ABOUT THE OFFICE
The justice of the peace is elected for a term of four years from each justice precinct in the county. The justice of the peace is the presiding officer of the justice court and the small claims court. The justice of the peace has jurisdiction over minor misdemeanor offenses (Class C), and in civil matters where the amount in controversy does not exceed $20,000. A variety of civil process, as well as arrest and search warrants, can be issued by the justice of the peace. The justice of the peace also sits as judge of the small claims courts, in actions for the recovery of money, which does not exceed $20,000.
The justice of the peace may also preside over hearings pertaining to suspension of driver licenses and conduct other hearings and inquests. The justice of the peace may conduct marriage ceremonies and serves as ex officio notary public for the precinct.
DUTIES
The most important duties of the justice of the peace (JP) are judicial: holding justice court, acting as judge of small claims court, issuing a variety of process and writs in situations where justice court has jurisdiction, holding court for minor misdemeanor offenses, and assisting in evidence proceedings. Other duties and responsibilities include: Issuing writs of sequestration, garnishment, and attachments within the limits of jurisdiction; Having jurisdiction on school attendance trials; Having hearings pertaining to mistreated animals, and health regulation violations and littering; County Coroner: performing inquests into causes of death, and ordering autopsies; Administering and certifying oaths and affidavits; Conducting hearings to determine whether probable cause existed for the towing and storage of a motor vehicle without the owner's consent; Magistrate Judge: magistrates arrested by reading rights, setting bail & conditions of bail, and issues mental health warrants; and Numerous other tasks.
To learn more about responsibilities and duties of Justices of the Peace, click here for more information.