Category: Case studies

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.  

Observed annually by Muslims worldwide, Ramadan represents a sacred period marked by fasting, prayer, and charitable acts. We spoke to three magistrates about what this period means to them and how it aligns with their role as a magistrate.

Lauren works for His Majesty's Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) and became a magistrate in October 2023. She is a young magistrate sitting in the adult criminal court.

Diwali is celebrated by Hindus, Jains and Sikhs and we asked some magistrates what this celebration means to them. They also reflected on how being a magistrate aligns with the teachings of Diwali.

Pauline is a Community Services Matron from Leicester and has been a magistrate for more than 10 years. She joined the bench as she believed that there needed to be better representation for people from ethnic minorities, and as a black woman she wanted to help with that change. We spoke to Pauline about her experiences as a magistrate.

With over 20 years of magistrates’ experience, London-based IT expert Kevin talks about his inspiring journey to becoming a magistrate in the criminal court. Being severely sight impaired, Kevin took it upon himself to set a precedent.  

As a magistrate, you can choose whether to sit in a criminal or family court. We spoke to Sam about why he decided to join the latter.

Aruj shares her thoughts on becoming a magistrate and what she enjoys about the role.

From a young age Luke wanted to be part of making the change he wished to see. Now in his 30's he believes becoming a magistrate is one of the most rewarding things he's ever done.