The City of Alabaster is seeking an experienced, organized, and service-oriented professional to serve as Chief Magistrate for our Municipal Court. This leadership position oversees the daily operations of the Municipal Court, supervises magistrate staff, and ensures the efficient administration of court services while maintaining compliance with all applicable laws and judicial procedures.
The Chief Magistrate serves as a vital liaison between the Municipal Court, Police Department, City Clerk's Office, and other governmental agencies, while providing exceptional service to citizens and ensuring the integrity of the judicial process.
The Chief Magistrate is responsible for the overall administration and supervision of Municipal Court operations, including but not limited to:
Directing the day-to-day operations of the Municipal Court and supervising magistrate personnel.
Serving as the primary liaison between the Municipal Court, Municipal Judge, Prosecutor, Police Department, and City Clerk's Office.
Ensuring compliance with all federal, state, and local laws, Alabama Rules of Judicial Administration, and Alabama Rules of Criminal Procedure.
Supervising the receipt, processing, accounting, and deposit of court funds, bonds, fines, forfeitures, and other financial transactions.
Preparing and submitting required financial reports to the Finance Department, Administrative Office of Courts, auditors, and applicable state agencies.
Establishing probable cause for warrants and summonses; preparing, authorizing, and issuing warrants in accordance with Alabama law.
Conducting initial appearance hearings, administering oaths, setting bail, accepting pleas, determining fines, and processing court dispositions.
Maintaining accurate court records and ensuring all legal documents are properly processed, filed, and forwarded to appropriate agencies.
Supervising preparation of court dockets, subpoenas, warrants, legal notices, and court documentation while ensuring accuracy and compliance.
Coordinating interpreter services, appointed counsel, and ensuring payments are processed according to state guidelines.
Assisting the Municipal Judge and Prosecutor before, during, and after court proceedings.
Conducting domestic violence hearings within required statutory timeframes.
Managing driver's license suspension and reinstatement reporting in accordance with Alabama law.
Administering Defensive Driving School eligibility, enrollment, payments, and case adjudication.
Monitoring DUI Interlock Program participants and Pre-Trial Diversion cases.
Coordinating bond forfeiture hearings and collecting forfeited bond payments.
Assisting citizens by providing court information, explaining procedures, researching cases, and directing inquiries appropriately.
Preparing monthly and annual reports for auditors and the Administrative Office of Courts.
Promoting operational efficiencies while ensuring exceptional customer service and adherence to legal requirements.
Maintaining regular and predictable attendance in accordance with departmental work schedules.
Performing other duties as assigned.
The City of Alabaster is committed to investing in our employees by offering an outstanding compensation and benefits package, including:
Competitive salary with consistent merit step increases and Cost of Living Adjustments (COLA), as approved by City Council
Blue Cross Blue Shield Medical Insurance with the City paying 90% of the premium
Retiree Medical Insurance with the City contributing up to 75% based on years of service
Tier I retirement benefits available to Tier II RSA employees
Out-of-Zone Waiver for eligible dependents attending Alabaster City Schools
Employer-paid Life and AD&D Insurance
Voluntary supplemental benefits
Participation in the Retirement Systems of Alabama (RSA)
Thirteen (13) paid holidays annually
Generous vacation and sick leave
Supportive leadership and a collaborative team environment
Opportunities for professional development and continuing education
Bachelor's degree in Criminal Justice, Political Science, Pre-Law, Public Administration, or a closely related field.
Five (5) years of progressively responsible experience in municipal court administration or a closely related judicial environment; or
An equivalent combination of education, training, and experience sufficient to successfully perform the essential functions of the position.
Current Municipal Court Magistrate Certification or ability to maintain certification as required.
Ability to become certified as a National Crime Information Center (NCIC) Computer Operator.
Eligibility to become commissioned as an Alabama Notary Public.
Valid Alabama Driver License with an acceptable driving record.
Thorough knowledge of applicable federal, state, and local laws, Alabama Rules of Judicial Administration, and Alabama Rules of Criminal Procedure.
Knowledge of municipal court operations, judicial processes, and financial accountability procedures.
Knowledge of City of Alabaster policies, procedures, and administrative practices.
Strong organizational skills with exceptional attention to detail.
Proficiency in computer systems, court management software, and database applications.
Excellent customer service and interpersonal communication skills.
Ability to supervise, train, mentor, and evaluate staff.
Strong written and verbal communication skills.
Ability to maintain confidentiality and exercise sound independent judgment.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with judges, attorneys, law enforcement personnel, court staff, city officials, and the public.
Ability to prioritize multiple assignments in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment while maintaining accuracy and professionalism.
Join a team dedicated to excellence in public service while making a meaningful difference in the community we serve.
