Court Usher
Job Description:Court ushers make sure that everyone involved with a court case is present and that they know what to do.
Job Category:What you will do:
You’ll be:
- preparing the courtroom
- meeting and greeting court users and visitors
- keeping people informed of changes to hearing times
- checking that witnesses, defendants and lawyers are present
- calling defendant and witnesses into court
- directing the taking of oaths
- labelling evidence and passing it to the judge and jury
- passing messages between lawyers and legal advisers
- keeping order in the public areas
- inputting data to the computer system, filing and photocopying
In court cases, a ‘sworn usher’ swears on oath to stop anyone who is unauthorised from approaching the jury.
In this role you would have extra duties such as:
- escorting the jury to and from the courtroom
- being on duty outside the jury room
- taking messages between the jury and the judge
- organising hotel accommodation if jurors need to stay overnight
Skills:
You’ll need:
- legal knowledge including court procedures and government regulations
- to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently
As well as:
- administration & organisational skills
- to be thorough and pay attention to detail
- the ability to work well with others (teamwork skills)
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- customer service skills
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- excellent verbal communication skills
Entry Requirements:
To become a Court Usher or a similar profession in the legal field, specific subjects are not typically required for entry. However, certain subjects and skills can be beneficial in preparing for a career in court support roles. Court Ushers play a crucial role in assisting court proceedings, maintaining order in the courtroom, and ensuring that legal proceedings run smoothly. Here are some relevant subjects:
- English Language: Strong written and verbal communication skills are essential for interacting with judges, legal professionals, and the public.
- Mathematics (Maths): Basic math skills are valuable for tasks such as calculating fees, managing court dockets, and maintaining records.
- Citizenship or Government and Politics: These subjects can provide a foundation in understanding the legal and political systems within your country.
- History: Courses in history can offer insights into legal systems, precedents, and the development of legal principles.
Post School
You can get into this job through:
- a college course
- an apprenticeship
- applying directly
College
You could do a Business Administration or a Certificate in Principles of Business Administration.
This would give you some of the knowledge and skills you would need for this job.
Apprenticeship
You could do a:
- public service operational delivery officer advanced apprenticeship
- customer service practitioner intermediate apprenticeship
- customer service specialist advanced apprenticeship
- business administrator advanced apprenticeship
These apprenticeships will give you some of the customer service and business admin skills you need to do the job.
Direct Application
You could apply directly for jobs.
You may find it easy to get a job as a court usher if you have experience in a similar job like customer service or office administration. Employers will also look at your personal qualities and life experience.
Working Hours and Environment:
You’ll work 37 hours a week between 8.30am and 5pm, Monday to Friday.
You’ll work in courtrooms and at offices and reception desks at the court building.
You may sometimes need to travel between different courts.
As a sworn usher you may spend occasional nights away from home.
Career Path & Progression:
With experience, you could supervise a team of ushers, or become a court administrative officer.