Closing Date: 2nd March, 2026
Description:
DescriptionThe Kentucky Department of Public Advocacy (DPA) is nationally recognized as a model state-wide public defender system with an exceptional training and education program. Our defense teams ensure the criminal justice process is fair, results are just, and individual liberties are protected.
We are hiring a Law Clerk to assist the criminal defense team in the Appeals Branch in Louisville, KY. The Appeals Branch represents clients in their direct appeals to the Kentucky Court of Appeals and, or, Kentucky Supreme Court. The DPA Appeals Branch is one of the strongest appellate advocacy units in the nation and routinely participates in litigation with statewide or national implications for the development of the criminal law. The work of the branch requires strong research and writing skills, as well as good oral advocacy skills.
The DPA looks for individuals who have demonstrated a desire to help the most vulnerable in their communities. The ideal candidate recently completed all coursework at an ABA accredited law school to receive a JD degree and plans to take the next available bar exam or has recently received their license to practice law. This individual exhibits exceptional planning and organizational skills, is self-directed, with strong research and writing skills. We seek to hire persons who understand it is a privilege to represent our clients and we do so on behalf of the people of Kentucky.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
Minimum Requirements:
Education: Completion of twenty-four semester hours at an American Bar Association accredited law school.
Experience, Training, or Skills: None
Substitute Education for Experience: None
Substitute Experience for Education: None
Special Requirements (Age, Licensure, Regulation, Etc.): None
We are hiring a Law Clerk to assist the criminal defense team in the Appeals Branch in Louisville, KY. The Appeals Branch represents clients in their direct appeals to the Kentucky Court of Appeals and, or, Kentucky Supreme Court. The DPA Appeals Branch is one of the strongest appellate advocacy units in the nation and routinely participates in litigation with statewide or national implications for the development of the criminal law. The work of the branch requires strong research and writing skills, as well as good oral advocacy skills.
The DPA looks for individuals who have demonstrated a desire to help the most vulnerable in their communities. The ideal candidate recently completed all coursework at an ABA accredited law school to receive a JD degree and plans to take the next available bar exam or has recently received their license to practice law. This individual exhibits exceptional planning and organizational skills, is self-directed, with strong research and writing skills. We seek to hire persons who understand it is a privilege to represent our clients and we do so on behalf of the people of Kentucky.
Responsibilities include, but are not limited to, the following:
- Assist attorneys representing defendants by providing support such as legal research and writing, interviewing clients and other duties as required.
- Duties are performed primarily in both office and prison settings.
- Travel is required.
Minimum Requirements:
Education: Completion of twenty-four semester hours at an American Bar Association accredited law school.
Experience, Training, or Skills: None
Substitute Education for Experience: None
Substitute Experience for Education: None
Special Requirements (Age, Licensure, Regulation, Etc.): None
Working Conditions
Incumbents working in this job title primarily perform duties in an office setting. Minimal travel may be required.
Probationary Period
This job has an initial and promotional probationary period of 12 months, except as provided in KRS 18A.111.
If you have questions about this advertisement, please contact Travis Bewley at jared.bewley@ky.gov or 502-782-4727.
An Equal Opportunity Employer M/F/D