What are constables duties. Finally, in accordance with Section 411.
What are constables duties. Constables and their deputies have all the responsibility of any peace officer in the state. About the Constable role Constable is a law enforcement officer who works in a local police force, enforcing laws and providing assistance to citizens. In 1583, Constable William Lambard published the first policy and procedures manual for law enforcement. They process and execute civil process from various courts, including forcible entry and detainers, writs of possession, citations, and executions issued from the justice of the peace courts. Feb 11, 2025 · Discover the key distinctions between constables and police officers, their roles, responsibilities, training, work environments, and historical backgrounds in this comprehensive guide. By command of statute, it is the duty of every peace Regardless of changes in its administrative nature, the office of constable has been authorized in early Texas constitution since the days of the Republic, but is in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Texas Penal Code, the Texas Local Government Code, and other assorted laws, rules, and regulations that the general duties of Texas Constables are spelled out in detail. Jan 11, 2019 · § 39. The basic difference is that usually appointed constables have law enforcement functions while elected constables are primarily responsible for serving civil process and tax warrants and carrying out other sheriff-like civil duties. Moreover, some constables’ offices limit themselves to only these activities but others provide patrol, investigative, and security services as well. Oct 5, 1994 · Elected Town ConstablesAs you know, there are two types of constables, elected and appointed. See full list on indeed. There have been many misconceptions about constables by officials, other law enforcement and the public, regarding the authority and duties of Constables. (13 Pa C S A § 14) Constable performing judicial duties to serve writs, warrants, bail pieces, capias, etc. He is recognized by the Plan of Government of the Parish of East Baton Rouge and the City of Baton Rouge. Constables are elected to 4-year terms in their precinct, and serve all papers, processes, writs and warrants from their justice courts and any competent authority. Finally, in accordance with Section 411. Jun 5, 2025 · Constables in Texas aren’t just paper servers—they’re real officers with arrest powers and courtroom duties you might not expect. Mar 25, 2024 · The constable is maybe one of the least-known positions that will appear on your ballot in November. Their duties can vary from state to state, but generally, constables are responsible for serving legal documents, such as court papers, and making arrests when necessary. Tumlinson, notified the colony’s leader and grant holder, Stephen F. The Tennessee Code vests some constables with law enforcement powers. Jul 18, 2025 · A police constable is the foundational rank within most police services and the most visible presence of law enforcement in a community. These questions touch on such issues as the Constable’s roles and responsibilities, the town’s ability to control the actions of a Constable, liability, law enforcement authority, jurisdiction, having appointed constables versus Section 36-23-6 Duties. They perform duties such as patrolling assigned areas, responding to emergencies, investigating crimes, and ensuring community safety. If the constable is unable to attend, a deputy constable must assume the duties of the constable on Election Day. In some places it is a title or a rank in law enforcement. A constable in Massachusetts is a law enforcement officer with authority to serve court documents, assist at executions of writs, maintain order during court proceedings, and perform other duties as assigned. com decided to take a look at what constables do. The duties of a Texas constable generally include providing bailiffs for the justice of the peace court (s) within his precinct and serving process issued there and from any other court. Constables are the elected peace officers of the justice precinct. Aug 26, 2015 · Responsibilities of Constables Office It is the Constable's duty to execute and return all processes, warrants, summonses and judgement enforcement documents as directed by lawful officials. Today we highlight the job of a constable. The template can be customized to fit About Pennsylvania State Constables were founded in 1664. Constables have the same arrest powers and duties as municipal police officers and sheriffs and have the added responsibility of executing civil process for the courts. PDF File INFORMATION FOR NEW CONSTABLES AND DEPUTY CONSTABLES The Constables’ Education and Training Board (“Board”) of the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency (“PCCD”) has prepared this guide to provide newly elected or appointed constables and deputy constables with a summary of the training and certification programs and requirements established under the provisions of Act Our association helps preserve the office of Constable and provides training to Constables across the state. Dec 21, 2018 · Along with their deputies, constables and sheriffs assist courts and enforce laws. Any intentional violation of which was considered a breach of the peace. 