Twenty five years ago . . .

  . . . I was Chaplain to the High Sheriff of Lincolnshire. 

The "pirate" behind me is the High Sheriff, next is an usher, the presiding judge is red robed followed by the Chief Constable and a District Judge 

You may not have realised that such people as High Sheriffs exist!  It's one of the oldest  public offices, dating back to well before the Norman conquest.  These days it's very much a ceremonial office.  It's an honour to be chosen and it is unpaid - they can't even claim expenses which are not inconsiderable.  They serve for just one year before handing on to the next person.

The High Sheriff is the King's main representative for law and order in the county and is appointed by the King.  S/he welcomes the High Court judges, s/he encourages respect for the legal system and recognises the work of the police, fire and rescue, ambulance, prison and probation services.  S/he may also spend time visiting charities, youth groups etc.  In everything s/he represents the Crown, attending civic events, remembrance services and royal visits within the county.  They are not judges, they don't run the police service, they have no legal powers.  

And each has a chaplain which is where I came in.  In this county there is a Cathedral service each term in Lincoln for the opening of the Crown Court.  It was my duty to lead the prayers at that service and then process to the nearby courts to witness the formal opening.  I was a little shocked to find myself seated on the bench with the Judge!  The only other duty was to say Grace at lunches when the Sheriff entertained in his official capacity.

It was fun!  It afforded me the opportunity to see the administration of justice from a place which few people have seen.  I watched proceedings from a very privileged place and whenever we retired from the court the judges were very happy to answer my questions and help me understand what was going on (and why).  When my year was complete I left the role with great admiration for the work of the judicial system.