Court Clerk - District Court

Summary

Employee in this position performs the technical and clerical work in the administrative support of the court including providing information and assistance to the public as provided by state statute.

Position is open until filled.

Job Duties

• Prepares new case files for infraction and criminal citations as received from law enforcement using DISCIS and JIS computer systems to verify with the Department of Licensing for true name of defendant. Enters or updates personal information as needed. Assigns case numbers and prepares files for civil, small claims, domestic violence, protection orders, anti-harassment and name changes.
• Prepares court calendars. Sorts, assembles and organizes materials and documents in and for files. Routes and delivers documents, court hearing notices, warrants and other paperwork to relevant parties. Completes with efficiency and accuracy all computer work after court including exonerating bail and bail bonds, reschedules and forwards dispositions to all authorized agencies.
• Prepares and forwards documents/dispositions to other agencies as necessary, including the Washington State Criminal History Identification Unit, the Department of Licensing and Probation.
• Within established guidelines, determines and takes necessary action on cases of failure to appear or pay or those in non-compliance. May include issuance of a warrant, working in cooperation with department of Licensing in issuing FTA's that may result in suspension of a license; work with the Probation Department in setting court hearings and perform case management functions regarding supervision.
• Acts as cashier; accepts and receipts payment for filings, fines, bail, bailbonds, and other funds. Prepares fine payment agreements, monitor files for payment and takes appropriate action on past due accounts. Works in cooperation with collection agencies in forwarding cases, monitoring cases and receipting payments from that agency. Balances receipted funds at the end of the day and prepares daily deposit. Responsible for keeping manual and computer checkbook in balance.
• Assists the public, litigants, and attorneys by answering questions and correspondence related to court procedures and policies, and status of cases. Retrieves files and makes copies as requested. Completes records checks.
• Prepares required reports, interprets data and monitors reports for case management.
• All positions are cross trained to insure any clerk may be called upon to substitute.
• Performs other duties as required; issuance of writs and subpoenas, assist citizens in special proceedings involving domestic violence, anti-harassment orders, name changes, vehicle impound hearings and appeals. Reviews legal documents for accuracy, and required signatures. Signs jurors and witnesses in and out. Tracks evidence.
• Must be observant and alert to the activity of any individual that might be dangerous or hazardous to those in or near the courtroom or front office.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Knowledge of District Court practices and policies. Must have knowledge of the Data Dissemination Policy from the Office of the Administrator of the Courts.
• Maintains a high standard of accuracy and efficiency for completing all court work.
• Knowledge of DISCIS/JIS computer system.
• Ability to read and interpret documents and manuals.
• Ability to calculate figures and amounts.
• Must possess communication skills for written correspondence, phone and public contact.
• Ability to remain calm under stressful situations
• Ability to work in depth as a "team member"
• Familiarity with various office machines.
• Ability to work independently and understand the need for confidentiality.
• Ability to attend ongoing training that is required to keep informed of the changes to the DISCIS system, legislative changes and any changes in DOL policies.

Education, Experience & Certifications

• High School Diploma.
• DISCIS and JIS training and other training as offered by the Administrator for the Courts, the Department of Licensing and other related agencies or organizations.
• Prior experience in court work and/or business office experience. Prior experience as a Court Clerk. Public relations skills are desired.

* Candidates must be legally authorized to work in the United States. Island County does not provide visa sponsorship. *