Justice of the peace

judicial officer elected or appointed to keep the peace and perform minor civic jobs

A justice of the peace (JP) is a judicial officer, elected or appointed to a local court that has limited jurisdiction.[1] In some locations a JP deals with traffic violations, parking tickets and may have the authority to perform marriages ceremonies.[2] In many places they are the entry-level courts that most criminal cases pass through.[3] JP courts were popular in early history, but are now found mostly in rural areas.[3] Otherwise people would have to travel longer distances to other courts of law.[3]

History change

In 1195, a proclamation of Richard I of England local knights were appointed to keep order.[4] In 1264, "Keepers of the Peace were appointed in every county to serve the king.[4] Such men were called "Justice of the Peace" beginning in about 1362.[4] When colonists came to British North America they brought with them the common law system that included JPs.[4] In France, "Lords of the Court" administered justice. After 1789, justices of the peace were elected.[4]

Requirements change

While the requirements vary from one jurisdiction to another, generally, to become a JP there are few if any educational requirements.[5] An application is filled out and usually there is a fee.[5] Justices may be chosen by their qualifications and references. Many have law degrees while others may have taken a few law classes.[5]

References change

  1. "Justice of the Peace". The Free Dictionary/Farlex. Retrieved 25 March 2016.
  2. "Justice of the Peace". duhaime.org. Retrieved 25 March 2016.[permanent dead link]
  3. 3.0 3.1 3.2 "Justice of the Peace Law & Legal Definition". US Legal. Retrieved 25 March 2016.
  4. 4.0 4.1 4.2 4.3 4.4 "A Brief History of JPs". Justice of the Peace Association LLC. Archived from the original on 29 January 2016. Retrieved 25 March 2016.
  5. 5.0 5.1 5.2 Silas Reed. "What Are The Requirements To Become A Justice Of The Peace". LawCrossing. Archived from the original on 15 February 2017. Retrieved 25 March 2016.

Other websites change