MAXIMUM fines which can be imposed by justices of the peace (JPs) are to be increased from $2,000 to $50,000.

This is one of several changes to legislation covering the jurisdiction, appointment and conduct of JPs which are included in the Justices of the Peace Act, 2017, which the House of Representatives is expected to complete debating when it meets at Gordon House next week.

The provisions of the Bill also aim at increasing the terms of imprisonment which can be imposed by the JPs, as well as widening their jurisdiction outside of a single parish.

These amendments are among decisions taken to incorporate the provisions of the Justices of the Peace (Official Seals) Act in the same legislation, and repeal that Act, so as to provide for a consolidated regime with respect to the administrative affairs of the office of Justice of the Peace.

According to Minister of Justice Delroy Chuck, who is piloting the Bill through the House of Representatives, the changes have become necessary as the functions of JPs have expanded as a result of the changing demands within communities, and because of justice reform initiatives, such as restorative justice and child diversion programmes,

The minister will also be piloting a Bill to amend the Judicature (Parish Courts) Act with the Re-naming of the Courts of Petty Sessions (Miscellaneous Act), 2017, which will effect a change of name for the Petty Sessions Courts to Lay Magistrates Courts.

— Balford Henry