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 Virginia, the clerk of the court holds a vital role in the judiciary system, handling a wide array of administrative responsibilities that ensure the smooth operation of the court. The clerk's duties include the management of court documents, such as the filing and safekeeping of legal papers, maintaining court records, and ensuring that these records are accessible to the public in accordance with the law. Additionally, the clerk is responsible for scheduling court proceedings, including hearings and trials. The clerk's office also often handles the collection of court fees and fines, the issuance of licenses and permits as prescribed by law, and may provide administrative support to the judges. The specific duties and procedures followed by the clerk of the court are outlined in the Virginia Code and may vary slightly depending on the jurisdiction and the type of court, such as circuit court, general district court, or juvenile and domestic relations district court.