The Ministry of Justice has launched a major national campaign calling for thousands of new magistrates, with ordinary people from all walks of life in the West Midlands being urged to step forward and volunteer. This drive comes as part of bold reforms to the criminal courts, designed to put victims first and restore public confidence.
A Personal Journey of Resilience and Service
One compelling voice championing the role is Sheila Chingono, 35. For the past five years, she has served as a magistrate in courts across Walsall, Wolverhampton, and Dudley, despite facing a profound personal challenge. In 2023, just nine months after her wedding, Sheila suffered a stroke that left her paralysed on her left side.
"I have found my purpose," Sheila stated, reflecting on her recovery and subsequent dedication to the magistracy. "People need to realise that they can do this – help the community by being a magistrate. You just need an open mind, sound judgement, and the ability to work as part of a team."
She emphasised that full training and expert legal advisers support volunteers every step of the way. Sheila, who juggles her voluntary role with a full-time job, added: "The rewards you get by making a difference are massive. I want to break down barriers – people from all parts of the community need to be involved."
Expanding the Role of Magistrates in Justice
The recruitment campaign, which went live on 20th January 2026, follows the government's response to Sir Brian Leveson's Independent Review of Criminal Courts. Under the new plans, magistrates are set to play a significantly greater role.
Key reforms include:
- Defendants will no longer be able to elect for a jury trial for minor offences, meaning more cases will be heard in the Magistrates' Court.
- Magistrates will gain the power to sentence offenders to up to 18 months in prison, with an option to extend this to 24 months in future.
Currently, around 90% of all criminal cases are concluded in the Magistrates' Court, a proportion expected to rise under these changes. Magistrates are volunteers, expected to dedicate a minimum of 13 days per year, often alongside work and caring responsibilities.
A Call to People of All Backgrounds
Deputy Prime Minister, David Lammy, said: "Magistrates play a vital role in our court system – hearing thousands of cases across every jurisdiction and delivering justice. They are everyday people – and we need more people of every age and background to volunteer."
The campaign aims not only to appoint several thousand new magistrates across England and Wales over the coming years but also to ensure the magistracy better reflects the communities it serves. The Ministry of Justice is looking for candidates aged 18 and over, who can commit to at least five years of service, up to the statutory retirement age of 75.
Successful applicants will receive robust training, a mentor in their first year, and ongoing support from a legal adviser. The top qualities sought are good communication, a sense of fairness, and the ability to see all sides of an argument.
To find out more about becoming a magistrate in the West Midlands, you can visit icanbeamagistrate.co.uk.
