DEPARTMENT FUNCTIONS
The Justice of the Peace is elected for a term of four years from each justice precinct in the county (a precinct
may have more than one justice of the peace). 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 $10,000. 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 $10,000.
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. The Justice of the Peace has administrative and financial duties concerning the
keeping of records and fee and expense reports.
The duty of the Justice of the Peace Courts is to assist in any way possible, but the Rules of Judicial Ethic
prohibits the Court from giving legal advice, telling either party how to present their case or expressing opinions
of law. The Judge and Court clerk can answer questions of general nature and about court procedures only.
Please be advised that the law prohibits a judge from communicating with you prior to trial about your pending
case that you may file
Fee Recording Report
DOCKETS
Civil Hearings
Jury Trials
Show Cause Hearings
Truancy Hearings
Pre-Trial Hearings
Trial By Judge
Failure To Attend Hearings