What are the responsibilities and job description for the Court Specialist I/II position at City of Thornton?
The level the successful candidate will be hired at depends on their experience, education, and qualifications. The 2025 pay ranges for each level are:
- Court Specialist I: $26.42 - $34.87 per hour
- Court Specialist II: $28.27 - $37.31 per hour
Under general supervision, performs a variety of responsible clerical, technical and administrative support functions for the Municipal Court.
Court Specialist I:
Under immediate supervision, this is the entry-level class in the Court Specialist series. Incumbents entering this class have limited related work experience. Work is observed and reviewed during performance and upon completion.
Court Specialist II:
Under general supervision, this is the intermediate-level class in the Court Specialist series, and is distinguished from level I by the ability to perform the majority of the duties assigned with only general supervision and occasional instruction or assistance. Exercises judgment in selecting the most applicable guidelines, interpret practices, apply appropriate procedures to differing situations and recommend alternative actions in situations without precedent.
Court Specialist I:
Under immediate supervision, this is the entry-level class in the Court Specialist series. Incumbents entering this class have limited related work experience. Work is observed and reviewed during performance and upon completion.
Court Specialist II:
Under general supervision, this is the intermediate-level class in the Court Specialist series, and is distinguished from level I by the ability to perform the majority of the duties assigned with only general supervision and occasional instruction or assistance. Exercises judgment in selecting the most applicable guidelines, interpret practices, apply appropriate procedures to differing situations and recommend alternative actions in situations without precedent.
(Essential functions, as defined under the Americans with Disabilities Act, may include the following tasks, knowledge, skills and other characteristics. The list of tasks is ILLUSTRATIVE ONLY, and is not a comprehensive listing of all functions and tasks performed by positions in this class.)
Maintains the records of the municipal court; certifies and seals court documents. Assembles, tracks, and updates summonses received from the Thornton Police Department. Performs electronic data exchange of summons information with the police department.
Checks in defendants, witnesses, jurors, interpreters, defense attorneys and other parties in municipal court. Sequesters witnesses or impaneled jurors as instructed. Calls witnesses, prepares files for check-in and determines proper routing of files. Assists in front counter duties and customer service.
Distributes forms and gives information to defendants, attorneys, police officers and the public regarding court appearances.
Transfers court files between Court office, prosecuting attorneys, and courtrooms. When appropriate, communicates the location of files and parties to staff members. Acts as a resource for court employees, city prosecutors, judges and employees in other departments. Copies dockets and prepares docket statistics daily. Uses case management software to acquire case information and retrieve statistics.
Ensures courtrooms are prepared for proceedings; inspects courtrooms, judges' chambers and related offices to coordinate required maintenance. Reports problems within an acceptable time frame.
Assists with security for municipal court when removing unruly individuals and helps to maintain order in court areas. Assists in monitoring of prisoners appearing in court. Works closely with the Thornton Police Department to monitor defendants with active warrants or those being taken into custody. Assists with training and monitoring of vendor-provided security guards. Assists in confirmation and coordination of arrests for defendants with municipal or other agency warrants.
During emergencies, instructs and ensures evacuation of those present for court.
Confirms community service hours completed by defendants. Performs technical or administrative court work, such as preparing court cases for closure or processing. Assists Court Office as needed.
Review court cases to determine whether all legal elements of cases have been met. Provides administrative support to judge during court proceedings; enters the judge's order in real-time into court operating system; Prepares and files appeals with District Court following strict legal statutory guidelines.
Operates audio visual equipment for court proceedings. Provides copies of digital recordings and arranges transcripts of court proceedings. Operates digital recording system and logs activity to create required audio record of court proceedings Processes summonses and complaints. Reviews police reports and determines if restitution is applicable.
Enters payments in computer system. Balances money received and completes daily cash reports. Prepares and distributes checks for jury fees, restitution and refund of bonds and jury funds. Balances court accounts.
Performs financial management functions including preparing deposits and daily cash reports. Provides assistance in operating expenditures and financial analysis support for budget development; expenditure forecasting; develops, maintains and analyzes a variety of reports and statistical data, recommending changes where necessary. Functions as purchasing card liaison for the department and is responsible for audit of card holder activities. Creates purchase orders for department. Performs electronic exchange of financial information. Coordinates collection referral program in cooperation with private collection agency.
Maintains court files, placing reports, summonses, statements, and disposition information in case files; enters records into computer system. Utilizes document imaging for case files. Drafts court correspondence.
Processes cash and surety bonds, setting return dates, explaining paperwork to defendants, and accepting and releasing bond money. Follows bond forfeiture procedures after defendant fails to appear.
