justice of the peace
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
- Noun:
- A local magistrate with limited powers: A "justice of the peace" is a judicial officer appointed to handle minor legal matters, perform civil ceremonies, and administer oaths within a specific local jurisdiction, such as a county or township.
Usage
- A "justice of the peace" typically deals with small claims, traffic violations, and performs marriages.
- The role is often part-time and may not require formal legal training, depending on the jurisdiction.
Examples
- Noun:
- The couple went to the justice of the peace for a simple wedding ceremony.
- The case was a minor dispute, so it was heard by a justice of the peace.
Advanced Usage
- "To serve as a justice of the peace": To hold the office or perform the duties of this role.
- After retiring, he decided to serve as a justice of the peace in his community.
Variants and Related Words
- JP: A common abbreviation for "justice of the peace."
- You can get the document certified by a JP.
- Magistrate: A broader term for a civil officer who administers the law; a justice of the peace is a type of magistrate.
Synonyms
- Local judge: A judge operating within a limited geographical area.
- Civil commissioner: An official with authority in minor civil matters (context-dependent).
Related Phrases
- Court of a justice of the peace: The informal court or setting where such an official presides.
- The matter was settled in the court of a justice of the peace.
Notes on Meaning
- The specific powers and duties of a "justice of the peace" can vary significantly between different countries, states, or regions.
Noun
- a local magistrate with limited powers