A justice of the peace (JP) is a judicial officer of a lower court, elected or appointed by means of a commission to keep the peace. In past centuries the term commissioner of the peace was often used with the same meaning. Depending on the jurisdiction, such justices dispense summary justice or merely deal with local administrative applications in common law jurisdictions. Justices of the peace are appointed or elected from the citizens of the jurisdiction in which they serve, and are usually not required to have any formal legal education in order to qualify for the office. Some jurisdictions have varying forms of training for JPs. In some jurisdictions, the court over which a justice of the peace presides is called a justice court.
Thomas Mifflin informs the American Peace Commissioners that Congress has unanimously ratified the Treaty of Peace with Great Britain and issued a proclamation urging strict observance. He announces the appointment of Colonel Josiah Harmar to deliver the ratification and related documents to the ministers in France for exchange. Mifflin recommends Harmar as a brave and deserving officer.
Thomas Mifflin informs the American Peace Commissioners that Congress unanimously ratifies the Treaty of Peace with nine states represented and orders its strict observance. He reports that ratification documents are dispatched via Colonel Harmar and Lieutenant Colonel David S. Franks to ensure timely delivery to Paris. Mifflin also recommends Colonel Franks as a trustworthy envoy for this important mission.