Frequently Asked Questions About Judicial Clerkship Applications

A judicial clerkship is not only a unique opportunity to view behind-the-scenes legal proceedings and see the law from the judge's perspective but it is also a chance to develop valuable professional contacts that can aid in your future job search. If you are currently applying to judicial clerkships and have questions beyond those listed below, please contact our office.


Where can find I find information on judges and clerkship openings?
There are a number of online and print resources available to help you learn more about federal and state judges and courts.

For Federal Judges: 

1. OSCAR is the central online resource for federal law clerk and appellate court staff attorney hiring. The web-based system allows applicants to file complete applications and recommenders to file letters of recommendation online. While many federal judges now use this system to post openings and collect applications, others still require applicants to apply directly. 
2. The Federal Judiciary website provides biographical information on all past and present federal judges. The site also contains information and links to all the federal courts.  
3. BNA's Directory of State and Federal Courts, Judges, and Courts (available in the CSO) provides information on federal and state court structures as well as the contact information for judges at all levels. 

For State Judges:

1.  The Guide to State Judicial Clerkship Procedures provides information on clerkship opportunities and procedures in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam, and Puerto Rico. Contact the CSO for username and password information.
2. Most state court websites provide the names and contact information of judges assigned to each court. For a list of court websites by state, visit the National Center for State Courts website.  
3. BNA's Directory of State and Federal Courts, Judges, and Courts (available in the CSO) also provides information on federal and state court structures as well as the contact information for judges at all levels. 

How should I address my cover letter? 
If the state or court you are applying to uses a centralized application process, check with the hiring contact for the best way to address your letter. When in doubt, use "Dear Honorable Justices".

When addressing a cover letter to an individual judge, use the following guide:
Federal or State Chief Judge
Address Block: The Honorable [full name], Chief Judge
Salutation: Dear Chief Judge [last name]

Federal or State Judge
Address Block: The Honorable [full name]
Salutation: Dear Judge [last name]

Senior Judge
Address Block:  The Honorable [full name], Senior Judge
Salutation: Dear Judge [last name]

State Chief Justice
Address Block: The Honorable[full name], Chief Justice
Salutation: Dear Chief Justice [last name]

State Justice
Address Block: The Honorable[full name], Associate Justice
Salutation: Dear Justice [last name]

Federal Magistrate or Bankruptcy Judge
Address Block: The Honorable [full name], [Title]
Salutation: Dear Judge [last name]


Who should write my letters of recommendation? 
Generally, judicial clerkship applicants should have three letters of recommendation. At least one letter should be from a law school professor. Letters from past legal employers are also preferred.

What should I use as a writing sample? 
Your writing sample should be a memorandum or brief that showcases your ability to research, analyze, and  explain legal  issues. Your sample should not be more than ten pages long and can be from a past legal employer as long as you obtain permission to use it and redact any confidential information. See our previous blog entry for more extensive information on writing samples.

For further reading:
Insight and Inside Information for Select State Court Clerkships (NALP)
Ten Tips to a Top Clerkship (from www.judicialclerkships.com)