About the job
Position Summary
This role entails professional legal work in the capacity of a research assistant, supporting judges within the First Judicial District of Pennsylvania. The primary responsibilities include assisting judicial members in the preparation of briefs, opinions, and related legal documents.
As mandated by the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania, effective September 1, 2005, all law clerks appointed by judges within the Unified Judicial System of Pennsylvania are prohibited from representing clients in the division or section of the court where they serve. Additionally, in courts lacking formally established divisions or sections, law clerks are not permitted to represent clients within the court itself.
The Judicial Law Clerk is regarded as a confidential employee and operates at the discretion of the presiding judge.
To apply for this position, please visit https://fjdcareers.phila.gov/Cyberweb/ to submit your application and upload your resume.
Essential Functions
The following duties are standard for this position. They are not exhaustive, and additional responsibilities may be assigned:
- Conduct legal research for briefs or opinions based on statutory law, judicial decisions, and precedents set by higher courts.
- Investigate legal records and documentation to gather pertinent data for cases under review.
- Draft preliminary versions of judicial opinions.
- Organize and maintain files related to case documents and associated correspondence.
MARGINAL FUNCTIONS
Provide general information regarding assigned functions.
Perform related duties as required.
ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITIONS
Work is conducted in standard courtroom and clerical office environments, with direct interaction with a diverse clientele within the court system.
To apply for this position, please visit https://fjdcareers.phila.gov/Cyberweb/ to submit your application and upload your resume.
Competencies, Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Thorough understanding of the components and operations of the justice system.
- Proficiency in legal research techniques and methodologies.
- Familiarity with the preparation of motions, petitions, and similar documents.
- Capable of drafting judicial orders and opinions for approval.
- Ability to develop and sustain effective working relationships with judicial members, court personnel, departmental administrators, attorneys, and peers.
- Competence in utilizing Westlaw and/or Lexis/Nexis.