Uses computer to query Colorado Crime Information Center (CCIC) for motor vehicle driving records and criminal histories. Performs electronic interfaces such as citation import, financial reports and collections. Performs electronic data exchange of driving records with the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Schedules jury trials with judge and attorneys; prepares status conference information, trial docket and jury notification. Oversees payment of jurors and retrieves juror questionnaires.
Enters municipal bench warrants into CCIC; files warrants and updates system records to reflect warrants cleared through payments, court appearances or arrests. Logs, enters, retrieves, processes, cancels and/or reconciles outstanding judgments. Assists in ensuring compliance with Colorado Bureau of Investigations requirement. Uses computer to query Colorado Crime Information Center (CCIC) for motor vehicle driving records, criminal histories, warrant information and interagency communication. Works closely with the Thornton Police Department to monitor status of outstanding warrants.
Coordinates video arraignment process. Coordinates prisoner transportation to and from court. Communicates with police officers and other agencies on status of prisoners. Assists with monitoring of prisoners appearing in court.
Prepares and issues court legal papers such as writs, bench warrants, revocations and notices. Schedules hearings for court cases in accordance with criminal rules of procedure, court procedure and individual discretion.
Assists customers, answers telephones, answers questions, takes payments, issues receipts, maintains petty cash accounts and schedules court appearances. Assists public through knowledge of policies, procedures, ordinances and statutes. Provides the public with general and/or explanatory information. Arranges interpreters or special assistance for court. Provides court or case information to defendants, attorneys, police officers and the public pursuant to open records and confidentiality requirements.
Enters real time disposition and sentencing information during court sessions. Runs routine periodic reports.
Coordinates correspondence with the Juvenile Diversion Program. Acts as a contact between Court and individuals with Court business. Interprets and follows through on Judge's orders and ensures consistency of individual decisions and orders. Creates statistical reports, monitors problems, and attends meetings. Uploads data to the Juvenile Information System.
Maintains and updates the Court website, CourtCall Program, informational brochures and all court-related information on the Thornton phone lines. Evaluates and frequently repairs issues involving cases, hearings, technical equipment, etc.
Develops and maintains effective work relationships inside and outside the division.
May be required to work overtime.
Trains new employees on case management system and related duties, as assigned.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Maintains the records of the municipal court; certifies and seals court documents. Assembles, tracks, and updates summonses received from the Thornton Police Department. Performs electronic data exchange of summons information with the police department.
Checks in defendants, witnesses, jurors, interpreters, defense attorneys and other parties in municipal court. Sequesters witnesses or impaneled jurors as instructed. Calls witnesses, prepares files for check-in and determines proper routing of files. Assists in front counter duties and customer service.
Distributes forms and gives information to defendants, attorneys, police officers and the public regarding court appearances.
Transfers court files between Court office, prosecuting attorneys, and courtrooms. When appropriate, communicates the location of files and parties to staff members. Acts as a resource for court employees, city prosecutors, judges and employees in other departments. Copies dockets and prepares docket statistics daily. Uses case management software to acquire case information and retrieve statistics.
Ensures courtrooms are prepared for proceedings; inspects courtrooms, judges' chambers and related offices to coordinate required maintenance. Reports problems within an acceptable time frame.
Assists with security for municipal court when removing unruly individuals and helps to maintain order in court areas. Assists in monitoring of prisoners appearing in court. Works closely with the Thornton Police Department to monitor defendants with active warrants or those being taken into custody. Assists with training and monitoring of vendor-provided security guards. Assists in confirmation and coordination of arrests for defendants with municipal or other agency warrants.
During emergencies, instructs and ensures evacuation of those present for court.
Confirms community service hours completed by defendants. Performs technical or administrative court work, such as preparing court cases for closure or processing. Assists Court Office as needed.
Review court cases to determine whether all legal elements of cases have been met. Provides administrative support to judge during court proceedings; enters the judge's order in real-time into court operating system; Prepares and files appeals with District Court following strict legal statutory guidelines.
Operates audio visual equipment for court proceedings. Provides copies of digital recordings and arranges transcripts of court proceedings. Operates digital recording system and logs activity to create required audio record of court proceedings Processes summonses and complaints. Reviews police reports and determines if restitution is applicable.
Enters payments in computer system. Balances money received and completes daily cash reports. Prepares and distributes checks for jury fees, restitution and refund of bonds and jury funds. Balances court accounts.
