Northern Ireland Judicial Appointments Commission

11/06/2026

⚖️ What does Sinead Burns do alongside her role as a Lay Magistrate?

Sinead shares how she balances her responsibilities as a Lay Magistrate with her everyday life, offering insight into how the role can fit alongside other commitments.

This is part of our Lay Magistrate testimonial series.

Follow along for more insight into what it’s like to be a Lay Magistrate.

11/06/2026

We regret to inform you that, due to the uncertainty of ongoing disturbances, the Belfast Live event scheduled to take place at the Crowne Plaza this evening on 11 June has been postponed.

We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding in what are challenging and uncertain circumstances. It is NIJAC’s wish to maximise the numbers who can attend and we are aware that the current circumstances may result in a number of those planning to attend deciding not to.

NIJAC have been able to secure alternative accommodation for a rescheduled event on Thursday 18 June at 6pm-7.30pm.

The location of the event has changed to the Culloden Hotel (Stuart Suite), Bangor Road, Holywood, Belfast BT18 OEX.

Existing registrations will be honoured and there are now more tickets available here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/lay-magistrate-ni-information-evening-belfast-tickets-1990557019630?aff=oddtdtcreator

Thank you for your patience and continued support.

Join us in Belfast for an info session about becoming a Lay Magistrate in NI – all in person!

10/06/2026

⚖️ What happens after you submit your application?

In this video, Andy from NIJAC explains the next stages of the selection process - including eligibility checks, the Situational Judgement Test, and how applications are assessed.

Each stage is designed to ensure a fair, consistent, and transparent process for all applicants.

Watch to understand what comes next!

This is part two of our selection process series. Follow along for the final stage.

09/06/2026

⚖️ What happens on a typical day as a Lay Magistrate?

Sinead Burns shares her experience of a sitting day, offering insight into how the role works in practice and what it involves.
This is part of our Lay Magistrate testimonial series.

Follow along for more insight into what it’s like to be a Lay Magistrate.

07/06/2026

⚖️ Meet Lay Magistrate Sinead Burns.

In this video, Sinead introduces herself and shares insight into her role as a Lay Magistrate - offering a first-hand perspective on what the role involves and the impact it can have.

Lay Magistrates play an important role in the justice system in Northern Ireland, bringing a community perspective to decision-making.

This is part of our Lay Magistrate testimonial series.

Check back tomorrow for more insight into what it’s like to be a Lay Magistrate.

APPLICATIONS ARE OPEN!

05/06/2026

⚖️ What are Ann McRoberts’ top tips for anyone considering becoming a Lay Magistrate?
Ann shares her advice for those thinking about pursuing the role.
This is part of our Lay Magistrate testimonial series.
Follow along for more insight into what it’s like to be a Lay Magistrate.

04/06/2026

What does it really mean to be a Lay Magistrate?
Step inside the role through real stories, real voices, and a closer look at how justice is delivered in Northern Ireland.
From community representation to decision-making in court, Lay Magistrates play a vital role in ensuring a fair, balanced, and trusted justice system.
This is part of our short film that brings together personal insights and powerful testimonial moments to give you a true sense of the role - and the impact you could make.
Applications open Now!
Learn more via the Lay Magistrates hub (link in bio)

04/06/2026

NIJAC is now inviting applications for the office of Lay Magistrate.

It is intended to make a minimum of 119 appointments across three Administrative Court Divisions in Northern Ireland.

Visit our Lay Magistrates Hub to find out more: https://lnkd.in/e4_t-aJX

03/06/2026

⚖️ Thinking about applying to become a Lay Magistrate, but not sure where to start?
In this video, Andy from NIJAC walks you through the first stage of the selection process.
The process is designed to be fair, accessible, and open to people from all backgrounds.
Watch to learn how to get started!
This is part one of our selection process series. Follow along for the next step.

02/06/2026

⚖️ What advice would Ann McRoberts give to new Lay Magistrates?
Ann shares her advice for those starting out in the role.
This is part of our Lay Magistrate testimonial series.
Follow along for more insight into what it’s like to be a Lay Magistrate.