New Hampshire Supreme Court Judicial Clerkships

What is the New Hampshire Supreme Court?

The New Hampshire Supreme Court is the only appellate court in the state. It consists of four justices and a chief justice, who hear appeals from the superior and circuit courts as well as from administrative agencies.  

How many Law Clerks does the New Hampshire Supreme Court employ?

The court currently employs 7 term law clerks, who are each hired for a two-year term, 2 senior law clerks, and 2 law clerk supervisors. Approximately half of the term law clerks are hired each year, providing a substantial overlap of experience for incoming law clerks. The law clerk supervisors handle administrative matters for the law clerks and are responsible for the smooth operation of the law clerk function.

What is expected of the Law Clerks?

Supreme Court law clerks work closely with their assigned judge and collaborate with other judges and their clerks. The law clerk position emphasizes exceptional research and writing skills. Law clerks primarily help their judges prepare for oral argument and draft judicial opinions and orders. The position affords law clerks the opportunity to develop a keen understanding of New Hampshire law.  

Who applies for a Clerkship with the New Hampshire Supreme Court?

Law clerk applicants either are law school graduates or 3rd year law students who expect to graduate before beginning employment.  

How do interested candidates apply?

Interested candidates may apply directly to the New Hampshire Supreme Court. Applications will be accepted beginning April 1st of every year. Please see the Supreme Court Law Clerk Job Posting for application deadlines. The posting can be found at https://www.courts.nh.gov/sites/g/files/ehbemt471/files/inline-documents/sonh/nh-supreme-court-judicial-clerkship-posting-2025-2027-term.pdf.

Interviews will be held in mid to late June at the Supreme Court building. For further information regarding clerkship positions or applications, please contact Lisa Merrill, Executive Assistant to the Justices of the New Hampshire Court, at LMerrill@courts.state.nh.us. The State of New Hampshire is an equal opportunity employer.