JUDICIAL CLERK FAQS

What opportunities are open for judicial clerks?

McGuireWoods hires clerks across the firm’s locations and practices. The firm invites clerks to apply with their office and practice preferences. Post-clerk associates are hired directly into a practice area based on their interests, backgrounds and the firm’s needs. We work closely with you during the recruitment process to ensure the right fit. The post-clerkship application is the best way to communicate your interest in the firm; however, you are additionally welcome to apply to lateral openings.

Does McGuireWoods hire clerks from select courts?

The firm values all clerkship experience and has former clerks from: U.S. Supreme Court, U.S. Courts of Appeals, U.S. District Courts and other federal courts, and state and specialty courts. You can view the firm’s former clerks and their experience via a filter here.

Is pre-clerkship experience required?

No, many of our clerks join the firm without prior experience. We value the skills and insights gained through clerkships and we view that experience as excellent preparation for associate work. For clerks who have worked before clerking with a focus relevant to the work they will be doing at McGuireWoods, class year credit for that experience will be considered.

When should I apply?

Always first seek advice from your judge regarding post-clerkship applications. Our application is open all year; however, we may defer consideration of candidates applying more than a year out from their available start with the firm. Be sure to note your available start date in your application. If your judge prefers you apply after your clerkship concludes, please submit your application as soon as possible and note your judge’s timing preference in your application.

How do I apply?

Submit your application with materials (resume, cover letter, transcript, writing sample) here. You can select your top choices for office location and practice group, and you may add additional locations and practices of interest in an open free text box.

What materials should I submit with my application?

A complete application typically includes a resume with clerkship details, cover letter, law school transcript and writing sample.

What is the interview process for clerks?

Typically, there will be a virtual prescreen followed by a full round of interviews, either in-office or virtual. Some practice groups will include a final virtual interview with practice group leaders. If you have timeline constraints, such as competing interviews or offers, please communicate that information with your recruiting contact.

Does McGuireWoods offer bonuses or credit for clerkships? Relocation or reimbursement for bar expenses?

Yes, the firm offers competitive bonuses and class year credit for candidates coming to us from a federal or highest state court clerkship. We offer an extra incentive for multiple clerkships, where the additional clerkships were served immediately before the current clerkship. Bonuses are typically paid out in the first paycheck. Class year credit is determined based on the clerkship type and prior experience.

McGuireWoods offers a full relocation package for clerks as needed. Clerks who recently sat or soon will sit for the bar exam in the state where they will be working for the firm may have any related bar exam expenses covered by the firm, including a prep course and MPRE exam.

Whom should I contact if I have questions?

Please reach out to the recruiting managers overseeing clerk hiring, Betsy Key and Jessica Orozco.

Does McGuireWoods accept clerk submittals from search firms?

No, currently we only accept applications for post-clerkship positions directly from candidates.