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Wed, 14 May 2025

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Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst MP

@DrNShastriHurst

Dr Neil Shastri-Hurst is the Conservative MP for Solihull West and Shirley

The outdated practice of magistrates hearing private law children’s cases must be abolished

03 Feb Communities

The outdated practice of magistrates hearing private law children’s cases must be abolished

Magistrates have formed an integral part of the England and Wales legal system since the 12th century and the reign of Richard I, who appointed the first keepers of peace. Almost 200 years later, pursuant to the Justice of the Peace Act 1361, the term ‘Justice of the Peace’ was formally introduced. It is not lightly, therefore, that I propose reforming magistrates’ roles, but there is an overwhelming policy argument for doing so.