Hitchman to lead St James lay magistrates
Published:Wednesday | October 1, 2025 | 12:07 AMAlbert Ferguson/Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
Floyd Hitchman, a guidance councillor at the Maldon High School in St James, was elected unopposed as the new president of the St James Lay Magistrates’ Association over last weekend at the organisation’s annual general meeting (AGM).
Hitchman succeeds Suzette Ramdani-Linton, who did not seek re-election, having completed a three-year term.
“It is with humility and gratitude that I accept the role of president of the Lay Magistrates’ Association of St James. I am mindful of the trust you have placed in me and this new board, and we do not take our responsibilities lightly,” Hitchman said in is inaugural address.
He paid tribute to the chapter’s enduring legacy of service and pledged to uphold and enhance its mission.
“Our chapter has a proud history of service, justice, and community engagement. As we look ahead, our commitment is to strengthen that legacy by working together to promote integrity, fairness, and respect for the law in all that we do,” he said.
BUILDING UNITY
In extending thanks and gratitude to his predecessor, Ramdanie-Linton, for her steadfast leadership, he also hailed the solid foundation laid by those who have served the organisation in the past. He urged the current justices of the peace and lay magistrates to continue to unite behind the common purpose to build unity.
“To my fellow members, I look forward to your partnership, your counsel, and your continued support as we strive to serve the parish of St James with distinction,” he said. “Together, let us ensure that our association remains a beacon of justice, service, and good governance.”
Hitchman is widely regarded in St James for his dual roles as guidance counsellor and lay magistrate, which embodies both educational mentorship and civic responsibility.
Lay magistrates, who are first and foremost justices of the peace (JPs), are appointed by the governor general on the advice of the minister of justice. They are entrusted with duties such as attesting statutory declarations and affidavits, mediating minor disputes, and conducting oversight visits to police stations and correctional facilities. Those with requisite training may also preside over minor matters in Lay Magistrates’ Courts.
The Lay Magistrates’ Association of Jamaica, alongside the newly formed Justice of the Peace Association, provides coordination, training, advocacy, and professional development for JPs across the island.