Supreme Court Law Clerk

Primary Purpose
Provides substantive legal assistance to a Supreme Court Justice.
Distinguishing Characteristics
Reporting to a Justice, this position works under general supervision in the performance of a wide range of substantive legal work. Work is oriented toward both skill and professional development as well as productivity. Interacts regularly with the judiciary, the legal community, co-workers and the public.
Duties and Responsibilities
Reviews briefs and the appellate record; reviews records of cases to determine whether they support the facts of the case.
Reviews cited authorities, laws and statutes; conducts legal research and analysis; research; consults with Justices and staff attorneys.
Prepares prehearing memoranda, summarizing the facts of the case and authority cited, with conclusions and comment; may recommend disposition of the case.
Assists in preparation for oral argument; attends oral argument of cases before the court.
Prepares draft opinions supporting the decisions of the court as directed by the Justice or commissioner; may prepare additional opinions as assigned by the Justice.
Prepares memoranda on pending cases, motions to modify and motions for reconsideration.
Performs other duties as required.
Key Competencies
Agency values:
 Integrity
 Honesty
 Accountability
 Teamwork
 Trust
 Respect
 Customer Service
 Communication
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Key Competencies (continued)
Behavioral Competencies
 Influencing
 Problem solving
 Planning/organizing
 Consulting
 Relationship building
 Tact/diplomacy
Knowledge, Skills and Ability
 Ability to earn the trust, respect & confidence of coworkers at all levels, clients & the public through consistent honesty, integrity, professionalism in all interactions
 Ability to establish and maintain professional working relationships with the Supreme Court Justices, Court personnel, the legal community, and others
 Ability to prioritize and effectively manage time and resources
 Ability to analyze effectively and exercise good judgment in making decisions
 Accepts personal responsibility for quality & timeliness of work; attention to detail
 Ability to identify, analyze, and resolve problems in a consultative manner bringing problems and recommendations for solutions
 Ability to multi-task and effectively work on multiple projects simultaneously
 Knowledge of Washington State law, state and federal constitutions, criminal and civil law, WA State judicial system, court procedures & rules including rules of evidence, criminal, civil and juvenile procedural rules, and the appellate process
 Ability to interpret and apply court rules and administrative procedures
 Knowledge of significant legal issues, problems and trends
 Knowledge of legal research techniques and resources; cite-checking resources
 Ability to understand complex legal issues
 Skill in legal analysis and the subsequent formulation of issues
 Ability to draw conclusions based on points of law
 Advanced written communication skills; ability to write in a clear, concise style; skill in editing & preparation of memoranda, opinions & other types of legal writing
 Skills in word processing and knowledge of legal terminology, legal forms, English grammar, spelling and agency standards
 Effective verbal communication skills
 Ability to maintain confidentiality
 Consults with and keeps appropriate staff informed on specific work assignments
Qualifications and Credentials
Graduation from an accredited law school plus strong legal writing & analytical skills required. Moot court and/or law review preferred.
SALARY RANGE: 68
• Workweek may fluctuate depending on workload or agency need.
• Overnight travel may be required based on business need.
• This position is not covered by the Fair Labor Standards Act