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JUSTICE OF THE PEACE
The justice of the peace is the legal jurisdiction closest to the average citizen.
Section 19 of Article 5 of the Texas Constitution provides that justice of the peace courts have original jurisdiction in criminal matters of misdemeanor cases punishable by fine only and such other jurisdiction as may be provided by law. Original jurisdiction is the authority to accept a case at its inception, try it and pass judgment based upon the laws and facts. This is distinguished from appellate jurisdiction which is jurisdiction to review a court’s action. The justice of the peace performs the functions of a magistrate and conducts inquests.
A justice of the peace may issue warrants for search and arrest, conduct preliminary hearings, administers oaths, perform marriages and serve as coroner in counties where there is no provision for a medical examiner. 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 $10,000. They can also deal with matters concerning foreclosure of mortgages and enforcement of liens on personal property.
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Justice of the Peace,Precinct 1
Judge Kerry Don Williamson
9373 HWY 259
Nacogdoches TX 75965
Phone (936) 560-4867
Fax: (936) 560-6487
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Justice of the Peace,Precinct 2
Judge Dorothy Tigner-Thompson
2306 Douglass Highway
Nacogdoches, TX 75964
Phone (936) 560-7726
Fax: (936) 560-7892
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Justice of the Peace,Precinct 3
Judge Le Ann Goerner
2723 Center Highway
P.O. Box 1083
Nacogdoches, TX 75961
Phone (936) 560-7889
Fax: (936) 569-7009
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Justice of the Peace,Precinct 4
Judge David Perkins
4679 FM 226
P.O. Box 65
Woden, TX 75978
Phone (936) 569-9365
Fax: (936) 568-0131
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