There are many preconceptions about working in the public sector , some are myth whilst others are facts . Both public and private sectors have its distinctive challenges and comparing both sectors would be like comparing apples and oranges . There are many reasons for a person to decide on pursuing a legal career in the public service . Mine is simply the overall package of having an adequate salary , health benefits , pension scheme and most importantly work-life balance . Additionally , one of the other perks of joining the Judicial and Legal Service is exemption to serve any period of pupillage after a year of service . However , it is best to always list down your priorities in life before deciding on the career path that your heart desire .
The judicial service can offer genuinely challenging and fascinating work . The type of work however , will be depending on the assigned designation and location . Generally , Senior Assistant Registrars ( SAR ) and Deputy Registrars ( DR ) are attachment officers to the judges . They are responsible to not only carry out legal research work but also administrative matters pertaining to the judge ’ s hearing schedules and other activities . SARs and DRs that are specifically attached at various courts registries would take on the role of an administrator and some are assigned to hear bankruptcy , letter of administration , probate , auction and other related applications . The SARs and DRs at the Chief Registrar ’ s Office of the Federal Court in Putrajaya are placed at different divisions and are exposed to multiple areas of court administration work .
On the other hand , if you wish to achieve a sense of purpose in your career and be able to make an impact on society – a job on the bench , as a Magistrate or Sessions Court judge would serve you well . These designation are usually allocated for senior judicial officers as such positions requires certain level of experience . My first appointment to a magistracy position was eight years ago . I presided over civil matters in Alor Setar Magistrates ’ Court and was also in charge of Kuala Nerang Circuit Court . At present , am one of the five judicial officer attached to the Petaling Jaya Magistrates ’ Court hearing solely criminal cases . I am also authorised to hear criminal cases involving child and youth offenders in the Court for Children .
The criminal justice system in Malaysia is a tad different from the UK . Generally , magistrates hear criminal cases , juvenile cases ( child and youth offenders ) and also civil proceedings . Magistrates would have to deal with crimes which may not be deemed
serious in nature but have quite an effect on communities . The type of cases differs according to the each jurisdiction but drugs related cases peaks the chart in most states these days . Bulk of the civil cases at the Magistrates ’ Court level are usually motor-vehicle accident involving insurance claims and debt claims . There are also other magisterial duties such as remand and other criminal procedure applications that need to be heard .