Law Clerk
Quick Facts
Median Salary$105,238
Most Common EducationPh.D. or professional degree
Projected 10-Year Growth+7.22%
Assessment MatchTake the Assessment
What They Do
A Law Clerk assists judges with research and other legal and administrative work, particularly for cases to be decided in court. Organizes legal files, researches laws and prior decisions, reviews briefs submitted by attorneys. May draft and file legal documents or assist litigation attorneys. Works in a short term position typically held by law students or recent law school graduates
Core Tasks:
- Prepare briefs, legal memoranda, or statements of issues involved in cases, including appropriate suggestions or recommendations.
- Research laws, court decisions, documents, opinions, briefs, or other information related to cases before the court.
- Draft or proofread judicial opinions, decisions, or citations.
- Confer with judges concerning legal questions, construction of documents, or granting of orders.
- Review complaints, petitions, motions, or pleadings that have been filed to determine issues involved or basis for relief.
- Keep abreast of changes in the law and inform judges when cases are affected by such changes.
- Attend court sessions to hear oral arguments or record necessary case information.
- Review dockets of pending litigation to ensure adequate progress.
- Communicate with counsel regarding case management or procedural requirements.
- Respond to questions from judicial officers or court staff on general legal issues.
What to expect as a Law Clerk
1Earn a Ph.D. or professional degree
28% of people achieve this level of education.
2Gain skills and experience
See Law Clerk related courses on Tallo
3Land a job
1597 openings for Law Clerks
Career Progression
in United States (Nation)
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