So it seems Andy Griffith Sheriff, did a lot of paper work. In the episode Barney's Sidecar he was writing a report, in the episode with the new mayor he was typing up a report; the episode later when Helen gets jealous over a family aquatence she wrote up his report.

I am far from being anything in the legal system but what could Andy be writing reports about???? And I know that courthouse was too small for the mayor's office to be up above! Its not possible!!

The mayor was kind of a cranky guy, I am sure he demanded reports from Andy frequently! Just staying on top of his work!

Aside from all that paperwork how is it that both Andy and Barney could leave the office unattended. No one to answer phone and unlocked. Sometimes Barney has to cover the office and other times they both leave.

A child could come in and get locked in a cell with the keys right there.Need a 2nd deputy to keep someone there all the time with days off and vacations. And when no one is there the phone just keeps ringing and ringing not forwarded to person in charge.

Oh wait a minute there was a secretary there to answer phone at night, Otis. It would interrupt his beauty sleep but he would answer.

But he was blind drunk.

A child could come in and get locked in a cell with the keys right there.Need a 2nd deputy to keep someone there all the time with days off and vacations. And when no one is there the phone just keeps ringing and ringing not forwarded to person in charge.

I'm sure if there was no answer at the courthouse, Sarah would call Andy or Barney (let's just say he had a telephone) at home...

After that, possibly Goober or Gomer would be contacted by Sarah?