This is usually a court officer but may also refer to a peace officer such as a deputy sheriff or a marshal. In the courtroom, the primary duty of the bailiff is to maintain order, assist with court proceedings by escorting witnesses in and out of the courtroom, providing evidence to the judge and witnesses as provided by counsel for the parties and, in criminal cases, the bailiff may be in charge of ensuring the proper conduct of a defendant in custody during court proceedings.
Law Dictionary – Alternative Legal Definition
In a general sense, a person to whom some authority, care, guardianship, or jurisdiction is delivered, committed, or intrusted; one who is deputed or appointed to take charge of another’s affairs; an overseer or superintendent; a keeper, protector, or guardian; a steward. Spel man. A sheriffs officer or deputy. 1 Bl. Comm. 344. A magistrate, who formerly administered justice in the parliaments or courts of France, answering to the English sheriffs as mentioned by Bracton. In the action of account render. A person who has by delivery the custody and administration of lands or goods for the benefit of the owner or bailor, and is liable to render an account thereof. Co. Litt. 271; Story, Eq. Jur.