The government has initiated a recruitment campaign to enlist thousands of new volunteer magistrates across England and Wales, aiming to address the existing backlog in crown courts.
The Ministry of Justice (MoJ) reports that over 2,000 magistrates have been trained since 2022, and this latest initiative seeks to augment that number by an additional 2,000 within the upcoming financial year.
Justice Secretary David Lammy emphasized the “vital role” magistrates play in the judicial system, stating, “We need more people of every age and background to volunteer.”
In December, Lammy unveiled comprehensive reforms to the criminal courts, including the removal of juries from certain trials in England and Wales, with the goal of expediting the justice process.
Recent data indicates that over 79,600 criminal cases are currently backlogged in the courts of England and Wales, marking a record high since early 2023. The MoJ projects this figure could reach 100,000 by 2028.
These delays could result in victims and suspects of serious crimes charged in 2026 facing years of waiting for justice, with their cases potentially not reaching trial before 2030.
Lammy lauded magistrates as “everyday heroes” who preside over thousands of cases across various jurisdictions.
“Volunteering to become a magistrate can significantly impact both your life and the lives of others. I urge the public to apply and contribute,” he added.
The Magistrates’ Association has welcomed the recruitment drive as a “big vote of confidence” in magistrates, but also emphasized the need for increased resources for the courts, including trained legal advisors and repairs to deteriorating court facilities.
Shadow Justice Minister Kieran Mullan acknowledged the recruitment drive but cautioned that it “cannot paper over the failings of a justice secretary and Labour government that has consistently failed to deliver meaningful reform.”
All magistrates are expected to dedicate a minimum of 13 days per year to volunteering and hearing cases.
Magistrates are needed across criminal, youth, civil, and family proceedings, and are supported by specialist legal advisors to assist them in managing a diverse range of cases.
According to the MoJ, current figures reveal that 57% of magistrates are female, and 14% are from an ethnic minority background, with London having the highest proportion at 31%.
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