Diversity and Community Relations Magistrate (DCRM) and Magistrates in the Community (MIC)

Promoting the magistracy and engaging the community in the role of the magistracy and the criminal and civil justice systems, Diversity and Community Relations Magistrates (DCRMs) are appointed by the Lord Chief Justice and work closely with Magistrates in the Community (MIC), The Magistrates’ Association community engagement initiative.

DCRMs & MICs play a crucial role in supporting delivery of The Judicial Diversity and Inclusion Strategy (JDIS) and bridging the gap between the magistracy and the community. They also develop and maintain contacts with institutions and under-represented groups to promote the role of the magistracy. Their activities are twofold: to inform and educate people about the role of a magistrate and help bust the myths that prevail and also to encourage recruitment to the Magistracy. Through these efforts DCRMs and MICs work to increase public confidence in the justice system through a more accurate portrayal of how it works.

Subjects discussed might include: • how magistrates are appointed • what kind of cases magistrates’ courts deal with • how guilt or innocence is decided • how a sentence is reached • topical issues such as cybercrime and bullying

As far as possible, presentations are tailored to suit requests, whether it is an informal talk or a more participative sentencing exercise such as acting out a mock trial. All presentations are FREE of charge. However, a suggested donation of £40 can be made to The Derbyshire Magistrates' Association if desired. Presentations are fun, exciting, thought-provoking, challenging and satisfying as we endeavour to demystify the legal system and educate and interest the wider community in the work of their local court. Last year, nationally we delivered presentations to over 80,000 people and to over 650 young people and adults in Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire. To find out more or to arrange for a presentation, please contact: John-Charles Tanner JP (DCRM for Nottinghamshire and Derbyshire) (MIC Lead for Derbyshire)