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Temporary Law Clerk Jobs (NOW HIRING)

US Judicial Branch

Term Law Clerk

Norfolk, VA

$75K/yr

The Temporary Law Clerk manages a large docket of civil and criminal cases and has primary responsibilities regarding the drafting and finalizing of opinions and orders. This fast-paced "Rocket ...

U.S. Courts

Term Law Clerk

Norfolk, VA · On-site +1

$75K - $106K/yr

Qualifications The Temporary Law Clerk manages a large docket of civil and criminal cases and has primary responsibilities regarding the drafting and finalizing of opinions and orders. This fast ...

County of Newaygo, MI

Law Clerk

White Cloud, MI · On-site

$19.23/hr

Temporary Job Number: 00080 Department: 27th Circuit Court Opening Date: 07/28/2022 Closing Date ... The Law Clerk will always act in a manner consistent with the highest standards of ethical and ...

Son

Law Clerk (SOS Temporary)

Lincoln, NE

$16.04/hr

JR2026-00028349 Law Clerk (SOS Temporary) (Open) Applications No Longer Accepted On (If no date is displayed, job is posted as open until closed): Under direct supervision, performs paraprofessional ...

New

Kaplan Kirsch and Rockwell LLP

LAW CLERKSHIPS

Denver, CO · On-site

$50/hr

Job Type Temporary Description Accepting Applications through September 15, 2026 We are looking for ... Our law clerks are key members of the Firm, engaging in various types of substantive legal work on ...

National Taxpayers Union

Clerkship Program

Washington, DC · On-site

$25/hr

Supervised by our attorneys Joe Bishop-Henchman and Tyler Martinez, law clerk responsibilities ... This is a temporary, seasonal position. * NTU & NTUF does not offer student and/or employment visa ...

National Taxpayers Union

Clerkship Program

Washington, DC · On-site

$25/hr

Supervised by our attorneys Joe Bishop-Henchman and Tyler Martinez, law clerk responsibilities ... This is a temporary, seasonal position. * NTU & NTUF does not offer student and/or employment visa ...

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Temporary Law Clerk information

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$26K

$53.7K

$82K

How much do temporary law clerk jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 6, 2026, the average yearly pay for temporary law clerk in the United States is $53,711.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $40,500.00 and $65,000.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Temporary Law Clerk vs Permanent Law Clerk?

AspectTemporary Law ClerkPermanent Law Clerk
Duration of EmploymentShort-term, project-based or seasonalLong-term, ongoing position
CredentialsTypically requires a law degree or current law student statusSame as Temporary Law Clerk, often with additional experience
Work EnvironmentLaw firms, courts, or legal departments for limited periodsLaw firms, courts, or legal departments with ongoing roles
Employer UsageUsed for specific projects or to cover staffing needs temporarilyUsed for stable, continuous legal support roles

Temporary Law Clerks are hired for short-term needs, such as specific cases or projects, while Permanent Law Clerks hold ongoing positions within legal organizations. Both roles typically require similar credentials, but their employment duration and purpose differ significantly.

What is a temporary law clerk?

A Temporary Law Clerk is a legal professional hired for a limited period to assist judges, attorneys, or law firms with legal research, drafting legal documents, and reviewing case materials. Temporary Law Clerks typically work on specific projects or cases and may be employed during busy periods or to cover staff absences. Their duties are similar to those of permanent law clerks but their assignments have a set end date. This role provides valuable hands-on legal experience and can be a stepping stone toward permanent legal positions.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a temporary law clerk, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Temporary Law Clerk, you need strong legal research, analytical, and writing skills, generally supported by current law school enrollment or a recent law degree. Familiarity with legal research databases like Westlaw or LexisNexis and proficiency in word processing software are typically required. Attention to detail, organization, and effective communication are standout soft skills in this role. These skills are crucial for producing accurate legal documents, supporting attorneys efficiently, and managing shifting priorities in a fast-paced legal environment.

What types of projects and tasks can a temporary law clerk expect to work on during their assignment?

As a Temporary Law Clerk, you can expect to support attorneys with legal research, drafting memoranda, preparing case summaries, and assisting with document review and case management. Assignments often vary depending on the firm's needs, but they typically involve analyzing case law, statutes, and regulations relevant to ongoing litigation or transactional matters. You may also be asked to help prepare for hearings or trials, and collaborate closely with legal teams to ensure timely and accurate completion of tasks. This role offers valuable exposure to a variety of legal practice areas and workflows, making it an excellent opportunity for skill development and networking.

Is being a temporary law clerk worth it?

A temporary law clerk position provides valuable legal experience and networking opportunities, often serving as a stepping stone to permanent roles or future employment in the legal field. However, it typically offers lower pay and limited job security compared to full-time positions, so its worth depends on individual career goals and financial needs.
More about Temporary Law Clerk jobs
What cities are hiring for Temporary Law Clerk jobs? Cities with the most Temporary Law Clerk job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Law Clerk jobs? The most popular types of Law Clerk jobs are:
What states have the most Temporary Law Clerk jobs? States with the most job openings for Temporary Law Clerk jobs include:
What job categories do people searching Temporary Law Clerk jobs look for? The top searched job categories for Temporary Law Clerk jobs are:
Temporary Law Clerk jobs near you
Infographic showing various Temporary Law Clerk job openings in the United States as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 1% As Needed, 80% Full Time, 18% Part Time, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 95% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 3% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $53,711 per year, or $25.8 per hour.

Term Law Clerk

US Judicial Branch

Norfolk, VA

$75K/yr

Other

Re-posted 24 days ago

Job description

The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia is seeking qualified applicants for a full-time Term Law Clerk to United States District Judge Elizabeth W. Hanes. The Court will consider applications for either a nine-month term (beginning in January 2026 and ending in August/September 2026) or a longer term (beginning in January 2026 and ending in August/September 2027). The applicant's cover letter should specify the date upon which they can begin work and their preference.Qualifications:The Temporary Law Clerk manages a large docket of civil and criminal cases and has primary responsibilities regarding the drafting and finalizing of opinions and orders. This fast-paced "Rocket Docket" District demands excellent writing and analytical skills. The successful applicant must meet multiple deadlines in a timely and organized fashion and must be able to produce written materials (i.e. orders, opinions, etc.) quickly and accurately. Flexibility to meet demanding deadlines and a concomitant strong work ethic are both required. Candidates must maintain a courteous and professional demeanor within chambers, the Court, and the Bar, and before the public.
Education:Law School Graduate
Employment Type: OTHER

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