Create a Successful Application

Create a Successful Application

Narrow the Field

Hundreds of judicial clerks are hired every year, in settings that vary by location, type of work, pay, prestige, and more. Your first task is to identify the clerkships that suit your needs and interests.

Ask yourself:

• What are my qualifications and strengths?
• What kind of court would most interest me?
• What geographical area should I target?

The Judicial Clerkship Considerations chart can help you determine:

• If you should clerk
• The type of clerkship (federal or state) would benefit you most
• The level of court in which you should clerk

The application process is competitive, so be realistic in your application strategy. Federal clerkships can be more competitive than those at the state or local level. Some circuits -- DC, 2nd, 4th, 7th, and 9th -- are more popular, and therefore more competitive.

Target a Court

Two types of courts hire the majority of clerks:

• Trial courts tend to offer more intimate contact with the practice of law, and a wider variety of duties. 
• Appellate courts generally involve more legal research and writing, especially the drafting of memoranda and opinions.

Once you have research the courts and settled on your preferences, Career Services can connect you with alumni who have performed similar clerkships.

Learn more here.

Select a Geographic Area

The most immediate way to focus your search is to identify the location(s) where you would like to clerk.

It matters to some judges that you are either from an area, or plan to practice there, when you finish your clerkship.

Federal judges are less inclined to favor clerks from a specific area, but state court judges may look favorably on a hometown connection. Many enjoy helping shape their legal communities by training lawyers who will someday practice before them.

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