JOB TITLE: LAW CLERK II
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Law Clerk II plays a crucial role within the Circuit Court of Cook County, Illinois, reporting directly to the Presiding Judge of the Division or Municipal District, or as otherwise assigned. The position embodies a strong commitment to ensuring access to justice, requiring a high level of professionalism and sound judgment. Key responsibilities include:
- Assisting judges in the resolution of matters before the court and in conducting courtroom proceedings.
- Conducting thorough research and analysis of legal issues presented for brief or argument, utilizing statutes and case law.
- Searching for and studying legal records, documents, and law to gather information and provide relevant analysis for cases under consideration.
- Preparing written memoranda and summaries based on comprehensive research and analysis of legal issues.
- Assisting in the drafting and proofreading of opinions, administrative and judicial orders, professional correspondence, public information documents, and court rules.
- Consulting with judges regarding the interpretation and application of law to various issues and cases.
- Monitoring pending legislation as required.
- Assisting outside counsel with litigation involving judges or court employees as parties.
- Providing assistance with miscellaneous matters as required by the judges or supervisors.
- Maintaining confidentiality while performing all duties.
- Performing additional duties as assigned, which may extend beyond the normal line of work.
The outlined duties are not exhaustive and are not meant to limit the assignment of work. They provide a framework for the responsibilities expected under the job title and may include tasks performed temporarily outside an employee's regular scope of work.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
Candidates must possess the following qualifications for the Law Clerk II position:
- A Bachelor's degree and a Juris Doctor degree.
- An active license to practice law in Illinois is required. Absent extenuating circumstances, employees in these positions must be licensed by the Illinois Supreme Court and in good standing within one year of starting employment.
- Knowledge of methods of legal research and the ability to analyze applicable law.
- Experience with computer applications, including word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and legal research/writing tools.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, along with strong organizational abilities.
- The ability to work collaboratively in a professional and collegial manner with both legal and non-legal personnel.
WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
The position involves the following working conditions and physical requirements:
- Continuous sitting at a desk for extended periods in front of a computer screen.
- Intermittent twisting to reach equipment or supplies around the desk.
- Performing simple grasping and fine manipulation tasks.
- The strength to lift files weighing up to 20 pounds.
- Daily use of a telephone and computer keyboard.
SALARY INFORMATION:
The salary for the Law Clerk II position is set at $72,292. For law school graduates pending Illinois licensure, the salary is $62,332. Entry-level salary for law school graduates who are not yet licensed to practice law is currently $56,313.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
This position requires successful completion of a pre-employment drug screening and criminal background check. The organization maintains a Drug-Free Workplace policy, where the use of medical or recreational marijuana is prohibited and will disqualify a candidate from employment. All offers of employment are contingent upon successful completion of the required screening criteria.
EQUAL EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY:
The organization is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. No person will be discriminated against in employment based on race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation.
