jurisdiction as potentially more LGBT+ families appear in the family court system and need to see themselves reflected on the bench. I hope that sharing my story will inspire others who identify as LGBT+ to become magistrates too.
I live with my partner, and we have two adult children who we co-parented with their fathers. The children lived with us and spent time with their fathers; we all agreed decades ago that in the case of disagreement, we would never resort to the court system, in part, because of possible homophobic attitudes from the judges. Hopefully that’s no longer the case.
There haven’t been many specific challenges as a lesbian magistrate I’ve faced that others might not be aware of, but having to keep coming out and explain my family situation becomes a tad repetitive. On the plus side I get to wear a suit in court!
The most useful advice I have received so far was from my wonderful mentor Val – we are always learning, whether we have been sitting for one year or 20. And if in doubt, ask.
Challenges I’ve encountered so far include the length of time it takes to get safeguarding reports. This can delay cases for months and can be very frustrating. The administration of the court, sending notices to litigants and all the relevant papers to magistrates too often doesn’t work as it should. These are resource issues of course – the hard work and professionalism of colleagues can’t be overstated.
I’m lucky – outside of being a magistrate I hang out with family and friends. I have a dog so I do lots of walking and I volunteer with Pets As Therapy, taking my dog Queenie into a psychiatric hospital and a care home. I also play tennis and teach and play bridge (which makes me sound much posher than I am) and I campervan around the UK and Europe whenever I can.
