One of the most coveted judicial positions available to law students and recent graduates is a judicial clerkship. A judicial clerk, also known as a law clerk, assists a judge in managing her caseload and facilitating communication between the judge and her peers or lawyers who are trying cases in her courtroom. A federal clerkship may not be the same as a judicial clerkship in a state or city. Competition for a judicial clerkship is usually fierce due to the small number of judges compared to the large number of applicants. Working as a law clerk can also help you advance your career in the legal field.
A law clerk serves as a judge’s assistant in most cases. In some cases, clerks may be asked to conduct research on scientific or historical facts. Attorneys typically submit questions, documents, or evidence through the judge’s clerk. Another common task associated with a judicial clerkship is drafting memorandums to lawyers or other judges. Law clerks also help with the writing and proofreading of a judge’s legal opinion after she has ruled on a case.
Certain courts are dedicated to certain types of cases, such as taxes, bankruptcy, or international trade. Federal courts may hear appeals or disputes between individuals and the government that are not heard by state or local courts. Cases involving family matters, property disputes, criminal acts committed within the state or municipality, and small claims disputes between citizens of the state or municipality are handled by local courts. As a result, those seeking a judicial clerkship should apply to the branch of the government that is most likely to hear cases related to the type of law they want to practice. This provides the law clerk with additional experience and exposure in his future field.
The high level of competition for a judicial clerkship necessitates applicants with outstanding academic and personal credentials. To ensure that an applicant is capable of performing the tasks associated with the judicial clerkship he is applying for, the applicant’s academic record and writing abilities are heavily scrutinized. To gain a better understanding of a candidate’s personality and level of motivation, judges look at his extracurricular activities and personal accomplishments. Finally, a judicial clerkship applicant may be required to write an essay that allows a judge to determine ideological and personal compatibility.
Due to the high demand for judicial clerkships, obtaining one is a notable achievement in the legal community and enhances a law clerk’s resume. During their time as a clerk, clerks improve their research and writing skills. Working closely with a judge and other lawyers allows for networking and the development of personal relationships within the legal community.