A civil officer is a government official who is in charge of carrying out duties that are outlined in a constitution or charter. Presidents, judges, and political appointees are among the national officers who are responsible for serving at the public’s leisure. Members of the military who serve under separate codes of conduct are not included in the term civil. At the local and regional levels, civil officers such as city administrators, magistrates, and sheriffs perform a variety of duties for their constituents. These responsibilities include everything from performing civil marriages to issuing court documents and reclaiming property.
The duties of an executive civil officer in a democracy, such as the president, are summarized in Article Two of the United States Constitution. This section explains the executive office’s powers, which include command of the armed forces. With the approval of the legislative branch of government, the president is also responsible for appointing ambassadors and Supreme Court justices. Since 1789, the president’s appointment powers have been expanded to include district court judges and executive branch department heads, who are appointed for as long as the president is satisfied with their performance.
Local and regional positions with direct contact with the public are more commonly associated with civil officers. The powers of civil officers are limited town charters and regional law. Governors are frequently given authority over regional police forces and National Guard troops, as well as the ability to veto legislation and appoint local judges. Mayors and city administrators are expected to preside over city council meetings and hearings, as well as enact ordinances and perform other municipal responsibilities. These local civil officials may also be responsible for appointing temporary replacements for absent council members.
Civil marriages are performed local magistrates and judges as part of their duties as civil officers. Couples looking for a less expensive alternative to a traditional wedding can have a simple ceremony officiated a civil officer. The signing of marriage documents in front of witnesses is overseen the local magistrate. Couples do not need to worry about extravagant ceremonies or religious conversions because these documents are immediately filed with the magistrate’s office. This civil officer’s responsibilities include presiding over court cases and issuing warrants, repossessions, and other court orders in addition to civil marriages.
Sheriffs have the authority to serve court documents and assist judges in carrying out orders as civil officers. A sheriff may be tasked with enforcing an eviction order issued a local court on behalf of a creditor. A civil officer with the power to collect a debt can seize assets and property and hold auctions to recoup money for creditors.