Summer 2027 Law Clerk

Patterson Real Bird & Rasmussen LLP is a national law firm dedicated to the representation of American Indian tribes and organizations, providing legal counsel across business transactions, litigation, and governmental affairs in tribal, state, and federal forums.

About the role

Our summer program offers law students the opportunity to work alongside experienced attorneys on meaningful matters that directly impact Tribal nations and communities. Clerks gain hands-on experience, mentorship, and insight into the practice of Tribal and Federal Indian law in a supportive and collaborative environment.

This is a full-time, 10-12 week Summer 2027 Law Clerk position in our Louisville, Colorado office.

Responsibilities

• Work directly with attorneys on both litigation and transactional matters, contributing to active client files.
• Gain exposure to a wide range of issues impacting Tribal Nations, including sovereignty, jurisdiction, child welfare, natural resources, governance, and business matters.
• Conduct legal research and draft high-quality work product, including research memoranda, motions, briefs, contracts, and other legal documents.
• Observe and participate in legal practice by attending hearings, client meetings, negotiations, and internal strategy sessions when available.
• Develop professionally through mentorship, feedback, and opportunities to discuss career paths and experiences with attorneys who are leaders in their field.
• Contribute meaningfully to projects that support the Firm’s mission of advancing and protecting the rights of Tribal Nations and their citizens.

Requirements

• Completion of 2L year by Summer 2027
• Completion of Native American Law coursework prior to the start of the clerkship
• Strong legal research skills
• Excellent written and oral communication skills

Qualifications

• Demonstrated interest in practicing Tribal Law and Federal Indian Law
• Familiarity with Tribal communities, cultures, or governments
• Prior experience working with Native Nations or organizations serving Indigenous peoples

Pay

The expected hourly range for this position is $36.00 – $49.00 per hour. Actual compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including the candidate’s work location, experience, qualifications, and skills.