For certain elite BigLaw firms in California, a judicial clerkship isn’t just valued — it’s expected.
Some firms pay substantial clerkship bonuses for each year served, and the skills you gain — drafting judicial opinions, seeing arguments from the bench’s perspective, managing hearings — are career-long assets.
In litigation and regulatory practices, a clerkship can be the deciding factor between being considered for a role and not getting in the door. For ambitious lawyers aiming to build a career in California’s most competitive BigLaw litigation teams, it can be the single most strategic move you make.
How to Land a California Judicial Clerkship
For law students and junior associates in California, a clerkship is more than a résumé boost — it’s a direct investment in long-term career options. The process is competitive, but strategic candidates consistently succeed by planning ahead and positioning themselves effectively.
Key steps include:
- Target judges aligned with your career goals — whether that’s securities litigation in the Northern District or entertainment disputes in the Central District.
- Leverage law school faculty and alumni networks — professors, former clerks, and alumni can provide introductions and recommendations.
- Show strong legal writing skills — maintain a polished portfolio of briefs, memos, or published articles.
- Apply early and broadly — competitive chambers fill fast, and timing matters.
The most successful candidates start preparing well before applications open — building relationships, strengthening credentials, and identifying exactly where they want to land.
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The Market Value of Clerkship Experience in California BigLaw
Right now, we are representing multiple BigLaw litigation opportunities in California where clerkship experience is a firm requirement. These positions sit within exceptional platforms offering:
- Top-of-market compensation, including clerkship bonuses.
- Elite litigation practices with national and cross-border reputations.
- Access to high-profile matters in technology, life sciences, entertainment, and complex commercial disputes.
These openings demonstrate the real market value of a California judicial clerkship. For lawyers who have clerked — or those currently serving as clerks — the doors to California’s most competitive BigLaw jobs are wide open.
If you are exploring your post-clerkship career options, we can guide you toward roles that match your ambitions and maximize your clerkship experience.
