Brent communities take on the magistrate court

Wembley, London, 14th May 2011. The venue was packed - the excitement and anticipation in the air, almost palpable. Cup Final at Wembley Stadium? No, but – got your attention! Whilst thousands flocked to the stadium, a stone’s throw away, a group of dynamic individuals eagerly attended the first ‘Judiciary for All’ seminar in 2011.

Brent Magistrates Court welcomed members of the public from Black and Minority Ethnic (BME) communities to explain the work of the magistracy and to explain how they could serve their communities as magistrates. The seminar is part of the Operation Black Vote and the Ministry of Justice Magistrates Shadowing Scheme which aims to address the deficit of BME magistrates across the country.

Brent’s participation in this year’s programme is important. With a BME population of 50 per cent, it is key that this borough recognises the role that it can play as a beacon of diversity.

At present, it is estimated there are 32 BME magistrates in Brent out of a Bench of 145, equivalent to 22%. Recruitment is ongoing and Brent Magistrates Court are keen to welcome a diverse range of applicants.

Robert Allan, Deputy Justices Clerk at Brent Magistrates’ Court encapsulated this notion. He welcomed the delegates saying, “this is your courthouse … this court belongs to each and everyone of you.”

To date, nearly 70 individuals have become magistrates through the Magistrates Shadowing Scheme. This includes, Marcia Johnson JP who sits at Brent Magistrates Court. Reflecting on her decision to become a magistrate she said;

“I came along to the OBV seminar and was really inspired about the work of the courts. I applied because I believe that it is really important that the Magistracy reflects the makeup of the community.”

The system of becoming a magistrate was first introduced nearly 1000 years ago, when certain knights were commissioned by the King to preserve the peace in unruly areas. The legal system has evolved since then, however the role that magistrates play remains a vital part of the judicial system.

There are nearly ten times more magistrates than there are judges, and magistrates deal with 95% of all criminal offences. No legal qualifications are required to be a magistrate, nor are you required to be a knight.

Francine Fernandes Head of Shadowing Schemes for Operation Black Vote said;

“The magistracy is the cornerstone of our Criminal Justice System. It plays a vital role dispensing justice; therefore as a community, it is an institution which we must play a positive role in it’.”

A series of free seminars explaining the role and responsibilities of a magistrate as well outlining the selection process will be held in summer 2011.

Francine Fernandes