Sheriffs and deputy sheriffs enforce the law at the county level.

Sheriffs and deputy sheriffs work in areas not covered by city police departments. They may work in smaller towns or outside city limits. Sheriffs perform duties similar to those of city police chiefs. Deputy sheriffs have duties similar to those of city police officers.

Sheriffs and deputy sheriffs patrol assigned areas and respond to calls. They check out illegal or suspicious activities and safety hazards. They pursue and arrest suspected criminals.

Deputies also enforce traffic laws and issue citations. They route traffic at accident scenes. They also help accident victims and investigate the accident.

Deputy sheriffs who work as investigators gather facts and evidence. They locate and take people into custody who have warrants out for their arrest. Deputies with civil duties serve subpoenas and summonses. They may seize property by court order.

Deputy sheriffs with jail-related duties transport prisoners from jails to courtrooms or medical facilities. Other deputies take prisoners' fingerprints and photos, and do the paperwork needed to add prisoners to the jail.

Deputies question visitors who enter secured prison areas. They find out why they are there and direct them where to go. Some deputies supervise prisoners while they are in jail. The duties of these deputies are similar to those for corrections officers.

All sheriffs and deputy sheriffs write reports and log their daily activities. They maintain accurate records that are used if they need to testify in court.