Pro Se Law Clerk

Pro Se Law Clerks provide legal advice and assistance to the Court in connection with prisoner petitions and complaints, immigration habeas corpus petitions, and state death penalty habeas corpus petitions. The Pro Se Law Clerk works on prisoner habeas corpus and civil rights actions, cases in which a plaintiff applies for in forma pauperis (IFP) status, immigration habeas corpus petitions and motions to vacate federal death sentences.

Preferred Qualifications: A background in prisoner habeas corpus and civil rights actions, immigration related writs of habeas corpus, death penalty petitions and motions to vacate federal death sentences. Excellent research, writing, and analytical skills Excellent written and verbal communication skills Ability to prioritize work Ability to work both collaboratively and independently, as well as efficiently and effectively, in a high-volume environment High ethical standards and a positive work attitude Legal work experience that will be considered in determining salary is defined as progressively responsible experience in the practice of law, in legal research, legal administration, or equivalent experience received after graduation from law school. Major or substantial legal activities while in military service may be credited, on a month-for-month basis whether before or after graduation, but not to exceed one year if before graduation. The table below shows the number of years of legal work experience required to qualify for appointment as a pro se law clerk at the applicable JSP grade levels. Please note that appointment to JSP-12 or above requires that the candidate be a member of the bar of a state, territory, or federal court of general jurisdiction. JSP Grade Level Years of Legal Work Experience Bar Membership Required Pittsburgh/Johnstown Erie 11 0 No $77,211 - $100,380 $74,678 - $97,087 12 1 Yes $92,543 - $120,309 $89,508 - $116,362 13 2 Yes $110,047 - $143,062 $106,437 - $138,370 14 3 Yes $130,042 - $169,060 $125,776 - $163,514