JOB TITLE: LAW CLERK II
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES:
The Law Clerk II position at the organization involves a range of duties that support the judicial process. Reporting to the Presiding Judge of the Division or Municipal District of the Circuit of Cook County, the Law Clerk II is responsible for assisting judges in resolving matters before the court and during courtroom proceedings. This includes researching and analyzing legal issues based on statutes and case law to prepare for briefs or arguments.
The law clerk conducts thorough searches of legal records, documents, and laws to gather information and provide analysis relevant to cases under consideration. They prepare written memoranda and summaries based on their research and analysis of legal issues, and assist in drafting and proofreading opinions, administrative and judicial orders, professional correspondence, public information documents, and court rules.
Consultation with judges regarding the interpretation and application of law to issues and cases is a key responsibility, along with monitoring pending legislation as needed. The law clerk also assists outside counsel with litigation involving judges or court employees and handles other miscellaneous matters as required by the judges or supervisor. Maintaining confidentiality while performing these duties is crucial. The position may involve additional duties as assigned, which are not limited to those listed.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE INFORMATION:
The position requires a Bachelor's degree, a Juris Doctor degree, and an active license to practice law in Illinois. Absent extenuating circumstances, employees in Law Clerk II positions must be licensed by the Illinois Supreme Court and in good standing within one year of starting employment. Entry-level salary for law school graduates who are not yet licensed to practice law is currently $56,313.
Candidates must have knowledge of methods of legal research and analysis of applicable law, along with experience in using computer applications for word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and legal research/writing. Excellent written and oral communication skills, as well as organizational abilities, are essential. The ability to work with others in a professional and collegial manner and collaborate with legal and non-legal personnel is also required.
WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
The role involves sitting at a desk for long periods in front of a computer screen, intermittently twisting to reach equipment or supplies surrounding the desk, performing simple grasping and fine manipulation, and having the strength to lift files weighing up to 20 pounds. Daily use of a telephone and computer keyboard is expected.
SALARY INFORMATION:
The salary for the Law Clerk II position is $72,292. For law school graduates pending Illinois licensure, the salary is $62,332.
ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS:
This position requires a pre-employment drug screening and criminal background check. Applicants are advised that as a Drug-Free Workplace, 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 all required screening criteria.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER STATEMENT:
The Office of the Chief Judge is an equal opportunity employer. It is the policy of the **Members Only** to provide equal opportunity in employment to all employees and applicants for employment. No person is to be discriminated against in employment because of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation.
