Search Court Administration jobs

125 Court Administration Jobs

125 jobs found Jobs found Email me jobs like this

  • Case Specialist - Gardner District Court

    Gardner, Massachusetts United States MASSACHUSETTS TRIAL COURT Full Time $46,211.10 Apr 04, 2025
    Massachusetts Trial Court Employer:

    MASSACHUSETTS TRIAL COURT

    The Massachusetts court system resembles a pyramid. Cases commence in one of the 7 trial court departments, and are first decided there. Cases are initiated in the particular court which has subject matter and geographic jurisdiction over the issues and parties involved.

    Apply Now View job Employer Profile

    Job Description

    Title: Case Specialist - Gardner District Court

    Pay Grade: Grade 7

    Starting Pay: $46,211.10

    Departmental Mission Statement:

    As a gateway to justice in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, the District Court is dedicated to the administration of justice in a fair, impartial, and timely manner in accordance with the rule of law. In fulfilling this role, the District Court shall provide the communities it serves with an environment that is safe, accessible, and respectful to all. The District Court shall conduct its business with integrity, competence, and a commitment to excellence in order to promote public trust and confidence in the judicial system.

    District Court Organization Profile

    Notes:
    • This position is designated as a union position and is covered by the Collective Bargaining Agreement with O.P.E.I.U., Local 6

    Position Summary:This series is responsible for performing a variety of duties related to the processing of cases, including entering data in automated systems, within an office of a Clerk-Magistrate, a Register of Probate, or an equivalent office.

    • In addition to case processing duties, this series is responsible for providing service to the public and other individuals who have business with the court, consistent with policies on confidentiality.
    • The position titles above the entry level require the performance of increasingly more responsible and varied work which requires more knowledge of court procedures and operations and the exercise of more independent judgment. Employees are hired at the entry level position title and are eligible for reclassification to the higher-level position titles within this series consistent with the specifications for the higher-level position titles. The position titles revert to the entry level when there are vacancies.

    ORGANIZATIONAL LEVELS:
    This position is part of a series that includes a number of levels. Employees are appointed to the entry level and are eligible to advance to the higher levels consistent with this job description and Trial Court policies.

    • Case Specialist I - This is the entry level position title within this series. Employees at this level are expected to perform a variety of duties which teach them the business of the office or a major work unit within an office.

    • Case Specialist II - This is the second level position title within this series. Employees at this second level are expected to perform more complex case processing functions within a major work unit of an office and to be able to perform those functions within the other major work units as required. They are also expected to perform administrative support functions.

    • Case Specialist III - This is the third level position title within this series. Employees at this third level are expected to perform advanced case processing functions within a major work unit of an office with limited supervision, to be able to perform those functions within the other major work units, and to be able to provide occasional assistance in a court session as required.

    • Case Specialist IV - This is the fourth level within this series. Employees at this fourth level are expected to function as a resource person within a major work unit of an office, to be able to perform the full range of case processing responsibilities in all work units as required, to assist in the training of employees, and to be able to provide regular assistance in any court session as required. May also serve as a back-up to a Case Coordinator.

    Duties: This position is part of a series that includes a number of levels. Employees are appointed to the entry level and are eligible to advance to the higher levels consistent with this job description and Trial Court policies.

    • Case Specialist I - This is the entry level position title within this series. Employees at this level are expected to perform a variety of duties which teach them the business of the office or a major work unit within an office.

    • Case Specialist II - This is the second level position title within this series. Employees at this second level are expected to perform more complex case processing functions within a major work unit of an office and to be able to perform those functions within the other major work units as required. They are also expected to perform administrative support functions.

    • Case Specialist III - This is the third level position title within this series. Employees at this third level are expected to perform advanced case processing functions within a major work unit of an office with limited supervision, to be able to perform those functions within the other major work units, and to be able to provide occasional assistance in a court session as required.

