JOB TITLE: LAW CLERK II
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: The Law Clerk II is responsible for assisting judges in resolving matters before the court and during courtroom proceedings. The role involves researching and analyzing legal issues, which includes reviewing statutes and case law to provide informed briefs or arguments. The Law Clerk is tasked with searching and studying legal records and documents to gather information pertinent to cases under consideration. Additionally, the position requires preparing written memoranda and summaries based on this research and analysis.
Other duties involve assisting in drafting and proofreading opinions, administrative and judicial orders, professional correspondence, public information documents, and court rules. The Law Clerk consults with judges regarding the interpretation and application of laws to various issues and cases. Monitoring pending legislation as needed, assisting outside counsel with litigation involving judges or court employees, and maintaining confidentiality in all duties are also key responsibilities. The Law Clerk may be required to assist with miscellaneous matters as directed by judges or supervisors.
It is important to note that the duties listed are not comprehensive and should not be seen as limiting the scope of work assigned. They are not exhaustive of the duties to be performed under the job title or any temporary tasks outside an employee's normal responsibilities.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE: Candidates for the Law Clerk II position must possess a Bachelor's degree and a Juris Doctor degree. An active license to practice law in Illinois is required, although there are provisions for law school graduates pending Illinois licensure. In such cases, the entry-level salary is slightly lower until licensure is obtained. Familiarity with legal research methodologies and analysis of applicable law is essential. Candidates should have experience with computer applications for word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and legal research/writing. Excellent written and oral communication skills, as well as strong organizational abilities, are crucial. The ability to work professionally and collegially with legal and non-legal personnel is also required.
SALARY INFORMATION: The salary for the Law Clerk II position is $72,292. For law school graduates who are pending Illinois licensure, the salary is $62,332. It is noted that the entry-level salary for law school graduates not yet licensed to practice law is currently $56,313.
WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS: The position requires sitting at a desk for extended periods in front of a computer screen. There may be a need to twist intermittently to reach equipment or supplies around the desk. The role involves simple grasping and fine manipulation, with the strength to lift files weighing up to 20 pounds. Daily use of the telephone and computer keyboard is expected.
This position mandates a pre-employment drug screening and criminal background check. Candidates are advised that as the organization is a Drug-Free Workplace, the use of medical or recreational marijuana is prohibited and will disqualify a candidate from employment. All employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of required screening criteria.
The organization is an equal opportunity employer, and its policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants. Discrimination in employment based on race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, disability, or sexual orientation is prohibited.
