Proudly supporting volunteer magistrates in our communities

The forum for businesses and organisations proudly supporting the work of volunteer magistrates in their local communities.

The High Sheriff of Surrey

Volunteer magistrates play a vital role in the administration of justice in England and Wales. Their generosity of time, professionalism and commitment benefits our society, including businesses and organisations.

We want to see a modern magistracy made up of people from all walks of life - including those that are in employment. Which means organisations also have a vital role to play in supporting their employees to administer justice in our local communities.

I warmly invite you to support the Magistrates Employers Forum.

Shahid Azeem DL, The High Sheriff of Surrey

About The Magistrates Employers Forum

Supporters of the Forum sign up to five simple pledges, which demonstrate their support for volunteer magistrates. The Forum is open to employers of all sizes, in both the public and private sectors.

The Forum was launched in November 2024 by the High Sheriff of Surrey, Shahid Azeem DL, and Surrey magistrate Michael Kelly JP with the endorsement of HM Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey - Michael More-Molyneux.

The Magistrates Employers Forum brings together organisations in support of employees who are volunteer magistrates.

HM Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey

Magistrates have been a cornerstone of our justice system for centuries. Although the office may be historic their relevance and contribution to today's society remains pertinent.

As Chair of the Advisory Committee for the appointment of Justices of the Peace (magistrates) in Surrey, I know first-hand the selfless and vital public service these volunteers deliver, on behalf of us all.

I would encourage all employers to join this valuable Forum.

Michael More-Molyneux, HM Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey

Five-point pledge

Magistrates Employers Forum supporters pledge to....

Encourage

Supporters agree to publicise their support for magistrates, and to encourage other organisations to sign up.

Exchange

The Forum is for employers of all sizes. This mix produces a rich pool of experience and expertise to be exchanged.

Evolve

Supporters pledge to maintain up-to-date magistrate volunteering policies.

Embed

Supporters pledge to embed appropriate internal policies to support their employees who volunteer as magistrates.

Empower

Supporters empower their employees who are magistrates with appropriate support - including time off for their duties.

Why support volunteer magistrates?

"We recently hired Photo Bloom to take photos for our wedding. We were was so impressed with their work! They were professional, creative, and responsive to my needs. The photos they took were absolutely stunning, and we couldn't be happier with the results."

Mr & Mrs Miller

Vital Public Servants

Each year, magistrates deal with over 90% of all criminal cases across England and Wales.

Globally unique

No other country in the world is as reliant on volunteer magistrates as we are in England and Wales.

Contribution to society

Magistrates commit a minimum of 13 days a year to their duties. This experience and the training they receive brings benefits to their employers, as well as wider society.