Closing Date: 15th July, 2026

Description:

Job Description:
The Second Judicial District is accepting applications for a Judicial Law Clerk for Judge Sophia Vuelo. This position supports Judge Vuelo and her Chambers, 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/Judicial Law Clerk will gain invaluable insight and knowledge into judicial/court processes and the law within the Minnesota Judicial Branch and the Second Judicial District, with a focus on the administration of justice. Judge Vuelo will be assigned to the civil rotation and is currently chambered at the Ramsey County Courthouse at 15 W. Kellogg, St. Paul, MN 55102.

This position will require in-person work but will also include generous flexibility to work remotely. A reliable internet connection is 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, and additional hours as needed to meet deadlines.

Minimum Qualifications:
The Minnesota Judicial Branch recognizes the diverse set of skills, strengths, and attributes that an individual may bring into a role. All qualified applicants are encouraged to apply.

Law Clerk - Graduation from an accredited law school at time of employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

Ability to work a full-time schedule during regular business hours and be flexible to work outside the normal hours when necessary to meet deadlines.
Enjoys legal research and writing as it pertains to civil matters; and desires to learn civil law.
Ability to research complex legal problems or questions, apply legal principles, and a strong passion for engaging in deep legal research.
Willingness and dedication to learn/gain knowledge of laws and court rules.
Willingness and dedication to learn/gain knowledge of court practices and procedures.
Willingness and dedication to learn/gain 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 represent the court in a respectful and professional manner.
Ability to work independently with minimal supervision, demonstrating strong initiative, reliability, and effective time management.
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.
Organized and can manage multiple tasks, in a high-powered environment.
Pass criminal background check.

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.
Draft under advisement and/or other court orders, prepare proposed orders and legal memoranda including appropriate revisions, construction of misc. documents.
Compile information necessary for legal determinations.
Confer with the Judge on legal issues or questions.
Attend court sessions to hear oral arguments and record/update necessary case information; maintain records related to court proceedings.
Courtroom duties include taking court minutes, calling the calendar, and assisting in various court proceedings such as arraignments, motions, hearings, pre-trial conferences, and trials.
Administrative duties as assigned, including maintaining and organizing daily chambers operations, corresponding with attorneys and other court staff, updating the record, or filing on behalf of the court.
Other Chambers needs as they arise.

All applicants must also upload and attach a cover letter (please share why you want this job and what makes you qualified), resume, law school transcripts, and brief writing sample (no more than 10 pages in length).

Applicants must be able to start no later than early August.

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 Zoom platform. Work involves contact with persons who may be angry, abusive, threatening, or unable to speak English.

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 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 including comprehensive medical/dental insurance coverage.