Last month, the Magistrates’ Association hosted a workshop with a group of young magistrates as part of ongoing University of Sheffield research looking into the experiences of young magistrates and their feelings about the role. Dr Xavier L’Hoiry’s research has been underway since December 2021 and aims to plug an important knowledge gap about the issues affecting young magistrates.
At the workshop, MA staff and University of Sheffield academics heard about what matters most to the magistrates that were in attendance, as well as their thoughts on the ongoing national recruitment campaign and what they would like to see emphasised within the role.
Participants came from all areas of England and Wales, which provided a diversity of views. Their insights will be used to develop conclusions and recommendations as the study progresses.
