ZACHARY CARTER
KNOW YOUR COURT

The Role

In Texas, the Justice of the Peace is the judicial official closest to the people, and Zachary Carter's 19 years of experience make him uniquely qualified to serve.

THE PEOPLE'S COURT

The Justice Court is often referred to as "the people's court" because it's the most accessible level of the Texas judiciary. Unlike higher courts, Justice Courts are designed to be approachable, affordable, and efficient, handling the legal matters that affect everyday Texans.

Justices of the Peace are elected to four-year terms and serve their local precinct. They need a unique combination of legal knowledge, administrative skill, and genuine compassion for the community they serve.

Duties &
Responsibilities

Every duty of the Justice of the Peace connects directly to Zachary Carter's 19 years of experience.

01

Criminal Jurisdiction

Class C Misdemeanors

Presides over Class C misdemeanor cases, offenses punishable by fine only, including traffic violations, public intoxication, and other minor criminal matters.

WHY ZACHARY

Zachary's law enforcement background gives him firsthand knowledge of criminal procedure and the types of cases that come before a Justice Court.

02

Civil Jurisdiction

Up to $20,000

Handles civil cases where the amount in controversy is $20,000 or less. This includes small claims lawsuits, debt collection cases, and landlord/tenant disputes such as evictions.

WHY ZACHARY

Zachary's court experience means he understands the civil process from both sides, ensuring fair outcomes for all parties.

03

Warrants & Magistrate

Search, Arrest, Bail

Issues search and arrest warrants, sets bail amounts, conducts preliminary hearings, administers oaths, and performs juvenile/magistrate warnings.

WHY ZACHARY

With experience in both law enforcement and corrections, Zachary understands the critical importance of proper warrant procedures and fair bail.

04

Presiding Over Trials

Jury & Bench Trials

The Justice of the Peace presides over both civil and criminal jury and bench trials, ensuring due process and the fair administration of justice.

WHY ZACHARY

Zachary's municipal and justice court experience has given him direct exposure to trial proceedings and courtroom management.

05

Inquests & Coroner

Death Investigations

In counties without a medical examiner, the JP acts as the coroner, conducting inquests into deaths and completing death certificates.

WHY ZACHARY

Zachary's experience in law enforcement and corrections has prepared him to handle these sensitive matters with professionalism.

06

Marriage Ceremonies

Wedding Officiant

Justices of the Peace are authorized to perform wedding ceremonies, one of the most rewarding aspects of the office.

WHY ZACHARY

As a family man himself, Zachary looks forward to serving couples on one of the most important days of their lives.

07

Juvenile & Truancy

Youth Matters

Handles truancy cases and performs juvenile warnings, working to keep young people on the right path and connected to their education.

WHY ZACHARY

As a parent raising his family here, Zachary is personally invested in the well-being of our community's youth.

08

Court Administration

Docket & Compliance

Manages the court docket, oversees local complaints, and submits required reports to state agencies and county auditors.

WHY ZACHARY

Zachary's career has built the organizational skills and attention to detail required to manage a court efficiently.

Why Experience
Matters

The Justice of the Peace handles a wide range of critical duties. This role demands someone who understands the full scope of the justice system. Zachary Carter's unique career path gives him perspective that no other candidate can match.

19+
YEARS IN JUSTICE
4
AREAS OF EXPERTISE
1
COMMUNITY: BASTROP
★
READY DAY ONE
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