The bailiff in the courtroom is an integral part of the entire courtroom process, and he or she is responsible for keeping the courtroom safe and ensuring that the judge is able to move through each court docket with ease. Becoming a bailiff can be a rewarding career and offer you a chance to meet many different individuals.
If you want to become a bailiff in your city or town, you will need to make sure you meet the requirements and that the job is for you. Before you hop into meeting all of the requirements, see if you can shadow a bailiff in your local courthouse for a day. By doing this, you will be able to see firsthand whether you want to pursue this career.
Now, time to learn more about your potential future career.
The Basic Requirements
First and foremost, many states will require that you meet a minimum age requirement. This requirement will vary from state to state, but it is often set at 21 years of age.
Often, a bailiff will need to hold some sort of educational background. Some states only require bailiffs to have a high school diploma, while other states require them to hold a degree or receive specialized training.
Next, you will need to be able to pass a background check and also a drug test. It is important that you are honest in your application, as lying will not be tolerated.
Job Duties of a Bailiff
The job duties of a bailiff will vary depending on the needs of the court and the state that you live in. Most bailiffs are responsible for:
- Handling evidence and legal paperwork in the courtroom
- Screening any visitors and courtroom attendees
- Providing security in the courtroom
- Protecting the judge
- Assisting the judge during proceedings
Salary of a Bailiff
As with any career, the salary you make will help sway your decision to pursue the career. As a bailiff, you can expect to make a modest wage in the United States. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median hourly wage for a bailiff is $18.34, and the top 90 percent of bailiffs made an hourly wage of $34.12.
The outlook of this career is good with an estimated growth of roughly five percent from 2012 until 2022.
If you are looking for a career that earns a modest wage and is rewarding at the same time, consider becoming a bailiff. Contact a service like A Lower Mainland Bailiff to learn more.
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