It’s time to celebrate the very best of the magistracy. Nominations are now open for the 2026 MA Awards – your chance to recognise someone who’s gone the extra mile for their branch, the community, or the Association.
As magistrates, we rarely stop to celebrate our peers – but this is your opportunity to do just that. Whether it’s a standout Magistrates in the Community presenter, an inspiring branch leader, a tireless recruiter or a retired member still making waves, we want to hear about them.
The deadline for nominations is midnight on Monday 5 October, and the winners will be announced at our AGM and conference , held online this year – which members can attend for free.
Award categories
We want your nominations for the following member- or branch-nominated awards. You can even nominate yourself or your own branch – don’t be shy!
- NEW – Rising star award – For a magistrate within their first two years of appointment who has already made a positive impact on their bench, branch, or local community through their commitment, enthusiasm and contribution.
- Magistrates in the Community Impact Award – For a branch or team that has delivered a creative, high-quality Magistrates in the Community project with lasting impact in the community.
- Magistrates in the Community Presenter of the Year – For someone who’s gone above and beyond to educate others about the justice system.
- Employer Award – For an employer who has gone the extra mile to support their employee in serving as a magistrate.
- The John Taylor Branch Officer of the Year Award – For a dependable, proactive committee member who embodies the spirit of the MA.
- Retired Member of the Year – For a retired magistrate who continues to make a meaningful contribution to the MA, their branch, fellow members or the wider community.
- Special Recognition Award – For an individual whose exceptional contribution over the years stands out nationally or locally.
- Branch of the Year – For a branch that excels in member engagement, learning and development, communication and support, demonstrating the very best of what an MA branch can achieve. For this award, we want branches to nominate themselves, so if you’re proud of what you do, please don’t be afraid to blow your own trumpets!
- Diversity and Inclusion Award – For a person making a positive impact by championing diversity and inclusion in their area, whether that be by reaching under represented communities via Magistrates in the Community, or proactively having an impact within their bench.
Note: three additional awards will be made based on data from Magistrates in the Community returns and our membership records. These are – Individual recruiter award, Magistrates in the Community Education Award and Magistrates in the Community, Community Award.
How to nominate
Nominate yourself, a colleague, or your whole branch by completing the nomination form (Word) and email it to us by midnight on Monday 5 October 2026.
Let’s celebrate the people who make a difference. Make your nomination count!