The primary mission of the Bailiff is to provide safety and security for the Judges, the court staff, court facilities and all who use them. The Bailiff is a sworn Deputy for the Modoc County Sheriff's Office and is assigned to the Court(s),  as such, the Bailiff shall conduct his/her duties in a fair, professional, safe and impartial manner that is consistent with the Modoc Sheriff's Office Mission Statement and the Law Enforcement Code of Ethics. 

Bailiff Duties and Responsibilities 

The Bailiff is tasked with providing courtroom security, maintaining control of in-custody inmates, and providing weapons screening upon entering the courtroom.  The Bailiff is also in charge of transportation to and from State Prisons, County Jail Facilities, and Medical Appointments. The Bailiff calls court into session and clears the courtroom when in recess.  The Bailiff makes sure that only counsel approaches the “well” (Judges bench area) and only with the permission of the Judge. At the direction of the judge the Bailiff serves parties with court orders, takes custody of and removes subjects from the courtroom.  The Bailiff immediately responds to and quells all disturbances in the courtroom, the building and the surrounding areas. The Bailiff also assists the public with any general questions or concerns they may have.
Non-Sworn personnel, representing the Modoc County Sheriff's Office, and the Modoc Superior Court are utilized as court security screeners.   The duty of a screener is to assist the bailiff in courtroom security, weapons screening and to provide information to the public for Frequently asked questions  (FAQ's).

Courtroom Rules/Etiquette

Absolutely No unauthorized communication with in-custody inmates, doing so is a violation of California Penal Code 4070, which is a misdemeanor.  No eating/drinking, No hats, No excessive noise or talking inside the courtroom.  No walking in front of or behind In-custody inmates, the first two rows are designated for in-custody inmates.  The first two rows are reserved whether inmates are present or not.  No walking in what is called the "well" this is the area located in between the Judges bench and the Council's table.