BAILIFF Meaning and
Definition
-
A bailiff is an officer of the court who is responsible for maintaining order and providing security during court proceedings and other legal matters. The term bailiff can also refer to a person who executes court orders and ensures compliance with the law.
In a courtroom setting, the bailiff's primary duty is to ensure that the proceedings are conducted in an orderly and efficient manner. This involves maintaining decorum, ensuring the safety of all individuals present, and safeguarding the integrity of the legal process. Bailiffs may be in charge of managing the entry and exit of individuals into the courtroom, escorting prisoners to and from the dock, and managing the jury during a trial.
Outside of the courtroom, bailiffs may also be responsible for executing court-issued warrants, such as evictions or property seizures. They may enforce the collection of fines, serve legal documents, and ensure that individuals comply with court orders. Therefore, bailiffs often possess a strong knowledge of civil and criminal law to effectively carry out their duties.
Overall, a bailiff is an essential figure in the administration of justice, responsible for supporting the smooth functioning of the judicial system by maintaining order, providing security, and executing court orders.
-
An officer of justice; an agent or steward over land.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Top Common Misspellings for BAILIFF *
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
Other Common Misspellings for BAILIFF
Etymology of BAILIFF
The word "bailiff" comes from the Old French term "baillif" (later "baillis") which ultimately derives from the Late Latin term "bajulivus". "Bajulivus" referred to a custodian or overseer, specifically someone who managed a royal household or a large estate. Over time, this word evolved in Old French and in English to become "baillif", which denoted a person with legal authority and responsibilities. In the Middle Ages, a bailiff was an officer of the court or a steward appointed to administer the lands and estates of a lord or a manor. The term "bailiff" has retained its meaning as a court officer or manager of a property to this day.
Infographic
Add the infographic to your website:
