A Justice of the Peace (JP) is an honourable individual who commits to providing honorary justice services, including certified copies, certifying true identity, witnessing statutory declarations and affidavits, and attesting powers of attorney, for members of the community.
The title Justice of the Peace was first granted in 1361 by King Edward III of England, where ‘good and lawful men’ were appointed to ‘guard the peace’. Today the appointment is made by the Crown through the Governor of Victoria. Up until 1984, JPs were justices that presided over minor court cases.
The title Justice of the Peace was first granted in 1361 by King Edward III of England, where ‘good and lawful men’ were appointed to ‘guard the peace’. Today the appointment is made by the Crown through the Governor of Victoria. Up until 1984, JPs were justices that presided over minor court cases.
The crest features Lady Justice, Jūstitia, the goddess of Justice in Roman mythology, the blindfold represents impartiality, the ideal that justice should be without regard to wealth, power, or other status, and this principle underlies the modern JP oath of office. She holds a set of scales which she balances to achieve equilibrium and therefore justice. The sword represents authority, and it conveys the idea that justice can be swift and final.
Fīat jūstitia ruat cælum, is Latin for ‘Let justice be done though the heavens fall’, meaning justice must be realised, regardless of consequences.
The 8-pointed star forms part of the Southern Cross featured on the Victorian state flag and represents Victoria, The crest is surmounted by a royal crown - a reminder of the ancient link between Justices of the Peace and the Crown.
Fīat jūstitia ruat cælum, is Latin for ‘Let justice be done though the heavens fall’, meaning justice must be realised, regardless of consequences.
The 8-pointed star forms part of the Southern Cross featured on the Victorian state flag and represents Victoria, The crest is surmounted by a royal crown - a reminder of the ancient link between Justices of the Peace and the Crown.
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