Residents are being encouraged to consider becoming a Justice of the Peace (JP) to help provide a valuable service to the community.
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Kiama MP Gareth Ward said that Justices of the Peace (JP’s) play an essential part in the legal system and in local communities.
To ensure the integrity of JP’s, there is a stringent process in applying.
Local Members of Parliament need to sign off on these JP applications.
“I encourage people to consider applying to become a JP which act as an independent and objective witness for official and legal documents,” Mr Ward said.
Some of the services available include witnessing oaths, affidavits or signatures; taking statutory declarations and affirmations; attesting the execution of a document; certifying a true copy of an original document; and performing functions under a NSW Act or NSW Regulation.
To be eligible for appointment as a JP in NSW, you must be at least 18 years of age; be nominated by a member of the Legislative Assembly or the Legislative Council; and be an Australian citizen or a person who is entitled to vote at a general election for the Legislative Assembly, unless the Attorney General exempts you from having to satisfy this criterion.
You must also consent in writing to confidential inquiries being made as your suitability for appointment, including a criminal records check; not be an undischarged bankrupt; and establish that your appointment as a Justice of the Peace is required for your employment or to fulfill a community-based need for the appointment.
JP’s are appointed for five-year terms.
Information can also be found on the www.jp.nsw.gov.au/justices-of-the-peace/becoming-a-jp website.