(a) The clerks of the superior courts, except those appointed by a judge of the superior court and those becoming clerk by operation of law, shall execute bond in the sum of $25,000.00, which amount may be increased in any county by local Act.

(b) The clerks of the superior courts shall have the power to appoint a deputy or deputies and may require from him or them a bond with good security. The deputies shall take the same oaths as the clerks do before entering upon the discharge of their duties. Their powers and duties shall be the same as those of the clerks, as long as their principals continue in office and not longer, for faithful performance of which they and their securities shall be bound. The clerks of the superior courts shall also have the authority to appoint one of their deputies as chief deputy clerk unless otherwise provided by local law.