Summer Law Clerks at the Kern County District Attorney's Office have typically completed their 2L year in law school and have either successfully completed or are currently enrolled in courses on Evidence and Civil Procedure. This qualifies clerks to participate in the "Certified Law Student" program of the state bar. As a certified law student, summer law clerks are permitted to appear in court under the supervision of an experienced attorney and present evidence and argument in contested criminal cases. Summer law clerks are regularly tasked with appearances and presenting evidence in felony preliminary hearings and even misdemeanor jury trials. Much more than a legal research position, post-bar law clerks at the Kern County District Attorney's Office are given criminal cases to handle at multiple phases of the process, and regularly appear in court to present testimony and evidence at contested hearings.
Law clerks that can qualify as "certified law students" are offered paid positions and a 40-hour workweek. Students who do not yet meet the criteria as a certified law student may still be considered for a law clerk position, but on a volunteer basis, with more flexibility in scheduling. Students who are not eligible to become a certified law student will be afforded opportunities to observe trials, hearings, and assist in preparing criminal cases for court by completing factual and charge summaries, engaging in reviewing and providing discovery in criminal cases, and drafting motions.
To apply for appointment as a Law School Graduate Clerk, submit a resume and cover letter to the District Attorney's Office at DAHiring@kernda.org
Learn more about a future at KCDA! Watch our recruitment video here: https://youtu.be/f2TTwcXB_Mc
Pay Range: $3,433.89 - $4,103.82 Monthly
Posted: January 30, 2025