Post-Bar Law Clerk - Summer

Post-Bar Law Clerk

This is an Extra Help Position. Extra Help means this may be a Part‑Time or Full‑Time, Non‑Permanent position. The number of hours worked per week may vary and depend on the needs of the department. However, it is expected to be a 40 hour a week extra help position. For terms and conditions concerning Extra Help with Butte County, see Section 6.13c of the 2021 Personnel Rules.

• Attach a resume, cover letter and transcript.
• Attach two letters of recommendation.
• Attach a writing sample not to exceed 5 pages.
• Attach proof showing plans to sit for the California State Bar Exam.

Under the supervision of prosecutors, the position provides hands‑on, paid experience in criminal law. Post‑Bar law clerks engage in legal research, write motions, assist with trial preparation and conduct contested hearings under the supervision of a Deputy District Attorney. The post‑bar law clerk position is a limited, extra help fixed term and at‑will position for 12‑14 weeks, 40 hours per week.

The ideal candidate will have a demonstrated interest in criminal law, solid legal research skills and an ability to communicate – orally and in writing – in a clear and persuasive manner. While the District Attorney's office cannot make specific commitments, once the post‑bar clerk passes the bar, former clerks are evaluated for future possible employment based on experience, education, performance, availability, the need for attorneys, and budget constraints.

• Research and analyze principles, concepts, codes and case law. Draft correspondence, memos and legal motions.
• Review, analyze and apply evidence, reports, recordings and witness interviews. Investigate facts and case law to prepare cases, determine actions and recommend strategy.
• Prepare legal documents including motions, affidavits, jury instructions, warrants and other documents for use by a Deputy District Attorney.
• Work closely with Deputy District Attorneys to make filing or declination decisions, research and drafting motions, preparing cases for trial and developing case tactics.
• Provide a wide range of legal support, administrative duties and other duties as assigned.

• Candidate will have taken the California State Bar exam prior to starting employment and be waiting for exam results. Individuals who have taken the California State Bar exam more than twice are not eligible for this position.
• Be eligible and willing to work as a certified law student through the California State Bar Practical Training of Law Students program. Please refer to the California State Bar website for additional information.
• Consent to and pass a background investigation. Post‑bar clerks who have other outside employment must disclose employment to the District Attorney's office for review prior to accepting this assignment.
• Post‑bar clerks selected for the positions may not perform any work (paid or unpaid) for any criminal defense attorney during the pendency of their clerkship with this office. Any other employment must be disclosed and approved by this office.

• Work in an office environment.
• Be subject to repetitive motions, such as typing and viewing a monitor.
• May be exposed to angry, hostile or volatile citizens.