Court of Appeals Job Description

LAW CLERK

Provides legal assistance to Court of Appeals Judges or commissioners. Performs legal research and writing, analysis, and evaluation of arguments raised on appeal.

TYPICAL WORK

(Note: The following is a listing of typical duties; the actual duties of a position may not include all those listed or may include other work of a similar nature.)

Reviews records of cases to determine whether they support the facts of the case.

Reviews cited authorities, laws and statutes and conducts original research. Consults with judges, commissioners, or staff attorney.

Prepares prehearing memoranda, summarizing the facts of the case and authority cited, with conclusions and comment; may recommend disposition of the case.

May attend oral argument of cases coming before the court.

Prepares draft opinions supporting the decisions of the court as directed by the judge or commissioner, may prepare draft dissents.

Prepares memoranda on motions to modify and motions for reconsideration.

May assume bailiff duties for a division of the Court of Appeals.

Performs other duties as required.

KNOWLEDGE AND ABILITIES

Knowledge of: Washington State appellate process; court and administrative procedures, including comprehensive knowledge of the law of Washington, state and federal constitutions; Washington statutes and judicial decisions; state, county and municipal administrative regulations; court rules, including rules of evidence, criminal, civil and juvenile procedural rules, and rules on appeal; legal research techniques and resources; relevant citation and cite-checking sources; legal forms; principles of judicial review and grammar rules, Knowledge of federal law is desirable.

Ability to: identify, organize, research and analyze complex legal issues; to communicate in clear, cogent and concise legal writing and effective oral expression; to read voluminous records on appeal, legal argument and authorities; to maintain effective and confidential relationships with all court personnel; to work independently and effectively under deadline; to demonstrate a degree of insight, thoroughness and reliability sufficient to merit the confidence of the appellate bench.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Graduation from an accredited law school.

Computer literacy, including word processing and the Internet.

Moot court and/or law review experience desirable.

FEDERAL FAIR LABOR STANDARDS/WASHINGTON STATE MINIMUM WAGE ACT

This position is either exempt from or not covered by the Federal Fair Labor Standards Act and the Washington State Minimum Wage Act.

Range: 55