Daily AncestorJustice of the peace
A justice of the peace was a local judicial officer who heard minor cases, took oaths and acknowledged deeds, and in the United States could marry couples.
Justices of the peace were appointed or elected for a town, township or county. They tried small civil suits and petty crimes, issued warrants and witnessed legal papers.
Many marriages were performed by a justice, so J.P. after a name on a marriage record is common. Their dockets, if they survive, can mention ordinary neighbors.
As seen in a recordMarriage records and deeds
Married by Saml. Hall, J.P.
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Daily Ancestor. "Justice of the peace." Dictionary of Old Record Words. https://dailyancestor.com/dictionary/occupations/justice-of-the-peace. Last checked 2026-10-01.