Supreme Judicial Court law clerk applicants

Law clerks are law school graduates who act as "elbow" clerks to one or more of the justices, assisting them in researching and writing judicial decisions.

All law clerk positions at the Supreme Judicial Court for the court term will begin on Tuesday, August 25, 2026, through Tuesday, August 24, 2027.

Massachusetts SJC Clerkship Webinar

Want to learn more about clerkships and how to apply? View the recording below.

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About the law clerk 2026-2027 term

The Supreme Judicial Court has fourteen openings for law clerks in the 2026-2027 court year.

• Second and third-year students are eligible to apply as soon as the application period opens. If their official spring 2025 grades (or evaluations) are not yet available, applicants should attach an unofficial transcript to their application and provide an official version as soon as it becomes available.
• Law school graduates are eligible to apply anytime after the application period has opened.
• Applications are reviewed and offers are made on a rolling basis, once the evaluation period opens. Candidates are encouraged to apply as early as possible.
• The salary is $93,369.31.

The application period for the 2026-2027 court term opens on April 7, 2025. Candidate evaluation will begin on June 9, 2025, and continue until all positions are filled.

Mission statement and general information

The Massachusetts Supreme Judicial Court's mission is to promote the rule of law and foster public trust by leading an independent judiciary that assures every person equal access to the fair, timely and impartial resolution of disputes in courts managed with efficiency and professionalism.

The position requires outstanding academic achievement, writing, analytical skills and legal research ability; and the ability to work professionally, independently, and confidentially.

Successful applicants must submit a final transcript indicating graduation from law school prior to beginning the clerkship. It is not necessary to sit for the Massachusetts bar exam. Law clerks must reside in Massachusetts for the duration of their clerkship, pursuant to St. 1978, c. 478, sec. 328.

The Supreme Judicial Court is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages all interested persons to apply.