Judge's clerk

Judge's clerks assist judges in court with research and writing legal documents.

Also known as

Judge's assistant, judge's secretary, judge's associate

Work environment

  • Usually work regular business hours but may work extra hours
  • Usually work in courts and offices
  • Need to be accurate, methodical and responsible

Salary information

MOST COMMON
UPPER
LOWER
$64K-$97K 64000

Typical tasks

  • Prepare and write legal documents
  • Research legal information
  • Document legal proceedings
  • Clarify information with court staff
  • Find legal information and precedents
  • Give legal process information to people
  • Direct courtroom activities
  • Coordinate legal schedules

Outlook

The legal sector continues to evolve as courts and legal organisations adopt digital systems and new technologies. In New Zealand, efforts to improve access to justice and streamline court processes are influencing how legal work is supported. Internationally, artificial intelligence and digital research tools are changing legal practice, while the need for careful legal analysis remains important.

What employers and industry want in graduates

  • Strong legal research skills
  • Excellent written communication
  • Attention to detail and accuracy
  • Ability to analyse complex information
  • Strong organisational skills
  • Professionalism and confidentiality

AUT programmes

The above is a suggestion only and a starting point. You may need to meet other criteria or take additional steps to work in this career.

Content is reviewed by our experts, but information can change over time. Some content is created with AI support.

This data is sourced from the Tertiary Education Commission through the Tahatū Career Navigator website (www.tahtu.govt.nz) and used under the CC BY 4.0 licence. Some of the information has been modified by AUT. TEC has not approved, endorsed or tested these modifications. TEC will not be held accountable for any errors within this data.