The Ministry of Justice and the Royal Federation of New Zealand Justices' Associations have signed a three-year funding contract.

Associate Justice Minister Aupito William Sio says the $1.347 million contract is a funding increase of over 10%.

“This contract is an acknowledgement that our Government values the significant public service role that JPs provide in a range of different areas," he says.

“By witnessing and certifying documents and taking statutory declarations on a voluntary basis, they provide easy access to invaluable legal services free of charge at the community level, often from community clinics run at libraries, courthouses and other public places.

“Judicial JPs also preside over cases involving low-level criminal offending in the District Court and provide significant assistance by attending and presiding over Saturday morning arrest courts."

Aupito William Sio says the increase in funding will enable the Federation to expand and enhance education and training services for JPs, including updating its website.