I know a bit about their role as local law officials for the Shires, but how did their position stack up against other landed nobles? Were they landed themselves? Was it any more of a distinction to be a Sheriff? Did they have any authority over other landed nobles? I guess in short, what was it like to be a Sheriff in Medieval England?
There was a similar question a few weeks ago that got some fairly in-depth answers. Might be worth a search?
Edit: ...Or just one answer, but hope it helps!