Sheriff
Sheriffs are elected law enforcement of a town. In almost all cases, they also head up a small force of deputy guards and are responsible for the training and leading of the local balatar militia. As opposed to magistrates who tend to be entirely bound by the law, sheriffs are more often just responsible for looking out for public welfare. Rather than consulting dusty tomes or graven tablets for precedence, they simply protect their charges from all threats within and without.
Qualifications
Sheriffs are expected to be connected to the people, accomplished balatari, and blessed with a fair mind and affable affect.
Appointment
Sheriffs are elected. There is no formal election process, but typically a town elder or mayor will suggest that things would be better if there were a sheriff around and they go about arranging a vote between likely candidates.
Duties
Seeing to the protection and welfare of the town in their charge. Drilling and organizing the local guard force and balatar militia
Benefits
Standard wages for a sheriff is 3 silver per week.
Accoutrements & Equipment
Sheriffs traditionally wield truncheons, though most also outfit themselves with ranged weapons, swords, spears, or some such. Sheriffs as a badge of office wear a cloak clasp and belt buckle displaying The Watchful Star. Towns tend to make these badges out of a material that they feel sufficiently represents their town.
History
Sheriffs have been used in nearly every town founded by humans since the Rape of Tilane.
Type
Civic, Military, Commissioned
Status
Ubiquitous
Alternative Naming
Bailiff
Source of Authority
Democratic legitimacy.
Length of Term
Until retirement, resignation, or a new election.
Current Holders
Related Organizations
Related Military Formations
Comments