SUPPORT STAFF.

(a) The presiding judge may employ, directly or through a contract with another governmental entity, a full-time or part-time administrative assistant.

(b) An administrative assistant shall aid the presiding judge in carrying out the judge's duties under this chapter. The administrative assistant shall:

(1) perform the duties that are required by the presiding judge and by the rules of administration;

(2) conduct correspondence for the presiding judge;

(3) under the direction of the presiding judge, make an annual report of the activities of the administrative region and special reports as provided by the rules of administration to the supreme court, which shall be made in the manner directed by the supreme court; and

(4) attend to other matters that are prescribed by the council of judges.

(c) An administrative assistant, with the approval of the presiding judge, may purchase the necessary office equipment, stamps, stationery, and supplies and employ additional personnel as authorized by the presiding judge.

(d) An administrative assistant is entitled to receive the compensation from the state provided by the General Appropriations Act, from county funds, or from any public or private grant.