Auckland Justices of the Peace Association
General News

AJPA process for responding to issues raised by public

Sue Furness

Members of the public can raise an issue about a JP or their work using the form in the “Contact Us” section of our website. The form is then sent to the members of the Conduct & Ethics (C&E) Committee. All issues raised receive a considered response.

Serious issues are immediately referred to the Royal Federation and the Ministry of Justice. Serious issues include

  • where a JP has a complaint lodged against them that has no direct relation to their ministerial work as a JP, but the alleged behaviour may be seen to bring JPs into disrepute.  
  • An allegation that a JP is using their position for pecuniary benefit,  or providing paid services under the banner of their role as a JP.

Initially the chairperson of the C&E committee contacts the Justice concerned to obtain their version of the events that are alleged to have occurred. Once this response is received the committee makes a decision as to what actions are considered necessary, and informs both the Justice and the complainant individually by email. 

  • Where a Justice has made an error in judgement or behaviour that has resulted in a monetary cost to the client, eg replacing an original certificate, AJPA after considering all of the information provided, may request that the JP contributes some or all costs to remediate the issue.
  • Professional development and support to our JPs is always our priority.

At our busy service desks there are often significant wait times.  This can lead to anger and frustration from clients. Complaints may arise when a Justice is unable to administer the document for the client due to missing information or paperwork or where a NZ Justice does not have jurisdiction. In this situation please explain why and offer an alternative to the client eg visit a Notary.

When a difficult situation arises during your work as a JP, please make a written note of what occurred, time, date, & names of witnesses so that you can refer to this later if requested. At all times please maintain a calm and professional demeanor.