Law Clerk, Ramsey County, Judge Stennes

Judicial Law Clerk

The Second Judicial District is accepting applications for a Judicial Law Clerk for Judge Stacy Stennes. Judge Stennes is currently assigned to the criminal division. This position supports Judge Stennes and promotes the court's mission of providing justice through a system that assures equal access for the fair and timely resolution of cases and controversies.

Judicial Law Clerks work directly with a District Court Judge performing professional legal research, preparation of memoranda, opinions, and orders and related clerical/administrative work. They gain insight into judicial and court processes within the Minnesota Judicial Branch and the Second Judicial District, with a focus on the administration of justice. Judge Stennes is chambered in the Ramsey County Courthouse at 15 W Kellogg, St Paul, MN 55102, but works at several court locations in the Second Judicial District.

This position will require mostly in-person work but may also include occasional flexibility to work remotely. A reliable internet connection will be required when working remotely.

Regular hours are Monday Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. This position will require the ability to work full time during these hours.

Responsibilities

The following are examples of major job duties expected of this position.

• Review, study, and research laws, court decisions, documents, opinions, briefs, and related legal authorities.
• Prepare proposed orders and legal memoranda including appropriate suggestions or recommendations.
• Compile information necessary for legal determinations.
• Confer with the Judge on legal questions, construction of documents, and granting of orders.
• Attend court sessions to hear oral arguments and record necessary case information; maintain records related to court proceedings.
• Courtroom duties include taking court minutes, calling the calendar, swearing in witnesses, and assisting in various court proceedings such as arraignments, motions, hearings, pre-trial conferences, and trials.
• Administrative duties include maintaining chambers operations, corresponding with attorneys, and filing on behalf of the court.

Minimum Qualifications

• Graduation from an accredited law school at time of employment.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to work a full-time schedule during regular business hours.
• Knowledge of laws, court rules, 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 self-represented parties.
• Ability to research complex legal problems or questions and apply legal principles.
• Ability to represent the court in a respectful manner.
• Proficient computer skills, including experience using Westlaw, Zoom, and Microsoft Word.
• Ability to exhibit cultural sensitivity, patience, professionalism, and empathy in the course of work duties.

All applicants must also upload and attach a cover letter, resume, law school transcripts, and brief writing sample (no more than 10 pages in length).

All employment offers are contingent upon satisfactory results of our background check processes. Successful candidate will be required to pass a criminal background check.

Working Conditions

Work is performed primarily in an office setting, courtroom or at a public counter. Work involves contact with persons who may be angry, abusive, or threatening.

Physical Demands

Work is essentially sedentary with occasional walking, standing, bending and carrying items up to 25 pounds. Some assignments may require periods of extended sitting, standing or computer use.

Salary

The anticipated starting salary is $31.24-$34.93/hour based on qualifications and experience.

This position is not eligible for overtime compensation and is eligible for State of Minnesota employee benefits.