Closing Date: 10th November, 2026

Description:

Job Description:
The Second Judicial District is accepting applications for a Floating Judicial Law Clerk. This is a full-time, temporary, at-will position appointed by the Chief Judge. This position will support all of our judges and promotes the court's mission of providing justice through a system that assures equal access for the fair and timely resolution of cases and controversies.

A District Court Law Clerk will gain insight into judicial and court processes within the Minnesota Judicial Branch and the Second Judicial District, with a focus on the administration of justice. This Law Clerk will have the unique opportunity to work with a variety of appointing authorities and case types.

This position will require mostly in-person work, but may also include occasional flexibility to work remotely. A reliable internet connection will be required when working remotely. Ability to travel to satellite court locations is a requirement.

Regular hours are Monday – Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This position will require the ability to work full time during these hours.

The anticipated end date for this temporary position is 6/30/2027.

Responsibilities:
The following are examples of major job duties expected of this position.

Attend remote and in-person court sessions and perform duties such as recording necessary case information and completing orders and forms following court hearing.
Perform courtroom duties, including taking court minutes, calling the calendar, swearing in jury panels and witnesses, and assisting in various court proceedings across all case types.
Conduct legal research and prepare written reports, memoranda, orders, and judgements.
Assist judicial chambers by reviewing judicial mail and respond to inquiries.
Administrative duties as assigned.

Minimum Qualifications:
The Minnesota Judicial Branch recognizes the diverse set of skills, strengths, and attributes that an individual may bring into a role. If you have any combination of the experience, training, and education required for this position, please consider applying.

Law Clerk - Graduation from an accredited law school at time of employment.
Law Clerk I – Bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university, and completed their first year of law school.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Ability to work a full-time schedule during regular business hours.
Knowledge of laws, court rules, and sources of legal reference.
Knowledge of court practices and procedures.
Knowledge of legal terminology and concepts.
Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, with a diverse group of people including attorneys and self-represented parties.
Ability to research complex legal problems or questions and apply legal principles.
Ability to represent the court in a respectful manner.
Proficient computer skills, including experience using Westlaw, Zoom, and Microsoft Word.
Ability to exhibit cultural sensitivity, patience, professionalism, and empathy in the course of work duties.

All applicants must also upload and attach a cover letter, resume, law school transcripts, and brief writing sample (no more than 10 pages in length).

All employment offers are contingent upon satisfactory results of our background check processes.

Interviews are expected to be conducted in-person on November 16th.

Working Conditions:
Work is performed primarily in an office setting, courtroom or at a public counter. Work involves contact with persons who may be angry, abusive, or threatening.

Physical Demands:
Work is essentially sedentary with occasional walking, standing, bending and carrying items up to 25 pounds. Some assignments may require periods of extended sitting, standing or computer use.

Salary:
The anticipated starting salary for a law school student (Law Clerk I) is $25.27-$27.91/hour based on qualifications and experience.

The anticipated starting salary for a law school graduate (Judicial Law Clerk) is $31.55-$39.00/hour based on qualifications and experience.

This position is not eligible for overtime compensation and is eligible for State of Minnesota employee benefits.