Description
FIFTH JUDICIAL DISTRICT OF PENNSYLVANIA
COUNTY OF ALLEGHENY
PITTSBURGH, PENNSYLVANIA
POSITION: Law Clerk – Personal Staff
CLASSIFICATION: Confidential
REPORTS TO: The Honorable Hugh F. McGough, Administrative Judge, Orphans’ Court
Division
DEPARTMENT:
SALARY:
Judicial Support
$64,714 annually
SUMMARY:
This is a personal staff position of Judge Hugh F. McGough. The law clerk is responsible for performing
legal research and drafting orders and opinions. Assignments are delegated by the respective judge. Work
involves considerable initiative and independent judgment and is carried out under general supervision
and in accordance with established policies and procedures. The ideal candidate will be a lawyer in good
standing with strong writing and research skills, excellent interpersonal and organizational skills, and
experience with Orphans’ Court matters. This is a full-time position.
TYPICAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:
(Not all employees holding this position perform all of the following tasks.)
Drafting opinions, memoranda, and orders;
Researching legal issues;
Communicating with counsel, pro se litigants, and Superior Court personnel;
Preparing motions and exceptions for argument;
Assisting chambers staff as necessary;
Assisting the Judge in administrative duties; and
Assisting the Judge in preparing for and during trials.
QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS:
Graduation from an accredited law school
Knowledge of legal principles, statutory and case law, court rules and procedures
Legal research skills and comprehensive knowledge of legal publications
Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Adobe Acrobat, Outlook, and OneDrive
Ability to reason logically and analytically and to comprehend and analyze complex legal issues and
factual details
Attention to detail, exceptional reading skills, and the ability to comprehend and communicate ideas
and concepts effectively
Ability to exercise confidentiality, impartiality and honesty in handling matters before the court
Ability to organize and complete work within established time frames
Ability to interact and communicate effectively with government and court officials, other agencies,
attorneys, clients, associates and the public
Must adhere to the Law Clerk Policy, the Code of Conduct for Employees of the Unified Judicial
System and other policies established by the court
BENEFITS:
Standard health and fringe benefit plan available. This includes health; dental; life, accident, and
disability insurance plans; sick leave and vacation benefits.
HOW TO APPLY:
Applications will be accepted until posting closes on July 15, 2026. Please email a cover letter, resume,
and writing sample to [email protected].
