A calendar clerk is an administrative professional who is employed within the local, state and federal court systems. The primary function of this individual is to schedule all court proceedings. A college education is not required to obtain employment within this field. A candidate must, however, possess at least a high school diploma or its equivalent. In addition, he must also be able to successful pass a drug and criminal background screening. According to job search engine Indeed, in 2010 the average calendar clerk in the U.S. earns $38,000 per year.

Scheduling

The majority of a calendar clerk’s day is spent scheduling the various activities that take place in the court. This includes arbitrations, conferences, motions and trials. Liaising with the court administrator and other senior court officials, she obtains the availability of each judge so proceedings are scheduled in a timely manner. In some instances, she interacts directly with judges.

Once dates have been set, the calendar clerk notifies defendants, plaintiffs and attorneys of the schedule. This is accomplished via telephone or mail. In instances when conflicts arise, such as when a needed witness is unavailable, she makes all appropriate changes. For example, in accordance with the regulations of the court, she may grant or deny continuances.

Administration

A calendar clerk performs all clerical tasks that surround the scheduling of court proceedings. He tracks all notices, ensuring they have been issued as ordered by a judge. He also prepares various reports, such as those containing statistical data regarding the caseload of the court system. In addition, as activities are placed on the calendar, he tracks all relevant information, such as continuances, in accordance with court guidelines.

Law Clerk

In some court systems, a calendar clerk performs the duties of a law clerk. In this capacity, she researches and collects data, such as past cases, law journals and rulings, aimed at assisting the judge in preparing for hearings. She may also deliver subpoenas, requiring witnesses and other parties to appear in court. During these situations, she may arrange for their travel and accommodations. She also may serve as a go-between for disputing parties. In addition, a calendar clerk performing the tasks of a law clerk may be required to catalog all research materials such as legal books.