What are the responsibilities and job description for the Deputy Judicial Clerk 3 (Philadelphia/Harrisburg) Commonwealth Court position at AOPC Administrative Office of PA Courts?
Established in 1968, the Commonwealth Court of Pennsylvania is an intermediate appellate court responsible for matters involving state and local governments and appeals from state agencies and the Courts of Common Pleas. The Commonwealth Court is unique as it sits as both an appeals and trial court. You will be joining a distinguished and well-respected organization that provides employees with appropriate compensation, excellent benefits, and opportunities to learn and grow. The Honorable Judge Tsai is accepting applications for a second level legal professional for work as a career law clerk within her Philadelphia or Harrisburg chambers. The interested individual will aid the Judge in researching complex legal issues that are before the court. Outstanding research and writing skills are required. Primary Duties Researches legal data pertinent to caseload of judge to which assigned. Reads, analyzes, and interprets lower court record(s), agency briefs, and/or appellate court briefs. Searches for, interprets and applies statutes, court decisions, and other legal authorities on points of law involved in the preparation of legal rulings. Prepares drafts of opinions, orders, and memoranda of law. Proofreads and reviews circulating opinions. Attends court sessions and hearings. Assists other clerks in preparation of preliminary memoranda and opinions. Qualifications Graduation from an approved school of law, admission to the bar of the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania; AND At least three years of experience as an appellate judicial clerk or three years of progressively responsible legal experience, Additional professional legal experience may be substituted for the required experience, at the discretion of the employing judge, subject to approval by the President Judge. A satisfactory criminal background check is required. Additional Preferences / Requirements: Knowledge of the Unified Judicial System of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. Knowledge of judicial procedure and rules of practice. Knowledge of the principles, methods, materials, and practices of legal research. Skill in analyzing, appraising, and organizing facts, evidence, and material, and presenting such material in a clear and logical form for oral or written presentation as opinions, memoranda, orders, or decisions. Ability to understand and interpret constitutional provisions, statutes, administrative regulations and precedents. Ability to prepare for judicial approval orders and opinions. Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with members of the judiciary, court, and departmental administrators, attorneys, and staff. Employee Benefits Full medical, dental, and vision benefits begin on first day of employment. Generous annual and sick leave plus thirteen scheduled holidays per year. Retirement plan with the State Employees' Retirement System. Other benefits and full details can be found at www.pacourts.us under Human Resources Salary information Salary: $78,832 - $103,063 Starting salary will vary depending upon the qualifications and employment history of the selected candidate. Commencement: on or after January 5, 2026 With your application, please submit a resume, legal writing sample, and references. Applicants requiring accommodation, for any part of the application and/or interview process, should contact Human Resources at (717) 231-3309 or human.resources@pacourts.us. In the Pennsylvania Courts, people are our priority. Become part of a dynamic and diverse branch of government focused on promoting access to justice for all. Discover fulfilling opportunities that align with your passion, and be part of a team dedicated to making a positive impact through public service. Explore the possibilities with us at the Pennsylvania Courts – where career meets purpose. 5 Reasons to Clerk for the Pennsylvania Courts If you currently work for PA Courts, please apply internally through the Jobs Hub tab on your Workday dashboard.
Salary : $78,832 - $103,063