Law Clerk / Staff Attorney

Ada County • Boise, ID

2d • Onsite

About The Position

Ada County Trial Court Administration is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Law Clerk or Staff Attorney to support District Judge(s) in the just and efficient resolution of court cases. This position is ideal for motivated legal professionals seeking hands-on courtroom experience, direct mentorship from the bench, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact within Idaho’s judicial system. Candidates may be hired at either level depending on qualifications. The Trial Court Administrator, Sandra Barrios, oversees all administrative responsibilities of the Fourth Judicial District. This includes responsibility for facilities management; serving as a liaison between agencies, the media, and the public; and developing and carrying out policies that enhance court system performance. Our Mission is to support court systems that put people first and ensure access to the court. Ada County Trial Court Administration POSITION GENERAL SUMMARY: Provides substantive and procedural legal advice and support to District Judge(s) regarding handling and disposition of court cases. DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS: A Law Clerk performs advanced legal work under the close supervision of a judge and has not yet passed the Idaho State Bar exam. A Staff Attorney is distinguished from a Law Clerk by having passed the Idaho State Bar exam and is required to be a member in good standing of the Idaho State Bar.

Requirements

• Must be a graduate of an accredited law school with a Juris Doctor or equivalent graduate degree
• Knowledge of principles and practices of a trial court
• Knowledge of the types and methods of preparation of legal instruments
• Strong legal research, legal analysis and legal writing skills
• Ability to manage time effectively and meet tight deadlines
• Ability to communicate legal issues effectively
• Ability to analyze and prepare legal documents
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships
• Must have passed the Idaho State Bar exam (for Staff Attorney)
• Be a member in good standing of the Idaho State Bar (for Staff Attorney)

Responsibilities

• Studies and evaluates motions and briefing submitted by parties in pending court cases
• Analyzes and conducts legal research on matters implicated in motions and briefing to determine appropriate disposition
• Drafts bench memoranda for judge prior to motion hearings setting forth legal analysis and recommending disposition of legal issues
• Prepares jury instructions prior to trial
• Attends trials, evidentiary hearings and other substantive motion hearings
• Meets with judge following hearings to discuss disposition of legal issues
• Drafts orders and memorandum decisions announcing the judge’s decision on motions and other matters before the court
• Keeps current on new state and federal legal decisions and legislative changes affecting pending cases
• Assists in managing judge’s calendar to prioritize issues for hearing, particularly time-sensitive matters
• Independently handles applications for default judgment and conducts debtor exams
• Communicates with legal counsel and pro se litigants regarding case management and procedural issues as needed
• Performs related functions as assigned

Benefits

• Excellent medical, dental, and vision insurance
• Generous vacation and sick leave starting on day one
• 11 paid holidays annually
• Participation in one of the nation’s best state retirement systems, with 11.96% employer contribution
• 457(b) deferred compensation plan with up to 3% county match, plus a 401(k)
• Paid parental leave
• Life insurance
• Robust wellness programs
• Ongoing training opportunities and career pathing

What This Job Offers

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