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Local Area Links
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PRECINCT I - JUSTICE OF THE PEACE
Judge Lori Reid
928 Commerce Street East
P. O. Box 609
Buffalo, TX 75831
Phone: 903-322-4795
Fax: 903-322-8205
HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday thru Friday
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. |
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PRECINCT II - JUSTICE OF THE PEACE
Judge Jack Keeling
113 W. Main
P. O. Box 69
Centerville, TX 75833
Phone: 903-536-2523
Fax: 903-536-3625
HOURS OF OPERATION
Monday thru Friday
8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.
1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m.
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PRECINCT IV - JUSTICE OF THE PEACE
Judge Doug Preston
P. O. Box 1607
Hilltop Lakes, TX 77871
Phone: 936-855-2234
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Justice of the Peace
The justice of the peace is the legal jurisdiction closest to the average citizen.
Section 19 of Article 5 of the Texas Constitution provides that: justice of the peace courts have original jurisdiction in criminal matters of misdemeanor cases punishable by fine only and such other jurisdiction as may be provided by law. Original jurisdiction is the authority to accept a case at its inception, try it and pass judgment based upon the laws and facts. This is distinguished from appellate jurisdiction which is jurisdiction to review a court's action. The justice of the peace performs the functions of a magistrate and conducts inquests.
A justice of the peace may issue warrants for search and arrest, conduct preliminary hearings, administers oaths, perform marriages and serve as a coroner in counties where there is no provision for a medical examiner. The justice court also functions as a small claims court in civil matters in which exclusive jurisdiction is not in district or county court and the amount in controversy does not exceed $5,000. They can also deal with matters concerning foreclosure of mortgages and enforcement of liens on personal property.
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