SPFPA Court Security Officers Division

Protecting Those Who Protect Our Courts

Court Security Officers—better known as CSOs—serve on the front lines of courthouse safety. They help maintain a secure environment where judges, jurors, witnesses, attorneys, employees, defendants, and members of the public can conduct the important work of the justice system.

CSOs are highly trained security professionals entrusted with serious responsibilities. Many are retired law enforcement officers who continue putting their experience, judgment, and training to work in service of the public.

The Responsibilities of a Court Security Officer

Court Security Officers perform a wide range of essential duties, including:

  • Patrolling courthouses and surrounding areas
  • Monitoring entrances and screening individuals entering the facility
  • Protecting judges, jurors, witnesses, attorneys, employees, and the public
  • Escorting defendants to and from courtrooms
  • Standing guard during court proceedings
  • Inspecting courtrooms and restricted areas for potential security threats
  • Responding to emergencies and maintaining order
  • Protecting sensitive and high-security areas
  • Remaining physically fit and proficient with firearms and other authorized equipment
  • Completing specialized and continuing security training

These responsibilities require professionalism, sound judgment, physical readiness, and the ability to respond quickly under pressure. CSOs deserve a union that understands the demands of protective security work.

Why CSOs Need Collective Bargaining

Without a strong collective bargaining agreement, important workplace decisions can be made without meaningful input from the officers affected by them.

Collective bargaining gives Court Security Officers the opportunity to negotiate as one united group over wages, benefits, hours, and other conditions of employment. A legally binding union contract can clearly establish workplace rights and hold management accountable.

Depending on negotiations and the needs of the bargaining unit, a strong agreement may address:

  • Competitive wages and negotiated increases
  • Health insurance and other employee benefits
  • Paid leave, holidays, and vacation
  • Fair scheduling and overtime procedures
  • Seniority rights
  • Job classifications and assigned duties
  • Training and equipment standards
  • Fair and consistent disciplinary procedures
  • Protection against unjust treatment
  • A formal grievance and arbitration process
  • Health and safety concerns
  • Contract enforcement and union representation
  • A meaningful voice in workplace decisions

Collective bargaining replaces uncertainty with written standards. Instead of relying solely on promises or changing policies, officers can have clearly defined protections contained in an enforceable agreement.

The SPFPA Difference

The International Union, Security, Police and Fire Professionals of America is focused on representing security, police, fire, and protective-service professionals.

The SPFPA Court Security Officers Division is designed to bring CSOs together around the workplace issues that directly affect their careers, safety, and families.

SPFPA offers:

  • Experienced representation for security and protective-service professionals
  • Skilled assistance during collective bargaining
  • Support in grievances and disciplinary matters
  • Help enforcing the terms of the collective bargaining agreement
  • Guidance for local union officers and stewards
  • Assistance addressing workplace safety, staffing, scheduling, and training concerns
  • A strong organizational voice when dealing with employers
  • Resources and support from an established international union
  • The strength that comes from officers standing together

Your Experience Deserves Respect

Many Court Security Officers bring years—or even decades—of law enforcement, military, corrections, or security experience to the courthouse. That experience should be recognized and respected.

You protect the integrity of our courts. You safeguard everyone who enters them. You deserve fair compensation, strong workplace protections, effective representation, and a voice in the decisions affecting your job.

Join the SPFPA Court Security Officers Division

Real workplace improvements begin when officers stand together.

If you and your fellow Court Security Officers are ready to learn more about SPFPA representation and the benefits of collective bargaining, take the first step today.

Complete the SPFPA Interest Card Below

Submitting an Interest Card allows SPFPA to contact you confidentially with additional information about organizing and representation.

Your courthouse. Your career. Your future. Your voice.

ONE UNION • ONE PRIDE

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