What Is a Sheriff and How to Become One
Table of Contents
What Do Sheriffs Do?
Sheriffs are elected or appointed law enforcement officers at the county level. They often have the same training and authority as police officers and may work alongside the local police department. Their exact job duties vary by state and county.
Sheriffs handle a variety of law enforcement tasks on a daily basis. They supervise their staff, creating schedules and delegating assignments. Sheriffs deliver and serve documents including court orders, eviction notices, and divorce papers to community members. Sheriffs may also take and respond to emergency calls in certain counties. Like other police officers, sheriffs patrol the area, work traffic detail, and may investigate car accidents. A sheriff also has the authority to investigate, arrest, process, and detain criminals. In some counties, the sheriff manages the local jail and communicates with regional courts regarding inmates.
How to Become a Sheriff
To become a sheriff, earn your high school diploma. A bachelor’s degree is not required but is often preferred by some municipalities. Join the police academy to become a trained police officer and learn about criminal law, crime scene management, crowd control, firearms training, and general physical training. Once you have finished your training, work as an active officer in your community. Work hard and build a reputation of diligence and fairness. Earn promotions and seek leadership roles. The more extensive and impressive a candidate’s service record, the better chances they have of being elected as a sheriff. Sheriffs are elected or appointed, so follow the guidelines in your area for becoming a candidate. Elected sheriffs campaign with voters, while appointed sheriffs must cultivate relationships with city officials to earn their trust.
Sheriff Job Description Sample
With this Sheriff job description sample, you can get a good idea of what employers are looking for when hiring for this position. Remember, every employer is different and each will have unique qualifications when they hire for a Sheriff role.
Job Summary
The Sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer of the county responsible for upholding the laws and maintaining public order. This position manages a team of deputies and oversees the daily operations of the county Sheriff's Office. The Sheriff also protects the public, investigates crimes, and carries out court orders.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Enforce laws, investigate crimes, and make arrests
- Monitor the activities of jail inmates and provide security
- Respond to emergency calls and provide assistance
- Patrol assigned areas and investigate suspicious activity
- Monitor personnel and enforce departmental policies and procedures
- Serve legal documents, such as subpoenas and court orders
- Prepare reports and testify in court proceedings
- Develop and maintain positive relationships with the public
- Plan and coordinate special operations and security measures
Requirements and Qualifications
- Bachelor's Degree in Criminal Justice or related field
- Law enforcement experience preferred
- Knowledge of local, state, and federal laws
- Valid driver's license and clean driving record
- Able to operate standard office equipment and firearms
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
- Able to make sound decisions in high-pressure situations
- Able to work independently and as part of a team
