South Yorkshire seeks new magistrates: No legal experience necessary, just a desire for justice

The Ministry of Justice and The Judiciary of England and Wales are seeking new magistrates to sit at courts in Sheffield and Doncaster as part of a region-wide appeal.

People from all walks of life are being urged to consider becoming magistrates, with hopes high increase the diversity in age and background of those coming forward.

No legal qualifications or experience is required to be a magistrate, but volunteers will work closely with two other magistrates and a legal advisor, who offers guidance on the law.  

The role also gives people a chance to give back to their community, build relationships with new people and develop new skills.

Anyone aged between 18 and 70 who can commit to at least 13 days a year for at least five years is being encouraged to come forward.

Recent figures showed an increase in the proportion of women (52 per cent) and and people under 50 (20 per cent) volunteering to be magistrates compared to last year.

Volunteers will be training and given an experienced mentor in their first year to develop their skills and legal knowledge.

Applications are now open in the north east region, and anyone interested in volunteering should visit icanbeamagistrate.co.uk for more information.