Judicial Law Clerk I - Family Division

Closing Date: 22nd May, 2024

Description:

Requirements:

• Graduate of an accredited law school.
• Membership of the Bar of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania is not a requirement for Law Clerk 1; however, if you are a current member of the Bar, you must be, and remain in good standing.
• Strong academic background.
• Superior writing and analytical skills.
• Ability to perform the essential functions of the position.
• An application for this position must include a cover letter, resume, a copy of transcripts, writing sample and three references.
• Covid-19 vaccination recommended.

General Definition:
This is professional legal work as a research assistant supporting judges of the First Judicial District of Pennsylvania in the Family Court Dependency Division. Work involves providing members of the judiciary with assistance in the preparation of writing briefs, opinions, and similar material.
By Order of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, effective September 1, 2005, all Law Clerks employed by judges of the courts of the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania are prohibited from appearing as counsel in the division/section of the court in which the judge by whom they are employed serves. Further, in courts which have no formally established divisions or sections, the Law Clerks are prohibited from appearing as counsel in the court itself.
Essential Functions:
The following duties are normal for this position. These are not to be construed as exclusive or all- inclusive. Other duties may be required and assigned.

• Research legal sources for briefs or opinions based on statutory law, decisions, and precedents of higher courts.
• Search for and study legal records and documents to obtain data applicable to cases under consideration.
• Maintain file on case documents and all related correspondence.

Marginal functions:

• Provides general information pertaining to the assigned functions.
• Performs related work as required.

Environmental Condition:
Standard courtroom and clerical office conditions.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Required to Perform Essential Functions

• Considerable Knowledge of The Components and Functions of The Justice System.
• Knowledge of the techniques and processes of legal research.
• Knowledge of the preparation of motions, petitions, and similar instruments.
• Ability to prepare for judicial approval, orders, and opinions.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with members of the judiciary, court personnel, departmental administrators, attorneys, and associates.
• Ability to use Lexis/Nexis.
  

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