A Justice of the Peace (JP) is an independent statutory office holder appointed by the South Australian Government to perform specific witnessing functions for the community.

Justices of the Peace help ensure that documents are signed, witnessed, and certified correctly for official or legal purposes. They provide an important public service by supporting honesty, integrity, and trust in documentation processes.

JP services are provided voluntarily and free of charge, and JPs must act independently, impartially, and in accordance with their legal obligations.

A Justice of the Peace can:

• Witness signatures on official documents
• Witness statutory declarations and affidavits
• Certify copies of original documents as true copies
• Perform other witnessing functions where a JP is authorised by law

JPs help confirm that documents have been signed correctly and that copies are accurate representations of originals. Their role supports organisations and individuals by ensuring documents meet formal requirements.

A Justice of the Peace cannot:

• Give legal advice
• Prepare or complete documents for you
• Explain the legal effect of documents
• Guarantee that a document will be accepted by another organisation
• Act where there is a conflict of interest

JPs focus on witnessing and certification only. Any legal advice or assistance with completing documents must be obtained from a qualified legal professional or relevant authority.

There is a directory listing of JPs available on the JP Services website.

JPs are often also available through:

• community signing sessions
• libraries, councils, or community centres
• local Groups or networks

Availability may vary depending on location and time. JP services are provided by volunteers and are subject to individual availability.

An Authorised Witness is a person who is authorised under South Australian or Commonwealth law to witness certain documents.

Authorised Witnesses may include:

• Justices of the Peace
• legal practitioners
• police officers
• other professionals authorised by specific legislation

Different documents may require different types of authorised witnesses. It is important to check the requirements of the organisation requesting the document before arranging for it to be witnessed.