Law Clerk (D7 State of Iowa 151365)

This position will support the judicial officers of District 7 and may require travel to Cedar, Clinton, Jackson, and Muscatine counties, although it is primarily based in Scott County. The Law Clerk position is a great opportunity for law school graduates seeking practical, hands-on experience applying their knowledge to assist with cases being litigated by the State of Iowa courts. This position will also deepen your understanding of the litigation cycle across a variety of legal matters as you assist the public, judges, attorneys, and government officials.

This is intended to be a one-year clerkship opportunity from August 2027 to July 2028, with possible extension up to an additional year based on funding, availability, and performance.

Responsibilities

• Perform electronic and manual research of laws, legal opinions, policies, regulations, and other legal precedents.
• Draft or review legal documents such as legal briefs, memos, rulings, orders, and opinions.
• Examine filings for legal sufficiency, jurisdiction, and proper form as required by statutes, rules, regulations, and other legal precedents.
• Prepare jury instructions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Knowledge of Iowa laws and rules; Iowa Judicial Branch organization, functions, and responsibilities of the courts.
• Knowledge of the principles, procedures, and practices of conducting legal research.
• Ability to research, understand, and interpret state and federal law, case law, court rules, administrative rules and directives, and legislative documents.
• Ability to abide by the set laws and perform ethically.
• Ability to secure confidential information.
• Ability to use office technology and equipment.
• Ability to meet deadlines and manage time efficiently.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Attention to detail.

Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited law school.

Preferred qualifications:

• High standard of academic excellence.
• Considerable experience in legal research and writing.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a professional environment.
• Familiarity with Iowa court procedures and legal systems.

Benefits

• Collaborative, positive professional work environment.
• Opportunities to make a widespread difference in the Iowa communities.
• Excellent benefits package.
• Paid holidays, vacation, and sick leave.
• Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System (IPERS) plan.
• Employee discount program.
• Employment with the Iowa Judicial Branch may qualify for the federal student loan repayment program.

Pay

The starting salary for this position is $63,700.00.