magistrates

• In which court do Superior judges sit?

  Superior Court
• Who is the head of the Judiciary?

  Lord Chief Justice
• Where do circuit judges sit?

  Circuit Court
• How many years’ experience in a Superior court is needed to become a Justice of the Supreme Court?

  At least 10 years
• How many years’ experience do you need to become a Lord Justice of Appeal?

  At least 15 years
• Can you choose a division to work in if you become a High Court Judge?

  No, you cannot choose a division
• How were Judges historically selected?

  By appointment from the monarchy
• How are Judges now selected?

  Through a selection process by committees
• Where are Judges trained?

  Judicial College
• Which group of Judges have compulsory training?

  Magistrates
• At what age do Judges have to retire?

  75 years old
• What are the key characteristics of Justices of the Peace (JPs)?

  • Lay people, not legally qualified
  • Local volunteers
  • No formal legal qualifications required
  • Undergo a training program
• What are the qualifications for magistrates?

  • Aged between 18 and 74
  • Must retire at 75
  • Local knowledge is important
  • Must sit at least 13 days a year
  • Not appointed if serious criminal convictions exist
• What are the six key qualities expected of magistrates?

  1. Good character
  2. Understanding and communication
  3. Social awareness
  4. Maturity and sound temperament
  5. Sound judgement
  6. Commitment and reliability
• What is the appointment process for magistrates?

  • Recommended by Local Advisory Committees
  • 700 new appointments each year
  • Appointed by Lady/Lord Chief Justice
  • Focus on qualities and judicial skills
• What training do magistrates receive?

  • Initial Introductory Training
  • Core Training for key skills
  • Activities like court observations
  • Ongoing training over 2 years
• What are the main duties of magistrates?

  • Deal with criminal law matters (96% of cases)
  • Conduct early administrative hearings
  • Decide verdict and sentence
  • Attend Crown Court for appeals
• What are the retirement and removal conditions for magistrates?

  • Retire at age 75
  • Can retire at any time
  • Can be removed for incapacity or misbehaviour
• What are the advantages of having magistrates in the criminal justice system?

  • Wider cross-section of society
  • Local knowledge of community issues
  • Minimal costs for trials
  • Fewer successful appeals
• What are the disadvantages of magistrates?

  • Unrepresentative of society
  • Potential prosecution bias
  • Delays in case processing
  • Inconsistency in sentencing
• What is the age limit for magistrates?

  75 years old
• How many days a year do magistrates have to work?

  13 full days or 26 half days
• Who appoints a magistrate?

  Lady Chief Justice
• Which of these is NOT one of the six qualities of a magistrate?

  Good memory
• Which of these jobs do magistrates not do?

  Trial for indictable offences
• What are the potential exam questions related to magistrates?

  • Explain selection, training, and role of magistrates
  • Analyze importance of magistrates
  • Discuss advantages and disadvantages of magistrates
• What is the significance of magistrates in the criminal justice system?

  • Provide local knowledge
  • Represent community diversity
  • Cost-effective trial process
  • Reduce burden on higher courts