A01=John Hosking
Author_John Hosking
Category=LNA
Category=LNAA
courts and sentencing
criminal justice
english law
eq_isMigrated=1
eq_nobargain
justice
law
magistracy
magistrates
magistrates court
magistrates' courts
summary justice
Product details
- ISBN 9781909976757
- Weight: 574g
- Dimensions: 164 x 240mm
- Publication Date: 18 Mar 2020
- Publisher: Waterside Press
- Publication City/Country: GB
- Product Form: Hardback
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In this thoroughly informed account of the magistracy the author deals with key issues touching on that institution. Focussing on what Lord Bingham, Lord Chief Justice, described as a 'democratic jewel beyond price', he explains its rationale, goals and over-riding values. Dealing with major developments, economics, management, day-to-day practicalities and changing times the author casts an experienced eye over summary justice, law and order and its fascinating history of local administration.
Describing the magistracy as a great national institution, independent, respected and a true people's court, John Hosking nevertheless decries a halving of its size, closure of courthouses, remote services and increasing reliance on professional judges rather than community volunteers. Though much has changed for the better to increase competency, meet criticism and maintain integrity, the book explains how other developments have challenged the very status of the lay magistracy and made inroads into one of the most cherished principles of our democracy: public participation in the justice system.
John Hosking combined a lifetime in business with service as a justice of the peace. Chairman of the nationwide Magistrates' Association from 1987 to 1990, he is life vice-president of the Kent branch (where he served on the Ashford bench). He has acted as a Deputy Lord Lieutenant and was awarded the CBE in 1990 for services to the magistracy.
