Magistrates, also known as Justices of the Peace, are volunteers who deal with criminal, civil, and Family proceedings. All criminal cases start in a magistrates’ court, and magistrates have the power to impose some sentences. They are open to the public, though the cases are sometimes subject to reporting restrictions.
19th December 2022 – The challenges of open justice
A summary of discussions at the Magistrates’ Association Annual Conference.
20th May 2024 – “Why are you here?” Open justice in London magistrates’ court
“This report summarises courtwatchers’ experiences of trying to observe magistrates’ court hearings in London. It is based on data from CourtWatch London, a mass court observation project where citizen volunteers observed magistrates’ court hearings and reported what they saw. Despite courts in principle being open to any who want to observe, our volunteers faced many barriers to seeing how justice is done.”
22nd May 2024 – The Wild West? Courtwatching in London magistrates’ court
“This report summarises courtwatchers’ observations of the court process and decision-making in London magistrates’ courts. It is based on data from CourtWatch London, a mass court observation project where citizen volunteers observed magistrates’ court hearings and reported what they saw. People cannot have a fair trial without a clear understanding of what they are accused of, what is happening in court, and the implications of the court process. Our courtwatchers observed magistrates’ courts often falling short.”
23rd August 2024 – Courtwatching: a learning guide
“This guide includes resources on training, guidance and data collection and is written for anyone interested in setting up their own courtwatching project, including charities, community groups and universities.”
Courts and Tribunals Observers’ Network 