Judicial Clerkship - Government in Hackensack, NJ

Government

Hackensack, NJ

Judicial Clerkship - Government in Hackensack, NJ

Judicial Clerkship

No

**Job Title:**
Law Clerk 2025 - 2026

**Job Responsibilities:**
The position of a law clerk within the New Jersey Courts involves a diverse set of responsibilities tailored to each division of the court system. Depending on the assignment, law clerks may:

- Conduct legal research and prepare written memoranda on complex legal issues.
- Assist justices and judges in the preparation of opinions and legal documents.
- Attend and observe judicial proceedings, conferences with attorneys, and mediations.
- Summarize information for judges and help manage their dockets.
- Participate in mediation training and mediate small claims cases (trial court clerks).
- Work on emergent motion applications and proofread published opinions (Appellate Division clerks).
- Engage directly with attorneys, self-represented litigants, and court staff.
- Perform case management functions and assist with remote proceedings.
- Draft case management orders and other legal documents.
- Communicate with various stakeholders within the court system.

Specific duties vary by court division, such as the Supreme Court, Appellate Division, Tax Court, Superior Court (Chancery, Law, and Family Divisions), and Assignment Judges. Each division offers unique exposure to legal processes, including civil, criminal, family, tax, and administrative law.

**Education and Experience Information:**
Applicants must have graduated from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA) within the last four years. This program is designed for recent law school graduates who have not yet engaged in the practice of law. Essential skills include:

- Strong written and verbal communication abilities.
- Excellent analytical skills.
- Mediation skills are advantageous, and a course in mediation is recommended.
- Selected candidates must provide an official law school transcript at the time of hire.

Additional training in mediation is required for those serving as mediators, with a waiver option available for candidates who have completed an equivalent alternative dispute resolution course.

**Salary Information:**
The salary for law clerks varies depending on the court division and the specific role:

- Supreme Court: $76,400
- Supreme Court Appellate Division: $69,750
- Superior Court Assignment Judge: $63,950
- Superior Court Chancery Division (General Equity and Family): $58,900
- Superior Court Law Division (Civil and Criminal): $58,900
- Tax Court: $58,900

These salaries are based on a 52-week court term, with additional pay for a one or two-week overlap as specified.

**Supplemental Information:**
Law clerks are allowed to hold outside employment with prior approval as per the Code of Conduct for Judiciary Employees. A valid New Jersey driver's license is required only if operating a vehicle is necessary for the position. . citizenship is not mandatory, but candidates must be authorized to work in the . according to federal regulations.

Selected candidates must undergo a comprehensive background check, including fingerprinting, and adhere to New Jersey's residency law, which mandates establishing residency in the state within one year of employment, unless exempted.

Approximately 480 clerkships are available, with opportunities in the Supreme Court, Superior Court, and Tax Court. The **Members Only** encourages applications from individuals from historically underrepresented groups, women, individuals with disabilities, and other protected class members.

Applicants must complete the application process fully, detailing all relevant work experience, including military service, internships, and volunteer work, if applicable. The **Members Only** operates as an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action Employer, committed to ensuring justice access for all.

**Application Process:**
Prospective applicants can apply via the Judiciary's web-based portal. Applications open on June 10, 2024, with interviews commencing from June 17, 2024. The Judiciary offers a hybrid work schedule, allowing for remote work up to four days per month, provided certain technical requirements are met.

For further details, applicants can refer to the Judiciary's website and resources, including guides for the application process and submitting letters of recommendation.