For anyone interested in pursuing a career in law enforcement, one common point of research is often how to become a US Marshal. From the prestige that comes comes with this position to the reputation for Marshals of being an elite criminal justice organization, the requirements to for entering into this particular area of law enforcement help to separate the candidates.
US Marshal Service Overview
The US Marshal Service is separated into 94 different districts around the country. Within each district, US Marshals are responsible for carrying out a number of different types of duties and responsibilities. Whether it is working directly in protection detail or handling and managing various investigations, Marshals are an integral part of the law enforcement of the United States.
Marshals are often assigned to protective detail, working judicial and witness security. Additionally, Marshals also perform various services involving prisoners of the federal justice system, including transport. Additional information can be found at the US Marshals Service website.
Basic Training and Physical Fitness Requirements
With a diverse set of possible responsibilities to take on, US Marshals must be prepared and ready for each possibility. For many of the tasks, team members will need to be in top physical condition and meet the physical fitness requirements of the agency. Marshals must also successfully meet a standard set of medical qualifications.
Meeting these requirements will also benefit future Marshals during the basic training that must be completed. The program includes intensive physical conditioning, survival strategies, and defensive techniques training. Protective service training and prisoner search and restraint also require high standards of physical fitness.
Trainees also complete work in surveillance, search and entry, search and seizure, evidence procedures, and various other legal issues. Trainees must also have knowledge in and successfully pass coursework and hands-on training in firearms, computer processes, and high threat trials.
Education and Experience Requirements
To be considered for entry into the basic training program and for positions in the US Marshal Service, a candidate must first meet a variety of other requirements, including having a minimum of a four-year degree or at least three years of experience. Because many candidates apply, a combination of these qualifications is often most desirable.
A common degree for entering into this agency is the bachelor’s degree in criminal justice. In this program, students complete a number of courses that help to prepare the foundation needed to successfully complete the US Marshal basic training course. For instance, degree program is likely to include courses such as police in the community, criminal investigation basics, forensic investigation techniques, and criminal law.
Additional Requirements
Applicants and potential candidates must be willing to sign a mobility agreement for re-location while working with the Marshal Service, be between the ages of 21 and 36, pass a background check, successfully complete an interview process, and have a valid driver’s license. When applications are being taken, which happens sporadically, the hiring consideration process is likely to take up to 12 months.
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For any position, balancing the requirements can be challenging. With the number of candidates who apply for positions and the high standard of expectations, future Marshals looking to become a US Marshal should focus on the right balance of education, experience, and physical requirements.
