On the bench: Why magistrates matter

On the bench: Why magistrates matter

From Inside HMCTS by HM Courts & Tribunals Service

February 11, 2026 · 12 min · Season 1 · Episode 21

About this episode

Nick shares his experiences as a magistrate and the impact of the role on the community.

What does it take to sit on the bench and deliver justice? Less than you might think. Nick balances his work as a driving instructor with 17 years of volunteering as a magistrate in Sheffield and he says it's one of the most rewarding things he's ever done. In this episode of Inside HMCTS, he walks us through the reality of the role, working as a team, supported by a legal adviser and making decisions that genuinely improve lives. He shares how his employers have supported h...

People in this episode

Guest: Nick

Topics covered

  • magistrates
  • justice
  • volunteering
  • community service
  • legal system

Keywords

  • magistrate
  • justice
  • volunteering
  • Sheffield
  • legal adviser

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: HM Courts & Tribunals Service

Places: Sheffield

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