Plainfield has two Constables, elected in accordance with Mass. General Laws chapter 41 section 1. Plainfield constables serve three-year terms.
The office of Constable as a peace officer has its origins in Common Law. Most of the duties and powers of Constables have now been taken on by the Police Department, with the important exceptions of serving and executing civil process, officially notifying the townspeople of the warrants for Town Meetings, and overseeing order at Town Meetings and elections. Constables also have several other duties under state law that are rarely, if ever, required, such as serving as tax collectors in the event of a vacancy in that office.
Constables in Plainfield are also appointed by the Police Chief as Special Officers.