    • Case Specialist IV - This is the fourth level within this series. Employees at this fourth level are expected to function as a resource person within a major work unit of an office, to be able to perform the full range of case processing responsibilities in all work units as required, to assist in the training of employees, and to be able to provide regular assistance in any court session as required. May also serve as a back-up to a Case Coordinator.

    Case Specialist I Duties:
    • Provides customer service to attorneys, litigants, law enforcement personnel, and the general public. This includes assisting the public in filling out forms and applications and responding to routine requests for information concerning cases, scheduling and court procedures. May use specialized communication skills in performing these duties.
    • Receives training and assists experienced users on MassCourts, a comprehensive, integrated case management system which features electronic filing of complaints, extensive docketing, scheduling, and management reporting, or on another case processing system.
    • Performs general case intake duties, including receiving court papers and documents, determining general case category, making docket entries, either manually or through an automated case processing system as necessary, and preparing case file folders.
    • Prepares manually or enters through an automated case processing system as necessary, complaints, petitions, summonses, warrants, daily lists, orders of commitment, other standard form documents, and updates to case information. Such functions may be performed in an office or in a courtroom.
    • Sends out notices to various parties and attorneys.
    • Answers incoming phone calls, routes callers to appropriate personnel, takes messages, and provides routine information in response to inquiries.
    • Copies, files, retrieves, and sorts court papers, documents and folders according to established procedures.
    • Receives, date stamps, sorts, and distributes incoming mail. Processes outgoing mail.
    • Performs cashiering duties, including receiving money, determining case type, making entries in the cash register or other system, validating case papers to reflect payments, and issuing receipts.
    • Maintains statistical data concerning cases processing activities.
    • Performs related duties as required.

    Case Specialist II Additional Duties:
    • Provides customer service to attorneys, litigants, law enforcement personnel, and the general public. This includes providing information of a more specialized and/or detailed nature. May use specialized communication skills in performing these duties.
    • Performs more complex case processing functions, including reviewing court documents, papers, and filings for accuracy and completeness, and determining processing required prior to entering them in the permanent record, either manually or using the court's automated case processing system as necessary, identifying inaccuracies and or discrepancies and taking action to resolve such inaccuracies or discrepancies within established guidelines, or referring unusual problems to a supervisor.
    • Performs routine administrative support duties such as preparing fiscal forms and correspondence using word processing software as required.
    • Serves as a "floating case specialist" who is able to perform complex case processing functions within other major work units as required.
    • Performs all of the duties of the lower level within this series as required.
    Case Specialist III Additional Duties:
    • Provides customer service to attorneys, litigants, law enforcement personnel, and the general public. This includes responding to unusual or complicated requests for information. May use specialized communication skills in performing these duties.
    • Processes complicated cases involving multiple offices, agencies, parties, and legal issues, either manually or using the court's automated case processing system, as necessary.
    • Performs advanced case processing duties requiring independent judgment concerning the types of action to be taken and making determinations as to when it is appropriate to take such actions.
    • Assists in the training of new employees and in the ongoing training of other employees.
    • Serves as a "floating case specialist" who is able to perform advanced case processing functions within all of the major work units of an office as required.
    • May provide occasional assistance to a Sessions Clerk or an Assistant Clerk in a court session as required, including arranging for required papers, documents, and exhibits, marking dockets and case papers, maintaining contact with attorneys and other individuals concerning courtroom activities, and processing files after court.
    • Performs all of the duties of the lower levels within this series as required.

