Law Clerk I

• $55,604 - $74,513/ Year
• Full Benefits Package

Note: A resume, copy of college and law school transcripts and a writing sample must be included with your application.

Duties:

• Conducts legal research and prepares memoranda on civil and criminal motions, outlining issues and arguments of both parties involved and the proposed dispositions with stated reasons.
• Prepares draft opinions and orders.
• Reads, classifies and maintains briefs filed in the Civil Division in subject matter files.
• Maintains and updates the County Law Library and other research materials.
• Performs a variety of tasks incidental to the above, such as responding to inquiries from attorneys and others, composing and storing the work product, and other office and administrative duties.
• Serves as court organizer for motions.
• This description is intended to illustrate the type and level of work being performed by persons assigned to this job. It may not be a comprehensive list of all duties and responsibilities required by a person so classified. 

Education and Experience:

• Graduation from an accredited law school is required.
• No previous experience in legal research is required.

Additional Requirements:

• A person in this position must successfully pass the Michigan Bar Exam and be admitted to practice law in the State of Michigan within the first year of employment.
• Will be required to complete training and obtain state certification as a certified electronic operator (CEO).
• Must possess a valid vehicle operator's license.
• A pre-employment physical, drug test and background check are required before employment.
• Will be fingerprinted and subject to random drug and alcohol testing during the course of employment.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds; reach and bend; and sit/stand for prolonged amounts of time.
• May be required to work flexible hours and be assigned to work at any Berrien County Trial Court location during the course of employment.

Required Skills and Knowledge:

• Familiarity with Westlaw and LexisNexis is a requirement.
• Knowledge of the Michigan court system, laws, court rules, case law, Michigan Motor Vehicle Code, courtroom operations and procedures.
• Ability to use word processing and spreadsheet software.
• Able to maintain confidentiality, effective working relationships with other employees and interact effectively with the general public.