Judge Kevin Miller, who is chambered in the Otter Tail County Courthouse, Fergus Falls, Minnesota, seeks qualified candidates for a judicial law clerk position.

If you have an interest in learning about the courtroom process, even if unsure this is your career aspiration, then I would encourage you to consider this law clerk position. Judge Miller is seeking a motivated, professional individual, to become a part of our team in Otter Tail County, Minnesota. The successful applicant will have a good academic record, excellent research and writing skills, and the ability to work both individually and as part of a highly energetic team.

One of the benefits of an out-state judicial clerkship is the exposure to a multi-faceted caseload, as opposed to working in a single area of the law. In this position, you will address issues in criminal, civil, family, probate, juvenile, and conciliation cases. Some matters will be easily addressed, while others quite complex and challenging; but, in each instance, you will develop a better understanding of the practical aspects of litigation. Further, you will come to appreciate the demands of our profession as multi-tasking and working on short deadlines are a part of the responsibilities. The good news though is you will do so in a protected environment with the full support of an experienced judicial team.

The Otter Tail County judicial team is collaborative, collegial and dedicated to offering a positive work environment for everyone. In simple terms, you will be expected to work hard and become an integral member of the team; but also, develop strong working and personal relationships, find a quiet moment each day, and take time to explore the community and enjoy a personal life. The staff is highly interactive and looking forward to an individual who will fit in and make a great addition to the judicial team.

(Any one position may not include all of the duties listed, nor do the examples cover all the duties which may be performed.)

The caseload involves all types of cases and issues, including: criminal, civil, family, probate, juvenile, and conciliation. The law clerk will work in each of these areas on a regular basis. Anyone with an interest in working in or around the courtroom will enjoy this opportunity.

In addition to traditional duties of research and writing, you will be expected to interact with a variety of stakeholders and participants, and develop the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully be a part of a court proceeding. The judicial team in Otter Tail County is positive, professional, and looking forward to an individual who will make a great addition to our work environment. The ability to work in other court locations is also a possibility.

• 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

Must be a graduate of an accredited law school.

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, including attorneys and pro se parties.

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.

Familiarity with Microsoft products, including legal research software is preferred.

Work is performed primarily in an office setting or a courtroom.

SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE WILL BE REQUIRED TO PASS A CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK

Law Clerks are at-will employees and the work is performed under the supervision of a District Court Judge.

This position is open to 2021 graduates. Judge Miller is looking for a person who has both the ability and interest to serve as a successful judicial clerk. This position will remain open until filled.

Full State of Minnesota Benefit package.

Please apply for this position online by clicking the Apply link near the top of this page. (For instructions on creating and submitting your online application, click on the How to Apply link in the left-hand menu at the top of this page.)

In addition to completing the online application, please upload and attach your resume, transcripts and writing sample (no more than 10 pages)

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 HR, 7th8th.HumanResources@courts.state.mn.us

If you have questions about this position, please contact us at: 7th8th.HumanResources@courts.state.mn.us

“The Minnesota Judicial Branch (MJB) is committed to providing fair and equal access to justice. If you share this same commitment, desire a meaningful career serving the public, and want the opportunity to make a difference for your community, consider a career with us. We celebrate and are committed to the principles of diversity and inclusion, and actively seek and encourage applications from persons with diverse backgrounds and characteristics. 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.”