Becoming a magistrate
The application process to become a magistrate.
About magistrates
Magistrates make many of the legal decisions in England and Wales.
Volunteers’ Week: balancing volunteering with a career
In conversation with magistrates who are balancing paid employment and volunteering.
- Practicalities of being a magistrate
FAQs
Answers to common questions about the MA and the magistracy.
Most magistrates left out-of-pocket, says Magistrates’ Association report
The Magistrates' Association today published a landmark report on the costs of being a magistrate.
- Practicalities of being a magistrate
Many magistrates’ courts are inaccessible, says Magistrates’ Association report
The charity's report is the first on-the-ground study into the accessibility of magistrates courts.
- Diversity, disparity and inclusion
- Practicalities of being a magistrate
Volunteers’ Week: Young magistrates’ network
In conversation with members of the MA's young magistrates' network.
- Diversity, disparity and inclusion
Volunteers’ Week: Magistrates in the Community
An insight into the MA's community initiative.
- Practicalities of being a magistrate
Home
Young magistrates’ network
Connecting young magistrates to create an inclusive magistracy.
An interview with the President of the Family Division
In October, Sir Andrew McFarlane, the President of the Family Division, gave a keynote speech at our annual conference. There wasn't enough time for him to field all our members' questions on the day itself, so he kindly offered to answer more in writing afterwards.
- Family court matters
An interview with Mani Hussain
For South Asian Heritage Month, we sat down with Mani Hussain, who won our Branch Officer of the Year Award in 2023, to find out more about his experience as a magistrate and why he encourages people from diverse backgrounds to apply for the role.
- Diversity, disparity and inclusion
- Practicalities of being a magistrate
Employing a magistrate
How employers can support their staff to be magistrates.
Volunteers’ Week: Black, Asian and minority ethnic network
In conversation with members of the MA's Black, Asian and minority ethnic network.
- Diversity, disparity and inclusion
Diversity and inclusion: What we’ve been doing, and how to get involved
Sarah Sawyerr, diversity and inclusion committee representative for our Black, Asian and minority ethnic network, shares a round-up of the committee’s and networks’ recent work.
- Diversity, disparity and inclusion
Influencing for you
We are the only collective and independent voice of the magistracy. We advocate on behalf of our members and inform others about the vital role of the magistracy.
Become a member
As a member of the Magistrates' Association, you’ll get access to a wealth of benefits to assist you to be the best magistrate you can be.
Five ways magistrates benefit society
We reflect on the immense contribution magistrates make to their communities and society as a whole.
- Practicalities of being a magistrate
Magistrates’ Association speaks up for members: November 2023
A round-up of our recent policy and advocacy work.
- Adult court matters
- Family court matters
- Wider justice system
Magistrates’ Association speaks up for members: November 2022
A round-up of our recent policy and advocacy work.
- Family court matters
- Practicalities of being a magistrate
- Wider justice system
