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Step up and make a difference in 2026

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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.

What is a magistrate?

Magistrates are ordinary people who make most of the important legal decisions in England and Wales. They come from all walks of life – no qualifications, legal knowledge or experience is required. Your open mind, rational thinking, and willingness to work in a team are what make you valuable.

To be eligible to become a magistrate, you need to ensure that you: 

  • Are aged between 18 and 74
  • Can commit to sitting for at least 13 days a year for a minimum of five years
  • Be willing to take an Oath of Allegiance to the Crown
  • Permanently reside in England or Wales and not be in the process of, or intending to, seeking asylum or indefinite leave to remain in the UK

What are the benefits of being a magistrate?

Becoming a magistrate is a fantastic opportunity to support your community. It also offers a wealth of personal benefits and professional development opportunities. These include opportunities to:

  • Increase your confidence in public speaking and engaging with others.
  • Learn more about issues affecting your local area and make a difference in your local community.
  • Improve the way you evaluate information and make decisions based on evidence.
  • Mentor and deliver constructive feedback: Magistrates often mentor, support and advise newer colleagues, to share experience and provide balanced feedback during deliberations.

What support do I get?

As a magistrate, you never work alone. We are committed to supporting you throughout your journey to help you succeed in your new role as a magistrate. You will:

  • Receive full training, mentoring, and ongoing support from a legal adviser to help you follow the correct procedures. 
  • Always make decisions as part of a team with two other magistrate volunteers who will work alongside you.

For more information on how we’ll help equip you with decision making skills and knowledge needed to become a magistrate visit our frequently asked questions. 

What should I let my employer know?

If you’re employed, your employer is legally required to provide you time off for volunteering. Get approval from your employer to make sure they are happy for you to sit as a magistrate. Share our employer advice page with them to help inform them on: 

  • Benefits to your organisation for having magistrate employees.
  • Their responsibilities as your employer.
  • Updating their volunteering policies.

Become a magistrate in your local community

You can become a magistrate if you’re interested in justice, enjoy learning about cases, and would like to drive tangible change in your society.

Register your interest