Justices of the Peace (JPs) in New South Wales are appointed by the Governor and serve as volunteers. Their primary responsibilities include witnessing statutory declarations and affidavits, as well as certifying copies of original documents. JPs are drawn from diverse backgrounds and are available throughout NSW.
A statutory declaration is a written statement in which a person affirms its truthfulness in the presence of an authorized witness. Many organizations, such as banks, insurance companies, and superannuation providers, often require information provided through statutory declarations.
An affidavit, on the other hand, is a written statement used as evidence in court proceedings. When making an affidavit, an individual must solemnly declare their truthfulness in the presence of an authorized witness.
Certified copies of original documents may be necessary for various organizations. This allows individuals to provide copies instead of submitting their original documents, such as birth certificates or academic qualifications.
JPs are entrusted with the duty to be honest and impartial in carrying out their functions. However, there are certain limitations to their role. They cannot unreasonably refuse to provide JP services, charge fees, accept gifts for their services, assist in or write a statutory declaration or affidavit, or provide legal advice.
