MAGISTRATES

Question 1

Justices of the Peace Act 1997

Answer 1

Governs the powers and functions of magistrates.

Question 2

ROLE OF MAGISTRATES

Answer 2

• 28,000 magistrates
• Must commit to at least 26 half-days per year
• Employers must allow time off, sometimes is paid

Question 3

APPOINTMENT OF MAGISTRATES

Answer 3

• Appointed from age of 18
• Must retire at 70, often aren’t appointed beyond the age of 65
• Appointed by Lord Chief Justice
• Selection on merit only
• No legal or academic qualifications
• Police, traffic wardens and those with serious criminal convictions

Question 4

CRIMINAL

Answer 4

• Deal with 95% of cases
• Hear summary and triable-either-way offences
• Cannot order sentences of over 6 months