Law Clerk

Snohomish County•Everett, WA

About The Position

The Law Clerk provides legal and administrative support to a Superior Court Judge, combining legal research and analysis with traditional bailiff functions. The role supports court proceedings through preparation and review of legal materials, courtroom readiness and security, jury supervision, scheduling, and communication with attorneys, agencies, and the public. Research work is performed with a wide degree of latitude for judgment, accuracy, and timely completion, under the general supervision of the respective Superior Court Judge. Applicants must submit a cover letter, resume, and writing sample with their application; applications missing these materials will be considered incomplete. The Judge will review these application materials. The work is performed in the usual office environment and courtroom.

Requirements

Graduation from a recognized or accredited law school and a J.D. degree.
Pass job-related tests.
Knowledge of Superior Court procedures, Washington State laws, and online legal research resources.
Ability to exercise good judgment about when to act independently and when to refer situations to higher authority.
Ability to communicate effectively verbally and in writing, follow verbal and written instructions, maintain required records, and prepare clear, concise written reports.
Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with jurors, attorneys, associates, other county employees, and the general public.
Ability to navigate numerous computer applications and systems effectively and efficiently.
Strong organizational skills, including the ability to handle multiple matters at once.
Submit a cover letter, resume, and writing sample with the application.

Responsibilities

Research legal issues before the court and analyze and apply legal principles and precedents.
Brief and summarize case files in preparation for sentencing; collect trial-related data; validate authority in legal documents; and assist with written opinions and memorandum decisions.
Receive, review, and summarize issues for pre-trial and post-trial motions, documents, and correspondence, including RALJ appeals.
Advise the court on issues of law.
Screen people seeking to see the judge and maintain appointment and hearing schedules.
Maintain courtroom order and security, including opening and closing the courtroom and ensuring it is ready for trial.
Check courtroom equipment, keep counsel tables clear, and ensure jury deliberation rooms are stocked, clean, and ready for proceedings.
Keep library and research materials current by arranging replacement materials and recycling outdated materials.
Prepare jury instructions and supervise jurors when they are not seated in the jury box, including providing services in deliberation rooms, arranging or escorting jurors to meals, and managing sequestration when required.
Provide administrative support, including scheduling, screening correspondence, and acting as a liaison between the judge and counsel, agencies, and the media.
Provide on-call law clerk coverage for other members of the bench as needed.
Perform related duties as required.