#law · 1 year ago

How to Get a Letter from a Justice of the Peace (JP) in Jamaica

How to Get a Letter from a Justice of the Peace (JP) in Jamaica photo jamaica

If you need a letter from a Justice of the Peace (JP) in Jamaica, you may be wondering how to go about getting one. A JP can provide a letter for a variety of reasons, such as for a job application, for a visa application, or as a character reference. In this article, we will outline the steps you need to take to get a letter from a JP in Jamaica.


Step 1: Find a JP

The first step is to find a JP in your area. You can search for a JP using the Justice of the Peace Locator on the Ministry of Justice website. Simply enter your parish and select the type of JP you need, and a list of JPs in your area will be displayed. You can also ask friends or family members if they know a JP who can assist you.

*Keep in Mind

JPs are appointed by the Governor-General on the recommendation of the Minister of Justice. In order to be appointed as a JP, a person must be at least 25 years old, a Jamaican citizen or Commonwealth citizen, and must have resided in Jamaica for at least five years.

Step 2: Contact the JP

Once you have identified a JP who can assist you, you will need to contact them to make an appointment. You can do this by phone or email, depending on the contact details provided on the JP Locator website. Be sure to explain why you need the letter and provide any relevant details or documents.

Step 3: Meet with the JP

On the day of your appointment, you will need to bring any documents or information that the JP has requested. You will also need to bring a valid ID, such as a passport or driver's license. The JP will interview you to gather the information they need to include in the letter. Be sure to answer their questions honestly and thoroughly.

Step 4: Pay the Fee

JPs in Jamaica are allowed to charge a fee for their services. The fee for a letter can vary depending on the JP and the complexity of the letter. Be sure to ask about the fee before the JP begins preparing the letter. Once the letter is complete, you will need to pay the fee.

JPs are not allowed to charge a fee for certain services, such as administering oaths, taking affidavits or statutory declarations, or certifying documents. However, they are allowed to charge a fee for other services, such as preparing a letter or performing a wedding ceremony.

Step 5: Collect the Letter

Once the letter is complete and the fee has been paid, you can collect the letter from the JP. Make sure to check the letter carefully to ensure that all the information is correct and that the letter meets your needs.

Tips and Advice:

It is important to note that not all JPs are authorized to provide all types of services. For example, some JPs may be authorized to perform weddings but not to certify documents. Therefore, it is important to check with the JP beforehand to ensure that they are authorized to provide the service you require.

  • Be prepared when you meet with the JP. Bring any relevant documents or information that the JP has requested.
  • Be honest and thorough when answering the JP's questions.
  • Ask about the fee before the JP begins preparing the letter.
  • Check the letter carefully before leaving to ensure that all the information is correct and that the letter meets your needs.

Getting a letter from a Justice of the Peace in Jamaica is a relatively simple process. By following the steps outlined in this article and being prepared for your appointment, you can get the letter you need to support your application or request.