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Bailiffs are law enforcement officers who provide security and maintain order in the courtroom during trials and other court proceedings. Bailiffs may also provide other security services, such as escorting the jury out of the courtroom to ensure they do not have contact with anyone outside of the courtroom, and guarding the jury during sequestration (isolation) of the jury. Bailiffs may help maintain courtroom decorum by announcing the judge’s entrance into the courtroom, and by reminding all persons in the courtroom to turn off their cell phones and remain silent when court is in session.

In Massachusetts, bailiffs are court officers who are responsible for maintaining security and order within the courtroom. They are part of the Massachusetts Trial Court Security Department and work under the supervision of the Office of Court Management. Bailiffs have various duties including ensuring the safety of judges, jurors, court personnel, and the public during court proceedings. They may escort jurors to and from the courtroom, guard them during sequestration, and prevent them from unauthorized contact with others. Additionally, bailiffs enforce courtroom rules, such as requiring silence and the turning off of cell phones, and they may announce the judge's entrance. The role of bailiffs is crucial in upholding the integrity of the judicial process and ensuring that court proceedings run smoothly and without disruption.

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Courts

bailiff

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Massachusetts State Code

Massachusetts State Code

Courts

bailiff

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