Becoming a JP |
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You can become a justice of the peace as long as you are:
- an Australian citizen by birth, descent or grant
- at least 18 years old
- of good character
- registered on the state electoral roll
You must complete both a written test and learner guide before you can apply to be appointed as a Justice of the Peace (Qualified). Both the exam and learner book are based on ‘The Duties of Justices of the Peace (Qualified)’ handbook. The exam is a three-hour open book exam. Once you are deemed competent in the exam, you will be able to purchase the learner guide. This is only available from the JP Merchandise site.
You must be assessed as competent in both the exam and learner guide to be eligible to be a Justice of the Peace.
How do I apply?
Justice of the Peace (Qualified)
- Check for the dates and locations of the next round of exam dates on this website or phone our Justices of the Peace Branch on 1300 301 147.
- Pass the exam.
- Purchase the learner guide from the Justice of the Peace Branch and complete within 28 days. To order and purchase your copy click here.
- Obtain an application form from your local Queensland member of parliament.
- Complete the form, sign the attached declaration and obtain the two referee reports.
- Return the form to your local member who must sign it. The two referee reports that accompany the application form must also be completed and returned.
- Send all this information to the Registrar of Justices of the Peace and Commissioners for Declarations.
You do not have to complete any formal training but you must pass the exam and complete the learner guide. We strongly recommend that you buy the handbook ‘The Duties of Justices of the Peace (Qualified)’.
Our Justice of the Peace Branch runs training courses throughout Queensland to help you prepare for and sit the exam. More information on training courses.
You do not have to be a commissioner for declarations before seeking appointment as a JP (Qualified).
If you have any history of criminal or traffic offences, for example speeding fines, you must disclose them on your application form, no matter how long ago the incidents occurred. They will be considered by the Registrar of Justices of the Peace and Commissioners for Declarations when your suitability is assessed.
Where can I get the handbook and the learner guide?
The handbook is available from all magistrates court offices and our Justice of the Peace Branch at the Brisbane Magistrates Court, 363 George Street, Brisbane.
You can also purchase the handbook online. For more information or mail orders, contact us.
The learner guide is only available from the Justice of the Peace Branch. To order and purchase your copy click here.
Justice of the Peace (Magistrates Court)
The appointment of this category of JP is currently restricted to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities where there is no resident magistrate to conduct court proceedings.
Last reviewed 12/06/2009 |
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