Staff Attorney / Law Clerk

Salary: $84,045.00 - $88,248.00 Annually
Location : Ada County Courthouse, 200 W. Front St., Boise, ID
Job Type: Full-Time with Benefits
Job Number: 03125
Department: Trial Court Administration - District & Specialty Courts
Opening Date: 10/26/2026
Closing Date: Continuous

General Summary
Please Note: This is a continuous job posting and will remain open until a sufficient number of qualified applications are received. The posting may close at any time without notice. Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible to ensure consideration.

Ada County Trial Court Administration is seeking qualified applicants for the position of Law Clerk or Staff Attorney to support District Judge(s) in the just and efficient resolution of court cases. This position is ideal for motivated legal professionals seeking hands-on courtroom experience, direct mentorship from the bench, and the opportunity to make a meaningful impact within Idaho's judicial system. Candidates may be hired at either level depending on qualifications.

The Trial Court Administrator, Sandra Barrios, oversees all administrative responsibilities of the Fourth Judicial District. This includes responsibility for facilities management; serving as a liaison between agencies, the media, and the public; and developing and carrying out policies that enhance court system performance.

POSITION GENERAL SUMMARY:
Provides substantive and procedural legal advice and support to District Judge(s) regarding handling and disposition of court cases.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES OF THE CLASS:
A Law Clerk performs advanced legal work under the close supervision of a judge and has not yet passed the Idaho State Bar exam.

A Staff Attorney is distinguished from a Law Clerk by having passed the Idaho State Bar exam and is required to be a member in good standing of the Idaho State Bar.
Essential Functions

• Studies and evaluates motions and briefing submitted by parties in pending court cases;
• Analyzes and conducts legal research on matters implicated in motions and briefing to determine appropriate disposition;
• Drafts bench memoranda for judge prior to motion hearings setting forth legal analysis and recommending disposition of legal issues;
• Prepares jury instructions prior to trial;
• Attends trials, evidentiary hearings and other substantive motion hearings;
• Meets with judge following hearings to discuss disposition of legal issues;
• Drafts orders and memorandum decisions announcing the judge's decision on motions and other matters before the court;
• Keeps current on new state and federal legal decisions and legislative changes affecting pending cases;
• Assists in managing judge's calendar to prioritize issues for hearing, particularly time-sensitive matters;
• Independently handles applications for default judgment and conducts debtor exams.
• Communicates with legal counsel and pro se litigants regarding case management and procedural issues as needed.

ADDITIONAL FUNCTIONS:

• Performs related functions as assigned.

Job Requirements

JOB REQUIREMENTS:
Law Clerk (Class Code: LWCK)

• Must be a graduate of an accredited law school with a Juris Doctor or equivalent graduate degree;
• Knowledge of principles and practices of a trial court;
• Knowledge of the types and methods of preparation of legal instruments;
• Strong legal research, legal analysis and legal writing skills;
• Ability to manage time effectively and meet tight deadlines;
• Ability to communicate legal issues effectively;
• Ability to analyze and prepare legal documents;
• Ability to maintain effective working relationships.

Staff Attorney (Class Code: STFATY)

• In addition to the above;
• Must have passed the Idaho State Bar exam;
• Be a member in good standing of the Idaho State Bar

Work Environment & Physical Demands

WORK ENVIRONMENT AND PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Work is performed primarily in an office environment and the employee in this class is subject to inside environmental conditions;
• May be required to lift up to 20 lbs.;
• Requires sufficient personal mobility and physical reflexes, which permits the employee to function in a general office environment to accomplish tasks.

DISCLAIMER:
To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform the primary job responsibilities satisfactorily with or without reasonable accommodation. The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being assigned to this job. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of individuals in the job. This job description is not an employment agreement and/or an expressed or implied employment contract. Management has the exclusive right to alter this job description at any time without notice. Ada County provides Veteran's Preference for all County jobs except for those deemed "key positions" in accordance with Title 65, Chapter 5 of Idaho Code.