Judicial Clerk Interview Preparation Guide

A good family law attorney often has a team to help him or her, which is great, but it is important for you to know who will be working on your case, who will be communicating with you, who will be in charge, and how you will be billed for that work.

It is important that your attorney has represented clients in similar circumstances to yours, especially if your have an out-of-the-ordinary situation that may require specialized knowledge.

You represent the company to the public and your ability to act professionally at all times is important. Discuss the specific techniques you use to handle a difficult interaction including staying calm, getting all the necessary facts and information, discussing options and coming to agreement.

This is probably the most important question to ask. You would not want to fly with a pilot making his first transatlantic flight...why trust your case with a novice? A lawyer who has the right background can often save you time and money, all the while getting the best result possible. And don’t take a simple “Yes” for a sufficient answer. Ask follow-up questions, such as where and when any similar cases went to trial and their results, to ensure the attorney really knows the subject matter.

Lawyers are not fortune tellers. They should never guarantee a specific result. However, they should be able to give you a frank preliminary assessment of how your case is likely to play out.

Your lawyer will frequently be part of a law firm with junior associates and paralegals. Make sure you know who will be working on your case and in what capacity. Your lawyer can often save you money by delegating routine tasks to firm employees who charge a lower hourly rate. However, your lawyer should be involved in all key aspects and decisions of your case, or should explain to you why a colleague can handle some important part of the matter just as well.

☛ A job interview is like a blind date in that both sides feel a little nervous and forced. Standard blind date rules apply: nice handshake, maintain eye contact, smile when appropriate, and always listen!
☛ Listening is the most crucial part. It can be difficult for attorneys to get out of talking mode, but the interviewer should do about 80% of the talking.
☛ Paraphrase what the interviewer says back to him or her to show you are paying attention.

☛ Even for law students and young attorneys it can be difficult to encapsulate their whole history in a few sentences. For experienced attorneys, it can be a nightmare.
☛ Stick to what’s relevant for the job you’re applying to.
☛ Refer to the resume; make it easier for the interviewer.
☛ Bring a list of representative casework.

☛ Showing up late is a sign of disrespect.
☛ Criticizing your last job is a major red flag.
☛ Lack of preparation will always make you look bad.
☛ It’s important to be confident, but don’t be arrogant or act like loose cannon. Never appear as though the job isn’t important to you.
☛ Don’t lie! Getting caught in a lie is the worst way to spoil an interview

☛ Junior partners and associates are still “gunners” who are often in competition with the rest of the attorneys. Do not act too competitive or they might see you as a threat. Act friendly.
☛ Older partners aren’t usually caught up in competition with the rest of the staff. They will want to see a competitive edge. They will also be more concerned with things like grades. Act hard working and determined.