Court Data Specialist

Court Data Specialist

The South Carolina Judicial Branch (SCJB) is seeking six (6) detail-oriented and analytical individuals to join the Trial Court Services Department as Court Data Specialist. Each position will be assigned to serve one of the following judicial circuits within the South Carolina Judicial Branch:

• Circuit 14: Allendale, Beaufort, Colleton, Hampton, Jasper
• Circuit 16: York, Union Circuit assignment will be based on operational need and candidate availability.

Under the supervision of Court Administration's Court Services Section, the Court Data Specialist serves as the primary data resource for assigned judicial circuits. This position is responsible for collecting, managing, analyzing, and interpreting court data from General Sessions, Common Pleas, and Family Court with the goal of ensuring accurate, uniform, and reliable reporting.

The Court Data Specialist collaborates with judges, clerks of court, solicitors, public defenders, and Court Administration to communicate findings, support operational improvements, and derive actionable insights. This role also assists Clerks of Court with Case Management System (CMS) inquiries and reports relevant statistical data to the Chief Justice and the State Court Administrator.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities of the Position

This job bulletin represents general duties for this position and is not intended to be construed as exclusive or all-inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• In conjunction with the Court Data Specialist Manager, Court Services personnel, and Court Administration, manage, analyze, and interpret data from General Sessions, Common Pleas, Family, and Summary Courts to ensure accurate and consistent data reporting in a common format.
• Conduct analysis of court operations to support Court Administration decision-making, inform policy, improve performance, promote efficient use of court resources, and increase accountability.
• Assist with the production of court caseload performance reports and other routine and ad hoc reports.
• Develop and prepare monthly statistical reports for review by the Chief Justice and the State Court Administrator; continuously improve reporting methods.
• Analyze trends in case filings, dispositions, outcomes, and case activities; identify common data entry errors and provide technical assistance as needed.
• Develop policies, procedures, training materials, best practices, flow charts, graphs, and process maps to support data remediation and improve court operations.
• Work with Information Technology staff to improve data reliability by developing and implementing quality control procedures for data entry, collection, and analysis.
• Assist Clerks of Court and their staff with Case Management System (CMS) inquiries and provide guidance on proper data entry and reporting practices.
• Collaborate with stakeholders to improve case data consistency, reporting accuracy, and court processes across circuits and with Court Administration.
• Conduct and participate in quarterly meetings with relevant stakeholders to discuss trends, findings, and best practices.
• Provide written and oral communication to judges, clerks, and other stakeholders; attend meetings as requested.
• Attend court proceedings as needed to support data collection and analysis efforts.
• Participate in professional development to stay current on industry standards related to data gathering, analysis, and reporting.
• Serve as a liaison between circuit stakeholders and Court Administration.
• Perform specialized duties to support efficient court operations and always maintain a professional and courteous demeanor.
• Perform all other duties as assigned.

Minimum and Additional Requirements

• High school diploma or Equivalent
• Three (3) years of relevant experience in administration, management, support service functions, or court operations
• Must have a working knowledge of South Carolina state trial court processes and procedures

Required Knowledge, Skills, Abilities and Other Characteristics

• Knowledge of the South Carolina judicial system
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with county employees, attorneys, elected and appointed officials, court personnel, and the general public
• Strong verbal and written communication skills
• Strong computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Demonstrated dependable work ethic with strong attention to detail
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Thorough understanding of court procedures and operational processes
• Ability to work independently in an autonomous environment with strong initiative, motivation, and sound judgment
• Ability to exercise discretion in the interpretation and application of court practices, procedures, and laws
• High level of professionalism and confidentiality required
• Work involves light physical effort in a sedentary to light work environment, including occasional lifting, carrying, pushing, or pulling of objects weighing up to 20 pounds
• Position requires dependable transportation
• Occasional in-state and out-of-state travel, including overnight travel, may be required
• During emergencies or disaster events, this position is classified as essential personnel
• This position requires full-time employment to fulfill its essential job functions

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's degree or paralegal certificate
• Prior experience in a Clerk of Court's office, judge's chambers, or criminal law practice
• Knowledge of data validation and quality assurance practices

The South Carolina Judicial Branch offers an exceptional benefits package for FTE positions that include:

• Health, Dental, Vision, Long Term Disability, and Life Insurance for Employee, Spouse, and Children.
• State Retirement Plan and Deferred Compensation Programs (Temporary positions have option to enroll).
• 15 days paid annual (vacation) leave per year.
• 15 days paid sick leave per year.
• Option to designate 10 days of earned paid sick leave per year as family sick leave.
• 13 paid state holidays.
• Workers' Compensation Benefits.