Will “Federal Court of Appeals Law Clerk” be Automated?

Core Skills & Abilities

• Coordinate judges' meeting and appointment schedules.

• Keep abreast of changes in the law and inform judges when cases are affected by such changes.

• Perform courtroom duties, including calling calendars, administering oaths, and swearing in jury panels and witnesses.

• Participate in conferences or discussions between trial attorneys and judges.

• Respond to questions from judicial officers or court staff on general legal issues.

• Research laws, court decisions, documents, opinions, briefs, or other information related to cases before the court.

• Draft or proofread judicial opinions, decisions, or citations.

• Enter information into computerized court calendar, filing, or case management systems.

• Verify that all files, complaints, or other papers are available and in the proper order.

• Prepare periodic reports on court proceedings, as required.

• Review complaints, petitions, motions, or pleadings that have been filed to determine issues involved or basis for relief.

• Confer with judges concerning legal questions, construction of documents, or granting of orders.

• Maintain judges' law libraries by assembling or updating appropriate documents.

• Communicate with counsel regarding case management or procedural requirements.

• Prepare briefs, legal memoranda, or statements of issues involved in cases, including appropriate suggestions or recommendations.

• Supervise law students, volunteers, or other personnel assigned to the court.

• Attend court sessions to hear oral arguments or record necessary case information.

• Review dockets of pending litigation to ensure adequate progress.