Performs financial management functions including preparing deposits and daily cash reports. Provides assistance in operating expenditures and financial analysis support for budget development; expenditure forecasting; develops, maintains and analyzes a variety of reports and statistical data, recommending changes where necessary. Functions as purchasing card liaison for the department and is responsible for audit of card holder activities. Creates purchase orders for department. Performs electronic exchange of financial information. Coordinates collection referral program in cooperation with private collection agency.
Maintains court files, placing reports, summonses, statements, and disposition information in case files; enters records into computer system. Utilizes document imaging for case files. Drafts court correspondence.
Processes cash and surety bonds, setting return dates, explaining paperwork to defendants, and accepting and releasing bond money. Follows bond forfeiture procedures after defendant fails to appear.
Uses computer to query Colorado Crime Information Center (CCIC) for motor vehicle driving records and criminal histories. Performs electronic interfaces such as citation import, financial reports and collections. Performs electronic data exchange of driving records with the Department of Motor Vehicles.
Schedules jury trials with judge and attorneys; prepares status conference information, trial docket and jury notification. Oversees payment of jurors and retrieves juror questionnaires.
Enters municipal bench warrants into CCIC; files warrants and updates system records to reflect warrants cleared through payments, court appearances or arrests. Logs, enters, retrieves, processes, cancels and/or reconciles outstanding judgments. Assists in ensuring compliance with Colorado Bureau of Investigations requirement. Uses computer to query Colorado Crime Information Center (CCIC) for motor vehicle driving records, criminal histories, warrant information and interagency communication. Works closely with the Thornton Police Department to monitor status of outstanding warrants.
Coordinates video arraignment process. Coordinates prisoner transportation to and from court. Communicates with police officers and other agencies on status of prisoners. Assists with monitoring of prisoners appearing in court.
Prepares and issues court legal papers such as writs, bench warrants, revocations and notices. Schedules hearings for court cases in accordance with criminal rules of procedure, court procedure and individual discretion.
Assists customers, answers telephones, answers questions, takes payments, issues receipts, maintains petty cash accounts and schedules court appearances. Assists public through knowledge of policies, procedures, ordinances and statutes. Provides the public with general and/or explanatory information. Arranges interpreters or special assistance for court. Provides court or case information to defendants, attorneys, police officers and the public pursuant to open records and confidentiality requirements.
Enters real time disposition and sentencing information during court sessions. Runs routine periodic reports.
Coordinates correspondence with the Juvenile Diversion Program. Acts as a contact between Court and individuals with Court business. Interprets and follows through on Judge's orders and ensures consistency of individual decisions and orders. Creates statistical reports, monitors problems, and attends meetings. Uploads data to the Juvenile Information System.
Maintains and updates the Court website, CourtCall Program, informational brochures and all court-related information on the Thornton phone lines. Evaluates and frequently repairs issues involving cases, hearings, technical equipment, etc.
Develops and maintains effective work relationships inside and outside the division.
May be required to work overtime.
Trains new employees on case management system and related duties, as assigned.
Performs other duties as assigned.
Education/Experience:
Court Specialist I:
High School diploma or GED; three years of customer service or responsible clerical experience; previous experience in a court or legal environment desirable. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
Court Specialist II:
High School diploma or GED; four years of customer service or responsible clerical experience; three years of progressive responsibility in court/legal required. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
Licensing/Certification Requirements:
Notary Public for State of Colorado may be required.
May need the ability to travel to various locations in a timely manner as the job requires.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of the policies, procedures and goals of the city of Thornton and the department.
Knowledge of the city of Thornton Municipal Code and Thornton City Charter applicable to municipal court.
Knowledge of state and local laws pertaining to municipal court records.
Knowledge of open records and confidentiality requirements regarding municipal court records and documents.
Knowledge of the basic elements of the criminal justice system.
Knowledge of routine court procedures and terminology.
Knowledge of case flow management principles.
Knowledge of confidentiality requirements of court records and information.
Knowledge of CCIC computer access, query, and entry system.
Knowledge of case management software.
Knowledge of web coding and file transfer processes.
Knowledge of basic mathematics and accounting principles.
Knowledge of equipment used in municipal court operations including; copiers, fax machines, multi-line telephone, credit card machines, video arraignment equipment, digital recording system, audio/visual equipment, cash drawers, and two-way radios.
Skill in performing accurate data entry and records retrieval using the CCIC.
Skill in accurately coding and entering arrest warrant information into local, state, and federal police records systems.
Skill in providing quality customer service.
Ability to apply ordinances and statutes to routine matters, such as dismissing summonses and monitoring deferred sentences.
Ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment involving customer service requests and assignments.
Ability to prepare, organize, and maintain complex filing systems.
Ability to compile information and prepare detailed reports.
Ability to present ideas or solutions for modification of procedures to desk and master manuals.
Ability to track attendance of parties present for court.
Ability to deal tactfully with the public.
Ability to assist with court security and in monitoring of prisoners.
Ability to accurately assemble, record, enter and update summonses, outstanding judgments, and payments.
Ability to understand and follow established guidelines and procedures.
Ability to calculate fines and penalties.
Ability to maintain court files, placing reports, summonses, statements, and disposition information in case files.
Ability to listen well and communicate effectively, orally and in writing, with various audiences.
Ability to use standard computer equipment and software including; word processing, data base management, spreadsheet application, and electronic mail.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with city employees, legal offices, law enforcement agencies, and the general public.
Physical and Mental Requirements:
Court Specialist I:
High School diploma or GED; three years of customer service or responsible clerical experience; previous experience in a court or legal environment desirable. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
Court Specialist II:
High School diploma or GED; four years of customer service or responsible clerical experience; three years of progressive responsibility in court/legal required. Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered.
Licensing/Certification Requirements:
Notary Public for State of Colorado may be required.
May need the ability to travel to various locations in a timely manner as the job requires.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Knowledge of the policies, procedures and goals of the city of Thornton and the department.
Knowledge of the city of Thornton Municipal Code and Thornton City Charter applicable to municipal court.
Knowledge of state and local laws pertaining to municipal court records.
Knowledge of open records and confidentiality requirements regarding municipal court records and documents.
Knowledge of the basic elements of the criminal justice system.
Knowledge of routine court procedures and terminology.
Knowledge of case flow management principles.
Knowledge of confidentiality requirements of court records and information.
Knowledge of CCIC computer access, query, and entry system.
Knowledge of case management software.
Knowledge of web coding and file transfer processes.
Knowledge of basic mathematics and accounting principles.
Knowledge of equipment used in municipal court operations including; copiers, fax machines, multi-line telephone, credit card machines, video arraignment equipment, digital recording system, audio/visual equipment, cash drawers, and two-way radios.
Skill in performing accurate data entry and records retrieval using the CCIC.
Skill in accurately coding and entering arrest warrant information into local, state, and federal police records systems.
Skill in providing quality customer service.
Ability to apply ordinances and statutes to routine matters, such as dismissing summonses and monitoring deferred sentences.
Ability to exercise discretion and independent judgment involving customer service requests and assignments.
Ability to prepare, organize, and maintain complex filing systems.
Ability to compile information and prepare detailed reports.
Ability to present ideas or solutions for modification of procedures to desk and master manuals.
Ability to track attendance of parties present for court.
Ability to deal tactfully with the public.
Ability to assist with court security and in monitoring of prisoners.
Ability to accurately assemble, record, enter and update summonses, outstanding judgments, and payments.
Ability to understand and follow established guidelines and procedures.
Ability to calculate fines and penalties.
Ability to maintain court files, placing reports, summonses, statements, and disposition information in case files.
Ability to listen well and communicate effectively, orally and in writing, with various audiences.
Ability to use standard computer equipment and software including; word processing, data base management, spreadsheet application, and electronic mail.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with city employees, legal offices, law enforcement agencies, and the general public.
Physical and Mental Requirements:
While performing the essential duties of this job, the employee is required to stand, walk, lift, finger, talk, hear, and make repetitive motions. This position is mostly sedentary work; exerting up to 10 pounds of force occasionally and/or negligible amount of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull or otherwise move objects. The employee is required to have close visual acuity.
Examinations may include but are not limited to application screening beyond minimum qualifications; written, oral, practical exercise or any combination thereof or other job related assessment deemed appropriate by Human Resources.
Your application will be used as a screening tool. Completeness and accuracy are important! Any false or untrue statements or material omissions in the application and related paperwork or during the selection process could disqualify you from consideration.
As a condition of employment, the city of Thornton conducts background investigations for all positions which may also include a review of credit report and/or driving record. A drug screen, physical, and/or psychological examination administered by a city-designated provider will be required for pre-determined positions.
Your application will be used as a screening tool. Completeness and accuracy are important! Any false or untrue statements or material omissions in the application and related paperwork or during the selection process could disqualify you from consideration.
As a condition of employment, the city of Thornton conducts background investigations for all positions which may also include a review of credit report and/or driving record. A drug screen, physical, and/or psychological examination administered by a city-designated provider will be required for pre-determined positions.
Salary : $26 - $37
