Those who access the courthouse are likely to encounter marshals at one point or another. They greet us at every access point and courtroom. Despite the fact that they are very visible, most people are not aware of all the training and preparation marshals go through to be ready to protect all those who access courthouse facilities.

The District Court marshal training program is turning out a team of well-trained marshals. At a June 30 graduation, three new marshals successfully graduated from the Southern Desert Regional Police Academy. April Lourenco, Nicholas Panos and Arram Price each had their badge pinned on by outgoing Chief Judge Linda Marie Bell. They are now on their way to experiencing things they’ve never experienced before, in Nevada’s busiest court.

To become a marshal, potential candidates first go through a thorough application and interview process, including a blood drug test, background check and lie detector test. If they successfully complete that, they move on to a Peace Officer Standards and Training (P.O.S.T.) certification academy. The program is similar to a boot-camp where they experience rigorous mental and physical challenges, including: being tased, tackled, boxed and pepper-sprayed. They also face a daily regime of mental test and drills and difficult physical tests. CPR, first aid, proper use of force and defensive tactics must also be mastered by the new recruits. After nearly five months of academy training and passing P.O.S.T. certification, they take their oath. Then, they have to qualify for a few more certifications prior to starting at the courts, including taser and firearms qualifications.  

After all that, when they come to the court, there is more training required. They are assigned a field training officer who helps to teach them procedures specific to the courts. The courts have many unique aspects and the marshals have to be prepared for a variety of scenarios. So they spend time in the civil, criminal and family divisions. They learn proper procedures for jury trials, including jury sequestration and what is and is not permissible for media coverage. This training is essential to avoid the potential for a mistake that could result in a mistrial.

Lieutenant Sean Wells oversees the training program and is a lifeline for recruits. He gives the them an overview of what to expect and how to prepare successfully. He briefs them on proper procedures for equipment and uniforms, so recruits are aware of what they will encounter and know the endurance they will need to get through. He also meets regularly with academy personnel to ensure recruits are on track.

Marshals swear a solemn oath:

I will never betray my badge, my integrity, or public trust. I will always have the courage to hold myself and others accountable for our actions. I will always uphold the Constitution and the community I serve.

A new batch of recruits is getting ready to begin their training program and head down the path to taking that oath. Serving as a District Court marshal is a great way to get training and experience while having a meaningful career with great benefits. We wish our new marshal tremendous success in their new careers. Others who may want to serve the community and uphold the Constitution, are invited to apply to the District Court Human Resources Division at https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/clarkcounty/jobs/3602878/bailiff-deputy-marshal/apply?page=1&pagetype=jobOpportunitiesJobs

Those who have questions can call 702-671-4519 or 702-671-4558.