When they hear the term "Justice of the Peace," many people think of some sort of a Sheriff Andy Taylor figure, dispensing small town justice from a tiny office. In reality, these courts are spread throughout Louisiana, in both rural and urban areas. Offices can be small or rather large.
"Generally, Justices of the Peace are part-time small claim judges who have limited jurisdiction to settle disputes involving less than $5,000, collect money, handle disputes between Landlords and Tenants, and act as ex-officio Notaries Public on bills of sale and donations and other limited matters. Justices of the Peace may also perform marriage ceremonies. We can also sometimes clear up title to cars, motorcycles, boats, and trailers."
This LibGuide is a collection of information, mostly historical, about the office of Justice of the Peace in Louisiana. It includes mention of the office in codes, constitutions, and acts of the legislature. A close reading will show that the duties and powers of the office grew and contracted throughout the 19th and 20th centuries.
