The Massachusetts Judicial Branch

Massachusetts Appeals Court

Law Clerk Applicants


The court expects to hire approximately thirty law clerks for the 2014-2015 court year (August 28, 2014, through August 31, 2015). The current annual salary is $56,730. The Massachusetts Appeals Court is committed to providing justice under the law by rendering thoughtful, well-reasoned appellate decisions in a timely and efficient manner, treating all those who come before the court fairly and impartially.  It is a court of general appellate jurisdiction, with a large caseload in both criminal and civil matters. Created in 1972, it currently comprises a Chief Justice and twenty-four associate justices. From time to time, retired appellate justices also serve. The Chief Justice has two law clerks; the other justices have one. The court has a centralized application process.  Persons interested in law clerkships may apply by sending one set of materials, which shall include a cover letter, resume, copy of a law school transcript, completed application for employment (revised 5/12), and two or more letters of recommendation (letters from employers are recommended; the letters of recommendations should be addressed to Frank Mockler, and they may be sent separately). Include your e-mail address. Application materials should be sent to:
Frank C. Mockler
Managing Attorney
Massachusetts Appeals Court
John Adams Courthouse
One Pemberton Square
Boston, MA 02108

E-mail applications are also acceptable.

frank.mockler@appct.state.ma.us
Application materials can be submitted or mailed only between August 15 and September 20, 2013. Interviews are conducted on a rolling basis in September and October, and final selections are usually made in November.

Law clerks act as elbow clerks to one or more of the justices, assisting them in research for and writing of judicial decisions.  Applicants should demonstrate superior academic achievement, an ability to work professionally and independently, and an interest in legal research and writing.  Please note that pursuant to the provisions of the Immigration Reform and Control Act of 1986, you will be required to complete an Employment Eligibility Verification form (I-9) and submit specific document(s) that establish your identity and employment eligibility after an offer of employment is made.  Additionally, pursuant to G.L. c. 478, sec. 328 of the Acts of 1978, any offer of employment is contingent upon your establishing residency in Massachusetts by the starting date of your employment with the Appeals Court.

The Appeals Court is an equal opportunity employer and encourages all interested persons to apply.

 Appeals Court Application for Employment  and Instructions for completing application.

Internships:  Law students interested in judicial internships may also contact Frank Mockler at the above address.