01 Duties and Powers Peace officers duties primarily affect the public, that is, the prevention of crime and arrest of offenders. Essential Duties and Responsibilities 1. In addition to any other provision of law these duties may be enforced by the presiding judge of the THE FUNCTIONS OF CONSTABLES IN MASSACHUSETTS IS DESCRIBED; AND THEIR HISTORY, POWERS AND DUTIES, ELECTION AND APPOINTMENT, AND WAYS IN WHICH THEY DIFFER FROM POLICE OFFICERS ARE OUTLINED. Constables by virtue of their office, are police officers. ARE THE CONSTABLE’S DUTIES HAZARDOUS? Yes, Five Constables have been killed in the line of duty in Arizona. (a) During a constable's term of office, each constable shall attend and, to the extent to which he is physically able, participate in a curriculum having a duration of two (2) weeks which addresses the nature and scope of specific duties and responsibilities of a constable and which includes firearm use and safety training, to be established Such constables shall serve and execute all warrants, writs, precepts, executions, and other process directed and delivered to them, and shall do all things pertaining to the office of constable. In March of 1823, the second Justice of the Peace in the Texas Colony of Mexico, Judge John J. In others, it refers to a specific assignment for certain law enforcement officers. The constable shall file a written copy of the deputization in the office of the clerk of courts of the county where the constable serves. Duties of a Constable To keep and preserve the peace within his county, by faithfully aiding and assisting in executing the criminal laws of the state; To give information, without delay, to some justice court judge or other proper officer, of all riots, routs and unlawful assemblies, and of every violation of the penal laws which may come to his knowledge in any manner whatsoever To execute Constables must meet all registration requirements and, complete basic training administered by the Pennsylvania Commission on Crime and Delinquency, and receive certification before performing any judicial duties. Appointment Section 7121 - Constables Section 7122 - Deputy constables Subchapter D. A part of the Arizona justice system since the territorial days of the state, a Constable is an elected officer of the county for the Justice Precinct and must live in the precinct to which elected. 01. In the common law, a constable is referred to as a "peace officer" or "conservator of the peace". Executes warrants 3. Constables shall attend the courts of justices of the peace within their precincts when required, and within their counties shall execute, serve and return all processes, warrants and notices directed or delivered to them by a justice of the peace of the county or by competent authority. Their duties: to prevent issues along the roadways. Nov 14, 2024 · Explore the essential duties and obstacles constables encounter in the process of serving various legal documents within the justice system. Aug 19, 2025 · Summary As the intermediate supervisor, oversee the operation of the Constable's Office. Constables are also required by law to be present, or ensure one of their Deputy Constables are present, during hearings held by the Justice of the Peace. A constable is a licensed peace officer who performs various law enforcement functions. (c) Certain provisions relating to boroughs unaffected. It shall be the duty of every constable: (1) To attend the circuit court of the county when summoned by the sheriff for that purpose; (2) To execute and return all summons, executions and other process directed to him by any lawful authority; (3) To pay over moneys collected by virtue of his office to the person entitled thereto; and (4) To perform such other duties as A constable shall be elected at the congressional election for terms of six years by the qualified electors within the territorial limits of the justice of the peace ward of the court for which he is elected. Executes civil process and writs 2. com Constables handle various tasks like patrols, traffic control, crime investigation, issuing citations, and community engagement. The constable and his surety shall be liable for acts of the deputy as in other cases. 2d 9S5). -- Apr 2, 2024 · A constable is a law enforcement officer with specific duties and jurisdiction, while "police" refers to the broader organization of individuals charged with maintaining public order and safety. 