Law Clerk (D2 111713,145033,145034)

Full Job Description

The 2^nd Iowa Judicial Branch seeks applicants for three (3) Law Clerk positions to provide research and administrative support for judges of the district court.

The Law Clerk position is an opportunity for law school graduates seeking to gain practical, hands-on experience to apply acquired knowledge by assisting with cases being investigated and litigated by the State of Iowa courts.

This opportunity will also enhance knowledge and understanding of the litigation life cycle as the candidate assists the public, judges, attorneys, and government officials in a variety of situations and circumstances.

This is intended to be a one-year clerkship opportunity to begin August 2026. Depending on funding, availability, and performance, this clerkship may be extended up to an additional year.

The starting salary for a Law Clerk 1 is $62,088.00.

This is an FLSA exempt position. Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise.

Hours: Monday – Friday 8:00A – 4:30P

Location will be determined by the successful candidate(s) however, travel throughout District 2 will be expected.

Why the Iowa Judicial Branch?

• Collaborative, positive work environment
• Talented and passionate team members who will help you grow and learn
• Opportunities to make a widespread difference in the lives of Iowa communities
• Excellent benefits package
• Paid Holidays/Vacation/Sick Leave
• Iowa Public Employees’ Retirement System (IPERS) retirement plan
• Employee discount program

Summary

Provide legal support and services for judicial officers.

Examples of Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform electronic and manual research of laws, legal opinions, policies, regulations, and other legal precedents.
• Draft or review legal documents such as legal briefs, memos, rulings, orders, and opinions.
• Examine filings for legal sufficiency, jurisdiction, and proper form as required by statutes, rules, regulations, and other legal precedents.
• Prepare jury instructions.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of Iowa laws and rules; Iowa Judicial Branch organization, functions, and responsibilities of the courts.
• Knowledge of the principles, procedures, and practices of conducting legal research.
• Ability to research, understand, and interpret state and federal law, case law, court rules, administrative rules and directives, and legislative documents.
• Ability to abide by the set laws and perform ethically.
• Ability to secure confidential information.
• Ability to use office technology and equipment.
• Ability to meet deadlines and manage time efficiently.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Attention to detail.

To Apply

Candidates need to complete the NEOGOV application and attach a cover letter, resume, law school transcript, and a writing sample.

Final applicants are subjected to a criminal background check. The Iowa Judicial Branch is an E-Verify employer.

The Iowa Judicial Branch is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer.

Applicants may review the Equal Employment Opportunity Utilization Report from the Iowa Judicial Branch website as part of our commitment to transparency and compliance with federal and state regulations.

Please go to www.iowacourts.gov and click on the Careers page.

This is a non-merit position with the Iowa Judicial Branch. Candidates must follow the instructions in the “To Apply” section.

Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services – Human Resources Enterprise.

Qualifications

The incumbent must meet the minimum requirements to qualify for the position:

1. Completed law school or legal degree, law clerk apprenticeship, or law clerk program.

Additional Information

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience in legal research and writing.
• Experience in working collaboratively in a professional environment,
• Experience with Iowa court procedures and legal systems.
• High academic excellence.