Description:

Job Description:
While being mindful of the office's inherent confidentiality guidelines, law clerks will conduct legal research and draft motions and pleadings filed in U.S. District Court and will have the opportunity to assist with court and trial preparation. Clerks may also have the opportunity to help draft appellate briefs filed with the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals. Law clerks are encouraged to watch federal court proceedings, especially trials and sentencings, attend in-house legal trainings, and explore federal practice and procedure one-on-one with AUSAs.

Successful applicants should: 1) be proactive self-starters who are interested in working in a fast-paced environment offering a variety of opportunities and experiences; 2) have solid research and writing skills; and 3) have a demonstrated interest in public service, particularly including experience working in a prosecution office. Clerks will be given assignments in as many different practice areas and with as many different attorneys as possible, providing exposure to a number of subject matters and styles of practice. Additionally, interested individuals participating in the Summer Clerkship Program will have the opportunity to have fully guided behind the scenes tours of a port of entry facility along the U.S./Mexico border, as well as of a federal prison.

Qualifications:
Enrolled in an ABA-accredited law school and be a rising 2L or 3L. Graduates cannot be considered for this particular posting, per DOJ policy. Must also be a U.S. citizen, per DOJ. Strong grades and excellent research and writing skills. Completion of courses in Evidence and in Criminal Law or Procedure are a plus, but not required. A background check must be completed upon acceptance of the clerkship offer because of the sensitive nature of the work performed by the United States Attorney's Office. Prior criminal arrests and/or convictions, illegal drug or alcohol use, and tax issues could disqualify the student. Regarding summer applicants, those who are available for at least 10 weeks during that semester are preferred due to the expenses involved in the background checks.