Court Usher/ Administrative Officer AO - Band E

Brook Street; Wales; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading staffing agency is seeking a Court Usher for a full-time position onsite at Cardiff Magistrates Court. The role involves supporting court users and ensuring hearings run smoothly. Ideal candidates will have at least 2 GCSEs, experience in a public-facing environment, and good computer skills. This position offers a chance for professional development within the HMCTS framework.

Benefits

Access to professional development resources

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 GCSEs (Grade C or above), preferably in relevant subjects.
• Experience dealing with the public in a busy environment.
• Familiarity with office equipment and computer systems.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and clear courtrooms for hearings and trials.
• Escort court users and provide information about proceedings.
• Record hearing outcomes and ensure documentation accuracy.

Skills

Experience working with the public in a busy service environment

Competent computer skills

Education

Minimum of 2 GCSEs (Grade C or above) or equivalent

Job description

Hours - Full time, 37 hours per week
Pay - £12.36 per hour
Assignment length: 6 Months, chance of extension
Onsite only - Cardiff Magistrates Court
Enhanced DBS checked

Role Overview

As a Court Usher, you will be the first point of contact for court users, supporting the judiciary and administrative staff to ensure hearings run smoothly. You'll prepare courtrooms, manage documentation, and assist members of the public and legal professionals. The role requires professionalism, sensitivity, and the ability to follow established procedures while responding calmly to unexpected situations.

You'll work as part of a team with regular management support and be responsible for managing your own time. Flexibility is essential, as you may be required to work across different court locations and HMCTS offices.

Key Responsibilities

Courtroom & Public Support

• Prepare and clear courtrooms for hearings, trials, and meetings.
• Escort and assist court users, including the judiciary, legal representatives, witnesses, and the public.
• Call parties into court in priority order and liaise with court staff and the Witness Service.
• Provide information about proceedings and swear oaths.
• Keep parties informed of changes to courtrooms or hearing times.

Administrative Duties

• Deliver files and bundles to judiciary and clerks.
• Complete standard forms and documents (e.g. court orders, warrants).
• Handle post: opening, sorting, distributing, and dispatching.
• Maintain stock of forms and stationery across courtrooms and offices.
• Operate office and court equipment (e.g. computers, switchboards, recording devices).

Data Entry & Record Keeping

• Record hearing outcomes and ensure accuracy.
• Handle straightforward financial tasks (e.g. jury payments, petty cash).
• Use electronic diaries and manage meeting arrangements.

Communication

• Answer telephone and face-to-face enquiries.
• Pass messages and provide general information to court users.

Other Duties

• Undertake any other reasonable tasks as required by management, in line with the role's responsibilities.

Skills & Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 GCSEs (Grade C or above) or equivalent.
• Experience working with the public in a busy service environment.
• Competent computer skills.

This role is part of HMCTS's Operational Delivery Profession, which includes face-to-face, contact centre, and processing roles. As a member, you'll have access to professional development resources and a cross-government community to support career growth.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons.