Graduating from Law School? A Judicial Clerkship is a Great First Job

Is graduation from law school not too far off? If so, congratulations! Soon, it will be time to land a job. As you're exploring various options, you may want to consider a judicial clerkship as your first job out of the gate. A judicial clerkship is a tremendous learning experience on how the court room functions on a day-to-day basis. It's an opportunity to work for a judge, typically for a one-year term. Depending on the situation, there may be a chance to extend the term. Clerkships are available at the state and federal levels. You may need to apply for these during your second year of law school or in the beginning of your third year. Check with your school's career placement center. This means you may have to make a decision on whether to proceed directly to a law firm or similar avenue or accept a clerkship. Keep in mind that if you apply for a clerkship and are extended an offer, you should accept it. It's my feeling that if you turn down an offer from a judge, it wouldn't be a politically good decision.

Several reasons make this opportunity worthwhile.

The research and writing experience is second to none. Writing skills will be enhanced, as you will assist the judge with memorandums of law on a wide variety of interesting and complex issues. Strengthening your writing skills will certainly benefit your career.

You are able to observe court room litigation in person. This was an interesting element of the clerkship, as mental notes will be taken on how experienced lawyers conduct direct and cross examinations and how they deliver oral arguments. From this perspective, a firsthand look at what may or may not work before a judge or jury is an experience not gained anywhere else.

Networking is a key element to a clerkship. You will get to know all the court personnel from judges to administration to the front entrance security. In addition, contacts will be developed with attorneys as they maneuver in and out of court rooms. This is important because getting your name out there is all part of the game.

Working for a judge, to my knowledge, does not require a legal license. If, unfortunately you do not pass the bar, don't panic. You'll have to retake it but still be able to maintain your job in the interim. However, if a law firm hires you as a first year associate pending your results, and you fail, the firm is placed in a difficult position about whether to keep you on.

One other upside to a clerkship is that it looks prestigious on your resume. It may typically be a lower paying job than you might otherwise see from other first year opportunities. However, realize it is a short-term position, and employers will hold the experience in high regard. It also makes an easy conversation piece in interviews.

Gaining experience through a clerkship has a genuine possibility of paying long-term dividends for your career as a lawyer. If you become a judicial clerk, get ready to hit the keyboard, observe attorney interaction, and network with everyone.