What Does A Bailiff Do?

Did you know a bailiff is a law enforcement officer who is responsible for maintaining security, order, and decorum in the courtroom? From opening and closing the court, to administering oaths, to witnesses, to transporting criminal defendants in and out of the courtroom, the bailiff has a multitude of responsibilities that are essential to the smooth and safe operation of courtroom proceedings.  

The bailiff is the officer who announces to those in the courtroom that the judge is about to enter so that everyone knows to rise in deference to the judge. The bailiff handles any evidence moving around the courtroom so that it is dealt with securely and properly. The bailiff takes direction from the judge and enforces the judge’s policies and procedures for conduct in the courtroom. Perhaps most importantly to the preservation of the integrity of the judicial process, the bailiff  escorts the jury in and out of the courtroom and helps ensure there is no contact between the public and the jury during the proceedings.  

The education and training requirements to become a bailiff can vary as the position can be held at the local, state, or federal level, but all levels require at least a high school diploma or GED. Many bailiff positions will also require participation in formal training programs, including some form of law enforcement, self-defense, and firearm training. The bailiff interacts with all persons in the courtroom, including the judge, lawyers, parties, jury, witnesses, and members of the public, which means it may not just be important that the bailiff not only be qualified, but also be personable, respectful, and honest in carrying out his or her duties.

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