The Justice of the Peace Court often is referred to as the "People's Court"
because it has legal jurisdiction closest to the average citizen. The Texas Constitution stipulates that the JP Court has original jurisdiction in criminal matters of misdemeanor cases punishable by fine only. The JP Court has jurisdiction over all eviction suits. The Justice of the Peace performs the function of a magistrate, including bail settings, arraignments, peace bonds, stolen property hearings, and drivers license suspension hearings. A JP may issue warrants for arrest and search, conduct preliminary hearings, administers oaths, and may perform marriage ceremonies. The JP Court also functions as a small claims court in civil matters in which exclusive jurisdiction is not in district or county court and the amount in controversy does not exceed $5,000. The JP Court also can hear matters concerning foreclosure of mortgages and enforcement of liens on personal property. |
