Under what circumstances can a Court Officer use force?

A Court Officer is permitted to use force primarily in situations where it is necessary to protect themselves or others from imminent harm. This is rooted in the principle of self-defense, which allows individuals to take reasonable action to prevent an immediate threat to their safety or the safety of others. Imminent harm refers to situations where there is a clear and immediate threat that requires prompt action to de-escalate or neutralize.

Using force in self-defense highlights the critical responsibility that Court Officers have in maintaining the safety and security of the courtroom environment. This principle ensures that they can effectively respond to situations where an individual poses a physical threat, ensuring the safety of all present in the courtroom, including jurors, witnesses, and court personnel.

Other circumstances, such as enforcing courtroom procedures or maintaining decorum, may involve authority and protocol but do not provide a justified reason for the use of physical force. Instead, these situations typically call for verbal commands, the presence of authority, or other non-violent measures to manage behavior and maintain order.