THE deadline for people to sign up as a magistrate in the Vale has been extended until May.

The voluntary role sees people hearing cases in court after full training has been provided.

Each case is usually heard by three magistrates with a law advisor on hand to ensure the right procedures are followed.

Criminal cases begin in a magistrates’ court with magistrates deciding to pass the most serious crimes to Crown Court.

They decide if defendants should be kept in custody or let out on strict conditions.

They deal with crimes such as minor assaults, motoring offences, theft, and handling stolen goods and can give punishments such as fines, unpaid work in the community, and prison for up to six or 12 months.

Magistrates also hear some civil and family cases involving unpaid council tax, TV licence evasion, child custody and adoption and taking children into care with only experienced magistrates, who have had special training, hearing family cases.

A court open day is being planned at Cardiff Magistrates’ Court for the first week of May.

Vale-based Magistrate, John Viney said: “We are pleased the deadline for applications has been extended as this will give many more people from all walks of life the opportunity to be part of this unusual and unique volunteer assignment.

"There are currently employed and self-employed people who are teachers, window cleaners, shop assistants, taxi drivers, nurses and mature students.

"The more miscellaneous the better, ensuring a diverse local magistracy to administer justice for all in our area.”

Anyone aged 18 to 65, can apply. You are expected to serve for at least five years.

An awareness of social issues and sense of fairness is necessary. Applicants must be reliable and committed to serving the community, Magistrates must be of good character and have no conflict of interest.

To apply visit a local court at least once to check the role is right for you.

Interviewees will be asked to talk about their visits.

Download the application form and guidance notes and email or post to www.gov.uk/become-magistrate or call 02920 474346 for information.