KINGSTON, Jamaica — The newly inaugurated President of the Lay Magistrates’ Association of Jamaica (LMAJ), Paulette Kirkland, has issued a compelling call for lay magistrates to reinforce their roles as pillars of fairness and community justice. Speaking at the half-yearly gathering of the Manchester Chapter on January 22 at Golf View Hotel in Mandeville, Kirkland emphasized that the effectiveness of justices of the peace (JPs) and lay magistrates is profoundly reflected in the tangible outcomes of their service—such as vulnerable children receiving prompt protection and families achieving peaceful resolutions rather than enduring prolonged conflict.
Kirkland articulated that lay magistrates operate at the critical junction where legal principles meet community needs, noting that their decisions directly impact lives, fortify judicial institutions, and cultivate public trust through unwavering integrity. She underscored that the adage ‘justice delayed is justice denied’ represents a daily reality for countless individuals awaiting closure, stressing that the justice system’s efficacy hinges on the full commitment of every magistrate and JP.
To address systemic delays, Kirkland advocated for rigorous preparation, punctuality, and proactive engagement with court clerks and police officials to ensure cases are properly documented and investigating officers’ reports are present. She highlighted the necessity of continuous professional development, urging magistrates to pursue ongoing education about judicial processes and to exemplify ethical leadership by upholding principles of fairness, impartiality, and integrity in all deliberations.
The event, themed ‘Measuring Progress, Renewing Commitment’, served as a platform to reaffirm the indispensable role of lay magistrates—trained, non-partisan volunteers who preside over Petty Sessions Courts, alleviate case backlogs at the parish level, and facilitate community services. These magistrates, who also function as JPs, are fundamental to the operation of lower-tier courts, where a minimum of two JPs is required to constitute a legal session. Their responsibilities extend beyond the courtroom to include document authentication and community development initiatives.
The LMAJ, a non-profit organization dedicated to JPs and lay magistrates, champions justice, social harmony, and community service across Jamaica through mediation, dispute resolution, and child diversion programs, all while maintaining stringent ethical standards.