SEMINAR FOR JPs
The first ever seminar for justices of the peace and those officers of
the central government, whose business involves the dispensing of advice
and preparation of documents employed by justices, was held on 1st May at
the St John the Baptist church hall, Marsh Harbour. The idea originated with
Administrator for North Abaco Gary Knowles and was developed by Administrator
(Central Abaco) Alexander Williams and staff members Anna Maria Côté
and Ruth Flowers.
Justices were invited from each district of the Abacos, including several
chairmen of boards and chief councillors. Participants signed in and received
packets containing copies of the list of justices and of sample affidavits
and other legal documents.
The facilitators were Administrators Williams, Knowles and Stipendiary
& Circuit Magistrate Crawford McKee. The master of ceremonies was Deputy
Administrator Jolton Johnson of South Abaco. The topics discussed were: Magistrate
McKee: “The Role of a Justice of the Peace/the Role of a Notary Public” and
“The History & Development of the Justice of the Peace”; Administrator
Williams: “Wills” and “Amendments to the Inheritance Law”; Administrator
Knowles: “The Deed Poll” and “Affidavits”.
Participants had an opportunity to pose questions and were presented with
certificates of attendance. It was decided to hold similar information sharing
seminars as soon as possible.