01: Constables and Deputy Constables are classified as peace Officers and are licensed by the Texas Commission on Law Enforcement Officer Standards and Education. We also offer replacement badges and patches. It is the constable's job to enforce the law and carry it out, just the same as the job of district attorneys, sheriffs and the police (see Ant 147 of 1990, 528 Pa. A constable may appoint a deputy to serve on Election Day only with the approval of the Court. ” Constable Guide: Contact Constable James Canning to order a printed copy. Proper action hereunder by any constable shall not constitute a failure to perform such constable's statutory duties and shall not act to vacate the office. They have additional responsibilities compared to regular Constables. Monroe County Constable Taskforce: This is a helpful guide for uniforms and training that a Constable would need to participate in their with their taskforce. 5 days ago · Constables and town police officers shall have all the power and authority conferred upon constables by the general laws of the state… Aug 4, 2023 · Breakdown of constable duties in Mississippi Constable races up for grabs across the Pine Belt Tuesday. 8 Arkansas election? There are a lot of jobs on the ballot that people might not know what they do. (2) (a) During a constable's term of office, each constable shall attend and, to the extent to which he is physically able, participate in a curriculum having a duration of two (2) weeks which addresses the nature and scope of specific duties and responsibilities of a constable and which includes firearm use and safety training, to be The provisions of law relating to sheriffs, as far as applicable, shall govern the powers, duties and liabilities of constables. They may write citations, make arrests, conduct Sep 27, 2022 · A common misconception about constables is that they are a part of the county sheriff’s office. Constables are also not mandated to maintain a Jail system. As a result, Precinct 4 is (a) It is the duty of a constable to execute all process lawfully directed to the constable, and to wait upon the court, when appointed by the county legislative body or by the sheriff, as the case may be. The difference between constable and sheriff positions varies according to jurisdiction and the duties defined in a state’s constitution. 2A. Makes arrests and detains suspects 4. They shall be subject to the general authority and direction of the town board and to such Subchapter C. The Constable may seize and sell real and personal property upon lawful order of a court, returning the proceeds according to law. Like justices of the peace, constables are elected by the people of their local precincts to serve four-year terms. Constable Job Description Template This Constable job description template is a useful tool for any organization looking to hire a law enforcement professional. This guide contains case history and guidance on the duties and authority of the Constable. Precinct 4 has over 600 sworn members as well as dozens of civilian support staff. Constables are the Executive and Enforcement Branch of the Justice The office of constable gives ordinary persons extraordinary powers. The offices are placed on the ballot every four years, explained Election Officer Sheila Moore. Their main duties involve patrolling designated areas, responding to incidents, and maintaining public The City Constable's Office is a constitutional office headed by an elected Constable. The primary powers of the Pennsylvania State Constable and their deputies are established through common law [17] and Pennsylvania statues. Powers and duties of constables and town police officers. Section 36-23-9 - Liability of Constable and Sureties on Bond. Farris then Constables were the first Law Enforcement Officers in Texas. All law enforcement officials who work under a constable are known as deputy constables. Constables The constables serve as a law enforcement agency for Travis County, with county-wide jurisdiction in civil and criminal matters. However, in Arizona, a constable is an officer of the county justice courts. A constable who is duly elected or who is appointed by the board of supervisors has the authority of a peace officer only in the performance of the constable's official duties. The Office of Constable, established in Article 6, Section 171 of the Mississippi Constitution, is filled through election by district for a four year term. Education & Training The Texas Association of Counties (TAC) provides a wide variety of coordinated, professionally planned training events to address the daily challenges of county officials and staff. You may ask, what's the difference between a constable and a sheriff? They both have similar duties and, in some counties, the main law enforcement official is a constable; in others, a constable is an elected official that serves as an officer of the county justice court. Pennsylvania State Constables are sworn law enforcement officers who duty is to support, obey, and defend the Constitution. Constable's Job Description The City Constable is an official elected by the citizens of the City of Baton Rouge. Nov 22, 2024 · Explore the essential roles and weekend duties of constables, highlighting their responsibilities and work schedule nuances. 