Meet the Thameslink train driver who serves justice for assault and theft on his days off

Paul at work sat in the drivers seat of a train with a control panel in front of him
-Credit:Andrew Gardner


For the last 20 years train driver Paul has been serving up justice on his days off. But unlike comic books superheroes he doesn't need a cape.

He's been volunteering as a magistrate for the court system, listening to cases covering a range of crimes from first appearances for the most serious crimes, which are then sent to crown court, or passing judgement on thefts, assaults or driving offences.

Paul says: “You hear cases ranging from petty theft to serious assault. Some days can be tough."

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After spotting an advertisement 20 years ago, calling for the public to volunteer as magistrates,
driver Paul, 52, decided to sign up. Magistrates typically spend five years serving the community, and are in court for around 13 days out of the year.

Paul juggles his time between his beloved career as a train driver, and as a magistrate with help from his employer by being allowed days off to volunteer. Paul works for Govia Thameslink, based in Sussex just across the Surrey border.

“I became a magistrate in 2004 after spotting an advert and noticing that the skills it listed to become one were things I already had," Paul said, adding: "I’ve done it now for over 20 years and I’m proud to serve the community - it’s a role that’s been around for hundreds of years and it’s a vital function for the community and the justice system."

One thing many may not realise, is that magistrates do not need formal qualifications or legal training. Anyone aged between 18 and 74 can apply, as long as they have the right character traits and personal qualities.

Paul, who sits on the magistrates' bench in Sussex, added: "I’m doing a service for local people, but it’s also been a development opportunity for both my personal and work life. You can choose to take on additional roles such as hearing appeals or becoming a mentor if you wish too.

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“My full-time job as a train driver for Southern Railway has a lot of transferable skills for being a magistrate including the ability to concentrate for long periods of time, prioritisation and writing skills. You don’t need any legal experience – it’s just about being a good listener, being fair and not being biased."

All decisions magistrates make are made as part of a team of three to ensure a balanced and fair consideration of cases. The three work together in court to hear and decide cases and support one another, they are also supported by a clerk, a qualified lawyer, who advises them on the law.

Typically, those applying will need to show they are of good character. Those who have been found guilty of a serious crime or have a string of minor offences to their name, have been banned from driving or have been declared bankrupt may not be taken on.

Paul adds: “Anyone thinking about becoming a magistrate should first go to court, observe and listen to get a feel for it. If you like what you see and want to volunteer for a really rewarding role, you should apply. You can get extra skills or enhance the ones you already have and meet a variety of different people from all walks of life."

In the first two years of being a magistrate, there are around 10 days of training. This includes online learning modules, mentor meetings and talks from stakeholders across the criminal justice system.

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Magistrates deal with a range of cases both criminal and civil, this will include minor assaults, motoring or theft offences. The most serious offences are always passed on to the Crown Court.

Paul added: "At first I was nervous about whether my employer would give me the time off but they’ve always been great. They can see the benefits for them as well in terms of the new skills I bring back into my role as a train driver. If you want to make a difference in society, give back to your community and help to deliver justice, then you should apply.”

Jean Cockerill, Govia Thameslink Railway's people director, said: “We are proud to support Paul, and other staff members, in serving the public through their civic duties. His contribution to the communities we serve both in the courtroom and the driver's seat is truly valued."

Anyone interested in becoming a magistrate, can find out more information and apply by visiting the Government website here .