I DO not feel it appropriate that members of the public should call for magistrates to "step down" on the basis of one verdict that doesn't suit them (Letters, March 19).

I am aghast to hear members of the public think their judgement is above those who have been given training on these matters and have access to specialist advice.

The key quality of a magistrate is to work within the confines of the law, and to come to a conclusion based solely on the evidence presented to them. This is regardless of public opinion.

How is the judiciary supposed to maintain independence and authority if people feel their opinions are more valid than those society has chosen to judge?

Michael T E Robinson, 17,

Barons Crescent,

Copmanthorpe, York.

Updated: 10:41 Thursday, March 25, 2004