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 Ohio, bailiffs are court officers whose primary responsibilities include ensuring the security and orderly conduct of court proceedings. They operate under the authority of the state's judiciary system, typically appointed by the judges of the respective courts. Ohio Revised Code does not provide a detailed description of bailiff duties, but common practices align with the general description provided. Bailiffs maintain courtroom security, enforce decorum, and may announce the judge's entrance. They are also responsible for escorting and protecting jurors, particularly during sequestration to prevent unauthorized contact. The specific duties and powers of bailiffs can vary by court and are often outlined in local court rules and directives issued by the presiding judge or court administration.