    Case Specialist IV Additional Duties:
    • Provides customer service to attorneys, litigants, law enforcement personnel, and the general public.
    • Capable of handling the most unusual and complicated inquiries within established guidelines.
    • May use specialized communication skills in performing these duties.
    • Performs the most complex case processing functions within established guidelines, either manually or using the court's automated case processing system, as necessary.
    • Serves as a resource to employees in an office and to employees in other offices, including answering questions and assisting in resolving problems.
    • Prepares a variety of orders, documents and correspondence requiring a detailed knowledge of statutes, rules, administrative procedures, office policies, and the court's automated case processing system, as necessary.
    • Performs administrative support responsibilities for a supervisor, including composing correspondence for the supervisor's review and signature, typing memoranda, reports, and other documents, maintaining an appointment calendar, and arranging meetings, and maintaining files.
    • Provides assistance to staff using word processing and other software applications, such as the court's automated case processing system.
    • May provide regular assistance to a Sessions Clerk or an Assistant Clerk in any court session as required, including arranging for required papers, documents, and exhibits, marking dockets and case papers, maintaining contact with attorneys and other individuals concerning courtroom activities, and processing files after court.
    • May serve as a back-up to a higher level series.
    • Performs all of the duties of the lower levels within this series as required.

    Minimum Requirements: These are the minimum requirements necessary to apply for a position of Case Specialist.

    Case Specialist I Requirements:
    • Graduation from high school or its equivalent.
    • Some general clerical or customer service experience.
    • Ability and experience using personal computers, including word processing software such as MS Word.
    • Experience with spreadsheet software such as MS Excel is preferred.
    • General knowledge of modern office practices and procedures.
    • Ability to serve the public and others with business with the court in a courteous and professional manner.
    • Ability to learn the procedures and functions, manual and automated, of the office to which assigned.
    • Ability to understand and follow verbal and written instructions.
    • Ability to perform routine data entry at an acceptable rate of speed.
    • Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with court staff.
    • Ability to communicate effectively with others.

    Case Specialist II Additional Requirements:
    • A minimum of two of years of experience as a Case Specialist I.
    • Demonstrated understanding and training in the court's automated case processing system, as well as all of the procedures, manual and automated, related to the cases processed within the work unit or functional area to which assigned.
    • Working knowledge and ability to effectively use MassCourts or other court used automated case management system.
    • Ability to effectively use word processing software used by the court and the demonstrated ability to use that software to prepare documents.
    • Demonstrated ability to serve the public and others with business with the court in a courteous and professional manner.
    • Demonstrated ability to provide specialized or technical information.
    • Demonstrated ability to identify problems with court documents, papers and filings and to take appropriate action within established guidelines.

    Case Specialist III Additional Requirements:
    • A minimum of two years of experience as a Case Specialist II.
    • Considerable working knowledge of case processing using MassCourts, or other court used automated case management system.
    • Considerable knowledge and training in all of the procedures, manual and automated, related to the cases processed within the work unit or functional area to assigned and a working knowledge of the procedures related to the processing of cases in the other work units or functional areas of an office.
    • Working knowledge of the fiscal policies of the Trial Court and ability to prepare fiscal reports.
    • Working knowledge of courtroom policies and procedures and demonstrated ability to provide assistance during court sessions.
    • Demonstrated ability to serve the public and others with business with the court in a courteous and professional manner.
    • Demonstrated ability to respond to unusual or complicated requests for information.
    • Demonstrated ability to process complicated cases from beginning to end.
    • Demonstrated ability to work without close supervision.

    Case Specialist IV Additional Requirements:
    • A minimum of two years of experience as a Case Specialist III.
    • Considerable knowledge of the procedures, manual and automated, related to the processing of all types of cases and the ability to process those cases from beginning to end.
    • Considerable working knowledge of all case processing using MassCourts, or other court used automated case management system.
    • Considerable knowledge of all courtroom policies and procedures and demonstrated ability to provide assistance during any court session.
    • Considerable knowledge of word processing software used by the court and the demonstrated ability to use that software to perform complex functions such as merge letters, macros, templates, etc.
    • Familiarity with spreadsheets.
    • Demonstrated ability to serve the public and others with business with the court in a courteous and professional manner.
    • Demonstrated ability to respond to difficult and sensitive requests for information.
    • Demonstrated ability to function as a resource person.
    • Demonstrated ability to prepare statistical and written reports.
    • Demonstrated ability to train employees.

    Preferred Qualifications:
    • Clerical/Administrative experience preferred


    Closing Date/Time: 2025-07-02
    Apply Now View job Employer Profile

    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.

