Participates in checkpoint pathways arrest of the cell cycle, a mechanism that allows the DNA repair pathways to act to restore the integrity of the DNA prior to DNA synthesis or separation of the replicated chromosomes. Regulates the DNA damage checkpoint pathway throughout the cell cycle, when associated with RCF5. Component of the RFC-like RAD24-RFC complex which loads the checkpoint clamp DDC1:MEC3:RAD17 complex and is involved in DNA repair pathways. During a clamp loading circle, the RFC:clamp complex binds to DNA and the recognition of the double-stranded/single-stranded junction stimulates ATP hydrolysis by RFC. The complex presumably provides bipartite ATP sites in which one subunit supplies a catalytic site for hydrolysis of ATP bound to the neighboring subunit. Dissociation of RFC from the clamp leaves the clamp encircling DNA. Component of the RAD24-RFC complex which consists of RAD14, RFC2, RFC3, RFC4 and RFC5 and associates with the checkpoint clamp DDC1:MEC3:RAD17 complex. RAD24 interacts with ECO1. Present with 752 molecules/cell in log phase SD medium. Belongs to the rad17/RAD24 family.