President to new JPs: Don’t charge for services

President Sandra Mason issued a stern warning to newly appointed Justices of the Peace (JPs) as she swore them into office on Monday, cautioning them against charging for their signatures or engaging in any activities that could tarnish the reputation of their office.

She gave the advice at the first of several ceremonies that would see the eventual naming of 100 during the day and 344 by the end of the week, making a significant addition to the corps of JPs, who are entrusted with various legal responsibilities including witnessing statutory declarations, powers of attorney, and in some instances, signing warrants and affidavits.

Speaking at State House, Dame Sandra emphasised the gravity of their role.

“You are expected to do your duty diligently,” she said. “[There are] Justices of the Peace who do a lot of things that they are not legally entitled to do. One is to charge people for your signature. If we hear about anyone doing it, I am sure Mr Abrahams here will agree with me that you should be prosecuted.”

The president urged the new appointees to consider their position akin to holding high judicial office, stressing the importance of maintaining professionalism and integrity in their service to the community.

Minister of Home Affairs Wilfred Abrahams, who attended the ceremony in support of his wife Natalie Abrahams who is a newly appointed JP, echoed the president’s sentiments. Speaking to media personnel, he highlighted the historical significance and current responsibilities of the role, stating, “The office of JP is a serious office; historically, justices of the peace acted as magistrates, they resolved issues within districts, [and] they are persons who are supposed to be held in high esteemed in their communities.”

Natalie Abrahams expressed her gratitude for the appointment, describing it as “an honour and a privilege”. She emphasised the importance of accessibility and equal treatment in her new role: “You must take the privilege seriously and it’s about being accessible, and it’s certainly about making sure that you treat every person that comes to you for help equally.”

Community activist Carlitha Andrews, known for her advocacy work in St Andrew, viewed the appointment as an opportunity to serve her community in a more official capacity.

“It means a lot to me and I will take it seriously,” she said, pledging to carry out her duties to the best of her abilities.

DeCarla Applewaithe, an event producer, saw the role as a recognition of community contributions. “I think for myself it symbolises the recognition of the work we do in the community and how you can further assist persons in the community. One thing about the Justices of the Peace is that [persons] are always looking for a JP. I think it’s fantastic to work across the spectrum not only in my immediate community but as well as in my business community to garner and give support.”