Court Clerk I - Probate and Guardianship

Charlotte County, Clerk of the Circuit Court and County Comptroller•Punta Gorda, FL

2d•Onsite

About The Position

The Court Clerk I assists the public and court personnel with civil court matters, including Probate and Guardianship. The role requires friendly, courteous, and professional customer service in accordance with the Clerk’s Office Mission, Vision, and Core Values, as well as strong communication and follow-up skills when working with the public, support staff, and management. Heavy computer and technical skills are essential. This is an in-office position and is not eligible for remote work. The clerk supports a range of court divisions and services by answering calls, responding to questions, preparing and processing court documents, assisting with court proceedings, and handling filing fees and records. The position requires accuracy, attention to detail, the ability to work cooperatively as part of a team and under pressure, and the ability to communicate effectively with customers, including de-escalating upset or angry individuals.

Requirements

High school diploma or GED.
At least one year of clerical experience and/or training requiring a high degree of accuracy and attention to detail; preferably in a legal setting.
Experience using Windows-based applications and ability to use current office automation technology.
Pass a typing test with at least 35 correct words per minute.
Excellent communication skills and ability to diffuse upset and angry customers.
Ability to work cooperatively as a team member and work well under pressure.
Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos; write simple correspondence; and present information effectively in one-on-one and small-group situations.
Ability to perform basic arithmetic using whole numbers, common fractions, and decimals.
Ability to follow detailed but straightforward written or oral instructions and handle problems involving a few concrete variables in standardized situations.
A valid Florida Driver’s License or Florida Identification is required for the hiring process.
Meet the stated physical demands, including occasionally lifting and/or moving up to 50 pounds; reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.

Nice To Haves

Clerical experience or training in a legal setting.

Responsibilities

Assist with Circuit Civil, Small Claims, Child Support, Domestic Violence, Appeals, Probate/Guardianship, Foreclosure, and Jury Services.
Answer incoming calls to the Civil Court’s Division and assist callers with questions about court records, online forms, document filing, docket schedules, and courtroom locations; direct calls to the appropriate department or agency when needed.
Prepare court dockets and ensure motions and other necessary information are properly filed.
Prepare for and attend court in person or via Zoom; take minutes, mark and control evidence, swear in witnesses, read verdicts, and perform other courtroom duties.
Assist the public with research requests and access to court-related case file searches.
Receive cash payments of court filing fees and prepare related reports.
Organize, prepare, and sort documents for scanning; verify documents for accuracy and clarity against the original.
Accept pleadings received by mail, in person, or via e-file, and process and file documents according to established timeliness procedures.
Receive pleadings and court orders and ensure copies are distributed to appropriate parties.
Assist with disposing of court case files.
Prepare and process summonses, subpoenas, and other court-related documents.
Adhere to the Charlotte County Clerk of the Circuit Court and County Comptroller policies and office procedures.
Perform other job duties as assigned.