Justice of the peace

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]

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]

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]

• Justice of the Peace, Texas Association of Counties Archived 2016-03-24 at the Wayback Machine
• How to Become a Justice of the Peace in Canada
• Justice of the Peace in Australia
• Becoming a Magistrate in England and Wales