Assistant Clerk - Massachusetts Appeals Court

Official Title: Assistant Clerk - Appeals Court

Starting Pay: The annual salary of an assistant clerk is established by G. L. c. 211A, § 6, and is currently $154,408.79.

Posting Period: This posting will remain open until filled. Preference will be given for candidates who apply on or before March 16,2026.

Mission Statement of the Massachusetts Appeals Court:

The 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.

Mission Statement of the Massachusetts Appeals Court Clerk's Office:

The clerk's office serves as the hub of the court's business and channels the flow of appeals to the court for resolution. As the administrative arm of the court, the clerk's office strives to promote and implement policies and procedures that support the court's mission to deliver justice in a fair, timely and efficient manner to individuals in each appeal. The clerk's office staff renders prompt and courteous service to the Appeals Court judges and staff, members of the Bar, the public, government agencies, and the Commonwealth's trial courts and the Supreme Judicial Court.

ORGANIZATIONAL PROFILE:

http://www.mass.gov/courts/appealscourt/about-the-court.html

Notes:

This posting will remain open until filled. Preference will be given for candidates who apply on or before March 16,2026.

• Court employees are not permitted to engage in the practice of law.
• Employees of the Massachusetts courts are required to be Massachusetts residents.
• This is a full-time position based in Boston, Massachusetts.
• The position includes a generous State benefit package including a defined benefit pension plan, subject to vesting. Information about the Court's benefit page is available at https://www.mass.gov/guides/trial-court-employee-benefits
• Employment is contingent upon passage of a criminal record check.
• Appeals Court currently has a remote work policy under which employees may be allowed to work remotely for part of their weekly schedule.

Position Summary: Working within the Appeals Court clerk's office, an assistant clerk assists the clerk in performing the legal and administrative duties set forth in G. L. c. 211A, §§ 6 and 8, and the Massachusetts Rules of Appellate Procedure. An assistant clerk works closely with the single justice and three-justice panels, analyzing and discussing complex legal issues and recommending appropriate action by the court when required, and serving as a contact between the court and the parties or counsel. An assistant clerk prepares and maintains all court papers and records and performs administrative tasks to ensure that cases move rapidly and smoothly to a determination by the court. Work is performed under the direction of the clerk although considerable independence is expected in performing assigned tasks. Assistant clerks supervise clerk's office team members.

Pursuant to G. L. c. 211A, § 6, the Justices of the Appeals Court appoint an assistant clerk for a term of three years.

Job Competencies:

Communication: Clearly conveys information and complex ideas, in both oral and written form, in an engaging manner that promotes mutual understanding and also permits response and feedback.

Critical Thinking/Analytical Skills: Collects, organizes and reviews available data and applies correct legal standards and concepts to come to a reasoned, logical, and appropriate conclusion and recommendation under pressure and within the allotted time.

Professional Knowledge: Possesses and develops knowledge base and understanding of current legal issues, all aspects of the Massachusetts court system, and civil and criminal law and related appellate practice and procedure; and is proficient in the use of electronic legal research and electronic document management.

Customer Service: Conducts oneself in a courteous and professional manner toward co-workers, counsel, and the public, and commits to continuous improvement of such services.

Adaptability: Understands the need to occasionally alter one’s duties to appropriately address changing court conditions at any moment.

Collaboration/Teamwork: Effectively works toward common goals of the organization by supporting, encouraging, and sharing information with colleagues.

Integrity: Acts ethically and honestly in all interactions, maintains confidentiality, and builds professional relationships by promoting mutual trust.

Minimum Requirements: These are the minimum requirements necessary to apply for the position of Assistant Clerk:

Law degree from an accredited law school.

Admitted to practice before the Courts of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and a member of the Massachusetts Bar in good standing.

At least seven (7) years' experience as a practicing attorney, preferably at the appellate level, and preferably in Massachusetts; or equivalent experience in the Massachusetts judicial system.

Equivalent combinations of education and experience may be considered for meeting minimum qualifications.

Other Position Requirements:

Knowledge of and ability to use personal computers and related software including Microsoft Office, Adobe, electronic filing system, and case and document management systems.

Commitment to high standards of work product and attention to detail.

Ability to establish work priorities, take initiative, and work independently in a fast-paced environment.

Dependability and appreciation for the importance of being on time and prepared to work.

Ability to plan and supervise the work of others.