Best Time To Apply For Law Clerkships

Judicial clerkships are among the most prestigious and competitive employment opportunities for recent law graduates. They are a great way to gain practical experience and enhance your career prospects. The best time to apply for a judicial clerkship is during your second year of law school, in early September, and not before, in accordance with the Federal Hiring Plan. However, the timing may vary depending on the specific court and its requirements. For example, the Indiana University Robert H. McKinney School of Law recommends that students interested in a clerkship with the Indiana Supreme Court or the Indiana Court of Appeals apply during the fall semester of their second year. It's important to research the application deadlines and requirements for the specific courts you're interested in.

Federal clerkships: apply early, as they fill up years in advance

Federal clerkships are highly competitive and fill up years in advance. If you're interested in a federal clerkship, it's important to start the application process early. Here are some key things to keep in mind:

Timing

It's crucial to understand that federal clerkships have a different timeline than state or local clerkships. Federal clerkships tend to fill up much faster, and the application process can start as early as the summer after your first year of law school (1L). Some judges may even accept applications before you have completed two full years of law school. Therefore, it's essential to stay informed about the specific requirements and timelines of the judges you're interested in working for.

OSCAR System

The Online System for Clerkship Application and Review (OSCAR) is a valuable tool for applying to federal clerkships. OSCAR is a website developed by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts to facilitate judicial clerkship applications. While not all judges use OSCAR, it is still a great resource to find information about federal judge positions and their application preferences. OSCAR also allows you to create a profile, upload application materials, and apply electronically to some judges.

Application Materials

When applying for federal clerkships, you will typically need to submit a cover letter, resume, writing sample, law school transcript, and letters of recommendation. It's important to start preparing these materials early, as the application process can be time-consuming and competitive. Additionally, you should carefully review the requirements and preferences of each judge you're applying to, as they may vary.

Grades and Academic Performance

Federal clerkships are highly competitive, and judges typically look for strong academic performance. While there is no definitive grade cutoff, applicants with a class rank in the top 25% or higher are generally more competitive. Additionally, certain classes and extracurricular activities can enhance your application, such as taking courses in evidence, criminal procedure, and federal courts.

Recommendations and Connections

Recommendations play a crucial role in the federal clerkship application process. It's important to develop relationships with professors, attorneys, or other professionals who can speak to your research and writing abilities, intellectual capabilities, and potential as a lawyer. If you have connections to any district or circuit you're applying to, be sure to leverage those connections when seeking recommendations.

In summary, applying for federal clerkships requires early preparation, a strong academic record, and a well-crafted application package. By starting the process early and staying informed about the preferences of individual judges, you can increase your chances of securing a federal clerkship position.

State/local clerkships: don't fill up as fast as federal ones

State and local clerkships are less competitive than federal clerkships, so they don't fill up as fast. While federal clerkships are considered the "Ivy League of clerkships", state clerkships still offer an amazing experience and often qualify you for post-competition entry bonuses within most Big Law firms. There are also more positions available, so you have a better chance of getting accepted in the state you desire.

State clerkships are also a great way to gain experience and work your way up to a federal clerkship. This gives you the benefit of added networking and experience, and you will become more familiar with the court system and what it takes to stand out as a federal clerkship applicant.

State clerkships are comparable to federal district courts, though some state supreme courts might be considered more prestigious than some federal district courts. For example, a clerkship in Florida's Third District Court of Appeals, which is in Miami, carries a lot of weight in the area. It might be the same for other appellate courts in big cities or states.

State court salaries vary depending on the state and court. For example, court clerks in Colorado, Illinois, and Michigan earn over $100,000 annually, whereas Florida Supreme Court clerks earn under $60,000, and trial court clerks in Texas earn under $50,000.

OSCAR: a useful website for federal judicial clerkship applications

OSCAR, or the Online System for Clerkship Application and Review, is a website developed by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts (AO) to facilitate federal judicial clerkship applications. The platform is an excellent resource for law students and graduates looking to pursue a judicial clerkship. Here are some reasons why OSCAR is a useful website for federal judicial clerkship applications:

• Comprehensive Database: OSCAR maintains a comprehensive database of federal judicial clerkship opportunities. It lists every federal judge in the system, making it a one-stop shop for applicants to find and apply for clerkship positions. While not all judges use OSCAR to post openings, it is still the primary source for information on federal law clerk vacancies.
• User-Friendly Interface: The OSCAR website is designed with user-friendliness in mind. Applicants can easily create a profile, access training resources, and stay up to date with new postings. The site also offers tip sheets, video tutorials, and weekly emails announcing newly posted clerkships, making the application process more accessible and efficient.
• Application Convenience: OSCAR provides a convenient way to apply for clerkships electronically. Applicants can upload all their application materials, including resumes, cover letters, writing samples, and transcripts, in one place. This centralized platform saves applicants time and effort in submitting their applications.
• Customizable Application Process: OSCAR accommodates different preferences of judges regarding application methods. While some judges use OSCAR exclusively for electronic applications, others may use it to communicate their preferred method of receiving applications, which could be via hard copy or email. This flexibility ensures that applicants can adhere to each judge's specific requirements.
• Timely Updates and Resources: OSCAR provides timely updates on new clerkship positions through its weekly emails and website postings. It also offers valuable resources, such as quick reference guides, videos, help articles, and webinars, to support applicants throughout the application process. These resources can enhance an applicant's understanding of the federal judicial clerkship landscape.
• Access to Training Events: OSCAR also serves as a platform for applicants to stay informed about upcoming training events. These events can provide applicants with valuable insights into the clerkship application process, helping them navigate it more effectively.

