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  • Judicial Law Clerk

    Springfield, Missouri United States State of Missouri Full Time $61,072 per Year Jul 11, 2025
    State of Missouri Employer:

    State of Missouri

    Build the Missouri of tomorrow. Ensure a strong foundation today. Join a group of innovative team members focused on driving the State of Missouri forward. As public servants, our team members have the opportunity to produce work that is both lasting and important. This work serves to protect families, communities, and our natural resources.  No matter where you are in your career, whether entry level or senior level, a career with the State of Missouri will challenge you to grow both personally and professionally. Though one employer, there is no shortage of exciting opportunities as there are many career paths you may take within the State. If you are searching for a job that transforms lives, including your own, a career with the State of Missouri is the perfect fit!

    Job Description

    Position: Law Clerk

    Job Location: Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District, Springfield, Missouri

    Start Date: Negotiable (currently open)

    Application Deadline: The position will remain open until filled.

    Duties and Responsibilities:

    • Reviewing briefs, motions, and other case filings
    • Conducting thorough and comprehensive legal research on a wide range of topics
    • Preparing written memos
    • Drafting, proofreading, and cite-checking judicial opinions
    • Attending oral arguments
    • Performing other duties as assigned


    Minimum Qualifications:

    • Juris Doctor (JD) or equivalent degree from an accredited law school
    • Member of the Missouri Bar or eligible to take the Missouri Bar Examination
    • Exceptional legal research, writing, and critical reasoning skills
    • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
    • Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
    • Ability to work independently and meet deadlines
    • Proficiency with legal research and word processing technologies, including Westlaw and Microsoft Word


    Salary and Benefits: The anticipated starting salary is $61,072 per year. This position is eligible for certain state benefits, including health insurance, life insurance, deferred compensation plan, and retirement plan (after applicable vesting period).

    A position with the Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District, offers the opportunity to join an exceptional team of people committed to excellence in public service. We offer a positive, supportive work environment in which you can gain valuable work experience and earn competitive pay and benefits, all while contributing to your community and supporting the court's vital role in government and society.

    For More Information: Email sdjobs@courts.mo.gov. Information about the Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District, and the Missouri judiciary may be found online at www.courts.mo.gov (see “About the Courts”).

    The Missouri Court of Appeals, Southern District, is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

    Please mention you found this employment opportunity on the CareersInGovernment.com job board.

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Top Government Legal Jobs: A Guide to Finding the Best Opportunities

Top Government Legal Jobs: A Guide to Finding the Best Opportunities
 

Introduction to Government Legal Careers

Government legal jobs offer diverse opportunities for law students, recent graduates, and experienced attorneys to work in various government agencies and departments. These roles enable professionals to contribute to impactful cases while developing expertise in specific areas of law.

The federal government, state governments, and various agencies provide many career paths for legal professionals. With attorney positions available across sectors, government legal careers offer the chance to influence policy, engage in public service, and develop a deep understanding of the law.

Key highlights of government legal careers:

  • Work on high-profile and significant cases.
  • Gain specialized knowledge in areas like government contracts and compliance.
  • Contribute to public service, shaping laws and regulations.
 

Types of Government Agencies

Legal professionals are employed by government agencies at both the federal and state levels. These agencies offer positions for attorneys, paralegals, and specialists and cover a wide range of legal functions, from litigation to regulatory compliance.

Some of the key agencies that hire legal professionals include:

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  • Federal agencies: The Department of Justice, the Securities and Exchange Commission, and the Federal Trade Commission.
  • State government agencies: State attorneys general offices, legislative legal departments, and public defenders’ offices.
  • Government contractors: Companies working with the government often employ legal professionals to handle regulatory compliance and government contracts.

This variety of agencies allows attorneys to explore different areas of law and government service, making government legal jobs diverse and highly rewarding.

 

Requirements for Government Legal Jobs

Candidates must meet educational and professional standards to qualify for most government legal jobs. Attorney positions typically require a Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association. Paralegal specialist roles often require a bachelor’s degree and relevant experience in legal practice.

