Law Clerk/Judicial Clerkship

Superior Court is hiring for a law clerk and will be reviewing all cover letters, resumes, and writing samples. These are required to be submitted at the time of application.

Responsibilities

• Performs basic research on legal issues before court; briefs and summarizes files in preparation for sentencing.
• Collects trial-related data; validates authority in legal documents and assists in the preparation of written opinions and memorandum decisions.
• Receives, reviews, and summarizes issues for pre- and post-trial motions.
• Screens persons desiring to see judges (such as attorneys, pro se litigants, and the general public) and maintains judges' appointment and hearing schedules.
• Maintains orderly conduct and security in courtrooms, including the opening and closing of court.
• Ensures the courtroom is trial-ready with both counsel tables clear, equipment in working order, and jury deliberation rooms stocked, cleaned, and ready for proceedings.
• Keeps all library and research material current, including delivery of replacement materials and recycling of outdated material.
• Prepares jury instructions and supervises jurors during times when not seated in the jury box, such as providing beverages and services while in the deliberation room, arranging for and escorting to and from meals, and assuming responsibility for sequestration when mandated.
• Performs related duties as required, including legal research and analysis, drafting of legal memoranda, review of pre-trial and post-trial motions, documents, and correspondence, RALJ appeals, and advising the court on issues of law.
• Provides administrative support, including acting as a liaison between the judge and counsel, agencies, and the media.

Requirements

• Graduation from a recognized school of law (J.D. from an accredited law school).
• Must pass job-related tests.

Skills & Knowledge

• Knowledge of:
  • Superior Court procedures
  • Laws of the State of Washington
  • Online legal research resources
• Ability to:
  • Exercise good judgment as to when to act independently and when to refer situations to higher authority
  • Perform legal research, and analyze and apply legal principles and precedents to legal problems
  • Communicate effectively both verbally and in writing
  • Follow verbal and written instructions
  • Maintain required records and prepare clear, concise written reports
  • Establish and maintain effective working relationships with jurors, attorneys, associates, other county employees, and the general public
  • Effectively and efficiently navigate numerous computer applications and systems
  • Demonstrate flexibility by providing on-call law clerk coverage for other members of the bench as the need arises
  • Demonstrate strong organizational skills, including consistently handling multiple matters at any one time

Working Conditions

The work is performed in the usual office environment and courtroom.