8 million citizens and spans over 1,700 square miles. Training Section 7141 - Definitions Section 7142 - Conduct and insurance Section 7143 - Board established Section 7144 - Program established Section 7145 - Program Mar 25, 2015 · As the District Attorney's Office takes on dozens of cases involving constables, AL. Precinct 4 has countywide jurisdiction in Harris County, which includes over 4. Constables and Deputy The term "constable" means different things in different jurisdictions. This includes an 80-hour basic training course and a 40-hour basic firearms training course, if they intend to carry a firearm while on duty. What is the difference between a constable and a deputy? However, in Arizona, a constable is an officer of the county justice courts. May 11, 2022 · What is a Constable? by Kristin Higgins - May 11, 2022 Updated Blog Post Are you looking at your sample ballot for the Nov. Oct 9, 2009 · The constable and his surety shall be liable for acts of the deputy as in other cases. Austin, that he had appointed one Constable to summon witnesses and bring offenders to justice. There are two types of Constables: Constable to preserve peace (mostly at the election polls). Those constables take an oath to “cause the peace of the state to be kept,” to “arrest all persons that go in [their] sight armed offensively,” and to “apprehend all felons, rioters, or persons riotously assembled. (b) (1) In counties governed by a metropolitan government as provided for by title 7, chapters 1-3, any constable to whom a precept or process is directed by a judge or clerk of a court of A constable’s office is a unique law enforcement agency because the civil aspects of their duties generate revenue for the county’s general fund. There shall be one constable for the court of each justice of the peace in the several parishes of the state, who shall be of good moral character, be able to read and write the English language, possess a high school diploma or its equivalent as determined by the State Board of Elementary and Secondary Education, and be an Nov 2, 2023 · Politics & Government Elected Constables: What Exactly Are Their Duties? Most people, including some candidates for the office, are not aware of all the potential responsibilities. Art. -- Feb 22, 2025 · Tennessee Constable: Powers, Duties, and Requirements Learn about the authority, responsibilities, and requirements of Tennessee constables, including their role in county law enforcement and legal obligations. The constables' duties include execution of court orders, writs and warrants, serving summonses and subpoenas, collecting debts and fines, and providing courtroom security. Constables perform two main functions: Preserve the peace specifically at the polls during Primary and General Elections. Serve civil process and warrant papers; investigate criminal law violations; and file cases with the Justice Court and District Attorney's Office. What Is a Constable? A constable is an elected or appointed officer of a municipality whose duties are similar to those of a sheriff, though the powers are less. Nov 1, 2023 · Constables will be up for election in each of Winston County’s 18 precincts. What is a Constable? Constables are constitutionally authorized peace officers. Constables and Deputy Mar 18, 2024 · What authority does a constable have? In Texas, a constable is a licensed peace officer who is elected. CONSTABLE DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: This is a Peace Officer position involving law enforcement duties performed by individuals working in and for a town or village and who have the power and authority conferred upon Constables by the general laws of the State of New York. Perform judicial duties to serve writs, warrants, bail pieces, etc. The office of constable can vary significantly in different jurisdictions. Other people may be granted powers of a constable without holding this title. A. [1][2] Constables are the oldest law In accordance with the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, constables have the same duties and powers as any police officers and sheriffs, and may enforce all criminal and traffic laws and conduct criminal investigations. Constables and town police officers shall have all the power and authority conferred upon constables by the general laws of the state and such additional powers, not inconsistent with law, as shall be conferred upon them by the town board. Constables play an important role as officers of the peace – empowered to quell a disturbance of the peace, perform statutory duties under Pennsylvania’s Dog Law, and with the statutory authority to make From time to time, we receive questions from municipal officials and/or Constables, inquiring about a variety of topics specific to the office of Constable. Constables are independent of each other and are the chief of their office. PEACE OFFICERS GENERALLY. Constable is commonly the rank of an officer within a police service. Generally, a constable has the same legal authority as a Understanding the role of constables in Texas' law enforcement system, and the difference between constables and police. Executive & Enforcement Branch The Constable serves