Supreme Court Clerk
A Supreme Court Clerk is an attorney who serves as a clerk for one of the Justices of the Supreme Court of the United States. Supreme Court clerkships are highly prestigious positions, with many former clerks going on to hold significant roles in the legal profession, government, and academia. The primary responsibilities of clerks include researching case law, preparing bench memoranda, and drafting opinions. Each Justice typically has a few clerks (usually four) who assist them throughout the court term.
Supreme Court clerks are selected from the top law schools in the United States, often having distinguished academic records, law review experience, and previous clerkships with judges at the federal appellate or district court levels. The selection process is highly competitive, with many applicants vying for a handful of positions. Most clerks serve for one term, although some may continue in longer capacities in other judicial or governmental roles.
Historically, clerks have been influential in shaping legal interpretations and assisting Justices in navigating complex cases. Some notable former clerks include John G. Roberts, Elena Kagan, and Neil Gorsuch, all of whom went on to serve as Supreme Court Justices themselves. Clerkships are seen as a stepping stone to prestigious legal careers and are often followed by positions in academia, private practice, or government service.
Supreme Court clerks are also known for their deep involvement in high-profile cases, often conducting extensive legal research that helps the Justices form their decisions. Many clerks have gone on to become notable judges, legal scholars, and public officials, adding to the significance and prestige of the role.
Two former law clerks for Justice Oliver Wendell Holmes, Alger Hiss and Donald Hiss, were later accused by Whittaker Chambers of being Soviet agents of influence and Soviet spies in 1948.
