The Iowa Judicial Branch, in Polk County, seeks applicants for Law Clerk positions to provide research and administrative support for judges of the district court in the Fifth Judicial Branch.
This position offers law school graduates an excellent opportunity to gain practical, hands-on experience applying legal knowledge to assist with cases at the trial court level. You will enhance your understanding of the litigation life cycle while working closely with judges, attorneys, and government officials. This is intended to be a one-year clerkship opportunity from August 2026 to July 2027, with possible extension up to an additional year based on funding, availability, and performance.
What’s in it for you:
The starting salary for this position is $62,088.00. This is an FLSA exempt position. Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services – Human Resources Enterprise.
Summary
Support judicial officers by performing legal research, drafting documents, and assisting with case management and administrative functions to ensure efficient court operations.
Examples of Duties and Responsibilities
Conduct legal research and prepare memoranda, rulings, and orders for judicial officers.
Examine filings for legal sufficiency, jurisdiction, and proper form as required by statutes, rules, regulations, and other legal precedents.
Review case files and assist with preparation for trials and hearings.
Maintain confidentiality of sensitive information.
Perform other duties as assigned.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
Excellent written and oral communication skills.
Ability to meet deadlines and manage time efficiently.
Knowledge of the principles, procedures, and practices of conducting legal research.
Ability to research, understand, and interpret state and federal law, case law, court rules, administrative rules and directives, and legislative documents.
Ability to clearly express complex legal concepts.
Strong critical thinking and attention to detail.
Knowledge of Iowa Judicial Branch organization, functions, and responsibilities of the courts.
Ability to abide by the set laws and perform ethically.
Ability to secure confidential information.
Ability to use office technology and equipment.
This is a non-merit position with the Iowa Judicial Branch. Candidates must follow the instructions in the "To Apply" section.
Positions in this class are exempt from the screening and referral requirements of the Iowa Department of Administrative Services - Human Resources Enterprise.
Graduation from an accredited law school before the start of the term in August 2026.
Preferred Qualifications
Experience in legal research and writing.
Experience working collaboratively in a professional environment.
Experience with Iowa court procedures and legal systems.
To Apply
Submit a NEOGOV application, cover letter, resume, law school transcript, and a writing sample. All applicants are subject to a criminal background check. The Iowa Judicial Branch is an E-Verify employer.
The Iowa Judicial Branch is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Applicants may review the Equal Employment Opportunity Utilization Report from the Iowa Judicial Branch website as part of our commitment to transparency and compliance with federal and state regulations.
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