The qualifying period is open for candidates interested in running for justice of the peace or constable positions across the metro area, with dozens of elected roles available in various parishes.
Chuck Cusimano III officially announced Wednesday that he is running for a Metairie-based justice of the peace position. He is seeking to succeed his father, Chuck Cusimano, who has held the office for nearly 20 years.
While the position is considered low-profile in political circles, it comes with a significant salary.
Records show that Cusimano earned more than $250,000 annually, and in 2024, his earnings exceeded $320,000, making him one of the highest-paid elected officials in Louisiana for a part-time job.
Justices of the peace serve as small claims court judges, while their attached constables, who are also elected, act as the law enforcement arm of the justice of the peace, handling evictions and notices.
Across the state, there are over 800 justices of the peace and constables. Salaries vary widely, with some earning just a few thousand dollars annually, while others, like Cusimano, make over $200,000.
Almost all of the money paid to justices of the peace and constables comes from filing fees, with little to no state or parish funding involved.
In 2024, a state representative proposed redrawing the districts to address disparities in the justice of the peace system.
“I think we do need to look at it, and I think there are some things we can do to create some efficiencies,” said Rep. Jerome Zeringue, R-Houma.
However, the proposal did not move forward.
All justice of the peace and constable positions are on the ballot this November, with qualifying ongoing through Friday.
The justice of the peace role does not require candidates to be lawyers. Many in the position perform marriages, evictions, and car repossessions, setting their own hours.
READ MORE: Son announces candidacy for father’s high-paying justice of the peace role in Metairie
