In a tranquil oak-lined room a sea of quizzical faces gaze intently in a single direction, only the occasional rustle punctuates the calm.

What could so totally capture the attention of so many you ask?

At question time all is revealed. When is the best time to apply to become a magistrate? Can I become a JP if I have a speeding fine? What sort of person are they really looking for?

These questions and more were duly answered by court chiefs and Justices of the Peace at the OBV and DCA Magistrates Shadowing Scheme 'Judiciary for All' seminar held in London last week.

Taking note: Shadows listen intently to rules and regulations of the magistracy

Over 100 scheme shadows from across the country attended the one-day seminar which featured speakers and magistrate group leaders from across the magistracy imparting information about the court structure and the appointments process. The learning consolidated their experience of observing court cases which helps them to understand how magistrates reach decisions.

The shadows, from a variety of backgrounds and professions, used the opportunity to network and exchange experiences with each other.

Neighbourhood Manager, Shaique Choudhury said "I enjoyed the workshops, especially because I have an interview in a fortnight's time and found the discussions interesting and useful. I also enjoyed meeting other shadows and exchanging experiences".

Speakers clockwise: Top left - Louise Morris,  Department for Constitutional Affairs. Magistrates Association, Chief Executive Sally Dickinson. Philip Knowles, Buckinghamshire Clerk to the Justices.Shelagh Hemphill, Dep Bench Chair, Kingston.

Pamela Roberts, Diversity Co-ordinator, Buckinghamshire, who started the programme only last month said: The observation sessions enabled me to understand the court process, the role of the magistrates, the chair, the Clerk, different procedures and report terminology. However, the most important aspect is that I acquired the ability to challenge my own perception of the defendants, and have the ability not to be judgemental based on image, body language and social class, but to base any decision purely on the facts or what has been presented to the bench. To date the scheme has proved very useful to me. It has given me a very detailed understanding of what is required, time commitment and the nature of the cases a magistrate court deals with.

Mentor magistrates: (Top) Anita Patel and  Richard Hay and Nicholas Boachie. (Bottom) Dr Patrick Davies and Sharon Hanoomansingh

London shadow Marcia Bluck, PCT Head of Diversity, added "I have had a chance to be sure of my decision to be a magistrate. I am very fortunate to have had mentors who have taken the time to explain things, and other magistrates who I have met have been exceptional".

Ahmed Makda, Administrative Support and Deputy Team Leader for an Asylum and Immigration tribunals support centre in Leicester concluded, "It was a lovely day to be amongst such an inspirational bunch of people"

Graduate shadows from past schemes who are now magistrates related their journey from having a desire to become a magistrate to finally taking a place on the court benches and playing a role in the justice process. The seminar ended with a networking drinks reception.

A similar one-day public seminar will be held in London at the end of September, please email mag[@]obv.org.uk for further information.

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