Warning
Info
Warning
Info
Simple English definitions for legal terms
serjeant-at-arms
Read a random definition: Federal Housing Finance Board
A quick definition of serjeant-at-arms:
A serjeant-at-arms, also spelled sergeant-at-arms, is an officer who helps maintain order and serves notices and process on behalf of a legislative body and its committees. They are assigned by the Crown to attend a session of Parliament and are responsible for keeping order in meetings under the chair's direction. In the past, a serjeant-at-arms was an armed officer who attended a sovereign.
A more thorough explanation:
A serjeant-at-arms, also spelled sergeant-at-arms, is an officer who serves various roles in different contexts.
In the past, a serjeant-at-arms was an armed officer who attended a sovereign, providing protection and security.
Example: In medieval times, the serjeant-at-arms would accompany the king on his travels and protect him from any threats.
In modern times, a serjeant-at-arms is an officer assigned by the Crown to attend a session of Parliament. They are responsible for maintaining order and serving notices and process on behalf of the legislative body and its committees.
Example: During a parliamentary session, the serjeant-at-arms may be called upon to remove a disruptive member of parliament or to deliver important documents to the speaker.
In parliamentary law, a serjeant-at-arms is an officer charged with helping keep order in a meeting under the chair's direction.
Example: During a meeting of a student council, the serjeant-at-arms may be responsible for ensuring that everyone follows the rules of order and that the meeting runs smoothly.
A serjeant-at-arms may also be referred to as a warden or warrant officer.