How to Become a Justice of the Peace in Ontario
In Ontario, a justice of the peace has judicial powers granted by law to preside over provincial criminal offenses and municipal bylaw prosecutions. A justice of the peace is considered a member of the "lay bench," so candidates are not required to have legal training or experience. They do, however, need to be responsible individuals with excellent oral and written communication skills and a solid understanding of the judicial system in Ontario. A post-secondary degree or diploma is required, as well as a minimum of 10 years of work or volunteer experience. The Ontario Court of Justice does not specify that it prefers candidates have work or volunteer experience in any particular field or area.
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Instructions
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Familiarize yourself with the roles and responsibilities of a justice of the peace. Attend court where a justice of the peace is presiding.
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Obtain a copy of all your post-secondary education diplomas and degrees to include in your application.
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Ask four individuals to be your referees. Their names and contact information will be included in your application. Choose personal or professional referees who can speak to the specific qualities you possess that will make you a superior candidate for the job.
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Download a copy of the application form from the Ontario Court of Justice website (see Resources).
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Submit the completed and signed original application form and eight copies for each region to which you are applying. For example, if you are applying to three regions, you will need to submit the original plus 24 copies.
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Attend an in-person interview with members of the Justices of the Peace Appointments Advisory Committee, if necessary. Once you learn that you have been selected for an interview, there may be little time to prepare, so get ready for your interview ahead of time. Let all your referees know that you have been selected for an interview. Tell them about the role of a justice of the peace so that they will be prepared to answer questions if they are contacted.
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Successfully complete a language proficiency test, if required. English and French are the two official languages of Ontario's court system. Testing is at the discretion of the selection committee.
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Complete the required training, orientation and mentoring if you are selected to become a justice of the peace. During this time you will be observed and evaluated by the Regional Senior Justice of the Peace, who will determine when you are ready to start your duties.
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Tips & Warnings
If you are unsuccessful in your bid to become a justice of the peace, reapply for the position after the required two-year waiting period has elapsed. The two-year period begins on the June 1 after you submit your application and continues until May 31 two years later.
References
Resources
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