What is the role of the clerk in the appellate process?

The role of the clerk in the appellate process is primarily ministerial. This means that the clerk performs administrative functions that are essential to the court's operations but do not involve making judicial decisions or providing legal advice. Clerks are responsible for ensuring that court records are maintained, managing the filing of documents, issuing notices, and facilitating the logistics of court proceedings.

In this capacity, the clerk helps maintain the smooth functioning of the appellate process by organizing and tracking case files, deadlines, and motions, which allows judges to focus on deliberating and deciding cases. While clerks play a crucial role in the administration of justice, their responsibilities are centered around procedural tasks rather than the interpretation of law or involvement in hearings.