Court Bailiff Job Description
Bailiffs maintain order within a courtroom and protect judges, jurors, and other court personnel. While the educational requirements generally are not extensive, the nature of the bailiff's job places them at risk when dealing with dangerous prisoners.
People interested in a law enforcement career, and who like the idea of working in a courtroom setting, may want to consider becoming court bailiffs. The bailiff job description applies at local, state, and federal levels, in which they protect courtroom members and ensure that trials go smoothly. These professionals must have high school diplomas or GEDs at minimum, and they may be required to complete formal training prior to and after being hired. Certain positions require bailiffs to hold degrees.
| Required Education | High school diploma or GED for entry-level; 4-year degree required for federal employment |
| Other Requirements | State or federal training programs; firearms training; CPR and first aid skills |
| Projected Job Growth (2019-2029)* | 0% |
| Annual Median Salary (2019)* | $47,830 |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Court Bailiff Job Duties
Bailiff duties involve being situated in courtrooms to maintain order and provide security. The bailiff in court is responsible for guarding juries and enforcing the rules of the courts. Additionally, bailiffs open court by announcing the judges' arrival and close court by announcing the judges' departure. They may call witnesses to the stand and present the oath before witnesses take the stand. The duties of a bailiff may also include the provision of administrative support to judges and jurors, such as stocking courtroom supplies, delivering court documents and taking custody of offenders.
Court Bailiff Requirements
Becoming a court bailiff entails at least a high school diploma or GED. Supplemental training, either at a 2- or 4-year college, vocational school or police academy, may be an asset in pursuing a position as a court bailiff. Coursework in fields like criminal justice, law enforcement or civil rights can provide a relevant background for careers in law enforcement and administration. In fact, employment at the federal level may require a bachelor's degree as well as related work experience. After obtaining employment, court bailiffs often complete formal training programs regulated by the state or federal government.
How to Be a Bailiff in Court
Since court bailiffs maintain safety in the courtroom, they may benefit from CPR and first aid training. Some court systems require court bailiffs to attend firearm training classes and to be comfortable using chemical sprays, such as pepper spray. Successful court bailiffs pay attention to detail, have the ability to work well in teams and have strong communication skills. They must also meet physical fitness standards and have clean criminal records.
Career and Economic Outlook for Court Bailiffs
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the lowest-paid ten percent earned just over $24,620 per year, while the top-paid ten percent earned over $82,900 annually (BLS). The BLS also reported that jobs in this field were not expected to change through 2029.
Bailiffs are law enforcement officers charged with keeping order in a courtroom. A high school diploma may be all that's required for most positions, but bailiffs for federal court need a bachelor's degree. They usually must complete a law enforcement training program as well.
