Bailiff Career and Salary Profile
Bailiffs are legal officers whose main role is to maintain law and order during courtroom proceedings. Judges depend on bailiffs to ensure that the public, jury, legal teams and defendants proceed through trials and other court proceedings peacefully and with the required decorum. An exciting career as a bailiff can begin by enrolling in a bachelor’s degree program in criminal justice.
Bailiff Job Outlook
According to national data published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) in 2011, employment for bailiffs is projected to grow as fast as the average occupation through 2018. A growing job rate may not guarantee employment in the industry. Prospective students are encouraged to conduct independent research regarding actual job growth rates, which vary according to location, education and experience. In addition, every job seeker is encouraged to do independent research into local trends and requirements.
Bailiff Job Duties
Bailiffs may also be known as marshals or court officers, depending on the jurisdiction in which they work. They fulfill numerous important legal functions, but primarily serve to enforce courtroom rules and maintain security during trials and other proceedings.
In some locations, bailiffs assist and protect the judge and jury throughout the court proceedings. They often declare the entry of the judge and swear in witnesses. They may accompany a jury in an active trial when outside the courtroom, to prevent contact with the public. If a jury is sequestered, bailiffs will typically provide security. Bailiffs also often assist jurors with their duties, distribute jury questionnaires, and relay messages from jurors to the court and their families.
Additional duties of bailiffs include preparing the courtroom for the day’s proceedings, ensuring the courtroom has adequate supplies of needed items, completing required paperwork and reports, and posting the daily case schedule. They may screen visitors for weapons prior to courtroom entry, as well.
In addition to serving the judge and jury, bailiffs typically escort defendants to and from the courtroom, collect evidence from legal teams and the jury, and operate courtroom equipment such as audio and video recorders. After sentencing, bailiffs take custody of inmates and transport them to correctional facilities.
Bailiffs may work flexible schedules, depending on the location and employer. A 40-hour week is standard. Weekend and evening hours may also be required.
Potential Salary for Bailiffs
According to a 2010 national survey conducted by the U.S. Department of Labor, the average annual salary for bailiffs was $40,920, while the middle 50% earned between $37,060 and $54,790. The lowest 10% earned approximately $18,890, while those in the highest 10% bracket brought in around $66,400 per year. Because salary potential may vary depending on location, education and experience, prospective students are encouraged to conduct independent research to determine actual earning potential.
Education and Training for Bailiffs
Depending on the location, bailiff positions may require a high school diploma, some college or on-the-job training. Many employers may prefer to hire candidates with bachelor’s degrees in criminal justice or a related discipline. Training programs typically include custody and security procedures, as well as firearms and self-defense training. Some employers may show preference to candidates with supervisory experience or experience in a legal setting, which can be obtained through summer employment or internships while pursuing a bachelor’s degree.
Starting toward a career as a bailiff may begin with earning a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. Coursework typically includes community policing, criminal justice ethics, law enforcement systems and criminology.
Employers can be confident that individuals who have earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Criminal Justice are able to:
- Understand fundamentals of the legal system.
- Apply concepts such as due process, use of force and criminal liability.
- Exercise best practices in community policing.
- Analyze crime trends, crime prevention, victimology and other components of criminal justice.
- Leverage advanced skills and knowledge to succeed as a bailiff.
Some employers offer opportunities for continuing education. It may be possible to gain an entry-level position with a bachelor’s degree and use a tuition assistance program to further your education.
Do You Aspire to a Career as a Bailiff?
If you are a quick thinker, good decision maker, and have an interest in the legal system, you could be a candidate for a law enforcement career as a bailiff. This position also requires a high degree of responsibility, integrity and good judgment. Augmenting your skill set by enrolling in a bachelor’s degree program in criminal justice can be the first step toward this exciting and rewarding career!
