Justices of the Peace

Justices of the Peace (JPs) are local officials who perform various legal duties, often in a community or small area. They handle minor legal matters, such as witnessing documents, officiating weddings, and presiding over small claims cases. JPs typically do not require formal legal training, but they must understand the law sufficiently to carry out their responsibilities fairly. Their role supports the legal system by making justice accessible at a local level, helping to alleviate the burden on higher courts. JPs are often seen as a bridge between the law and the community they serve.