Of the People
Our court system is made up of many different people. Learn about the different roles and individuals who make up the court system below.
Bailiff
A bailiff is a person in the courtroom who helps make sure everyone follows the rules. They keep everyone safe and help the judge and lawyers with anything they need. They also guide people in and out of the courtroom. In Virginia, bailiffs are Deputies with the Sheriff’s Office.
Clerk
A court clerk helps keep the court organized. They manage paperwork, schedule hearings, and make sure everything is ready for the judge. The Clerk’s Office is often called a court’s “central nervous system.”(Pictured - Clerk of the Court Christopher Falcon and staff, 2025)
Court Reporter
A court reporter records everything said in a courtroom, word for word, using a special machine. They create an exact record of what happens so people can review it later. They play an important role if there is a disagreement about what was said in court.
Interpreter
An intrepreter speaks more than one language and is qualified to assist others with limited English language skills. Interpreters listen to what is said in the courtroom and then translate the words into another language so that everyone can understand what is being said.
Judge
A judge is a representative of the judicial branch of the government with the authority to oversee civil and criminal cases brought before the court. In Virginia, judges are appointed by the General Assembly – the legislative branch of government.
Jury
A jury is a group of regular people. In criminal cases, the jury works together to decide if someone is guilty or not-guilty based on the evidence and the law. In civil cases, the jury decides whether someone must pay money to another person. Serving on a jury is an important civic duty.
Lawyers
Lawyers help clients by explaining laws, giving advice, and speaking for their clients in court. Elected Commonwealth Attorneys prosecute people charged with crimes on behalf of Virginia. Criminal defendants have a right to an appointed lawyer, even if they cannot afford one.
Litigants
Litigants are the parties in a lawsuit. They come to court to settle their dispute.