Legal Definitions - ministerial officer

Definition: A ministerial officer is a person who holds an office of trust, authority, or command and is authorized by the government to perform specific functions. They primarily execute mandates issued by their superiors and perform specified legal duties when the appropriate conditions have been met, but do not exercise personal judgment or discretion in performing those duties.

Examples:

• A county agent who works with the judge to direct and develop the court's child-welfare work.
• An escrow agent who holds funds and documents on behalf of parties involved in a real estatetransaction.
• A health officer who is responsible for investigating and controlling the spread of infectious diseases.

These examples illustrate how ministerial officers are appointed to perform specific functions and are expected to carry out their duties without personal judgment or discretion. They are accountable to their superiors and must follow established procedures and guidelines.