Greene urges colleagues to call out rogue JPs

WESTERN BUREAU:

Errol Greene, trustee of the Lay Magistrates Association of Jamaica (LMAJ), has appealed to justices of the peace (JPs) to expose colleagues who exploit their office for personal gain, and in so doing, erode public trust and tarnish the integrity of the association.

Greene, who was speaking at Wednesday night’s LMAJ St James Chapter’s annual general meeting at the Montego Bay Community College, said the integrity of the association is under “serious threat”.

“Far too many of our members are rogues, people of which we are not proud to associate ourselves with,” he said. “I encourage you, whenever you find those charging for their services and using the office to enrich themselves and to exercise power over people, call them out, report them to the custos.”

Under Section 15 of the Justice of the Peace Act, 2018, JPs are mandated to provide their services free of charge. The act makes it clear: “For the avoidance of doubt, it is hereby confirmed that the office of justice of the peace is not an office of emolument, and the duty to carry out the functions of the office free of charge shall be deemed to be a requirement of the office.”

The First Schedule of the Act, which outlines the code of conduct for JPs, further prohibits officeholders from using their title for personal financial gain. Appointment to the office requires nominees to demonstrate ‘unquestionable integrity’, a prerequisite for the governor general to act on the recommendation of the parish’s Custos.

JPs, who take a formal oath upon appointment, typically serve for life unless they resign, retire, migrate, or are removed. The law empowers the governor general to revoke an appointment if a JP’s actions bring the office into disrepute or cause public scandal.

‘Invisible’ JPs

While commending the association’s role in supporting the courts through mediation and bench duties as lay magistrates, Greene lamented that too many JPs remained “invisible” in their communities.

“People look up to us. We need to ensure that we protect the dignity of the office,” he urged.

A legacy of the British colonial system, JPs are regarded as community leaders tasked with upholding the rule of law at the grass-roots level. Their unpaid duties include witnessing documents, certifying copies, signing statutory declarations, and providing mediation in disputes. Those with additional training may also sit as lay magistrates, helping adjudicate minor matters and easing the burden on the formal courts.

Greene, a past president of the LMAJ, noted that in its 40 years of existence, the association has expanded the role of JPs beyond traditional functions to include mediation and community-engagement initiatives that strengthen trust in the justice system. He urged members to embrace training opportunities, increase visibility in police lock-ups and correctional facilities, and strengthen community-level mediation.

“You will be surprised to know how Jamaica will be blessed by your small actions,” he said.

albert.ferguson@gleanerjm.com