What is a legal clerk job and what do they do?
Legal clerks are professionals who perform administrative and legal support tasks in legal settings. They work under the supervision of lawyers, judges, or other legal professionals. Legal clerk jobs involve a wide range of responsibilities such as conducting legal research, drafting legal documents, organizing and managing files, preparing trial exhibits, assisting with court proceedings, and providing support to clients. They help to ensure that legal operations run smoothly and efficiently.
Top 5 skills required for a legal clerk job
- Excellent organizational and time management skills
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills
- Proficiency in legal research and writing
- Ability to work independently and in a team
How to become a legal clerk specialist?
To become a legal clerk, you need at least a high school diploma or equivalent. However, most employers prefer candidates with a degree in legal studies, paralegal studies, or a related field. Having previous experience in a legal setting or an internship can also be beneficial. Legal clerks may also need to complete certification programs, depending on the state they work in. These programs typically cover legal procedures, research, writing, and ethics.
Average Salary
The salary for legal clerks varies depending on the location, level of experience, and type of employer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for legal support workers, including legal clerks, was $49,500 in May 2020.
Roles and types of legal clerk jobs
Legal clerk jobs can be found in a variety of legal settings such as law firms, government agencies, courts, and corporations. Some of the common types of legal clerk jobs include:
- Administrative legal clerk
- Courtroom legal clerk
- Corporate legal clerk
- Law firm legal clerk
- Paralegal legal clerk
Locations with the most popular legal clerk jobs in the USA
Legal clerk jobs are available in various locations throughout the United States. However, some of the most popular locations for these jobs are:
- Washington, D.C.
- New York City, NY
- Los Angeles, CA
- Chicago, IL
- Houston, TX
What are the typical tools used by legal clerks?
Legal clerks use a variety of tools to perform their job responsibilities effectively. Some of the typical tools used by legal clerks include:
- Legal research databases such as LexisNexis and Westlaw
- Document management software such as Adobe Acrobat and Microsoft Office
- Courtroom technology such as audio and video recording equipment
- Electronic case filing and tracking systems
- Communication tools such as email and phone
In conclusion
Legal clerk jobs are crucial in the legal industry and require a specific set of skills and knowledge. It is a perfect job for those who are detail-oriented, organized, and have a passion for law. With the increasing demand for legal services, legal clerk jobs are expected to grow in the coming years. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a legal clerk, it is essential to acquire the necessary education, experience, and skills to succeed in this field.