justice of the peace
A magistrate with minor local authority, who hears minor criminal and civil cases, performs marriages, and handles other civil matters; most states have replaced justices of the peace with other courts and officers. ABBRV. J.P
A magistrate with minor local authority, who hears minor criminal and civil cases, performs marriages, and handles other civil matters; most states have replaced justices of the peace with other courts and officers. ABBRV. J.P