Job Description

Step outside the metropolitan area and experience an out-state judicial clerkship being exposed to a multi-faceted caseload, observe many different types of court proceedings and understanding of the litigation process. Law Clerks also benefit from a close mentorship working directly with the District Court Judge performing legal research, drafting legal documents, correspondence, memoranda and other writings as requested.

A District Court Law Clerk position offers the opportunity to work within the Minnesota Judicial Branch at the Trial Court Level, and gain insight into judicial and court processes, with a court perspective on the administration of justice. The primary work location will be the Lyon County Government Center located at 607 West Main, Marshall, MN.

Applications will be reviewed on a regular basis with interviews scheduled throughout the duration of this posting.

The successful candidate will be articulate, self-motivated, and an excellent writer. Excellent research and analytical skills are required. Must have the ability to communicate effectively, verbally and in writing.

Example of Duties

(Any one position may not include all the duties listed, nor do the examples cover all the duties which may be performed.) The following are examples of major job duties expected for this position to perform.
• Reviews, studies, researches, and annotates laws, court decisions, documents, opinions, briefs, and related legal authorities.
• Prepares briefs, legal memoranda, and statement of issues involved, including appropriate suggestions or recommendations to the justice or judge.
• Compiles references on laws and decisions necessary for legal determinations.
• Confers with justice, judge or court official concerning legal questions, construction of documents and granting of orders.
• Attends court sessions to hear oral arguments and records necessary case information; maintain records attendant to court proceedings.
• May perform courtroom duties including calling the calendar; swearing in jury panels and witness; taking court minutes; and assisting in various court proceedings such as arraignments, motions, hearings, pre-trial conferences and trials.

Typical Qualifications

Any combination of education, training, and work experience which indicates possession of the knowledge, skills, and abilities listed below will be considered. An example of an acceptable qualification is:

Minimum Qualifications:
• Juris Doctorate (JD) from an accredited law school.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:
• Knowledge of general law, state law, established precedent, and sources of legal reference.
• Knowledge of court practices and procedures.
• Knowledge of legal terminology and concepts.
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both orally and in writing, with a diverse group of people.
• Ability to research complex legal problems or questions and apply legal principles.
• Ability to represent the court in a respectful manner.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with others.
• Proficient in Microsoft Word/Windows operating system and legal research software

Supplemental Information

TO APPLY: Please complete your online application by clicking the “APPLY NOW” link at the bottom of this page. All applications MUST include a law school transcript, a brief writing sample, cover letter and resume

All employment offers are contingent upon satisfactory results of a criminal background check.

Please contact Human Resources at 5thDistrictHR@courts.state.mn.us with questions regarding this position.

Why Work for Us?
Minnesota Judicial Branch employees consistently express pride in their public service and in the quality of programs and services provided to customers, as well as appreciation for the teamwork and collaboration that is promoted within the MJB.​ We celebrate and are committed to the principles of diversity and inclusion, and actively seek and value diversity in professional background and cultural characteristics. We are intentional and mindful about the organizational culture we are building, seeking broad-minded individuals with robust capabilities who value supporting one another’s growth. ​
Employee Benefits
The Minnesota Judicial Branch cares about and invests in you as an employee. Because of that, we offer affordable yet competitive benefits to support you and your family’s wellbeing. Our comprehensive benefits package for eligible employees includes health and wellness benefits, enhanced fertility benefits, short- and long-term disability, pension, paid parental leave, tuition reimbursement, and more. Learn more at Employee Benefits - Careers at the Minnesota Judicial Branch Careers Minnesota Judicial Branch employees may also be eligible for the Public Service Loan Forgiveness program. This federal program allows qualified individuals to have their loans forgiven after meeting certain requirements working in public service. You can learn more about this program from the Minnesota Office of Higher Education and the office of Federal Student Aid.
Equal Employment Opportunity
​It is the policy of the Minnesota Judicial Branch that all decisions regarding employment are made without discrimination on the basis of disability. Please let us know if you need a reasonable accommodation for a disability to participate in the employee selection process by contacting Human Resources at 5thDistrictHR@courts.state.mn.us. The Minnesota Judicial Branch is an Equal Opportunity Employer. It is the​ policy of the Minnesota Judicial Branch that all decisions regarding​ recruitment, hiring, promotions, and other terms and conditions of​ employment be made without discrimination on the grounds of race, color,​ creed, religion, national origin, gender, marital status, status with regard​ to public assistance, membership or activity in a local human rights​ commission, disability, sexual orientation, or age. We value and encourage​ applicants from diverse backgrounds.​
Internal Applicants
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