BON 26-21 Law Clerk

Definition

Performs complex (journey-level) legal research and analysis work involving examining, preparing, and evaluating legal documents and providing assistance to attorneys. Works under general supervision, with moderate latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment.

Qualifications

• Personal: Recognized personal and professional integrity that is necessary to maintain the respect of state officials, professional colleagues and the general public. A commitment to the agency's mission of public protection.
• Educational Experience: Enrolled in an accredited law school or graduation from an accredited law school with a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or a Juris Doctor (JD) degree. Experience and education may be substituted for one another.
• Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities: Knowledge of legal principles, practices, and proceedings; and of agency laws, regulations, and rules. Skill in using logic and reasoning to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions, or approaches to problems; and in the use of a computer and applicable software. Ability to prepare legal documents; to interpret and apply laws, rules, and regulations; to conduct research; to summarize findings; and to communicate effectively.

Supervision

Works under the supervision of the Deputy General Counsel.

Essential Functions

• Conduct legal research primarily in administrative law, as well as civil and criminal law, and research points of law involved in hearings to determine the validity and completeness of cases cited.
• Prepare and edit legal documents.
• Preview and analyze legal documents, records, and motions.
• Make presentations and participate in case conferences.
• Assist attorneys in preparing cases for litigation and investigations.
• Assist attorneys in providing legal advice, counsel, and assistance to clients.
• May assist in drafting bills and amendments for legislative consideration.
• May assist in drafting and reviewing contracts and other procurement materials.
• May review cases for jurisdictional deficiencies and procedural compliance.
• May draft memoranda and administrative rules for the Texas Register.
• Perform related work as assigned.

Conditions of Employment

• Refer to the personnel manual.
• This position is exempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act.
• Work to be performed in‑office (Downtown Austin, TX) Monday – Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM, unless an alternate schedule is requested and approved.

Benefits

• Health Insurance: Medical, prescription, dental, and vision coverage for employees and eligible dependents, with the state covering a significant portion of premiums.
• Retirement Plans: Participation in a defined benefit retirement plan with monthly annuity payments upon retirement, plus options for additional voluntary retirement savings such as a 401(k)/Roth IRA.
• Additional Benefits: Life and disability insurance, flexible spending accounts, and other optional coverages to support employees' well‑being and financial security.
• For more details, visit the Employees Retirement System of Texas: https://ers.texas.gov/Benefits-at-a-Glance.