Law Clerk

Overview

Presiding Justice Brian M. Hoffstadt of Division Five of the California Court of Appeal, Second Appellate District, is accepting applications for a Law Clerk. The Law Clerk’s primary duties will be finalizing judicial opinions and performing clerical tasks, but with the opportunity to function as a research attorney as time permits by conducting research and analysis, drafting opinions, and providing legal recommendations. The Law Clerk is expected to begin on or around September 2, 2025, and will serve the position for at least two years. Applicants for the Law Clerk position are welcome to also apply for the Judicial Assistant classification; only one position will be filled.       

Responsibilities

• Improve and finalize appellate opinions—proof-read for accuracy and clarity; review trial court records to verify facts; research legal citations; ensure correctness of grammar, spelling, punctuation, and organization; confirm compliance with the California Style Manual; and provide analytical feedback. 
• Draft and edit court orders and other documents. 
• Maintain meticulous tracking of circulated opinions and other documents within Division and ensure timely filing by coordinating with Clerk’s Office. 
• Provide detail-oriented administrative and clerical assistance to the Justice and research attorneys.
• Potential opportunities to draft or assist in drafting opinions by scrutinizing appellate briefs, reviewing the record, conducting thorough legal research, and applying appropriate standard of review to reach well-reasoned analysis.
• Exercise skill in prioritizing tasks, managing time, and meeting strict deadlines. 
• Exhibit collegiality, a strong work ethic, and eagerness to engage in complex legal issues. 
• Assist with additional legal, clerical, or administrative projects as assigned by the Justice.
• Maintain chambers case files and office supplies.

Qualifications

Admission to the State Bar of California and one year of administrative or clerical experience.

Participation in the California Provisional Bar Licensing Program may be substituted for Admission to the State Bar of California per the terms and conditions and within the time frame of that program.

Licenses and Certificates:

• Admission to the State Bar of California.

Note: Pending admission to the State Bar of California may be considered.   

How To Apply

To apply online, please click the Apply for Job button.

The following items are required.

• Completed online application
• Cover letter 
• Resume 
• Writing Sample

For earliest consideration, please apply by June 6, 2025, and include all required items listed above. The position will remain open until it is filled.

Pay and Benefits

Salary Range:  $5,583 to $7,174 per month      

(Starting salary will vary between $5,583 and $6,141)

• Health/Dental/Vision benefits program
• 14 paid holidays per calendar year
• Choice of Annual Leave or Sick/Vacation Leave
• 1 personal holiday per year
• Up to $130 per month reimbursement for qualifying commuting costs
• CalPERS Retirement Plan
• 401(k) and 457 deferred compensation plans
• Employee Assistance Program
• Basic Life and AD&D Insurance
• FlexElect Program
• Long Term Disability Program (employee paid/optional)
• Group Legal Plan (employee paid/optional)

Equal Employment Opportunity

The Court of Appeal of the Second Appellate District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.