Chief Legal Clerk - Clerk of Court

This position performs specialized legal clerical duties for Family Court and/or Circuit Court, including courtroom assistance for the sitting judge.

Courtroom Assistance – This position writes orders as dictated by the judge in the courtroom, and prepares these orders for the judge’s signature.  This may also include preparing, processing and monitor bench warrants and other forms of follow-up from actions taken in previous court sessions.  Chief Legal Clerks may be assigned to Family Court (Child Support or Family) or Circuit Court (Criminal or Civil).

Court Orders – The incumbent receives orders (may come from either court or the various Magistrate Courts), and must review and process them accurately and completely.  Copies must be certified, sealed and distributed to the appropriate parties, and all data entered into the system.  It is important to understand the judge’s orders in order to enter the judgment correctly.  Initial cases are assigned a case number, and administrative rules of procedure followed to prepare the file jacket and process the paperwork.  Any and all motions, orders, filings and other documents must be accounted for.  If cases are to be transferred, the incumbent ensures the files are sent to the correct court.  From time to time, some records are expunged.   

Public Assistance – The incumbent will assist the public in filing initial pleadings by submitting certified copies to the proper authority for service.  In addition, the incumbent will answer general questions for the public and attorneys and their staffs.  Coordination and collaboration among attorneys, solicitors, court personnel, judges and agencies is needed.

Administrative Duties – This position may, from time to time, assist the department in handling mail, filing, faxing, scanning, and other administrative functions necessary for efficiency.

This position works with limited supervision but requires complete accuracy.  Therefore, questions must be asked of management when guidance is needed.  The major challenges for this position are dealing with irate people.

REQUIRED EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND JOB-RELATED EXPERIENCE: 

Minimum Level of Job-Related Education: Paralegal or criminal justice studies.

Minimum Amount of Job-Related Experience: 2 years in similar environment.

Minimum Level of any Required Qualifications, Licenses, Certificates, Registrations, or any Relevant Knowledge, Job Skill or Equivalent Experience: strong knowledge of SC laws; Notary Public; annual certification for IRS Awareness Briefing.