Contact us whenever you need it!

phone

+1 855 997 0206

Contact Hours: Sun-Sat 8am - 10pm ET

LEGAL DICTIONARY

Justice of the Peace

A Justice of the Peace (JP) is a type of court judge or magistrate with limited jurisdiction. It is a historic official position, first appearing in English common law in the 12th century, although JPs still continue to carry out important legal work to this day.

In the United States, their precise duties vary in each state. However, in most cases, a Justice of the Peace deals with low-level state court duties. This mainly focuses on prosecuting minor misdemeanors and officiating civil ceremonies.

A Justice of the Peace can be needed for overseeing and witnessing essential legal documents or to officiate over a legal case you are pursuing. Knowing what they do and how they work within the court system is, therefore, vital,

What Services Can Justices of the Peace Perform?

The exact duties of Justices of the Peace are ultimately set by each individual state. In some cases, they can have significant responsibilities within local court systems, while in others they have a more limited role in administering the law.

However, no matter the jurisdiction, a Justice of the Peace is able to give oaths and witness signatures. In the majority of states they may officiate:

  • Marriages
  • Affidavits
  • Court depositions
  • Oaths and affirmations

In states where they are responsible for more extensive judicial duties, JPs may also issue subpoenas and arrest warrants in addition to carrying out arrests. They may also be empowered to hold inquests in some communities or to oversee contract dispute cases that reach a courtroom setting.

How Are Justices of the Peace Chosen?

Depending on your state, local Justices of the Peace are either appointed by their local or state administration or are elected. However, only properly qualified individuals may be considered, although what this constitutes also depends on your state.

For example, to be a Justice of the Peace in some states you may not be involved in the operation of another business or profession. In others, you must officially swear that you have committed no crimes.

Once a JP candidate has been officially selected they may enter office by taking an oath and posting an official bond. In some states, a sworn statement confirming that they have committed no misdemeanors or felonies is also required.

Can JPs Be Removed From Office?

Yes, Justices of the Peace can usually be removed from office for committing official misconduct or any misdemeanor or felony offenses. The reasons and process for removing a JP are covered by local state statutes.

A Justice of the Peace (JP) is a type of court judge or magistrate with limited jurisdiction. It is a historic official position, first appearing in English common law in the 12th century, although JPs still continue to carry out important legal work to this day.

In the United States, their precise duties vary in each state. However, in most cases, a Justice of the Peace deals with low-level state court duties. This mainly focuses on prosecuting minor misdemeanors and officiating civil ceremonies.

A Justice of the Peace can be needed for overseeing and witnessing essential legal documents or to officiate over a legal case you are pursuing. Knowing what they do and how they work within the court system is, therefore, vital,

What Services Can Justices of the Peace Perform?

The exact duties of Justices of the Peace are ultimately set by each individual state. In some cases, they can have significant responsibilities within local court systems, while in others they have a more limited role in administering the law.

However, no matter the jurisdiction, a Justice of the Peace is able to give oaths and witness signatures. In the majority of states they may officiate:

  • Marriages
  • Affidavits
  • Court depositions
  • Oaths and affirmations

In states where they are responsible for more extensive judicial duties, JPs may also issue subpoenas and arrest warrants in addition to carrying out arrests. They may also be empowered to hold inquests in some communities or to oversee contract dispute cases that reach a courtroom setting.

How Are Justices of the Peace Chosen?

Depending on your state, local Justices of the Peace are either appointed by their local or state administration or are elected. However, only properly qualified individuals may be considered, although what this constitutes also depends on your state.

For example, to be a Justice of the Peace in some states you may not be involved in the operation of another business or profession. In others, you must officially swear that you have committed no crimes.

Once a JP candidate has been officially selected they may enter office by taking an oath and posting an official bond. In some states, a sworn statement confirming that they have committed no misdemeanors or felonies is also required.

Can JPs Be Removed From Office?

Yes, Justices of the Peace can usually be removed from office for committing official misconduct or any misdemeanor or felony offenses. The reasons and process for removing a JP are covered by local state statutes.