Law Clerk - Circuit Courts

Job Summary: Researches legal issues arising in any of the types of cases heard in the domestic relations, probate, civil, criminal, and juvenile divisions of Circuit Court; prepares memos outlining the legal research and/or prepares opinions or orders as requested by the Judge; drafts proposed orders for the court's review and approval; ensures attorney submitted orders are accurate and filed in a timely manner.

Essential Job Functions:

• Reviews case files prior to hearings to ensure procedural and substantive legal requirements are met and provides any additional case-related information the Judge requests.
• Researches and becomes knowledgeable on a wide range of legal issues and subjects heard in Circuit Court, including:
• Domestic relations law (divorce, child custody, child support, paternity, domestic violence, etc.)
• Probate law (decedent's estates, guardianships, adoptions, conservatorships, etc.)
• Civil law (constitutional law, personal injury, medical malpractice, breach of contract, appeals from administrative agencies, appeals from District Court, etc.)
• Criminal law
• Juvenile law
• Monitors changes in the law and in the rules of the Arkansas Supreme Court.
• Prepares a summary of each case prior to hearings to assist the Judge, including a summary of the facts and citations for any relevant case law.
• Researches legal issues and prepares memoranda and/or opinions for review by the Judge on issues related to any subjects addressed.
• Drafts court orders consistent with the Judge's rulings and decisions; e-file orders as needed.
• Maintains checklists and calendars to ensure orders are timely submitted by attorneys, and ensure the orders are accurate and filed in a timely manner.
• Reviews all incoming pleadings requiring the Judge's attention; coordinates requests for hearings with counsel and Trial Court Administrator.
• Analyzes motions that do not require hearings for procedural and substantive legal accuracy, as well as for the completeness of all information the Judge requires for adjudication; communicate with attorneys and self-represented litigants to obtain any missing, necessary documents before presenting the matter to the Judge for adjudication.
• Attends hearings and trials, noting legal issues requiring resolution.
• Maintains legal library and online research materials.
• Maintains knowledge of the Arkansas Rules of Civil Procedure, Rules of Criminal Procedure, Rules of Evidence, and all other court rules that affect cases brought before the Court.
• Reviews and adheres to the Arkansas Code of Judicial Conduct and rules that affect the conduct of attorneys.
• Communicates with the Pulaski County Circuit Clerk's Office and the Perry County Circuit Clerk to obtain relevant information concerning case filings, orders, appeals, and other matters.
• Communicates with the Arkansas Supreme Court Clerk's Office regarding case filings, orders, appeals, and other matters.
• Communicates with Arkansas courts, out-of-state courts, and federal courts regarding inter-jurisdictional transfers, venue issues, jurisdiction issues, and other matters.
• Communicates with attorneys and self-represented litigants regarding case filings, submitted orders, hearings, appeals, and other matters.
• Assists the Judge as needed concerning new issues raised during hearings and trials by conducting research in an expedient manner.
• Conducts special projects as requested, e.g. organizing a trial binder for jury trials.

Secondary Duties and Responsibilities:
Performs other related duties as assigned.

Personnel Supervised: None

Working Conditions: Work is performed in a smoking-restricted office environment. May occasionally attend court in Perry County.

Minimum Qualifications:
Required Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:

• Considerable knowledge of court proceedings and processes.
• Considerable knowledge of federal, state, and local laws, regulations, and precedents.
• Ability to review, handle, and maintain confidential case information in a reliable and secure manner.
• Ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships with the general public, attorneys, and staff members.
• Ability to establish and maintain a detailed case management system.
• Ability to conduct legal research utilizing previous case decisions and law interpretations.
• Ability to prepare legal memoranda, opinions, and orders.
• Ability to communicate effectively in writing.
• Ability to work within strict time deadlines.
• Ability to attend work regularly and reliably.
• Skill in analyzing and interpreting laws, rules, and regulations and applying them to specific situations.
• Skill in the operation of a computer and related software including Microsoft Office and court management software.

Physical Requirements:

• Visual acuity is required for use of a computer monitor.
• Digital dexterity is necessary for keyboard operation.
• Ability to orally communicate effectively, in person, and by telephone.

Education and Experience:
Completion of Juris Doctorate Degree from an accredited law school; some experience with courtroom procedures or a related area; or any equivalent combination of experience and training which provides the required skills, knowledge, and abilities.

Requirements:

• Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a criminal background check.
• Must possess or be able to immediately obtain a valid Arkansas Driver's License.
• Regular and reliable attendance is an essential function of this position.
• Prefer Arkansas Attorney's License in good standing with the Arkansas Supreme Court.