Campaigning on issues including mental health in courts is among the reasons why a Norfolk magistrate has been made an MBE.
Jean Bonnick, from Dereham, said she was "overwhelmed" at being named on the King's Birthday honours list, for services to the administration of justice.
Mrs Bonnick, 72, said: “I’m deeply proud and honoured.
"When I got more involved in the magistracy it was because I was passionate about making a difference, so to be honoured for that is huge.
"I am truly taken aback by all of it.”
Over her 25 years as a magistrate, Mrs Bonnick worked on liaison and diversity issues, helping to identify vulnerable defendants to ensure they are dealt with in the best way for them and the community.
It was on her insistence that Norfolk courts have psychiatric nurses - either present or on call - to help defendants with mental health issues in court.
She received a special recognition award from the Magistrates’ Association in 2019 for her work in mental health, youth justice and restorative justice.
Her work helped prevent young people with mental health issues from being criminalised unnecessarily.
Mrs Bonnick has also worked behind the scenes on liason and diversity issues, helping other magistrates identify vulnerable defendants, and ensure they are dealt with in the best way for them and the community.
Mrs Bonnick has also other magistrates by becoming a 'digital champion', helping colleagues come to grips with new and unfamiliar technology.
She has also been a member of a restorative approaches board, working with Norfolk Police and Norfolk County Council.
The work has allowed offenders to reconcile with their victims and the community, to reflect and learn from their offending and prevent further occurrences.
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