A Festive Evening with the Surrey Magistrates

.Suzanne and I enjoyed a very festive evening at the Guildford Institute with the Surrey Magistrates who had taken the theme of wearing something red very seriously. Also present was the Lord Lieutenant, legal advisors, ushers and rota admin staff, and it is one of the only occasions when all parts of the Magistrates team are gathered together.

As High Sheriff one of my responsibilities is to support the Judiciary and all who uphold the Kings Peace, so it was a fitting occasion to be able to thank them for their unwavering dedication and service. They often have to sit for long hours making difficult decisions that require not only legal knowledge but also compassion and understanding. Over 90% of all cases start and finish in Magistrates Courts. 

Magistrates are all volunteers and they have to give up time to be trained, sit in court and often undertake extra admin and other responsibilities to keep the courts running. Amazing some 60% fit in this public duty around their paid employment. I enjoyed meeting some of the magistrates I met at their swearing in ceremony earlier this year and congratulated others that the Lord Lieutenant presented with long service awards. It was also wonderful to catch up with Dee Wilkinson JP, the Surrey Bench Chair, and the person who performed the official duties at my Installation Ceremony earlier this year.