Do you have what it takes?
| Published: 8th January 2008 13:57 |
A Hertfordshire advisory committee is beginning its search for residents to become magistrates.
The committee is holding an open evening in Borehamwood to find people who could sit in court as part of a three-person bench.
Magistrates are required to listen to evidence, assess facts, determine innocence or guilt and decide on a sentence.
They then determine whether a fine, conditional discharge, community sentence or prison is the most appropriate retribution.
No formal qualifications are needed, but candidates must show a respect for the law, an awareness of social issues, the ability to listen to all sides of an argument and to reach a reasonable decision.
Training is provided and all newly-appointed magistrates are assigned to mentors who will assist them through the process.
Once trained, new magistrates will sit in the adult court with two colleagues and will deal with cases such as criminal damage, public disorder, and driving offences.
The open evening event takes place at the Civic Centre, Elstree Way, from 6.30pm on January 22.
For more information contact Sue Neaves on 01923 297 516.
