How did the Government attempt to tackle lawlessness?

US Marshals were appointed by the President to be responsible for states or territories, they used Deputy Marshals for help. They could also form a 'Posse', a group of men to help him hunt down lawbreakers.

Town appointed these each year. They dealt with local lawlessness like Sallon brawls and shootouts. They were often a respected and experienced peace maker from within town.

If territories had over 5,000 people, they could choose a Sheriff for a 2 year period. They would carry out law enforcement in a county and could also form posse's and appoint deputies.