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Texas Counties Deliver – learn how county government serves you
Justice of the Peace

James Breeden

Shackelford County Justice of the Peace

Melissa Hobbs, Chief Clerk

309 South 2nd Street
Albany, TX

Mailing Address:
PO Box 2211
Albany, TX 76430

Phone: 325-762-9430
Fax: 325-762-9431

  • These forms are in PDF format and will open in a separate window. You may print them, fill them out and mail or deliver to the Justice of the Peace office with the proper fees. If you have any questions please contact our office. Acceptable forms of payment are detailed below.

Acceptable Forms of Payment:

  • No Personal Checks Accepted
  • We accept payment by VISA, MasterCard, Discover (add $5.00)
  • We accept Cashiers Checks, Money Orders and Cash (In Person. Do not send Cash through the mail.)

*Anyone under 18 years of age MUST appear before the judge with a parent or guardian.


Description of Office: Justice of the Peace

~ From Texas Association of Counties ~

The justice of the peace is the legal jurisdiction closest to the average citizen.

Section 19 of Article 5 of the Texas Constitution provides that: justice of the peace courts have original jurisdiction in criminal matters of misdemeanor cases punishable by fine only and such other jurisdiction as may be provided by law. Original jurisdiction is the authority to accept a case at its inception, try it and pass judgment based upon the laws and facts. This is distinguished from appellate jurisdiction which is jurisdiction to review a court’s action. The justice of the peace performs the functions of a magistrate and conducts inquests.

A justice of the peace may issue warrants for search and arrest, conduct preliminary hearings, administers oaths, perform marriages and serve as a coroner in counties where there is no provision for a medical examiner. The justice court also functions as a small claims court in civil matters in which exclusive jurisdiction is not in district or county court and the amount in controversy does not exceed $10,000. They can also deal with matters concerning foreclosure of mortgages and enforcement of liens on personal property.