FAQs about Becoming a Court officer

Court officers not only play a significant role in maintaining order and safety during courtroom proceedings, but they also serve in administration and law enforcement capacities when required.

In this blog post, we answer some commonly asked questions about the duties of a court officer:

1. What Are The Administrative Responsibilities Of A Court Officer?

Court officers have a range of administrative duties, such as swearing in witnesses, collecting evidence, relaying messages from the jury, issuing warrants and operating visual and audio equipment in the court room.

Moreover, court officers or bailiffs prepare the court room for proceedings, ensuring adequate electronic equipment, seating and paper supplies. They even escort prisoners and jurors to the court room and make announcements at the beginning of the court proceedings.

2. Are Court Officers Responsible For Maintaining Security?

Apart from maintaining order, ensuring the court rooms are safe for the legal staff, spectators, jury members, defendants and judges is also a key part of the duties of a court officer.

Additionally, court officers typically monitor metal detectors, in addition to clearing out court rooms during dangerous situations and emergencies. They use non-lethal enforcers and only use firearms as the last resort for restoring order.

3. What Is The Salary Of NYS Court Officers?

Once appointed, NYS court officers start at grade 16 and are required to complete a two-year traineeship at the academy to be promoted to grade 19.

As of April 2020, salary for these grades will range from $51K to $81K.

Moreover, officers who work in the Metropolitan NYC, such as New York City and counties of Suffolk, Nassau, Westchester, Rockland, receive additional $3,697/year due to location pay differential.

Furthermore, court officer trainees in Orange, Dutchess and Putnam counties typically receive an additional $1,848/year.

4. What Other Financial Benefits Are Court Officers Entitled To?

Additional financial benefits that court officers receive other than salaries, include 12 paid holidays, 20 vacation day during the first year, retirement benefits, health insurance and an opportunity to opt for a deferred compensation plan. Plus, court officers also receive uniform allowance.

5. How Do I Apply For An NYS Court Officer Position?

Since the NYS Court Officer Trainee exam only comes by every 6 years, you have limited chances to apply for the position. Fortunately, the exam is anticipated for April 2020! Apply at the official New York State Unified Court System website and start preparing for the exam today!

Enroll into exam preparation classes and workshops offered by Civil Service Success and increase your chances securing your dream job!

Register today, and become a New York State civil service worker!