More Magistrates needed in Staffordshire

The search is on for people who are interested in giving something back to their communities by becoming magistrates. The position of magistrate dates back to the 14th century and is a respected and responsible position. Magistrates are there to provide local justice for local people.

You will need to possess integrity rather than paper qualifications and have the ability to make fair and reasonable decisions.

You should be able to listen to all sides of an argument and have a good knowledge of people and different aspects of human behaviour.

Personal qualities and experience of life are vita! and new magistrates will receive all necessary legal and other training to enable them to carry out their duties.

Applicants should be under the age of 65 years and be prepared to sit for at least 26 half days per year.

There are three Benches of magistrates in the county. The Central and South West Staffordshire Bench covers Stafford, Cannock, and South Staffordshire and court sittings are held in Stafford and Cannock. The North Staffordshire Bench covers Stoke-on-Trent, Newcastle-under-Lyme and Staffordshire Moorlands with courts at Fenton and Newcastle-under-Lyme. The South East Staffordshire Bench covers East Staffordshire, Lichfield and Tamworth with courts sitting at Burton upon Trent and Tamworth. There are currently vacancies on all three Benches.

There are certain occupations which would preclude appointment as a magistrate. These include applicants holding some posts within the Police, Probation and Crown Prosecution Services or their spouse or partner. There are also a few other occupations details of which, together with helpful advice, guidance and application forms, can be obtained from:

Mr Nigel Pursey
Secretary,
Lord Chancellor’s Advisory Committee for Staffordshire,
County Buildings,
Stafford,
ST162LH

E-mail: nigel.pursey@staffordshire.gov.uk