Magistrates recruitment drive seeks thousands amid court reforms

The justice secretary has launched a drive to recruit thousands of magistrates alongside criminal court reforms, and MoJ figures show about 79,600 criminal cases are currently backlogged in England and Wales.

The justice secretary, David Lammy, announced changes to the criminal courts in December that include removing juries from some trials to speed proceedings. The government has opened a recruitment drive seeking thousands of new magistrates to help hear more cases. Ministry of Justice figures show about 79,600 criminal cases are currently backlogged in England and Wales and that number is projected to rise. Officials say the recruitment is part of efforts to address courtroom capacity. Known details: - The announced reforms include removing juries from a number of trials to reduce delays. - The MoJ reports roughly 79,600 criminal cases are backlogged, with a projection of 100,000 by 2028. - A recruitment campaign aims to bring in thousands of magistrates who are expected to volunteer a minimum of 13 days a year. - The Magistrates' Association welcomed the recruitment but called for more court resources, and the opposition said recruitment alone cannot replace broader reform. Summary: The combination of reforms and a growing backlog has increased demand for magistrates and may lead to longer waits for some cases. Undetermined at this time.