i know the magistrates courts like the back of my hand, and personally know a JUDGE that works at lancaster magistrates court in the next city to me. JUDGES DO 'JUDGE' in magistrates courts. the jury are members of the public.
but, here, you don't know what you are talking about! there are no judges at magistrates court. they preside over "Crown Court" trials. Magistrates court are, used by Magistrates! oddly enough. Magistrates are chosen from, usually, people with a none legal background. they are members of the public who, accept the responsibility, as Justices of the Peace.
all i can suggest is. you have misunderstood, your friend. or, he is telling fibs. (possibly exaggerating)
FYI.
1, Judges and Juries try Crown Court trials.
2, Magistrates/JP's preside over Magistrate Court Trials.
no if's, no but's, just plain, simple, fact.
it does help if you understand any subject you post on though. especially when contradicting, someone who does. like Wilder.
do you not have Goggle?