LATEST JOBS

Court Administrator Jobs: A Day in the Life

Court Administrator Jobs: A Day in the Life
 

Introduction

category017-image-001-careers-in-government

What exactly does a court administrator do? From the federal circuit (Washington D.C.) down, what skills and qualities are necessary to excel in this demanding role? If you've ever considered a career in court administration, you might have found yourself pondering these questions.

We'll take you on a journey through a typical day in the life of a court administrator at a filled superior court.

From the early morning hours to the end of a busy day, we'll unveil the secrets of what it takes to keep a court running efficiently and effectively.

 

Morning Routine: Setting the Stage for Success

The success of a court administrator's day hinges on a well-structured morning routine. Long before the courthouse doors open to the public, these professionals are already hard at work, laying the groundwork for a productive and efficient day.

Prioritizing Tasks and Reviewing Schedules

One of the first tasks court administrators tackle in the morning is prioritizing their responsibilities for the day ahead. They review their calendars, assessing which matters require immediate attention and which can be addressed later in the day. This strategic planning ensures that no crucial tasks slip through the cracks and that the court operates smoothly.

Court administrators also take the time to review the day's court schedule. They examine the docket, familiarizing themselves with the cases set to be heard, the parties involved, and any special requirements or arrangements that need to be made. By having a clear understanding of the day's proceedings, court administrators can anticipate potential challenges and proactively address them.

Ensuring Courtroom Readiness

A critical aspect of a court administrator's morning routine is ensuring that the courtrooms are ready for the day's proceedings. This involves coordinating with custodial staff to guarantee that the rooms are clean, well-maintained, and properly equipped with necessary supplies and technology.

Court administrators may also use this time to test audio-visual equipment, ensuring that microphones, screens, and recording devices are functioning properly. They understand that even minor technical glitches can disrupt court proceedings, so they take proactive steps to minimize the risk of such issues.

Briefing and Coordinating with Staff

Effective communication is the lifeblood of a well-functioning court, and court administrators play a vital role in facilitating this communication in a filled administrative office. During their morning routine, they often brief and coordinate with various court staff members, including clerks, bailiffs, and administrative personnel.

These morning meetings provide an opportunity to discuss the day's schedule, assign tasks, and address any concerns or questions staff members may have. By fostering open lines of communication and ensuring that everyone is on the same page, court administrators set the stage for a collaborative and efficient work environment.

Handling Urgent Matters and Last-Minute Changes

Despite their best efforts to plan and prepare, court administrators know that unexpected issues can arise at any moment. Part of their morning routine involves being ready to handle urgent matters and last-minute changes to the court schedule.

Whether it's a sudden request for a hearing, a change in the availability of a key witness, or an emergency security concern, court administrators must be able to think on their feet and adapt quickly. They use their problem-solving skills and knowledge of court procedures to navigate these challenges and keep the court running smoothly.

 

Overseeing Staff and Ensuring Smooth Operations

In the fast-paced world of court administration, the ability to effectively oversee staff and ensure smooth operations is a critical skill. Court administrators are not only responsible for their own tasks but also for managing and leading a team of court employees. The success of the court relies heavily on the efficiency and productivity of its staff, making the role of the court administrator as a supervisor and manager paramount.

Building a Strong and Cohesive Team

One of the key aspects of overseeing staff is building a strong and cohesive team. Court administrators must foster an environment of collaboration, open communication, and mutual respect among staff members. They do this by regularly engaging with their team, providing clear guidance and expectations, and encouraging feedback and input from all levels of personnel.

Effective court administrators also recognize the importance of staff development and training. They invest time and resources in providing their team with opportunities to enhance their skills, stay updated on the latest legal developments, and grow professionally. By cultivating a skilled and knowledgeable staff, court administrators ensure that the court is well-equipped to handle the complex challenges it faces.