In conclusion, OSCAR is a valuable tool for law students and graduates seeking federal judicial clerkships. Its comprehensive database, user-friendly interface, and convenient application process make it a go-to resource for those aiming to pursue a career in the federal judiciary. By leveraging the features and resources offered by OSCAR, applicants can increase their chances of securing a coveted federal judicial clerkship position.

Application process: submit paperwork, psychometric testing, interviews, and networking nights

The application process for law clerkships can be lengthy and complex, but there are several tools and resources available to help you navigate it. Here is a step-by-step guide to the application process, including the submission of paperwork, psychometric testing, interviews, and networking nights.

Submit Paperwork

The first step is to create a profile on the Online System for Clerkship Application and Review (OSCAR), a website developed by the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts (AO) to facilitate judicial clerkship applications. OSCAR lists every federal judge in its database, but each judge decides how they will utilize the system. Some judges may choose not to use OSCAR at all, while others may use it to communicate available positions and their preferred application method, or to receive applications directly via electronic upload.

Once you have set up your OSCAR profile, you can start preparing your application materials. For each judge you apply to, you will typically need to assemble a resume, cover letter, reference list, writing sample, transcript, and a law school grading policy. You may also need to request letters of recommendation from your professors or supervisors.

Psychometric Testing

As part of the application process, you may be required to undergo psychometric testing, which typically includes aptitude tests (such as numerical, verbal, and abstract reasoning tests) and personality tests. These tests are designed to assess your cognitive abilities, behavioural styles, attitudes, and personality characteristics relevant to the role. It is recommended that you familiarize yourself with the types of tests you are likely to encounter and practice similar tests in advance to improve your chances of success.

Interviews

If your application is successful, you may be invited for an interview with the judge. Sample interview questions can vary, but they often explore your motivations, career plans, writing style, work ethic, and legal knowledge. Be prepared to discuss your academic and work experiences, as well as any extra-curricular activities and interests that have shaped your skills and perspectives.

Networking Nights

Networking events, such as clerkship cocktail evenings or careers fairs, are invaluable opportunities to connect with firm representatives and gain deeper insights into the culture and work of different firms. These events allow you to build rapport with sponsors and establish foundations for future career opportunities. Effective networking requires a thoughtful and proactive approach, so be sure to research the firms and judges you are interested in beforehand and consider the unique insights you want to gain from these events.

Clerkship experience: a great way to gain practical experience and build relationships

Clerkships are an excellent way to gain practical experience and build relationships. They offer a unique opportunity to learn about the judicial process, develop legal skills, and make valuable connections. Here are some reasons why clerkship experience can be a great advantage for your career:

Exposure to the Legal System

Clerkships provide a front-row seat to the legal system, allowing clerks to gain first-hand experience with court procedures, legal writing, and research. Observing hearings and understanding judges' expectations can offer invaluable insights.

Networking Opportunities

During a clerkship, you will have the chance to meet and work with judges, attorneys, and other legal professionals. This helps build a strong professional network, which can lead to future job opportunities. Networking during a clerkship can open doors to potential employment once the clerkship concludes.

Enhanced Legal Skills

Clerkships offer the opportunity to work closely with judges on complex legal issues, drafting opinions, and orders. This experience enhances legal research, writing, and analysis skills, which are highly valued by law firms and agencies.

Career Advancement

A judicial clerkship can serve as a stepping stone to a career in law, especially for those interested in litigation or government work. Many firms prefer candidates with clerkship experience and are willing to pay more for it.

Professional Development

Clerks receive mentorship and guidance from experienced judges, who were once practicing attorneys. Judges often have more time to mentor young lawyers, providing valuable resources and insights that can help throughout your legal career.

Prestige

Judicial clerkships are highly competitive and prestigious. Having this experience on your resume makes you stand out to potential employers. The connections and relationships formed during a clerkship can also enhance your career prospects.

Gaining Practical Experience

Clerkships provide a smooth transition from law school to the practice of law. They offer a hands-on contribution to the judicial decision-making process and expose clerks to a wide array of legal issues. This practical experience is highly valued by future employers.

In conclusion, clerkship experience is a great way to gain practical legal skills, build professional relationships, and enhance your resume. It offers a unique perspective on the judicial process and provides opportunities for career advancement. By taking on a clerkship, you will not only gain valuable experience but also make connections that can benefit your legal career in the long run.

Frequently asked questions