How to Become a Justice of the Peace

To become a Justice of the Peace is an arduous legal process, but it allows one to take part in the beauty and sanctity of marriage. While being a wedding officiate is the most well-known duty of the Justice of the Peace, it is not the only one. You will also have the ability to take part in depositions, witness signatures, copy certifications and fill a few other important roles. Following are steps needed to become a Justice of the Peace.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

1. Contact your secretary of state office to find out the requirements and application procedure to become a Justice of the Peace.
2. Know the basic requirements - be a resident of the state you are applying in, be a registered voter for the three years before applying and sign a written oath stating you have never been convicted of a crime. You must go through a state police records check and pay the fee for the commission.
3. Submit the required documents, proofs and fees to your secretary of state office. All background checks will be done and your application will be processed, all of which could take up to 10 weeks.
4. Wait to see if the governor and executive counsel appoint you after receiving your application and nomination. If this happens, you are commissioned for five years. You will be sent a variety of materials, some of which need to be sent back and some you keep. You will also receive a fee guide, as in most states you are only allowed to charge a set amount of each service that you are able to perform.

Tips & Warnings

• Each state has a slightly different process, but these steps will guide you through the basics.
• You must have two current members of the JCs and one registered voter of your state endorse your application.
• The State of Wisconsin does not have Justices of Peace, and you should not contact the Office of the Secretary of State of Wisconsin.

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