Officer originally intended to serve and protect judges and others in federal trials.

The first thirteen U.S. Marshals were appointed by President George Washington under the Judiciary Act of 1789Judiciary Act of 1789. The marshals’ duties originally included enforcing court orders and federal laws, capturing fugitives, and making arrests. The Secret Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation have assumed some of the former responsibilities of the marshals. Modern marshals are responsible for “transporting and assigning federal prisoners” and directing the Witness Protection Program.[]Marshal of the Court

Marshals are appointed to four-year terms by the president, and the appointments are conditional on Senate confirmation. The marshals are supervised by the attorney general. Each of the ninety-four judicial districts is assigned a marshal.

Clerk of the Court

Judiciary Act of 1789

Staff of the Court