Court Roles
Court roles are integral to the judicial system, each contributing to the fair and efficient administration of justice.
Together, these roles uphold legal standards, safeguard individual rights, and ensure the orderly conduct of judicial processes.
Responsibilities
- Ensures that all persons before the court are treated fairly and equally
- Ensures that the orders of the court are followed
- Presides over all trials and hearings on other matters
- Sets the terms and conditions of deferred dispositions and other sentences
- Judges oversee court proceedings, interpret the law, and render decisions
The clerks are the administrators of the court.
Responsibilities
The clerk's responsibilities are as follows:
- Carry out the orders of the judge and the procedures and policies mandated by the state or other authority.
- Answer factual questions regarding the information they have.
- Handle the management of records, scheduling, and administrative functions that keep the court running smoothly.
Restricted Actions of the Clerk
The following are things the Clerk may not do:
- Change the court's orders or make exceptions to the court's rules for any individual.
- Give you legal advice or interpret the law for you.
- Tell you what they think the judge or the prosecutor will do in your case.
The prosecutor is the attorney for the City and the State. The prosecutor is not your attorney. You have the right not to speak to the prosecutor. If you choose to speak to the prosecutor, be aware that any statement you make may be used against you should you choose to proceed to trial.
The role of a bailiff is to maintain order, security, and decorum in the courtroom.
Responsibilities
As an officer of the court, a bailiff is responsible for:
Courtroom Security: Ensuring the safety of everyone in the courtroom, including judges, jurors, attorneys, defendants, and the public. This includes monitoring courtroom entrances and exits, screening individuals for prohibited items, and responding to any security threats.
Enforcing Courtroom Rules: Enforcing rules of conduct, such as prohibiting the use of electronic devices, maintaining silence, and ensuring that no one disrupts the proceedings.
Escort Duties: Escorting defendants, witnesses, and jurors to and from the courtroom as needed, often including transporting defendants from holding cells.
Assisting the Judge: Carrying out the judge’s orders, such as swearing in witnesses, handling evidence, and managing the jury, including escorting jurors during deliberations to ensure they are not influenced by outside parties.
Announcing Court Sessions: Opening and closing court sessions by announcing the judge’s arrival and departure and maintaining the courtroom schedule.
The bailiff’s presence ensures that court proceedings are conducted in a safe, orderly, and respectful environment.