Effectiveness of Criminal Justice System

Effectiveness of Criminal Justice System 1
EFFECTIVENESS OF CRIMINAL JUSTICE SYSTEM
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Effectiveness of Criminal Justice System 2
Workbook: Effectiveness of Criminal Justice System
Key Responsibilities of Judges, Magistrates, and Juries
Magistrates
The magistrates in Wales and England play a critical role in the UK judiciary. According
to a study which was conducted in 2011, it was found out that about 19 of the 20 criminal court
cases had been dealt with by the magistrates. Also, about 6 percent of the total cases were
handled by the crown court (Crosby, 2018 p.8). The magistrates are also involved in the law
enforcement such that they apply the civil jurisdiction with the aim of assisting the local
authorities and police in reducing gang violence and anti-social behavior. Moreover, the
magistrates are considered volunteers who aid in the justice system. The justice system was
formed such that the magistracy was at the helm with much focus on the provision of justice to
the society (Brooks, 2017 p.90). Besides, there are certain qualities which the magistrates must
have to produce sound judgment. Such qualities include the application of sound judgment,
fairness, good character and comprehension of other people.
Roles and Responsibilities
There are a variety of roles played by the magistrates in the UK as is indicated below;
 Protecting children from abuse
 Combating anti-social behavior and gang violence
 Dispensing justice for the benefit of the society
Dealing with fine enforcement
Granting search warrant and also the right of entry applications
Monitoring offenses
Consideration of bail applications
Hearing less serious court cases such as murder and rape

Effectiveness of Criminal Justice System 3
Qualifications of Magistrates
According to the law, there are formal qualifications or rather a legal training for an
individual to become a magistrate. Some of the key qualifications include;
Good Character
A magistrate should have a good character such that under the following circumstances
he or she will not be appointed;
Declared bankrupt
Found guilty of serious crimes
Restrained from driving in the past 5 to 10 years
Found guilty of a variety of minor offenses.
Age
According to Backhouse and Ferrett (2016 p.30), a magistrate has to be over 18 years and
below 65 years of age. However, they should retire at 70. Moreover, the magistrates should serve
for at least five years.
Personal Qualities
A magistrate is expected to have the right personal qualities such as being committed and
reliable to serve the society. Other personal qualities include being aware of social issues as well
as being fair, mature and the ability to comprehend other individuals. Besides, the above
mentioned personal qualities, there are also certain others such as the ability to think logically
thus attain a fair decision. Also, a magistrate should comprehend documents, communicate
properly as well following evidence.