Law Clerk, Ramsey County, Judge Smith
About The Position
The Second Judicial District is hiring a Judicial Law Clerk to support Judge Stephen Smith and advance the court’s mission of providing equal access to justice and fair, timely resolution of cases and controversies. The position offers insight into judicial and court processes within the Minnesota Judicial Branch, with a focus on the administration of justice. The position is primarily in person, with occasional flexibility to work remotely. A reliable internet connection is required when working remotely. Regular hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., and the role requires full-time availability during those hours. The anticipated starting salary is $25.27–$27.91 per hour for a law school student hired as a Law Clerk I, and $31.55–$39.00 per hour for a law school graduate hired as a Judicial Law Clerk, based on qualifications and experience. The position is not eligible for overtime compensation and is eligible for State of Minnesota employee benefits. Employment offers are contingent on satisfactory background check results, and the successful candidate must pass a criminal background check. Applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, law school transcripts, and a brief writing sample of no more than 10 pages.
Requirements
- For Judicial Law Clerk: graduation from an accredited law school by the time of employment.
- For Law Clerk I: a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and current enrollment in the third year of law school.
- Ability to work a full-time schedule 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 a diverse group of people, including attorneys and self-represented parties.
- 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 exhibit cultural sensitivity, patience, professionalism, and empathy in work duties.
- Successful candidate must pass a criminal background check.
- Applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, law school transcripts, and a writing sample no longer than 10 pages.
Responsibilities
- Review, study, and research laws, court decisions, documents, opinions, briefs, and related legal authorities.
- Prepare proposed orders and legal memoranda, including appropriate suggestions or recommendations.
- Compile information necessary for legal determinations.
- Confer with the Judge on legal questions, construction of documents, and granting of orders.
- Attend court sessions to hear oral arguments, record necessary case information, and maintain records related to court proceedings.
- Perform courtroom duties, including taking court minutes, calling the calendar, swearing in witnesses, and assisting with arraignments, motions, hearings, pre-trial conferences, and trials.
- Perform administrative duties as assigned, including maintaining chambers operations, corresponding with attorneys, and filing on behalf of the court.
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.
- Potential eligibility for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
