Judicial Law Clerk to Louise W. Flanagan, United States District Judge

Eastern District of North Carolina•New Bern, NC

9d•Onsite

About The Position

The Judicial Law Clerk position is a term position with the United States District Judge Louise W. Flanagan for the Eastern District of North Carolina. The clerk will provide legal research and writing assistance, prepare bench memos, assist with orders and opinions, and support during trials, hearings, conferences, and other court proceedings. The role will handle a variety of cases, with a focus on pro se, prisoner, and post-conviction cases. This position is advertised at JSP 11 - 14, depending on experience. Applications received by August 31, 2026, will be given first consideration. The term is approximately October 5, 2026, to October 5, 2027.

Requirements

Must be a graduate of a law school with recognized standing.
Must have a strong law school record.
Must possess superior analytical and organizational abilities.
Must possess superior legal research and writing skills.
Must possess computer and word processing proficiency.
Must be a United States citizen or lawful permanent resident actively seeking citizenship.
Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) for payroll deposit is required.
Must submit to a background investigation (including references and criminal history) prior to an offer of employment.
Must submit fingerprints for an FBI background check or other security clearance.
Must adhere to the "Code of Conduct for Judicial Employees".

Nice To Haves

Rank in the top 15% of their class.
Serve on law review.
Applicants not ranked or with other journal experience will be considered.
Three letters of recommendation are required.
One writing sample will be requested at the time of interview.
Cover letter should include discussion of reason(s) for interest in working in Judge Flanagan's chambers in New Bern, North Carolina.
To qualify for appointment at the JSP 12 level, an applicant must have one year of legal work experience and hold bar membership.
Appointment at the JSP 13 level will require two years of legal work experience and bar membership.
Appointment at the JSP 14 level will require bar membership and three years of legal work experience with at least two of the three required years of legal work experience served in the federal judiciary.

Responsibilities

Provide legal research and writing assistance.
Prepare bench memos.
Assist with orders and opinions.
Assist during trials, hearings, conferences, and other court proceedings.
Handle a variety of cases assigned to Judge Flanagan, with a focus on pro se, prisoner, and post-conviction cases.