As a Connecticut Justice of the Peace, I am authorized to perform the following functions:

• perform marriages and civil unions
• take depositions
• administer oaths and affirmations
• take acknowledgements

Marriages and Civil Unions:

A Justice of the Peace is typically associated with performing civil union and marriage ceremonies. JPs are typically certified to legally join couples in civil services at any location within the State of Connecticut, or to serve as a bona fide witness if necessary.

Depositions:

A deposition is the taking of testimony under oath for use in civil action or probate court proceedings. In this context, a Justice of the Peace may also issue a subpoena to ensure that the witness appears at the deposition.

Oaths and Affirmations:

An oath is an oral declaration of responsibility made by a person assuming a role. The person then signs an affidavit, witnessed by the Justice of the Peace, that attests to the truth of the oath. An affirmation is similar to an oath, but uses wording other than "swear" and "so help you God."

Acknowledgements:

According to the Connecticut Justice of the Peace Manual, "An acknowledgement is a formal declaration before authorized official, by person who executed instrument, that is his free act and deed." Acknowledgements are typically required in real estate transactions and primary and nominating petitions.