AN APPEAL has been launched to encourage more people in North Yorkshire to volunteer as magistrates.

People from all walks of life in North Yorkshire are being urged to consider becoming magistrates as applications open in the county.

The appeal is part of a national drive - spearheaded by the Judiciary of England and Wales and Ministry of Justice - to increase the number and diversity of those volunteering across England and Wales.

Magistrates volunteer for at least 13 days (plus training) a year for a minimum of five years to hear all sorts of cases in courts.

The role is unpaid, and so magistrates tend to do this alongside other work commitments.

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As a magistrate, you can choose whether you want to sit in a criminal court or a family court.

No legal qualifications or experience is required to be a magistrate.

Anyone aged between 18 and 70, who can commit to at least 13 days a year for at least five years, is being encouraged to come forward.

Magistrates are given training and an experienced mentor in their first year to develop their skills and legal knowledge.

Amie Canham, from Sheriff Hutton, is a former journalist and TV producer who now works as a youth and charity worker.

She has been a magistrate for four years, and is a Presiding Justice (Chairman) and the Diversity and Community relations lead for North and West Yorkshire.

On her role as a magistrate, Amie said: “As a former journalist who loved court reporting, I’ve always been fascinated by the law, and being a magistrate gives me the chance not only to continue my involvement but to play an active role in the legal system.

"It is a privilege to be able to have a meaningful impact on the lives of people in my community and make a difference to wider society.

"If you are interested in supporting and improving local lives, this is a frontline role which you can do without needing any previous specialist training.”

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Justice Minister Mike Freer, said: “Magistrates have a vital role to play in our justice system and we want to see every part of society represented on their benches.

"By volunteering their time and experience from other walks of life, they play a hugely important part in transforming lives and delivering justice for victims.

Mark Beattie JP, National Chair of the Magistrates’ Association said: “It is crucial that magistrates reflect the communities they serve, so we would encourage those from underrepresented groups and areas to apply to perform this most rewarding of voluntary roles.

“We look forward to sitting alongside you and to welcoming you as members soon.”

Applications are now open in North Yorkshire, anyone looking to volunteer should visit icanbeamagistrate.co.uk for more information.