LAW CLERK (NON-BAR)

Full-time

No

General Purpose
Under general judicial direction, performs legal research, prepares motions and matters on calendar to expedite court calendars, and performs related duties as assigned.

Distinguishing Characteristics
Law Clerks are responsible for assisting judicial officers with legal research, summarizing motions and providing recommendations on case rulings. Incumbents may be assigned to various court locations or units. Appointments to the classification of Law Clerk are for a six month limited term of employment. Upon completion of this six month term, a Law Clerk may be appointed for two one year terms of limited employment. Appointments may not exceed more than two years, six month.

Law Clerks are distinguished from Research Attorneys in that incumbents in the former class perform legal research assignments commensurate with experience level and are hired on a limited-term status with the Court.

Examples of Essential Duties, Responsibilities, and Skills

The following examples are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by personnel assigned to this classification. Any one position in this class may not perform all the duties listed below, nor are the duties described intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities and skills required of personnel so classified.

1. Performs legal research in matters on civil, criminal, family law and probate matters that includes reviewing case files, drafting legal memoranda and preparing summary on findings.

2. Summarizes, evaluates and recommends rulings on pre-trial civil. Researches applicable law and analyzes the cases cited by the parties and provides the judicial officer with a recommendation for each motion.

3. Researches, analyzes and recommends policies and procedures related to specific court proceedings and recurring issues at the request of judicial officers and Supervising Research Attorneys or the Managing Research Attorney.

Other Duties

1. Coordinates with judicial officers, Supervising Research Attorney and/or court staff to organize and schedule replacement coverage when necessary. Organizes work for relief personnel.

2. Delivers and picks up files to be reviewed from courtrooms. Delivers completed files to Judge for review.

3. Responds to questions from judicial officers and court staff on general legal issues regarding matters pending before the courts.

4. May also draft correspondence on behalf of a judicial officer to counsel and litigants regarding matters pending before the courts.

5. Occasionally assists with exparte applications, motion in limine and post-trial motions.

6. Trains and oversees law students and volunteers assigned to departments through the judicial extern program.

7. Performs additional court-related duties as directed by the judicial officer.

Knowledge of:

1. Principles, practices, methods and materials of legal research and analysis.

2. Civil law. Some assignments may require specialized knowledge of criminal, family, juvenile or probate law.

3. Legal terms, procedures, forms and documents used in court cases.

4. Government Code and other statues related to Court process and rules of Court.

Ability to:

1. Plan, organize and use traditional and computerized legal research methods.

2. Research, analyze and appraise a variety of legal documents.

3. Research legal issues and present clear and logical arguments and statement of facts and law.

4. Communicate effectively orally and in writing.

5. Set priorities and allocate resources to meet needs in a timely, effective manner.

6. Prepare clear, concise and comprehensive written materials.

7. Establish and maintain effective working relationships with all levels of Court staff and management, judicial officers, and others encountered in the course of work.

Qualification and Experience Minimum Requirements: Graduation from an accredited school of law and eligibility to take the California State Bar Examination. -OR- Licensed to practice law in the state of California and a member in good standing of the California State Bar. Special Requirements Licenses; Certificates; Special Requirements: A valid California Class "C" driver's license or the ability to utilize an alternative method of transportation. Law Clerks of the Superior Court are prohibited by Court policy from practicing law, receiving fees, and appearing in court representing another party as counsel during their employment by the Court as a Law Clerk.

Legal