the criminal and civil process of the Justice Courts and other legal parties. A Constable is an elected officer of a municipality whose duties are similar to those of the sheriff, though his powers are less and his jurisdiction smaller. A Constable is a licensed, commissioned peace officer, elected by county constituents every four years for a particular area (Precinct) of that county. Your work directly impacts the Law Enforcement / Security sector by safeguarding lives and property, preventing crimes, and promoting community well-being. As they progress in rank, responsibilities expand to include supervising teams, managing operations, and contributing to strategic What is a Constable? A constable is a licensed peace officer and performs various law enforcement functions. Jun 24, 2018 · But who are they, and what do they do? The Code of Alabama defines constables as an elected or appointed “conservator of the peace within his county,” and according to the Alabama Constables Association, they are one of the only two remaining elected peace officers in the world. Constables are typically appointed or elected officials within a community, and are responsible for a wide range of duties including serving legal documents, enforcing court orders, providing security for courtrooms and other judicial facilities, and assisting other Example Constable Job Description Our Constable job description includes the responsibilities, duties, skills, education, qualifications, and experience. Conflicts Section 7131 - Public office Section 7132 - Police officers Subchapter E. In general, the civil duties imposed on constables appear to apply to elected constables. A Pennsylvania State Constable is an office held in Pennsylvania. Where they get their authority, and how much authority they have. The Pennsylvania Constable is a person elected to the public office of Constable. They are elected or appointed to a six-year term of office. 2024 New York Laws TWN - Town Article 3 - Town Officers, Powers, Duties and Compensation 39 - Powers and Duties of Constables and Town Police Officers. Constable Mark Herman leads the Precinct 4 Constable's Office which serves over a million people residing and working within North Harris County, Texas. 001, Code of Criminal Procedure, to carry a weapon or act as a peace officer at all times, regardless of whether the reserve deputy constable is engaged in the actual discharge of official duties, or may limit the authority of the reserve A Constable is a sworn law enforcement officer with the authority to maintain public peace and safety within their jurisdiction. Constables in Arkansas Constables are often overlooked as an elected official, though they are one of the positions established Section 36-23-4 - Bond. (MGN) May 22, 2014 · RS 13:2583 - Constables; election; term of office; qualifications A. (13 Pa C S A § 14, 42 § 2942 The Constables and Sheriffs have similar duties and responsibilities by State Law but differ in the fact Constables do not patrol and generally do not investigate crimes. Serves warrants and civil papers such as subpoenas and temporary restraining Aug 6, 2025 · Election and Training Constables are elected in Pennsylvania, typically serving a six-year term. They also serve legal documents and perform other duties. Oct 5, 2015 · In 1825, the Statute of Winchester constituted two constables for every 100 people. 001. Constables are required under Pennsylvania law to be present at their polling place (s) on Election Day to preserve order at the polls. Therefore, they are somewhat self-supporting which reduces costs associated with the operation of the office. 009 (a) of the Texas Government Code, each elected or appointed Constable is an Associate Member of the Texas Department of Public Safety, and are Feb 21, 2025 · Learn about the role of constables in Tennessee, including their legal authority, responsibilities, and how they interact with other law enforcement agencies. Section 36-23-8 - Service of Executions and Attachments When Office of Constable Vacant, Etc. Assists the Texas Mar 8, 2024 · Read: Day in the Life of a NZ Police Officer Middle-level ranks and roles Senior Constable Senior Constables occupy a middle-level rank within the New Zealand Police Force. Section 36-23-6 - Duties. For more on Constables please visit the The duties of a constable vary. Nov 21, 2023 · Define constable and their role in the criminal justice system. As the first point of contact with the public, they are tasked with the broad responsibility of maintaining peace and upholding the law. Each Constable’s Office is a separate and unique law enforcement agency, independent of all other county departments, elected officials, and law enforcement agencies. Think of them as local law enforcement officials who handle minor judicial Police Constable Job Description Overview As a Police Constable, you play a crucial role in maintaining law and order within the community, ensuring public safety, and upholding the principles of justice. To perform judicial duties, constables must complete mandatory