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  • COURT CLERK

    Port Orchard, Washington United States Kitsap County, WA Full Time $26.99 - $34.52 Hourly Apr 30, 2025
    KITSAP COUNTY Employer:

    Kitsap County, WA

    Kitsap County employs over 1100 employees in jobs that allow employees to make their mark and make a difference in their local community.  The County strives to provide effective and efficient services by continually assessing its purpose, promoting and rewarding innovation and fostering employee development.  Kitsap's Human Resources team provides the employee programs and benefits to keep Kitsap a great place to work. ​- Nancy Buonanno Grennan, Human Resources Director Our Mission ​Human Resources recruits talented, career-minded leaders; supports employee development; builds trust; celebrates teamwork; works with integrity and clear communication. Our Vision  If we are successful, Kitsap County will be a trusting & competitive organization that employs and develops the most effective, professional & friendly staff available. Our Values We make decisions out of a sense of fairness & we will remember the "Human" part of HR.We focus on the needs of our customers & work to earn their trust.We do the right thing, no matter who is involved.We are relentlessly positive.  

    Job Description

    OVERVIEW

    Under the direction of the assigned supervisor, the incumbent performs complex clerical, legal, administrative, and accounting duties for the Office of the County Clerk,. The incumbent also exercises independent judgment and decision making within authorized limits while providing service and support to the Superior Court, legal community, and public.
    Clerk (kitsapgov.com)

    QUALIFICATIONS FOR PERFORMANCE OF THE ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

    REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
    • Two years progressively responsible clerical experience which includes personal computer data entry and working with the public, preferably working in a legal or court environment.
    • Note: Up to six months of related coursework from a college, university or business school recognized by the US Department of Education may be substituted for up to six months of experience.
    PREFERRED EDUCATION, EXPERIENCE, OR QUALIFICATIONS:
    • Clerical experience in a legal or judicial environment in Washington State.
    • Previous in-court work experience (such as working as an in-court clerk for a municipal, district or superior court).
    • Previous experience working with the public.
    • Previous experience cashiering.
    • Computer experience using the most current version of Microsoft Office Word and Excel.
    Driving Requirements
    • The successful incumbent must meet the driving requirements of this position and submit a copy a current driving record/abstract (from state of residency) to review for eligibility to drive for Kitsap County prior to employment. The successful incumbent must obtain a valid Washington State Driver's License prior to hire and maintain a satisfactory driving record as outlined in the Kitsap County Vehicle Use Policy. This position is categorized as:
      • Category 2: Driver may operate a personal vehicle as an essential function for official County business. Any employee using a personal vehicle on official County business shall be required to maintain auto liability insurance, in addition to having a valid driver's license. If driving on county business the incumbent must meet and follow the Fleet Risk Control Policies to operate a motor vehicle on County Business.
    Criminal Conviction Standards:
    • The successful incumbent will or may have unsupervised access to children under 18 years of age, a vulnerable adult, or a vulnerable person, or access to a secured/confidential facility or computer system(s). As a result, Kitsap County will be conducting an extensive criminal background check by law enforcement agencies, which may include fingerprinting.
    Please review the following list of disqualifying crimes and negative actions to determine if you meet our standard for this position: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/ffa/disqualifying-list-crimes-and-negative-actions

    Prior to employment, the successful candidate must :
    • Pass a criminal background check through law enforcement agencies.
    • Submit official transcripts from an accredited college or university or business school, if education is being used to meet the minimum qualifications.
    • Pass all job-related examinations/tests necessary to demonstrate required knowledge, skills and abilities, as determined by the hiring authority at time of job posting.

    PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS AND WORKING ENVIRONMENT
    (The physical demands described are representative of those that must be met by the employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job. Kitsap County provides reasonable accommodation to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.)
    • Working in a stressful, fast-paced office or courtroom environment.
    • Potentially hazardous conditions may be present when exposed to violent or hostile individuals.
    • Clear speaking and adequate hearing sufficient to communicate effectively and respond appropriately both in-person and on the telephone.
    • Bending, stooping, reaching, handling/grasping documents.
    • Sitting and/or standing for extended periods of time.
    • Walking short distance.
    • Vision sufficient to read source materials and computer screen data.
    • Repetitive motions for computer use.
    • Exertion of force of 25 pounds occasionally and/or 10 pounds frequently to lift/carry/move objects, files, and other case material.

    Incumbents may be:
    • Exposed to potentially hazardous conditions when dealing with violent or hostile individuals.


