Law Clerk

DUTIES:

• Conducts legal research and prepares memoranda analyzing civil and criminal motions, case facts, legal issues, and proposed dispositions.
• Drafts proposed opinions and orders for appeals and motions.
• Maintains and organizes Civil Division briefs, the County Law Library, and other legal research resources.
• Responds to inquiries from attorneys and the public and maintains related work product and case files.
• Serves as court organizer for motions and operates court recording equipment during hearings.
• 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.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• College transcripts and a legal writing sample must be submitted with application.
• Must pass the Michigan Bar Examination and be admitted to practice law in the State of Michigan within one year of hire.
• Will be required to complete required training and obtain state certification as a Certified Electronic Operator (CEO).
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver's license throughout employment.
• Employment is contingent upon successfully completing a pre-employment physical, drug screening, background check, and fingerprinting.
• Employees are subject to random drug and alcohol testing throughout their employment.
• Must be able to lift up to 25 pounds; reach, bend, and sit or stand for extended periods.
• May be required to work flexible hours and at any Berrien County Trial Court location.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• Familiarity with Westlaw and LexisNexis is desired.
• Knowledge of the Michigan court system, Michigan law, court rules, case law, the Michigan Motor Vehicle Code, courtroom operations, and judicial procedures.
• Proficiency in word processing and spreadsheet software, with accurate typing skills.
• Ability to exercise sound judgment and discretion in analyzing, interpreting, and drawing conclusions from complex facts and circumstances while researching civil and criminal motions and related legal issues.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, establish effective working relationships with colleagues, and communicate professionally and effectively with the public.

NOTE:

• Appointment is for a one-year term by the Chief Judge and is served at the pleasure of the Chief Trial Court Judge in accordance with MCL 600.1471(4).
• At the sole discretion of the Chief Trial Court Judge, the appointment may be renewed for one additional one-year term.

TO APPLY ONLINE, CLICK HERE:

TO APPLY VIA EMAIL, FAX, MAIL OR IN PERSON:

If you prefer not to apply online, you may download a Berrien County Job Application and send it to our Personnel Department via email, fax, mail or in person. A Berrien County job application must be submitted in order to be considered for employment.

Submit by Email
Fax: (269) 983-5788
Address: Berrien County Administration Building, Personnel Department, 701 Main St., St. Joseph, MI 49085