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Keep a reminder of why you're in law school nearby! Maybe it's a career goal or an inspiration. It can be easy to get lost in the day-to-day of law school and forget that the world exists outside the walls of your school. A tether to the outside world always helps to keep things in perspective.

Take time for YOURSELF. It's easy to burn out, make sure you do things that bring you joy!

Landing a judicial clerkship is a prestigious and invaluable experience that can significantly shape your legal career. It offers unparalleled insight into the judicial process, mentorship from esteemed judges, and a strong foundation for future opportunities. However, the application process is competitive and requires careful planning and execution. Here's your guide to acing your judicial clerkship application:

I. Laying the Groundwork: Preparation is Key

• Start Early: Don't wait until your final year to think about clerkships. Begin researching judges and understanding the process as early as your 1L or 2L year.
• Build Your Academic Record: Grades matter. Aim for the highest GPA possible and excel in relevant courses like Constitutional Law, Civil Procedure, and Legal Writing.
• Hone Your Legal Writing Skills: Clerkships heavily rely on strong writing abilities. Participate in law review, moot court, or legal clinics that demand rigorous research and writing. Seek feedback on your writing and actively work to improve.
• Cultivate Relationships with Professors: Your professors are invaluable resources for advice and letters of recommendation. Actively participate in class, seek their guidance on research projects, and build genuine relationships.
• Understand Different Courts: Research the various levels of courts (federal district, circuit, state appellate, supreme) and the types of work they involve. Identify courts and judges whose work aligns with your interests.

II. Crafting a Compelling Application Package:

• Tailor Your Application: Generic applications are a red flag. Customize your cover letter and resume for each judge you apply to, highlighting specific reasons for your interest in their work and the court.
• The Cover Letter: Your First Impression:
  • Address it Professionally: Use the correct title and spelling of the judge's name.
  • State Your Purpose Clearly: Indicate the specific clerkship position you are applying for.
  • Showcase Your Interest: Articulate why you are drawn to this particular judge and their court. Reference specific opinions, areas of expertise, or aspects of their judicial philosophy that resonate with you.
  • Highlight Relevant Skills and Experiences: Connect your academic achievements, writing experience, and any relevant work or extracurricular activities to the demands of a clerkship.
  • Demonstrate Strong Writing: Your cover letter is a writing sample in itself. Ensure it is impeccably written, free of errors, and showcases your analytical and persuasive abilities.
• The Resume: A Concise Overview:
  • Present Information Clearly and Concisely: Use a professional format and highlight your academic achievements, legal writing experience, work experience, and relevant skills.
  • Quantify Your Achievements Whenever Possible: Instead of saying "researched legal issues," say "researched complex legal issues resulting in a 10-page memorandum."
  • Proofread Meticulously: Even a single typo can undermine your application. Have multiple people review your resume.
• Transcripts: Accuracy Matters: Ensure your transcripts are accurate and submitted according to the court's instructions.
• Writing Sample: Showcase Your Best Work:
  • Choose Carefully: Select a piece of legal writing that demonstrates your analytical skills, research abilities, and clear and concise writing style. Law review notes or seminar papers are often good choices.
  • Edit Rigorously: Your writing sample should be polished to perfection. Proofread it multiple times and seek feedback.
  • Follow Instructions: Adhere to any specific length or formatting requirements.
• Letters of Recommendation: Choose Wisely:
  • Ask Professors Who Know You Well: Select professors who can speak specifically to your academic abilities, legal writing skills, and work ethic.
  • Provide Ample Notice and Information: Give your recommenders sufficient time and provide them with your resume, cover letter (for that specific judge), writing sample, and any specific instructions from the court.
  • Follow Up Politely: Thank your recommenders for their time and effort.

III. Navigating the Application Process:

• Research Each Judge's Preferences: Some judges have specific application requirements or preferences. Check their websites or reach out to former clerks if possible.
• Pay Attention to Deadlines: Missing a deadline is an automatic rejection. Create a system to track deadlines for each application.
• Submit a Professional and Polished Application: Ensure all documents are properly formatted, free of errors, and submitted according to the court's instructions (often through online portals like OSCAR).
• Be Professional in All Communications: Maintain a professional tone in all emails and phone calls with court staff.
• Prepare for Interviews: If you are granted an interview, research the judge and their recent opinions. Be prepared to discuss your writing sample, your interest in the court, and your understanding of relevant legal issues. Practice answering common interview questions.
• Follow Up Appropriately: After submitting your application or completing an interview, send a brief thank-you note.

IV. Persistence and Perspective:

• The Process Can Be Lengthy: Be prepared for a potentially long waiting period. Don't get discouraged by initial rejections.
• Apply Broadly: Increase your chances by applying to a diverse range of judges and courts that genuinely interest you.
• Seek Guidance from Your Career Services Office: Your law school's career services office is an invaluable resource for advice, application review, and mock interviews.
• Maintain a Positive Attitude: The clerkship application process can be challenging, but stay positive and persistent.

Landing a judicial clerkship is a significant achievement. By starting early, crafting a compelling application, and navigating the process professionally, you can significantly increase your chances of securing this transformative opportunity. Good luck!