    ILLUSTRATIVE EXAMPLE OF DUTIES

    In this role, you may have the opportunity to:
    • Accurately perform data entry of documents and court minutes into Statewide data base.
    • Scan, link and file documents into electronic court files.
    • Process documents received for filing by facsimile.
    • Prepare, process and/or issue various notices and documents, which may include: Clerk's Orders of Dismissal, court calendars, judgments, writs, search warrants, special inquiries, bench warrants and general correspondence.
    • Provide customer service to the public at the front counter by accepting court pleadings for filing, providing procedural information, certifying documents and issuing writs, and accepting payment for fees and fines.
    • Provide customer service using multi line telephone system.
    • Act as passport agent for the US Dept. of State by processing and verifying passport applications and transmittals.
    • Attend court sessions and provide clerical support to the Superior Court.
    • Responsible for courtroom activities such as opening/closing court; preparing minutes and recording court proceedings; and marking, filing and maintaining exhibits.
    • Assist in jury administration such as checking in jurors, creating jury pools and working with various courts in Kitsap County to provide jurors for trial


    OTHER POSITION RELATED INFORMATION

    • Who May Apply: This position is open to the general public. Applications will be screened for qualifications and completion of all the required materials and forms. The most competitive applicants may be contacted for further steps in the selection process, which may include testing for office and computer skills.
    • This position is classified as eligible for overtime under the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA)
    • This position is covered under a collective bargaining agreement with AFSCME 1308 and the Kitsap County Personnel Manual ( https://www.kitsapgov.com/hr/Pages/Personnel-Manual-2019.aspx ) Membership in the union is optional. Employees choosing to join the union will be required to pay dues through payroll deduction. Internal applicants should be aware that a change in union status or bargaining unit may impact your benefits and accruals. Please contact Human Resources if you have questions.
    • Kitsap County is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, ancestry, color, family or medical care leave, gender identity or expression, genetic information, marital status, medical condition, national origin, physical or mental disability, political affiliation, protected veteran status, race, religion, sex (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws, regulations and ordinances. We also consider qualified applicants regardless of criminal histories, consistent with legal requirements. If you need assistance and/or a reasonable accommodation due to a disability during the application or the recruiting process, please contact our Human Resources Office.
    • Work hours for this position are Monday - Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.
    • This recruitment is being used to create a register for future openings in the next 6 months


    At Kitsap County, we strive to take care of our team! Our employees are the greatest asset of Kitsap County, and we take pride in offering a highly competitive compensation and benefits package to all eligible employees.

    County Paid Benefits Include:
    Medical - Kaiser Permanente (HMO) or Aetna (PPO)
    Dental -Delta Dental or Willamette
    Vision - VSP
    Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
    Life Insurance - Basic, Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D), Voluntary Term Life Insurance (VTL)
    MetLife Long Term Disability
    Voya Voluntary Insurance
    Transportation incentives
    Employee Assistance Program
    Travel Assistance Program
    Wellness program https://spf.kitsapgov.com/hr/Pages/Wellness.aspx
    Benefits become effective on the first calendar day of the month following the month in which the employee is hired except if the employee's hire date is the first calendar day of the month, benefits begin on the day of hire. More information about employee benefits is available on the county's website at: https://spf.kitsapgov.com/hr/Pages/Benefits.aspx or the Kitsap County Digital Benefits Guide .

    *Voluntary benefit options also available at the employee's expense

    Retirement:
    Employees are covered under the PERS retirement plan provided through the Washington State Department of Retirement Systems and Social Security.

    Deferred Compensation (IRS Plan 457b): tax-deferred savings program

    Holidays
    11 paid holidays and 2 additional floating holiday per year

    Vacation Leave
    New employees are credited with 48 hours of annual leave upon hire and will be begin accruing at the rate of 8 hours per month starting on their 7th month of employment. Employees may carry over 360 hours from one calendar year to the next. Annual leave accrual will increase upon tenure, as follows:

    Upon completion of 3 years: 15 days per year (10.00 hours per month)
    Upon completion of 5 years: 20 days per year (13.33 hours per month)
    Upon completion of 10 years: 25 days per year (16.67 hours per month)
    Sick Leave
    All new hires will be credited with 48 hours of sick leave upon hire and will begin accruing at the rate of 8 hours per month starting on their 7th month of employment. Employees may carry over 1200 hours from one calendar year to the next.

    ***Part-time employees benefit contributions and leave accruals will beprorated***

    Additional compensation that you may be eligible for:

    Shift differential
    Overtime
    Stand by pay
    Call-back pay

    Current County Employees
    If you are transferring or promoting into this position you are responsible for reviewing these benefit changes; prior to accepting a position. In addition, it is your responsibility to notify the Auditor's Payroll Division of a change in union status.

    Union Membership
    This position is covered under AFSCME Local 1308 Courthouse Employees collective bargaining agreement. To view the bargaining agreement please visit our website: https://www.kitsapgov.com/hr/Pages/Collective-Bargaining-Agreements.aspx

    NOTE: This is a general overview of the benefits offered through employment with Kitsap County, and every effort has been made to ensure its accuracy. If any information on this document conflicts or is incorrect with the provisions of the Personnel Manual, applicable laws, policies, rules or official plan documents they will prevail. The Personnel Manual is available at: https://www.kitsapgov.com/hr/Pages/Personnel-Manual-2019.aspx

    Closing Date/Time: 5/6/2025 11:59 PM Pacific

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

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Court Administrator Jobs: A Day in the Life

Court Administrator Jobs: A Day in the Life
 

Introduction

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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