How to Become a Justice of the Peace
Justices of the peace are appointed by the Governor and confirmed by the Governor’s Council for a seven year term.
Justices of the peace are appointed in the city/town that they reside.
Each city/town is allowed one justice of the peace for every 5000 residents.
A justice of the peace may solemnize a marriage anywhere in Massachusetts.
The Secretary of State’s Office has a record of justices of the peace for every city/town.
Anyone interested in becoming a justice of the peace should check with the Secretary of State’s Office to see if there is a vacancy in their city/town.
If there is a vacancy, applications are available at the Secretary of State’s Office.
Candidates for justice of the peace should be active in community affairs and of good moral character.
The application must be signed by five prominent members of the community.