District Court Law Clerk, Hennepin Co., Judge Susan Burke

The Fourth Judicial District Court in Minneapolis is seeking a qualified individual to fill a law clerk position with a start date in August 2025 to report to Judge Susan Burke of the Civil & Criminal Divisions. 

The work of a law clerk involves drafting orders and memoranda, legal research, organization of a substantial case load, communication with attorneys and the public, updating the court information system on the status of cases, and related administrative work. 

EXAMPLE OF DUTIES

• Review, study, and research laws, court decisions, documents, opinions, briefs, and related legal authorities
• Prepare legal memoranda and jury instructions, including appropriate suggestions or recommendations to the judge 
• Compile references on laws and decisions necessary for legal determinations
• Confer with the judge and judge’s staff concerning legal questions, construction of documents and orders
• Attend court sessions and record necessary case information
• Courtroom duties, including taking notes; courtroom preparation; calling the calendar; swearing in jury panels and witnesses; and assisting in various court proceedings such as arraignments, motions, hearings, pre-trial conferences, and trials
• Administrative duties including scheduling and maintaining records

TYPICAL QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum Knowledge, Skills and Abilities:

• Knowledge of general law, state law, established precedent, and sources of legal reference
• Knowledge of court practices and procedures, legal terms and concepts
• Ability to communicate clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing
• Ability to research highly complex legal issues and accurately apply legal principles 
• Ability to work in an environment that values diversity and relationships
• Ability to professionally exhibit sensitivity, patience, and understanding 
• Ability to provide a exceptional and consistent customer service experience
• Ability to represent the court in a professional and respectful manner 
• Skill in the operation of a personal computer with word processing and legal research software
• Knowledge of Zoom video conference software for the purposes of managing and conducting remote hearings
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Excellent organizational skills
• A commitment to excellence 

Preferred Education and Experience:

• Juris Doctor (JD) from an accredited law school
• Attorney license or pending bar exam
• Significant interest in both civil and criminal law and procedure

APPLICATION MATERIALS

Applications for this position can be submitted online. Please attach to your application the following materials:

• Resume 
• List of References 
• Your Best Writing Sample
• Cover Letter 
• Unofficial Transcript

Any questions regarding the posting can be directed to Haley Halvorson, Judicial Human Resources Coordinator, at haley.halvorson@courts.state.mn.us.

Candidates selected for interviews will be notified by Judge Susan Burke directly.