Apply to become a Justice of the Peace

To be eligible for appointment as a justice of the peace (JP) in South Australia, you must:

• be at least 18 years of age
• be an Australian citizen
• be resident in South Australia
• be of good character
• not be bankrupt or have applied as a debtor to take the benefit of the laws relating to bankruptcy
• not be disqualified from managing or being involved in the management of any company under the Corporations Act 2001 of the Commonwealth
• be able to understand the duties and powers of a justice
• be able to speak, read and write in English
• live or work in an area or community in which there is a need for a JP.

What you'll need to demonstrate

You will need to demonstrate why you wish to be a JP and how you will execute the duties required.

In your application you will need to:

• explain your current or previous community involvement
• provide examples of your effective communication in the English language
• explain your experience and knowledge of community networks and agencies in South Australia
• explain your understanding of the role and functions of a JP
• describe the ethical standards and practices required that generate trust and credibility
• explain your awareness and respect for other cultures and religions
• explain your ability to keep other people’s affairs and business confidential and private
• describe how you would provide a balanced, independent and non-judgemental approach
• explain how you would overcome a real or perceived conflict of interest.

You'll receive an email containing instructions about what to do next.

Your referees are sent an email to provide a reference and a report will be obtained from SA Police.

If all eligibility criteria are met, your application will be submitted to the Attorney-General or the Attorney-General's delegate for consideration and, if approved, you will be appointed as a JP.

Your appointment is published in the SA Government Gazette and you'll receive an email together with an oaths form. You must take your oaths within three months of your appointment date. The original form can then be uploaded back to Justice of the Peace Services. You cannot exercise your duties as a JP until you take the oaths.

On receipt of your oaths form, you'll be sent an appointment package containing your appointment certificate, your JP identification number and links to the JP handbook and the code of conduct.