Law Clerk

Law Clerk

Hanover County Government is seeking two exceptional Law Clerks to support our Judges in delivering fair, timely, and well-reasoned decisions. This limited-term appointment offers an unparalleled opportunity to apply your legal training in real time conducting skilled research, analyzing complex issues, observing court proceedings, and contributing directly to the judicial process.

General Description: This is a paraprofessional position. The incumbent performs highly confidential, complex tasks assisting the Circuit Court Judges by providing a variety of legal services, skilled research and evaluation duties.

Organization: The Law Clerk reports to the Circuit Court Judges and supervises no staff.

Essential Functions:

• Reviews/prepares research memoranda concerning support, custody, visitation, equitable distribution and injunctions in domestic cases.
• Reviews and evaluates compliance with statutory and court procedure in divorce actions.
• Reads and evaluates depositions.
• Contacts attorneys regarding procedural irregularities and substantive deficiencies in depositions.
• Evaluates/discusses the priority of pendemte lite orders, final decrees, garnishments and payroll deductions orders.
• Reviews Commissioner reports.
• Evaluates/prepares briefs and researches memoranda concerning motions, petitions and pre-trial documents.
• Observes oral arguments and trial presentations.
• Briefs and formulates issues judges.
• Reviews habeas corpus petitions.
• Performs bench research on issues arising in the course of court hearings, including questions as to evidence admissibility, case law and sentencing.
• Performs related work as assigned.

Working Conditions:

• A. Hazards: None known
• B. Environment: Office
• C. Physical Effort: Minimal
• D. Exempt: No

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Requires knowledge of laws/regulations/procedures that govern the operation of the Circuit Court. Must understand the methods of legal research and its sources and materials. Knowledge of the principles and practices of substantive and procedural law, required. Must have the ability to research legal information fully and accurately to meet mandated timeframes. Must be able to analyze and organize complex legal and technical issues so as to make appropriate recommendations or to provide complete reports. Requires excellent communication skills, both orally and in writing.

Education, Experience and Training: Requires graduation from an accredited school of law.

Special Conditions:

• Limited Term
• Criminal Records Check, including fingerprinting
• Twelve-month probationary period

Special Instructions to Applicants: Appointment Term #1: August 16, 2027, to August 15, 2028 Appointment Term #2: September 1, 2027, to August 31, 2028 It is required that you attach a Resume, Cover Letter and Writing Sample to your application to be considered for this position. If you are selected for this position, you will be required to provide a copy of your Law Degree.