Delegating Tasks and Monitoring Performance

Another crucial aspect of overseeing staff is the ability to delegate tasks effectively. Court administrators must have a keen understanding of the strengths and capabilities of each team member, allowing them to assign responsibilities in a way that maximizes efficiency and productivity.

However, delegation does not mean a hands-off approach. Effective court administrators regularly monitor the performance of their staff, providing guidance and support as needed. They establish clear performance metrics and conduct regular evaluations to ensure that everyone is meeting expectations and contributing to the smooth operation of the court.

Addressing Challenges and Resolving Conflicts

Even with the most well-trained and dedicated staff, challenges and conflicts can arise. Court administrators must be prepared to address these issues promptly and professionally. They need to have strong problem-solving skills and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

When conflicts arise among staff members, court administrators must act as mediators, facilitating open and honest communication to find a resolution. They also need to be proactive in identifying potential challenges before they escalate, taking steps to mitigate risks and ensure that the court's operations remain uninterrupted.

Leading by Example

Perhaps one of the most important aspects of overseeing staff is leading by example. Court administrators set the tone for the entire court staff, and their behavior and work ethic have a significant impact on the team's morale and performance.

Effective court administrators demonstrate the highest levels of professionalism, integrity, and dedication to their work. They are reliable, approachable, and always willing to go the extra mile to support their staff and ensure the smooth operation of the court.

Careers In Government
 

Begin Your Career Journey

Launch your career with Careers in Government! Explore exciting opportunities, connect with passionate professionals, and shape your legacy.

JOIN NOW
 

Staying Updated with Legal Developments

In the ever-evolving landscape of the legal system, court administrators face the constant challenge of staying up-to-date with the latest legal developments. From changes in legislation and case law to the emergence of new legal technologies, court administrators must remain informed and adaptable to effectively support the work of the court. This ongoing education and awareness are critical to ensuring that the court operates in compliance with the law and that justice is administered fairly and efficiently.

The Importance of Continuing Education

One of the primary ways court administrators stay updated with legal developments is through continuing education. Many states and professional organizations require court administrators to complete a certain number of continuing education credits each year to maintain their credentials and stay abreast of changes in the field.

These educational opportunities can take many forms, including seminars, workshops, conferences, and online courses. They cover a wide range of topics, from updates on specific areas of law to best practices in court administration and management. By actively participating in these learning opportunities, court administrators expand their knowledge base and gain valuable insights that they can apply in their daily work.

category017-image-002-careers-in-government
Collaborating with Legal Professionals

Another key strategy for staying informed about legal developments is collaborating closely with legal professionals, including judges, attorneys, and law clerks. These individuals are often at the forefront of legal changes and can provide valuable perspectives on how these developments may impact court operations.

Court administrators should establish open lines of communication with these legal professionals, regularly seeking their input and guidance. This collaborative approach not only helps court administrators stay informed but also fosters a sense of teamwork and shared purpose among all those working in the court system.

category017-image-003-careers-in-government
Utilizing Professional Networks and Resources

In addition to formal educational opportunities and collaborations with legal professionals, court administrators can also tap into the wealth of knowledge and resources available through professional networks and associations.

Organizations such as the National Association for Court Management (NACM) and the International Association for Court Administration (IACA) provide a platform for court administrators to connect with peers, share best practices, and access valuable resources and publications. These networks also often host conferences and webinars that focus on emerging trends and challenges in court administration.

Court administrators should also stay engaged with local and state bar associations, as these organizations frequently provide updates on legal developments that are specific to their jurisdiction.

category017-image-004-careers-in-government
Embracing Technology and Legal Research Tools

In today's digital age, court administrators have access to a wide array of online resources and legal research tools that can help them stay informed about legal developments. From legal databases and case law repositories to online legal news outlets and blogs, these resources provide a wealth of information at the click of a button.

