Who Is Henry Buckley? Meet the 16-Year-Old Who Became the Youngest Male Judge in US History

In a first for American civic history, 16-year-old Hingham, Massachusetts’ Henry Buckley became the youngest male judge in the country. Sworn in as a Justice of the Peace at 16 years and three days old, Buckley currently holds a Guinness World Record for the milestone achievement.

“Everyone still has trouble believing me when I say that I was a Justice of the Peace, which is not surprising,” Henry explained to Guinness World Records. Though young, the high school student performed his duties with dedication and professionalism alongside officials decades his senior.

A Passion for Public Service Inspired by Family and TV

Henry began paying attention to civic responsibility early on. Having seen the influence of his grandfather, a well-known lawyer and politician in Massachusetts, and the beloved Andy Griffith Show, he was bitten by the bug of leadership and justice at an early age.

“Andy Taylor, the central character in the show, is the town’s much-loved Sheriff and Justice of the Peace, and I wished to play a similar role in my hometown, Hingham,” Henry Buckley explained.

Passing the Legal Requirements—Even at 16

Massachusetts law sets no minimum age for the office of Justice of the Peace. An applicant must simply reside in the commonwealth, be a registered voter, and apply when a vacancy exists.

“After obtaining four signatures on an application and a letter of recommendation from someone in my community, I applied to the Governor’s Office, where it would be screened,” said Henry.

“Governor Maura T. Healey subsequently appointed me, and my nomination was forwarded to the Governor’s Council, where I was affirmed unanimously. Once I had been issued my commission, I was sworn in and officially became a Justice of the Peace.”

Duties and Achievements

As a Justice of the Peace, Henry performed official tasks such as notarizing documents, conducting marriages, taking depositions, and upholding public order.
“While I was never called upon to accept bail or hear criminal complaints, it was within my scope,” Henry said.

“I did, however, administer affidavits and assisted in publishing a JP handbook that is used across the state.”

His contributions went beyond the courtroom. Henry became involved in public policy by testifying before the Massachusetts legislature on youth voting rights and mental health reform.

Looking Ahead

Though he stepped down from his official duties in February to explore other public service paths, Henry has his sights set on law school. He leaves a legacy as the youngest male judge that stands as a beacon of youth empowerment.

“Being a Justice of the Peace means that you’re a leading figure in your community. The title comes with weight, and that influence can be used to harness meaningful change,” he said.

As a youth, I was able to demonstrate that we, the next generation, are capable of doing anything.