Floating Law Clerk, Ramsey County

Minnesota Judicial Branch • St. Paul, MN

5d • $25 - $39 • Hybrid

About The Position

The Second Judicial District is hiring a Floating Judicial Law Clerk to support all judges and advance the court’s mission of providing equal access to fair and timely resolution of cases and controversies. The role provides exposure to judicial and court processes within the Minnesota Judicial Branch, with a focus on the administration of justice, and offers the opportunity to work with a variety of appointing authorities and case types.

The position is full-time, temporary, and at-will, appointed by the Chief Judge. Work is primarily in person, with occasional flexibility to work remotely; a reliable internet connection is required when working remotely. Travel to satellite court locations is required. Regular hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The anticipated end date is June 30, 2027.

The position is performed primarily in an office, courtroom, or at a public counter and may involve contact with people who are angry, abusive, or threatening. Work is essentially sedentary, with occasional walking, standing, bending, and carrying items up to 25 pounds. Some assignments may involve extended sitting, standing, or computer use.

The anticipated starting salary is $25.27–$27.91 per hour for a law school student (Law Clerk I), or $31.55–$39.00 per hour for a law school graduate (Judicial Law Clerk), based on qualifications and experience. The position is not eligible for overtime and is eligible for State of Minnesota employee benefits.

Requirements

• For the Law Clerk classification: graduation from an accredited law school by the time of employment.
• For the Law Clerk I classification: a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and completion of the first year of law school.
• Ability to work full-time during regular business hours.
• Knowledge of laws, court rules, and sources of legal reference.
• Knowledge of court practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of legal terminology and concepts.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, orally and in writing, with attorneys, self-represented parties, and a diverse group of people.
• Ability to research complex legal problems or questions and apply legal principles.
• Ability to represent the court respectfully.
• Proficient computer skills, including experience using Westlaw, Zoom, and Microsoft Word.
• Ability to demonstrate cultural sensitivity, patience, professionalism, and empathy in work duties.
• Ability to travel to satellite court locations.
• A reliable internet connection when working remotely.
• Applicants must attach a cover letter, resume, law school transcripts, and a writing sample no longer than 10 pages.
• Employment offer is contingent on satisfactory background check results.

Responsibilities

• Attend remote and in-person court sessions, record necessary case information, and complete orders and forms following hearings.
• Perform courtroom duties, including taking court minutes, calling the calendar, swearing in jury panels and witnesses, and assisting in proceedings across case types.
• Conduct legal research and prepare written reports, memoranda, orders, and judgments.
• Assist judicial chambers by reviewing judicial mail and responding to inquiries.
• Perform administrative duties as assigned.

Benefits

• State of Minnesota employee benefits, including health and wellness benefits, enhanced fertility benefits, short- and long-term disability, pension, paid parental leave, and tuition reimbursement.
• Possible eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level