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Looking for a meaningful way to start your new year? Why not volunteer as a magistrate and play a vital role in your community? From gaining new skills to seeing the impact of your decisions firsthand, the magistracy offers a unique and rewarding experience. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to volunteer in the courts, here’s everything you need to know.

Did you know that over half of adults (57%) believe volunteering in their local community is important? This International Volunteer Day, we’re celebrating the power of ordinary people doing extraordinary things. Volunteering isn’t just about giving your time – it’s about shaping lives, strengthening communities, and creating a safer, fairer society. One of the most impactful ways to do that? Becoming a magistrate.

This Black History Month, successful business leader and magistrate, Dr Delroy, is calling on people from all walks of life to consider volunteering as a magistrate, to help shape a fairer society.

Magistrate Swati shares a personal reflection on how Diwali brings light, connection, and cultural pride - both at home and in the courtroom. From family traditions to the role of a magistrate, she explains how celebration, justice, and representation can all help build a stronger, more inclusive society.

For South Asian Heritage Month, Moawia shares his experience of being a magistrate and reflects on the importance of an inclusive judiciary.

Over the last few months, more than 3,000 students from 195 schools have taken part in the Magistrates’ Mock Trial Competition, giving them a first-hand insight into the justice system and helping them to understand how the law touches every aspect of their lives. 

As the UK celebrates Volunteers’ Week (2 to 8 June), we’re shining a light on one of the incredible individuals who has dedicated decades of service to justice in his local community.

Minister for Family Justice Lord Ponsonby discusses why the MoJ is asking employers to encourage the magistrates of tomorrow and give recognition to this historic service.

October marks Black History Month. It is a month of learning and celebration, honouring the contributions and achievements of black people throughout history and today. This year’s theme is ‘reclaiming narratives’, with an emphasis on shaping how black people’s stories are told. Magistrates, O’Neill and Yvonne, share their views on the importance of diversity in the judiciary and what inspired them to become magistrates.

Magistrates play a pivotal role in the justice system, volunteering their time to make decisions on a range of cases in criminal and family courts. As a magistrate, you can help ensure the justice system is fair and accessible to all, while gaining valuable, transferrable skills.