A gay magistrate from Teesside has shared his initial hesitations about joining the bench and his experiences of being stereotyped, emphasizing how much more accepting the role has become. Tim, 49, who lives in North Yorkshire but serves in Teesside, has been a magistrate for about 18 months. He acknowledges the weight of responsibility but appreciates the constant support from legal advisers ensuring decisions align with the law.
Tim learned of the role through his partner’s family, who had served as magistrates, and applied after spotting a social media ad, feeling he could contribute to his community. “I understood the impact volunteering can have,” he said. “I grew up in Cleveland, where I now serve, so I’m familiar with the area, even though I live in North Yorkshire.”
He admitted to initial concerns about being open about his sexuality. “I wondered how accepted I’d be as a gay magistrate in a professional setting. Historically, discretion was necessary, but it’s far more open and understanding now. Magistrates are chosen for five key qualities, fostering an inclusive bench. Being from a minority, I’ve faced stereotyping, which helps me avoid assumptions and see people as individuals. I think LGBT+ magistrates, and others from diverse backgrounds, bring a valuable perspective.”
Tim stressed the importance of courts reflecting society’s diversity. “I’d absolutely encourage more LGBT+ people to consider this role. Celebrating our differences makes it easier for everyone to be authentic, which matters.” He’s now urging others from the community to volunteer and help deliver local justice, noting the transferable skills it offers for personal and professional life.
The number of magistrates balancing full-time jobs with volunteering is rising, and Tim, an emergency planning and response manager in local government, says he’s always managed to schedule court dates around work. No legal experience is required—just strong communication, fairness, and the ability to weigh arguments objectively, according to a Ministry of Justice spokesperson. New magistrates receive training and support from mentors and legal advisers.
Magistrates volunteer unpaid, committing to at least 13 days annually, plus training, with employers legally obliged to provide time off. Those without paid leave, or self-employed, can claim up to £134.96 daily for lost earnings. Outside his duties, Tim enjoys hiking, fitness, and playing instruments like the flute, piano, violin, cello, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, and bassoon, which he says keep him balanced.
He advises potential magistrates: “Talk to your manager early. My workplace supports my commitments, and the skills I’ve gained—like teamwork and rational thinking—benefit my job too.”
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