Court administrators should become proficient in using these tools and incorporate them into their daily routine. By setting aside dedicated time each day to review legal news and conduct targeted research, court administrators can ensure that they are always up-to-date on the latest developments that may impact their work.

category017-image-005-careers-in-government
 

Ensuring Compliance and Fair Administration of Justice

At the heart of a court administrator's role lies a profound responsibility: ensuring that the court operates in compliance with all applicable laws, regulations, and ethical standards, and that justice is administered fairly and impartially. This commitment to compliance and fairness is the bedrock upon which the legitimacy and effectiveness of the judicial system rest.

Understanding Legal Procedures and Requirements

To effectively ensure compliance, court administrators must have a deep understanding of the legal procedures and requirements that govern court operations. This knowledge extends beyond a superficial familiarity with the law; it requires a nuanced grasp of how legal principles apply in practice and how they shape every aspect of the court's work.

Court administrators must be well-versed in the rules of civil and criminal procedure, the laws governing evidence and discovery, and the ethical canons that guide the behavior of judges, attorneys, and court staff. They must also stay attuned to changes in these laws and procedures, adapting court operations as necessary to maintain compliance.

Developing and Implementing Policies and Procedures

Ensuring compliance is not just about understanding the law; it's also about translating that understanding into actionable policies and procedures that guide the day-to-day operations of the court. Court administrators play a critical role in developing, implementing, and enforcing these policies.

This involves working closely with judges, attorneys, and other stakeholders to craft policies that are legally sound, practically feasible, and responsive to the needs of the court and the community it serves. Once these policies are in place, court administrators must ensure that they are consistently followed and that any deviations are promptly addressed and corrected.

Monitoring Court Operations and Addressing Issues

Compliance is an ongoing process, not a one-time achievement. Court administrators must continuously monitor court operations to identify potential issues or areas of non-compliance. This requires a keen eye for detail, a proactive approach to problem-solving, and a willingness to confront difficult issues head-on.

When compliance issues do arise, court administrators must act swiftly and decisively to address them. This may involve conducting investigations, implementing corrective actions, and working with other court leaders to develop long-term solutions that prevent similar issues from recurring in the future.

Promoting a Culture of Ethics and Integrity

Beyond the technical aspects of compliance, court administrators also play a vital role in promoting a culture of ethics and integrity within the court. They set the tone for the entire court staff, modeling the highest standards of professionalism, impartiality, and respect for the rule of law.

Court administrators must foster an environment in which all court personnel feel empowered to raise concerns about potential ethical violations or instances of non-compliance. They must also provide regular training and guidance to help court staff navigate the complex ethical challenges that can arise in the course of their work.

Ensuring Fair and Equal Access to Justice

Ultimately, the purpose of compliance is to ensure that justice is administered fairly and impartially, and that all individuals have equal access to the court system. Court administrators must be vigilant in identifying and addressing any barriers that may prevent certain individuals or groups from fully participating in the judicial process.

This may involve implementing policies and procedures that accommodate the needs of litigants with disabilities, ensuring that language interpretation services are readily available, and working to eliminate any biases or disparities in how cases are handled and decided.

 

Conclusion

Throughout this in-depth exploration of a day in the life of a court administrator, we've unveiled the multifaceted responsibilities and challenges that define this crucial role in the judicial system. From the early morning hours spent setting the stage for a successful day to the ongoing efforts to ensure compliance and fairness, court administrators are the unsung heroes who keep the wheels of justice turning smoothly.

category017-image-006-careers-in-government

Court administrators must be deeply committed to the principles of justice, fairness, and the rule of law.

They must be unwavering in their dedication to ensuring that the court operates in compliance with all applicable laws and that every individual who comes before the court is treated with equal dignity and respect.

With locations ranging from the fourth appellate district in California to district court in Massachusetts, every job posting has its perfect applicant - and you could be that. If you possess the requisite skills and qualities, and if you feel a calling to serve your community and make a meaningful difference in the administration of justice, then a career in the judicial branch may be the right fit for you.

Unlock Government Opportunities with Careers in Government

Elevate your career or find the ideal government talent on Careers in Government! Explore and shape the future with us.

JOIN NOW
 
SHOW MORE