Description:

Job Description:
The Second Judicial District is accepting applications for a Judicial Law Clerk for Judge Thomas Gilligan. This position supports Judge Gilligan 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. Judge Gilligan is currently chambered at the out of the Ramsey County Courthouse at 15 W Kellogg, St Paul, MN 55102.

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.

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.

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

Review, study, and research laws, court decisions, documents, opinions, briefs, and related legal authorities.

Prepare proposed orders and legal memoranda including appropriate suggestions or recommendations.
Compile information necessary for legal determinations.
Confer with the Judge on legal questions, construction of documents, and granting of orders.
Attend court sessions to hear oral arguments and record necessary case information; maintain records related to court proceedings.
Courtroom duties including taking court minutes, calling the calendar, swearing in witnesses, and assisting in various court proceedings such as arraignments, motions, hearings, pre-trial conferences, and trials.
Administrative duties as assigned, including maintaining chambers operations, corresponding with attorneys, and filing on behalf of the court.

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 current enrollment in third year of law school with an expected graduation date of Spring 2026.

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.

Successful candidate will be required to pass a criminal background check.

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.