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Meet Chris – One of the Longest-Serving Magistrates in England and Wales

Published:
Chris with his dog.

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.

Meet Chris from Kent, who began his journey as a magistrate in 1982. That was the year Prince William was born, E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial hit cinema screens, and Aston Villa won the European Cup. Nearly 43 years later, Chris is still sitting in court – a remarkable example of long-standing commitment to public service.

A fascination that sparked a lifelong role

Chris first considered becoming a magistrate after giving evidence in a social security case during his work as a Payroll Manager for an NHS hospital group in East Kent.

I was fascinated by the whole process,” he says. “At the time, I was one of the youngest magistrates in Kent – and the only one turning up to court on a motorbike!
Chris, Magistrate

Back then, Chris was just 30. Today, he continues to help deliver justice and support his community, bringing years of experience and wisdom to the bench.

Why Chris still serves

Being a magistrate has played a huge part in my life and is very rewarding. Anyone can volunteer – you don’t need any legal experience. The justice system has changed a lot since I started, but it’s still incredibly rewarding. Every day you serve as a magistrate counts. You leave court knowing you’ve made a difference.”
Chris, Magistrate

He highlights how much support new magistrates receive now, including:

  • Training on how magistrates’ courts work
  • A dedicated mentor for the first year
  • National Sentencing Guidelines to inform decision-making
  • Support from legal advisers and fellow magistrates

Make a difference just like Chris

Magistrates are volunteers – ordinary people from all walks of life who give up their time to hear cases in criminal or family courts. They are not paid, but they can claim for loss of earnings (up to £134.96 per day), travel, and childcare expenses.

Employers are legally required to allow time off for magistrate duties, and many, like Chris’s NHS employer, offer paid volunteer leave.

You don’t need legal qualifications, knowledge or experience to become a magistrate. You need:

  • To be at least 18 to 74 years old
  • Strong communication skills, a sense of fairness, and the ability to consider different points of view
  • An open mind, rational thinking, and willingness to work in a team.

A national need for local justice

Over 90% of all court cases are heard by magistrates. The work they do is invaluable, and they are terrific servants to their communities. People can also learn great skills sitting as a magistrate which can help them prosper in other areas of life. It’s a great way to volunteer and serves real purpose.
Lord Ponsonby, Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Ministry of Justice and former magistrate

Whether you’re early in your career, balancing family life, or considering a new challenge, magistracy could be the perfect way to give back.

It’s flexible enough to fit around work and family commitments, and you feel like you’ve contributed to society every time you leave court.
Chris, Magistrate

Become a magistrate

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