What Are the Duties of a Court Officer?

When court is in session, authority over the proceedings flows through the judge. However, in order for the judge to conduct court in an orderly fashion, there is often a small army of court officers performing a wide variety of duties to prepare the docket and facilitate a smooth legal process. While there are many hats under the title of court officer, those responsible for handling prisoners or maintaining order in the courtroom are often required to have a law enforcement background.

Types

There are several roles undertaken in the courtroom that can be categorized under the responsibilities of a court officer. From assisting in the presentation of evidence to making sure the judge has all the appropriate documents for each case on the docket, each role has a unique set of responsibilities. The primary division between the types is managing the courtroom and managing the paperwork that flows through the courtroom.

Bailiff

A bailiff is a judge's assistant in the courtroom. This person will escort the judge to and from the chambers safely. Also, the bailiff will declare the beginning of a court session as well as announce its end. A bailiff will handle the presentation of evidence in the courtroom, setting up any and all equipment as necessary to present the information.

Court Clerk

A court clerk handles the flow of paperwork coming into and out of the court and prepares the docket. For example, a general sessions court clerk responsible for criminal cases will receive affidavits from arresting officers on reported offenses, filing each charge under the appropriate name and the appropriate court date for easy access by the judge.

Sheriff's Deputy

Sheriff's deputies often serve a number of roles in and out of the courtroom. Most sheriff's departments are charged with the responsibility of providing security for courtrooms. Most courthouses have metal detectors at the entrances staffed by sheriff's deputies. They also transport suspects that are in jail to court. Deputies may serve as bailiffs in the courtroom.

Others

Depending on the type of court in session, there may be other officers present. In general sessions court, for example, there may be a parole officer present to help those whose sentences include probation begin the first steps in the process.