Here are some key requirements:

  • Attorney positions: Requires a J.D. degree and, in many cases, bar membership in good standing.
  • Paralegal specialist positions: Requires a bachelor’s degree and experience in legal work.
  • Entry-level attorney positions: Recent law school graduates can apply for positions through the federal government’s excepted service programs or state government agencies.

To succeed in these roles, having a solid legal foundation, an understanding of governmental structures, and knowledge of the specific requirements outlined in each vacancy announcement is essential.

 

Application & Hiring Process

Applying for government legal jobs requires following a formal process. The federal government and many state agencies use USAJOBS to list available positions, while other agencies might have their career portals. Understanding how to navigate these systems is essential for securing a position.

The typical application process includes:

  1. Finding job listings: Check USAJOBS or individual agency websites such as the Department of Justice or the Securities and Exchange Commission.
  2. Submitting an application: Most applications require a resume, cover letter, and writing samples demonstrating legal expertise.
  3. Meeting qualifications: Each vacancy announcement lists the required qualifications, including specific legal experience, educational background, or bar status.
  4. Screening process: Many agencies conduct interviews and thorough background checks as part of their hiring process.
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Applicants should pay close attention to the specific criteria in the job announcements to ensure their application materials are tailored to the role.

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Benefits of Government Legal Careers

One of the main attractions of government legal careers is the stability and long-term benefits they provide. These positions offer not only competitive salaries but also excellent job security. Furthermore, government employees often enjoy comprehensive healthcare plans, retirement benefits, and opportunities for professional development.

The benefits include:

  • Job security: Government positions offer reliable and stable employment.
  • Professional growth: Opportunities for advancement and specialized training are often available, allowing attorneys to develop expertise in particular legal areas.
  • Public service: Contributing to the justice system and working on impactful cases can be deeply fulfilling for those passionate about the law.

Many attorneys in government roles find the combination of career growth and public service an ideal mix for long-term professional satisfaction.

Specialized Government Legal Roles

Government legal jobs are not limited to general practice; they often involve specialization in specific legal fields. Attorneys working for government agencies can focus on environmental law, national security, labor law, or government contracts.

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Specialized roles include:

  • General Counsel: Provides legal advice to government agencies, ensuring compliance with laws and regulations.
  • Attorneys in niche fields: These roles include legal professionals working on intellectual property, government contracts, and public policy issues.
  • Paralegal specialists: Support attorneys in legal research, document preparation, and case management tasks.

Such roles allow attorneys to dive deep into specific legal areas while contributing to government policies and regulations.

 

Finding Government Legal Jobs

For those interested in government legal careers, several resources can assist with job searches:

  • USAJOBS: This platform comprehensively lists federal government job openings, including legal positions.
  • Agency websites: Federal agencies like the Department of Justice and state government websites regularly post job opportunities.
  • Networking: Connecting with current or former government attorneys can open doors to hidden opportunities and provide valuable insights into the application process.

These resources can help streamline the search for government legal positions and increase the chances of landing a role that fits your expertise.

 

Resources for Government Legal Job Seekers

Several professional organizations and resources provide guidance and support for those seeking government legal jobs:

  • American Bar Association (ABA): Offers tools and advice for law students and recent graduates looking to enter public service law.
  • National Association of Law Placement (NALP): Provides job listings and career guidance for government and public interest legal positions.
  • Government agency websites: Many agencies, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission and the Department of Justice, offer career resources for aspiring government attorneys.
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These resources can help candidates navigate the complexities of the government hiring process and build successful careers in public service law.

 

Tips for Success in Government Legal Careers

To excel in government legal jobs, consider the following strategies:

  • Strengthen research and writing skills: These are crucial for success in government attorney positions.
  • Develop expertise in a niche area: Specialization in areas like environmental law or government contracts can boost your career prospects.
  • Network with professionals: Building relationships with government legal professionals can provide valuable career insights and opportunities.

Aspiring government attorneys can position themselves for success and growth within the public sector by focusing on these areas.

 

Conclusion

Government legal jobs offer many opportunities for law students, recent graduates, and seasoned professionals. With roles available at federal and state levels, government agencies provide meaningful career paths that allow legal professionals to develop specialized knowledge, serve the public, and contribute to the justice system. By understanding the requirements, application process, and available resources, you can successfully navigate your way to a rewarding career in government law.

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