Court Clerk, Justice Court Operations

Gallatin County; Bozeman (MT); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Gallatin County Justice Court seeks a skilled Clerk to provide clerical and technical support, handle court forms, filings, record docketing, and assist the public, attorneys, and law enforcement. The role covers criminal, civil, small claims, weddings, and related matters.

The position reports to the Clerk of Justice Court, does not supervise staff, and requires a sworn court officer status. Candidates should be able to work under stress, manage busy phones, and maintain confidentiality and

Qualifications

• Knowledge of Montana statutes, court rules, and legal procedures relevant to Justice Court.
• Legal terminology, court forms, and filing procedures.
• Principles of records management, research, and customer service.
• Office practices, technology, and case management systems.
• Accurately preparing, processing, and filing legal documents.
• Maintaining multiple calendars, deadlines, and case dockets in a fast-paced environment.
• Communicating effectively, both verbally and in writing.
• Providing courteous and professional customer service, even in stressful situations.
• Organizing and prioritizing work to meet strict statutory deadlines.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the first point of contact at the front counter, assisting the public with forms, information, and direction for weddings, trials, and other court activities.
• Respond to inquiries from attorneys, law enforcement, court staff, and the public regarding court procedures, case status, and filing options while maintaining confidentiality.
• Receive, process, and file standardized court documents, including orders, motions, and pleadings; collect and record fees as required.
• Process and distribute filings and correspondence based on trial dates, statutory deadlines, and office procedures.
• Process mail, including express shipments, registered mail, and electronic correspondence.
• Maintain manual and electronic records management and docketing systems with accurate case and file information.
• Handle sealed or confidential information in compliance with court rules.
• Review past records, payments, and appearances to determine appropriate next steps such as issuing a warning letter, warrant, or default judgment.
• Receipt and disburse fines, filing fees, restitution, bond refunds, and other financial transactions; maintain daily balances.
• Prepare courtrooms by locating and organizing all required documents and files for hearings and trials.
• Serve as court clerk on a rotating basis during hearings, trials, change-of-pleas, and omnibus hearings, including preparing documents for judicial signatures and recording minutes.
• Coordinate trial juries, including contacting jurors, issuing notices, attending voir dire, tracking attendance, administering oaths, and serving as bailiff when required.
• Receive, record, and track exhibits entered evidence, ensuring proper documentation and accessibility.
• Record and maintain trial minutes, documenting all motions, witnesses, appearances, and proceedings.
• Perform additional duties as assigned, including assisting coworkers, participating in training, and supporting special projects.
• Provide services during declared emergencies or disasters, as required by the County, to assist with emergency response and recovery.

Skills

Accurately preparing, processing, and

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Two to three (2–3) years of related clerical, legal, or administrative experience

Job description

Gallatin County Justice Court seeks a skilled Clerk to provide clerical and technical support, handle court forms, filings, record docketing, and assist the public, attorneys, and law enforcement. The role covers criminal, civil, small claims, weddings, and related matters.

The position reports to the Clerk of Justice Court, does not supervise staff, and requires a sworn court officer status. Candidates should be able to work under stress, manage busy phones, and maintain confidentiality and