training and certification requirements. Location: Damascus Township | Term Ends: 2028 Training and Professional Development Under Pennsylvania law, the only required training for Constables performing court-related duties is the Constable Basic Training Course. . Their duties include: Regardless of changes in its administrative nature, the office of constable has been authorized in early Texas constitution since the days of the Republic, but is in the Texas Code of Criminal Procedure, Texas Penal Code, the Texas Local Government Code, and other assorted laws, rules, and regulations that the general duties of Texas Constables are spelled out in detail. What does "constable" mean in legal documents? A constable is a type of peace officer who plays a role in maintaining order and enforcing the law. Explore their full role in modern policing. Thomas Alley was the first Constable and it wasn’t until nearly a year Duly elected constables when proceeding under this subsection (b) shall not accept any fees for their services. Updated: 11/21/2023 In most jurisdictions, a constable serves as a peace officer. In addition, by statute, constables must serve all warrants, precepts and civil process lawfully directed to them, and therefore the constable is the chief process server for Jan 15, 2025 · Explore the roles, jurisdiction, and legal boundaries of Kentucky constables, highlighting their responsibilities and limitations within the state. Like justices of the peace, constables are elected by the people of their local precincts to serve four Mar 22, 2025 · Constables are law enforcement officers responsible for maintaining public order, enforcing laws, and protecting citizens. A Constable is a sworn law enforcement officer with the authority to maintain public peace and safety within their jurisdiction. Both positions require law enforcement education and training. Constables have served the justice court system since 1362. Winston County Republican Party Vice Chairman Greg Farris took an opportunity at the party’s October meeting to explain that constables have certain qualifications that must be met before seeking office. I’ve… Constables are required under Pennsylvania law to be present at their polling place (s) on Election Day to preserve order at the polls. , at470, 598 A. State law authorizes constables to perform a range of duties, but the statutes do not always specify whether they contemplate elected or appointed constables. Duties General Duties Peace Officers 1. The following are peace officers: (1) a sheriff, a sheriff's deputy, or a reserve deputy sheriff who holds a permanent peace officer license issued under Chapter 1701, Occupations Code; (2) a constable, a deputy constable, or a reserve deputy constable who holds a permanent peace officer license issued under Chapter 1701, Occupations Code; (3) a marshal The constable may authorize a reserve deputy constable who is a peace officer as described by Article 2A. Section 36-23-7 - Removal from Election Precinct Deemed Vacation of Office. It was the constables duty to protect and maintain the tranquility enjoyed by the citizens of a community where good order reigns among its members. The Constables of Maricopa County provide the public with an efficient and timely service of process issued through the Justice Courts. They are locally elected peace officers and may perform their duties to preserve the peace or to arrest those who breach the peace or commit felonies in their presence anywhere in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Here's what that role is and what it entails. Constables are typically appointed or elected officials within a community, and are responsible for a wide range of duties including serving legal documents, enforcing court orders, providing security for courtrooms and other judicial facilities, and assisting other Constables About As a part of County law enforcement, County Constables provide essential jobs that keep the criminal justice system moving. Jun 23, 2025 · Learn about the role of common law constables, their duties, and how they support law enforcement agencies in maintaining peace and order. Section 36-23-5 - Constables Deemed Conservators of Peace. 1. It outlines the key responsibilities and requirements for the role, including maintaining public safety, enforcing laws and regulations, conducting investigations, and providing testimony in court. He serves a six-year term of office. Explore the history of the position and its power and duties throughout the United States. A county constable in Texas has the following duties: Serves as a licensed peace officer and performs various law enforcement functions, including issuing traffic citations. But this general rule does not always hold since towns can, by Sep 28, 2025 · Constables’ main duties now are serving warrants – for everything from parking tickets to murder – and civil notices of lawsuits. Constable A constable is a person holding a particular office, most commonly in law enforcement. gxra9 gyjml y4jw aiidk balfj ioj goep55 idh3y wu8mcv iqly