Judicial Law Clerk

Overview

This vacancy is for a term law clerk to the Honorable John L. Badalamenti, U.S. District Judge. The successful applicant will be housed in the federal courthouse located in Tampa, FL. Each applicant shall indicate whether he/she is interested in a 1-year, an 18-month, and/or a 2-year clerkship. Good character and sound judgment, efficient research, analysis and concise writing, mindfulness for multiple pending deadlines, professional communication, ability to be productive with or without supervision, and a service-oriented and collaborative work ethic are essential and required.

Beginning late Fall 2026; 1-year, 18-month, or 2-year clerkship terms are available based on the Judge's discretion.

The law clerk has full responsibility for assigned cases. The law clerk reviews complaints for jurisdiction, drafts proposed orders, conducts legal research, manages an entirely civil docket and will be involved with civil and criminal trials. The law clerk assists with, and attends court proceedings, acts as a legal advisor on pending litigation, and performs other duties as assigned.

Although the nature of the work is serious, the office environment is personable. There is daily interaction with Judge Badalamenti and the other law clerks. The law clerk must be able to work harmoniously with others and communicate effectively, both orally and in writing. Professionalism and kindness are of utmost importance to Judge Badalamenti.

The position requires excellent writing, analytical, and time management skills. The District’s caseload is one of the busiest in the United States. Applicants must have a strong work ethic and be able to meet multiple deadlines in a timely and organized fashion. At the time of appointment, applicants must be law school graduates and members of a bar. Prior clerkship experience and/or 2 to 3 years of post-graduate legal experience, academic standing in the top 25 percent and experience on law review or a law journal are strongly preferred.

• Cover letter with class ranking, explaining your interest in this clerkship
• Resume listing your GPA & law school class rank
• Self-edited writing sample
• List of three professional references (no letters, please) with telephone contact numbers

Recommendation letters will be requested if needed.

Beginning late Fall 2026;1-year, 18-month, or 2-year clerkship terms are available based on the Judge's discretion.

Employment with the U.S. District Court offers a generous benefit package, civil and criminal law experience at the federal court level, and an environment providing significant responsibility and challenge. Visit OPM.gov for more information about available benefits and eligibility.

Starting salary will be commensurate with work experience and prior pay history. Salary may be higher with previous experience as a law clerk to a federal judge.

Employees are required to use Electronic Fund Transfer (EFT) for payroll deposit. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or eligible to work in the United States. The elected candidate will be subject to a background check as a condition of employment.

The federal Judiciary is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.