JOB TITLE: LAW CLERK II
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES: The Law Clerk II serves under the supervision of the Presiding Judge of the Division or Municipal District of the Circuit of Cook County or as otherwise assigned. The role demands a deep commitment to ensuring access to justice, a professional demeanor, and sound judgment. Key responsibilities include:
- Assisting judges in resolving court matters and participating in courtroom proceedings.
- Conducting research and analysis of legal issues for briefs or arguments, referencing statutes and case law.
- Searching legal records, documents, and laws to gather information and provide relevant analysis for cases.
- Preparing written memoranda and summaries based on thorough research and analysis of legal issues.
- Assisting in drafting and proofreading judicial opinions, administrative orders, professional correspondence, public information documents, and court rules.
- Consulting with judges on the interpretation and application of law to cases.
- Monitoring pending legislation as necessary.
- Assisting outside counsel with litigation involving judges or court employees.
- Handling other miscellaneous tasks as required by judges or supervisors.
- Maintaining confidentiality in all duties performed.
- Performing additional tasks as assigned.
These duties are not intended to limit the scope of work assigned. They are not exhaustive and may include tasks performed temporarily outside an employee’s normal line of work.
EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE INFORMATION:
- A Bachelor's degree and a Juris Doctor degree are required.
- An active license to practice law in Illinois is necessary, though absent extenuating circumstances, Law Clerk II employees must be licensed by the Illinois Supreme Court and in good standing within one year of starting employment.
- Understanding of legal research methods and applicable law analysis is crucial.
- Proficiency in computer applications for word processing, spreadsheets, databases, and legal research/writing is required.
- Excellent written and oral communication skills, along with strong organizational abilities, are necessary.
- The ability to work collaboratively and professionally with legal and non-legal personnel is essential.
SALARY INFORMATION:
- The salary for this position is $72,292 annually.
- For law school graduates pending Illinois licensure, the salary is $62,332.
- The entry-level salary for law school graduates who are not yet licensed to practice law is currently $56,313.
WORKING CONDITIONS/PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
- The role involves sitting at a desk for extended periods in front of a computer screen.
- Occasional twisting is required to reach equipment or supplies around the desk.
- The position requires performing simple grasping and fine manipulation.
- Strength to lift files weighing up to 20 pounds is necessary.
- Daily use of telephone and computer keyboard is expected.
This position mandates a pre-employment drug screening and criminal background check. As a Drug-Free Workplace, the use of medical or recreational marijuana is prohibited and will disqualify candidates from employment. All employment offers are contingent upon the successful completion of all required screening criteria.
EQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYER: The Office of the Chief Judge is committed to providing 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 strictly prohibited.
