North Yorkshire Magistrates

York Magistrates' Court

York Magistrates’ Court is an imposing Victorian building in Clifford Street built in 1891.  Originally there were just two courts – a large court used for the Quarter Sessions (the Grand Jury box can still be seen) and a Police Court.  They have had only minor alterations over the years and are still used for criminal cases.  They now have secure docks with access from the police cells below and one of them is fitted with a video link for vulnerable witnesses in trials.

More recently, two courtrooms on the first floor have been created which are less formal.  These courts are used mainly for Family and Youth courts which are not not open to the public.

There are presently 103 magistrates on the York bench dealing with cases in the Adult, Family and Youth Courts.  They are all volunteers living in the York area. All criminal cases start in the Magistrates' Court but the more serious ones are transferred to the Crown Court next to Clifford's Tower. At the Crown Court these cases are dealt with by a Judge and Jury.  97% of cases are dealt with to conclusion at the Magistrates' Court.

Members of the public are always welcome to observe the Adult Courts which sit on weekdays starting at 10.00am.

The Chairman of the Bench for 2010 is Peter Smith JP. Deputy Chairmen are Malcolm Smith JP and Aileen Bloomer JP.  Malcolm Smith is also the co-ordinator for "Magistrates in the Community".  He and his team are available to speak to schools, colleges, employers and other interested groups about the magistracy and its role within the criminal justice system.

ny-yorkmcenq@hmcourts-service.gsi.gov.uk

Supported by The Magistrates' Association (North Yorkshire Branch)

 E-mail link to North Yorkshire Magistrates Association

Page updated 14th January 2010