Job Information
U.S. Courts Death Penalty Law Clerk in Wilmington, Delaware
Summary The Death Penalty Law Clerk provides legal advice and assistance to the District Judges in connection with state and federal prisoner habeas cases filed under 28 U.S.C. § 2254 and 28 U.S.C. § 2255. The Death Penalty Law Clerk monitors the filings in such cases from initial opening through final disposition, drafting all related orders and opinions for the Court's approval. Responsibilities Performs substantive screening and review of all habeas corpus cases filed by the state and federal inmates. Performs legal research and analysis. Drafts appropriate orders and opinions for the Court's signature. Monitors all § 2254 and § 2255 dockets to assure the timely progress of cases. Reviews case filings and trial court records. Keeps abreast of developments in applicable habeas law. Provides information and guidance to judge and court staff on legal issues unique to habeas law. Compiles statistics and prepares periodic reports to reflect the status of cases. Performs other duties as assigned. Requirements Conditions of Employment The Death Penalty Law Clerk is a sensitive position. The selected candidate will be subject to an FBI fingerprint check as a condition of employment, and may be subject to periodic updates. Qualifications Qualifications To qualify for the position of Death Penalty Law Clerk, an individual must be a law school graduate from a law school of recognized standing, and have demonstrated one or more of the following accomplishments or proficiencies: Standing within the upper third of the law school class from a law school on the approved list of either the American Bar Association or the Association of American Law Schools; Experience on the editorial board of a law review of such a school; Graduation from such a school with an LLM degree; or Demonstrated proficiency in legal studies which in the opinion of the judge is the equivalent of one of the above. Legal Work Experience Legal work experience is progressively responsible experience in the practice of law, in legal research, legal administration, or equivalent experience received after graduation from law school. The applicant must have a minimum of two years of post-graduate legal work experience. Preferred Qualifications At least one year's experience as either a court law clerk or a law clerk to a judge. Experience in an environment where multitasking, establishing priorities, and working independently were required. Outstanding legal research/writing skills. Ability to communicate clearly, concisely, and informatively, both orally and in writing. Working knowledge of federal habeas corpus law. Proficient in the use of LEXIS and WESTLAW. Proficient in internet research. Ability to work with strict deadlines and in a fast-paced environment. Salary To qualify for a JSP 13, applicant must have two years of legal work experience and bar membership. To qualify for JSP 14, applicant must have three years of legal work experience and bar membership. Education Please read the "Qualifications" section. Additional Information The United States District Court for the District of Delaware offers a generous benefit's package which includes the following: Paid annual and sick leave. Eleven paid federal holidays. Participation in the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program (FEHB). Federal Employees Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP). Federal Employees Group Life Insurance (FEGLI). Flexible Benefits Program. Employee Assistance Programs. Federal Employees Retirement System (FERS). Thrift Savings Plan (TSP)- up to 5% match. Student Loan Forgiveness Program for Public Service Employees. On-site fitness facility. Transit Subsidy Program (contingent upon availability of funds).
