A courtroom bailiff's duty is to assist the judge in the orderly conduct of the trial.
The bailiff arrives fifteen minutes before the start of each day's proceedings, to ensure that the courtroom and deliberation room are neat and orderly. Also, they provide adequate supplies of paper and pencils, water, and other materials for use during court. .
During the trial, the bailiff opens and closes court, calls witnesses, maintains order, prevents smoking, undue conversations, noise and any other actions which would disrupt the progress of the case in session. They have the authority to eject persons violating the orderliness of the court at the direction of the presiding judge. The bailiff also must supervise the activities of jurors, direct them to proper courtroom and seat, and accompany jurors during on-site field viewing and meals as directed. .
The bailiff is in charge of announcing the arrival and departure of the judge. They must clearly state "All rise" when the judge enters the courtroom, or stands to leave the courtroom, all persons present will stay standing until the judge exits the courtroom, or asks them to be seated.
Other duties the bailiff has during trial are escorting witnesses to the stand, and swearing them in. They deliver messages to the judge or counsel, and perform tasks and errands on request of judge or counsel. At the end of a recess, or when advised by the judge or counsel, a bailiff will summon the court reporter, the accused, and the counsel to the courtroom, and notify the judge when all are present. .
The bailiff must remain neutral throughout the trial. The bailiff may not assume a partisan attitude toward either side. The bailiff must not participate in any discussion of the case, nor express and opinion about the case or any of the participants. They must display proper attire and behave consistent with the serious nature of the court-martial proceedings. Except in the performance of duty, the bailiff should not converse with the accused, counsel, or court members.
