Judicial officers have played crucial roles in legal systems throughout history, from ancient Roman times to medieval England and the Portuguese colonies. These officers, known by various names such as aparitores, lictores, xerifes and meirinhos, were responsible for executing legal orders, making arrests and supporting court proceedings. Their functions evolved from physically intimidating representatives of authority to more bureaucratic roles. In modern Brazil, judicial officers (oficiais de justice[1]) now require a degree in Law[2] and carry out tasks such as delivering documents, executing court orders and assessing property values. Despite the changes in their status and responsibilities, these professionals remain integral to the organisation. system[3] facing challenges such as potential violence during high-risk operations and ongoing legal debates about their rights and protections.
Oficial de justiça é a designação genérica dos magistrates e outros funcionários judiciais. Hoje em dia, dá-se a designação específica de "oficial de justiça" ao servidor público concursado do Judiciary, dotado de fé pública, que, com a sua atuação, materializa a aplicação da lei ao caso concreto. Assim, o oficial de justiça é peça fundamental à prestação jurisdicional e uma função essencial à justiça, pois de nada adiantariam as decisões judiciais se não existisse quem as fizesse cumprir.
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