Duties of a Justice of the Peace

To help determine whether this office is the right fit, a Justice of the Peace is responsible for:

• Presiding over small claims cases (up to $20,000)

• Handling landlord–tenant eviction cases

• Issuing warrants

• Conducting inquests

  • Formal inquiries to determine the cause and circumstances of death

• Performing marriage ceremonies

• Serving as a magistrate, including arraignments

  • Administering the law in preliminary hearings and minor offense cases

• Overseeing truancy cases

• Hearing traffic and Class C misdemeanor cases

• Managing JP court staff and overseeing the court budget

• Their role focuses on community service rather than legal representation or advocacy.

• The position is designed to be accessible, encouraging community involvement without extensive legal training.