The justice of the peace is the legal jurisdiction closest to the average citizen. Justice of the peace courts have original jurisdiction in criminal matters of misdemeanor cases punishable by fine only. A justice of the peace may:
Issue warrants for search and arrest
Conduct preliminary hearings
Administer oaths
Perform marriages
Serve as a coroner in counties without a medical examiner
Enforce liens on personal property
Deal with matters concerning foreclosure of mortgages
Small Claims
The justice court also functions as a small claims court in civil matters in which exclusive jurisdiction is not in district or County Court and the amount in controversy does not exceed $20,000.