At the kind invitation of the Bench Chair, Clare Sawdon MBE, JP, I had a very interesting visit to Coventry Magistrates Court to observe a number of cases being heard by the Family Magistrates.
These cases often involve complex matters where the interests of Children are critical to the deliberations of the Magistrates and decisions as to custody are often quite emotionally charged.
I was most grateful to Claire and Deputy Chair Nick Cole JP for facilitating the visit, where I also got to present a High Sheriff Award to Pete Owne who has been serving the Courts as Legal Adviser for 50 years.
