Issues to consider

The information in this section is designed to help you decide whether you are eligible to apply to become a Justice of the Peace. There are some rules about eligibility for appointment, which are laid down in law. There are also some guidelines (mainly in the area of conflict of interest), which indicate the kinds of things the Scottish Ministers are likely to take into account in making the final appointments. Information on both is set out below.

• Good character
• Conflict of interest
• Exempted occupations
• Health and disability
• Term of office
• Age

In addition, there are some practical considerations to be taken into account in deciding on whether this commitment is for you. These are described below.

• Sitting days
• Training
• Time off work and remuneration
• Where you will sit
• What happens when
• Assessment exercise
• Justice of the Peace "slate"
• Justice of the Peace transfers
• Judicial Appointments Board statement of principles on criminal convictions

Any applicant who is recommended for appointment must successfully undergo a training programme before the appointment is made.

If you have any questions about what is contained in this section or something that is not mentioned here, then please contact us so that we can provide an answer.