What is the role of the clerk of court in issuing process?

• A. To set trial dates
• B. To render judgments
• C. To maintain the docket
• D. To issue summons, maintain the docket, and process returns and related documents

Answer: (D)

Clerks of court handle the administrative side of civil process. They issue documents that start or direct court action, notably summons, and they keep the docket—the official record of all filings, events, and schedules in each case. They also process returns and related documents, meaning they receive, stamp, file, and update proof of service and other notices as they come back from service of process. This combination—issuing process, maintaining the docket, and handling returns and related documents—best reflects the clerk's responsibilities and ensures proper notice and accurate case records. Setting trial dates and rendering judgments are functions more associated with the court or judge, not the clerk.