Leeds university lecturer and magistrate encourages others to help deliver swifter justice

Now, during Volunteers’ Week (1–7 June), the university lecturer and magistrate is urging others across Yorkshire and the North East to follow in his footsteps and help ensure victims receive swifter justice. 

Across England and Wales, 14,500 people already volunteer as magistrates - ordinary people from all walks of life and who have no previous legal experience. 

Naweed Hussain was inspired to become a magistrate after previously volunteering in youth work, environmental organisations and community regeneration. While volunteering was not new to him, becoming a magistrate was his first experience of a formal, structured volunteering role. 

Naweed, who lectures in policing at Leeds Trinity University, said his West Yorkshire upbringing meant he felt he had a good understanding of community issues, but realised that sitting in court would give him a deeper insight. 

He said:  “Volunteering has always been part of who I am, but becoming a magistrate was my first experience of formal volunteering and it’s been one of the most meaningful things I’ve ever done. 

“I wanted to give something back to society in a way that truly mattered, and sitting as a magistrate allows me to do exactly that. 

“At the end of a day in court, you genuinely feel that you’ve done something worthwhile for your community. 

“Being a magistrate gives you a real insight into the challenges people face, and the opportunity to make fair, balanced decisions that can change lives. 

“It’s vital that magistrates reflect the communities they serve. Different backgrounds bring different perspectives, and that leads to better justice. 

“Seeing someone who looks like you on the bench shows that the magistracy is something ordinary people can be part of. 

“The role challenges you, stretches you and teaches you how to listen, negotiate and make objective decisions. 

“You don’t need a legal background. Your life experience, common sense and willingness to learn are what really matter. 

“With supportive employers and advance planning, it’s absolutely possible to juggle magistracy with a busy professional life. 

“It’s a steep learning curve, but it’s also an incredibly rewarding journey and one I’d recommend to anyone who wants to give back.” 

Naweed has found the role works well alongside his academic work. He has also used his role to give back beyond the courtroom, organising court visits, speaking at schools, colleges and universities, and working with the Magistrates in the Community to raise awareness of the role.

With Volunteers’ Week being marked in the UK between 1-7 June, people of all ages are being urged to consider serving as a magistrate. 

Sarah Sackman KC MP, Minister of State for Courts and Legal Services, said: “This Volunteers’ Week, I want to recognise the vital contribution magistrates make to our justice system and to the communities they serve. Their commitment is fundamental to delivering justice fairly. 

“Becoming a magistrate is also an opportunity to develop valuable skills and experience, while making a real difference. If you are looking for a meaningful way to give back, I would strongly encourage you to consider applying.” 

The Ministry of Justice is currently looking for people aged 18 and over to volunteer, with the expectation of five years’ service and statutory retirement age of 75. All magistrates receive full training, mentoring, and ongoing support from a legal adviser. All decisions are made as part of a team of magistrates to ensure a balanced and fair consideration of cases.  

To find out more about becoming a magistrate in North Yorkshire or to register your interest, visit  I Can Be a Magistrate.