The clerk of the court is generally the person who is responsible for all administrative tasks related to the court’s functions—including the filing of documents, recordkeeping, and scheduling of hearings, trials, and other matters before the court.
In Missouri, the clerk of the court, often referred to as the court clerk, is a key administrative officer responsible for managing the flow of cases and paperwork through the court system. The clerk's duties include maintaining court records, filing legal documents, and ensuring that these documents are available to the public unless they are confidential by law. The clerk also schedules court hearings and trials, issues court orders, and may handle financial transactions for the court, such as collecting fees and fines. The specific duties and procedures may vary by jurisdiction and court level (e.g., municipal, circuit, appellate), but the role of the clerk is essential in ensuring the efficient operation of the judicial system. In Missouri, clerks are often elected or appointed officials, and their responsibilities are defined by state statutes, court rules, and local practices.