Magistrates, also known as Justices of the Peace, serve as pillars of the judicial system presiding over cases in magistrates’ courts and making decisions on a wide range of criminal and civil matters. Their diverse backgrounds and life experiences, combined with rigorous training, equip them to adjudicate fairly and impartially in a variety of legal proceedings. It’s worth remembering that Magistrates themselves are volunteers and play a vital part of the legal system. At lunchtime I was given the opportunity to share my own journey to becoming a High Sheriff and to thank the Judges, Magistrates and court staff for all of their hard work. Their unwavering commitment to the justice system shone through. A big thanks to the Bench Chair Magistrate, for inviting me.
