Judicial Clerks

United States Overview

Former judicial clerks play a vital role throughout the firm, particularly in our litigation-based practices, which consistently rank among the best in the industry.

Our litigators are based in our offices across the world and represent clients in federal and state trial and appellate courts, before administrative tribunals, and in arbitrations, mediations and other dispute resolution procedures. We frequently are involved in the most complex cases, handling high-profile matters across a broad range of litigation disciplines.

At Skadden, we recognize and highly value the practical experience judicial clerks gain from working within the court system and closely with their judges. As a result, we’ve recruited and hired judicial clerks from the U.S. Supreme Court, every federal appellate court and many federal district courts throughout the country, as well as from the highest appellate court in various states.

The starting base salary for this position is expected to be between $225,000 to $260,000 annually. Actual salary will be determined based on prior legal experience and other job-related factors, consistent with applicable law. Associates who clerk for one year are treated as members of their graduating classes for seniority and salary purposes. Skadden also provides a starting bonus for judicial clerks. Visit Associate Salary Information for compensation details.

Associates who clerk for one year are treated as members of their graduating classes for seniority and salary purposes. Those who clerk more than one year or have prior experience are treated on a case-by-case basis. Skadden also provides a starting bonus for judicial clerks.

In addition to supporting summer associates who wish to pursue clerkships before joining the firm as associates, we actively recruit judicial clerks who did not participate in our Summer Associate Program. Those clerks should send their applications to the Attorney Recruiting contact in their office of interest or use our online application. Candidates should include a transcript, resume and letter indicating the practice area in which they are interested.

Learn more about professional development opportunities and attorney compensation and benefits at Skadden.

Application Process

While the firm recruits judicial clerks year-round, clerks interested in joining the firm in the fall should apply in the winter prior.

Office Locations

Skadden's 21 offices around the globe enable us to serve clients in every major financial center.

Global Capabilities

With more than 50 distinct areas of practice, we serve clients in every major international financial center, providing the specific legal advice companies across a spectrum of industries need to compete most effectively in a global business environment.