Question & AnswerQ&A (Act No. 1627)
Justices of the peace and auxiliary justices are appointed by the Governor-General with the consent of the Philippine Commission.
All justices of the peace and auxiliary justices shall hold office during good behavior.
They have exclusive original jurisdiction where the value of the subject matter does not exceed two hundred pesos, and concurrent jurisdiction with the Court of First Instance where the value exceeds two hundred pesos but is less than six hundred pesos.
No, they have no jurisdiction to adjudicate questions of title to real estate or any interest therein.
Justices of the peace have original jurisdiction over misdemeanors and offenses with penalties not exceeding six months imprisonment or a fine of two hundred pesos, or both.
They must be paid monthly to the municipal treasurer or the Collector of Internal Revenue in Manila, and accompanied by a detailed statement, which shall be audited.
At least 23 years old, a citizen of the Philippine Islands or the United States, of good moral character, and able to read and write Spanish or English.
The judge of the Court of First Instance may investigate, reprimand, recommend removal to the Governor-General, or suspend the justice pending action.
By filing a notice of appeal within fifteen days after judgment, depositing the appellate court docket fee, and filing a bond or certificate guaranteeing payment of costs.
Five pesos for each criminal proceeding, three pesos for each civil action, one peso for performing marriage ceremonies, and various smaller fees for affidavits, acknowledgments, depositions, certified copies, and book stamping as provided in the fee bill.