What are the responsibilities and job description for the Judicial Law Clerk I (Honorable Brian Sullivan -Civil Division) position at THIRD JUDICIAL CIRCUIT OF MICHIGAN?
SUMMARY:
Under limited supervision of a Judge, assists the Judge in making sure the Court room operates efficiently and effectively; processes routine legal paper work and correspondence; reviews, studies and researches laws, court decisions, documents, opinions, briefs, and orders including civil, family and criminal.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
• Researches legal issues before the Court.
• Conducts legal research as assigned, drafts summary of findings; drafts proposed legal memoranda, documents, and opinions.
• Reviews complaints, petitions, motions or pleadings that have been filed to determine issues involved or basis for relief.
• Compiles references on laws and decisions necessary for legal determinations.
• Attends court sessions to hear oral arguments or records necessary case information.
• Follows up initial work with additional research after discussion with or at the request of the Judge.
• Responds to Judge’s requests for immediate information and research.
• Provides information to attorneys, litigants, and others regarding court procedures.
• Drafts or proofreads legal opinions, decisions, or citations.
• Summarizes and compiles various court opinions, compiles and maintains standard jury instructions and other information.
• Remains current with recent changes in the law, court rules, and court procedures.
• Responds to phone calls and written inquiries from public and attorneys.
• Performs related work, including clerical, as required.
• Assists Judge and courtroom team with various administrative duties.
• Performs other duties as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS, LICENSES AND CERTIFICATIONS:
• Law degree from an accredited institution.
• Member of State Bar of Michigan in good standing
• Experience conducting legal research using Westlaw, Lexis, and available legal resources.
• If an employee drives on behalf of the Court, the employee must possess and maintain a valid Michigan driver’s license, no fault insurance and access to a vehicle to use in the performance of assigned duties.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:
• Proven ability to exercise sound judgment and maintain confidentiality.
• Ability to work with a diverse population.
• Ability to research, analyze, and apply complex legal principles to identify issues, formulate solutions, and draft precise legal memoranda, opinions, and other documents.
• Excellent verbal and written communication, including the ability to explain complex court procedures clearly and concisely to diverse audiences (attorneys, litigants, public).
• Proven ability to maintain professional rapport, present facts logically, and accept constructive feedback.
• Skilled in logical reasoning to assess strengths and weaknesses of legal arguments and approaches.
• Ability to deal calmly and effectively with high-stress situations.
• Proficient in managing one's own time, prioritizing tasks, and meeting deadlines effectively.
• Proven ability to establish effective working relationships with all court personnel and external contacts.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
• Must be able to lift 25 lbs.
Additional Requirements:
• Successful completion of criminal and IV-D background check, fingerprinting and rechecks.
• Applicants must be eligible for employment authorization in the U.S.
The above statements describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to the class. Incumbents may be required to perform job-related responsibilities and tasks other than those stated in this description. Specific job duties vary from position to position.
Grant funded positions are contingent on availability of grant funding and may be terminated should funding substantially reduce or cease. The affected employee may be considered as a candidate for other vacant positions within the Court for which they are qualified.
