Qualifications for sheriffs and the method of election to office are explained. Oath and bond requirements, the place of office and official records, and the method of filling a vacancy in the office are also outlined. The grounds for removal of a sheriff from the office; the sheriff's source and extent of authority; situations in which sheriffs should disqualify themselves from acting; and the uses of deputies, assistants, civilian employees, and a posse are delineated. An explanation of the sheriff's duties as a law enforcement officer covers the functions of the sheriff's department, the department's relationship to the county police, laws of arrest, and laws of search and seizure. The discussion of the sheriff's duties as an officer of the court covers bailiff duties, the service of summonses and subpoenas, and the service of other civil process papers. Explanations are also given of the sheriff's duties as a detention officer with respect to jailors, the legal rights of prisoners, and jail management standards. Chapter notes provide references to the relevant sections of Georgia's laws. A glossary and an appendix containing the health and sanitation standards for detention facilities are provided.