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Justice Court

Justice Court Judges

The Mississippi Justice Court serves as a local court for citizens of the county, handling certain civil, criminal, and traffic-related matters. Justice Court provides an opportunity for citizens to have legal matters heard and resolved in accordance with Mississippi law.

Responsibilities and services

The responsibilities of Justice Court include the following:

1. Civil matters

Justice Court handles certain civil cases involving claims of $3,500 or less, including:

  • Small claims and money disputes.
  • Claims involving unpaid debts or damages.
  • Recovery of personal property.
  • Landlord and tenant matters, including evictions.
  • Other civil matters within the court’s legal jurisdiction.

2. Criminal matters

Justice Court handles misdemeanor criminal cases occurring within its jurisdiction. These matters may include:

  • Misdemeanor criminal charges.
  • Issuance and processing of criminal warrants.
  • Court appearances and hearings.
  • Determining fines and other penalties authorized by law.
  • Ordering restitution when permitted by law.

3. Traffic violations

Justice Court handles traffic citations issued within the county that fall under its jurisdiction, including citations issued by:

  • Mississippi Highway Patrol.
  • County Sheriff’s Department.
  • Mississippi Wildlife Parks & Fisheries.
  • Other law enforcement agencies with applicable jurisdiction.

Traffic matters may include speeding, careless driving, driving without a valid license, and other traffic violations.

4. Felony preliminary hearings

Justice Court judges may conduct preliminary hearings in felony cases to determine whether sufficient probable cause exists to move a case forward. These hearings are not felony trials.

5. Warrants and bond hearings

Justice Court judges have authority, as provided by law, to:

  • Issue arrest warrants.
  • Issue search warrants.
  • Conduct initial appearances.
  • Set or modify bonds when authorized.
  • Conduct preliminary hearings in felony cases.

6. Justice Court Clerk’s Office

The Justice Court Clerk’s Office is responsible for the administrative and recordkeeping functions of the court. These responsibilities include:

  • Filing and maintaining court documents and records.
  • Processing civil and criminal cases.
  • Receiving payments for fines, fees, and court costs.
  • Maintaining court dockets and schedules.
  • Issuing subpoenas and other court paperwork.
  • Processing bonds and maintaining bond records.
  • Providing certified copies of court records.
  • Assisting the public with court-related procedures and information.

7. Court appeals

Individuals who wish to appeal a Justice Court decision may do so through Circuit Court, as provided by Mississippi law.

Important information for the public

Justice Court is a court of limited jurisdiction. Not every legal matter can be handled through Justice Court. Cases must fall within the authority granted to the court under Mississippi law.

Court employees can provide information regarding filing procedures, court dates, payments, and court records. However, court personnel cannot provide legal advice or represent individuals in legal matters.

To serve as a Justice Court Judge in Mississippi, an individual must:

  • Be a qualified elector of the State of Mississippi.
  • Have been a resident of the county for at least two (2) years immediately preceding the election.
  • Possess a high school diploma or GED equivalent.
  • Complete the required judicial training through the Mississippi Judicial College.
  • Successfully pass the required minimum competency examination within six (6) months of taking office.

A Justice Court Judge is not required to hold a law degree or be a licensed attorney.

Smith County Justice Court staff

Smith County Justice Court staff

The Smith County Justice Court staff is dedicated to providing courteous, professional, and efficient service to the citizens of Smith County. Our office assists the public with court-related matters, maintains court records, processes payments, issues notices and court documents, and provides administrative support to the Justice Court.

Our team is committed to serving the citizens of Smith County with fairness, respect, and professionalism.

Justice Court judges

  • Honorable Judge David Easterling – Post 1
  • Honorable Judge Hulon West – Post 2

Justice Court administration

  • Ashley Burns Laird – Justice Court Clerk
  • Bethany "Lexie" Sims – Deputy Clerk

Court bailiffs – elected constables

  • Joe Blakeney – Constable, Post 1
  • Bobby Easterling – Constable, Post 2

We appreciate the opportunity to serve the citizens of Smith County and are committed to providing quality service to our community.