Choosing between a federal clerkship and a state supreme court clerkship can shape a legal career. A new BCG Attorney Search analysis compares the two options.
The analysis covers pay, job options, training, location, and legal contacts. These factors can help law students and young lawyers make a better choice.
Learn more from this guide: Federal Clerkship vs. State Supreme Court Clerkship: Which Delivers Better Career ROI?
Federal Clerkships Expand Career Options
Federal clerkships can carry strong prestige. This is especially true for federal appeals court jobs.
Clerks build strong research and writing skills. They also work on complex legal issues.
In addition, clerks work closely with judges. These relationships can help them later in their careers.
Federal clerkships can also offer greater career choice. Lawyers can use this experience when seeking jobs across the country.
Federal appeals clerkships can be useful for future litigators. They can also help lawyers who want to focus on appeals.
Some large law firms offer bonuses to lawyers with federal clerkship experience. According to BCG Attorney Search, some bonuses can reach six figures.
U.S. Supreme Court clerks may receive even larger bonuses.
State Clerkships Build Local Skills
State supreme court clerkships offer a different benefit. They give lawyers deep knowledge of state law.
Clerks may work on state laws and constitutional issues. They also gain direct experience with appeals.
As a result, clerks can build strong state-law skills. This can help lawyers who plan to stay in one state.
State clerkships can also build strong local ties. These ties may include judges, law firms, and government lawyers.
Therefore, a state supreme court clerkship can be a strong choice for a local career.
Choose by Career Goals
There is no single best clerkship for every lawyer.
A federal clerkship may suit lawyers who want more job options. It can also help those seeking jobs at large law firms.
Federal clerkships may also benefit lawyers who want federal litigation careers. They can also help lawyers who want to practice appeals.
On the other hand, a state supreme court clerkship may suit local careers. It can help lawyers who want to work in state appeals or government.
Location also matters. Federal experience can help lawyers move between legal markets.
Meanwhile, state experience can build deeper knowledge of one market.
Maximize Clerkship Value
A clerkship can open doors. However, lawyers must make the most of the experience.
First, lawyers should build a strong relationship with the judge. A strong reference can help with future jobs.
Next, clerks should improve their research and writing skills. These skills are useful in almost every legal field.
Lawyers should also plan their next job early. A clear career goal can make the clerkship more valuable.
The Bottom Line
Federal and state supreme court clerkships both offer strong career benefits.
Federal clerkships can provide wider job options and strong law firm interest. Some firms also offer large bonuses.
State supreme court clerkships can build deep state-law knowledge. They can also create valuable local connections.
Ultimately, the right choice depends on each lawyer’s goals. Practice area, location, and career plans should guide the decision.
A well-chosen clerkship can give a legal career a strong start.
Learn more from this guide: Federal Clerkship vs. State Supreme Court Clerkship: Which Delivers Better Career ROI?
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Federal or State Clerkship: Which Is the Better Bet? first appeared on
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