Ordinary people like you, making an extraordinary impact
Magistrates are people just like you, who volunteer their time to help deliver justice in local courts. Why not make a real difference in your community, by becoming a magistrate?
You can out more on this page, and come along to our webinar – Interested in becoming a magistrate? at 6pm on Thursday 15 January 2026.
Why be a magistrate?
- You can make a real impact in your community
- You’ll learn new skills and boost confidence
- It’s a flexible commitment: 13 days (or 26 half-days) a year.
No qualifications or legal training needed!
Magistrates get full training for the role, and a legal adviser in court will help you with questions about the law.
Who can apply?
Anyone can apply, as long as they are aged 18 to 74. It’s a responsible role, so if you want to be a magistrate, you also need to have the right personal qualities, such as:
- Good character and sound judgment
- Aware of social issues
- Mature, understand people and have a sense of fairness
- Reliable and committed to serving the community.
However, it’s unlikely your application will be successful if you have been: found guilty of a serious crime or some minor offences, banned from driving in the past 5 to 10 years, or declared bankrupt.
Ready to start?
Find out more and start your application today at www.gov.uk/become-magistrate
Want to find out more?
We are the Magistrates’ Association, the only independent body for magistrates – and people who want to become magistrates – in England and Wales. Our website has lots of information about being a magistrate, including the different courts (adult, family or youth) that you can work in.
We are holding a webinar – Interested in becoming a magistrate? at 6pm on Thursday 15 January 2026. There you’ll find out even more about being a magistrate, from people who are already doing it. We look forward to seeing you there!