Description

Romano Law, P.C., a growing Beaverton/Portland family law and criminal defense firm, is seeking a motivated 2L or 3L law student for a substantive, part-time law clerk position focused on client communication, case management, and litigation support.

This is not a traditional law clerk position centered primarily on legal research. We are looking for someone who wants to become actively involved in the day-to-day progression of cases and serve as an important link between our clients, paralegals, and attorneys.

The ideal candidate will be able to learn and understand the details of assigned cases, communicate confidently and compassionately with clients, recognize issues requiring attorney attention, and help ensure that clients remain informed and cases continue moving forward.

Responsibilities will include:

Communicating regularly with clients regarding case status, outstanding documents, scheduling, upcoming deadlines, and next steps;
Following up with clients after attorney meetings, hearings, mediations, and other significant case events;
Reviewing assigned matters to understand the facts, procedural history, outstanding issues, and upcoming deadlines;
Identifying client questions or concerns requiring attorney attention and organizing those issues for efficient attorney review;
Reviewing incoming client communications and helping ensure questions and requests are addressed by the appropriate team member;
Coordinating with attorneys and paralegals to keep clients informed and cases moving forward;
Assisting with discovery, document review, factual investigation, timelines, chronologies, exhibits, and hearing or trial preparation;
Drafting correspondence, case summaries, memoranda, declarations, pleadings, and other materials for attorney review;
Preparing attorneys for client meetings, hearings, and other proceedings by summarizing case status, unresolved issues, and outstanding client needs;
Conducting legal research as needed; and
Attending client meetings, hearings, and other proceedings with attorneys when appropriate.
This position is designed for a law student who wants meaningful exposure to the actual practice of law and the opportunity to develop practical skills in client relations, case strategy, litigation preparation, and day-to-day case management.

The position is expected to be approximately 15–25 hours per week during the academic year, with the possibility of additional hours during school breaks and summer. We understand that law school comes first and will work with the successful candidate to establish a regular schedule around classes and exams.

Work Location & Flexibility
This position offers a hybrid work arrangement, allowing the successful candidate to work from home as well as in the office, depending on the needs of the firm, assigned matters, client meetings, and other responsibilities.

For candidates who do not have an appropriate home-office environment—or who simply prefer to work in an office—dedicated workspace is available at either of our two office locations: downtown Portland or Beaverton.

We value flexibility and will work with the successful candidate to develop a schedule that accommodates law school commitments while also ensuring appropriate availability for collaboration with our attorneys, paralegals, and clients. In-person attendance will be required from time to time for meetings, case preparation, hearings, or other firm needs.

Compensation is $25–$32 per hour, depending on experience and qualifications.

For the right candidate, there may also be an opportunity to continue with Romano Law following graduation and potentially transition into an associate attorney position after Oregon Bar admission.

Requirements

Qualifications:

Currently enrolled as a 2L or 3L at an ABA-accredited law school;
Excellent written and verbal communication skills;
Comfortable communicating directly with clients, including individuals dealing with stressful, emotional, or difficult circumstances;
Exceptionally organized and able to keep track of multiple cases, deadlines, and priorities;
Strong judgment and the ability to recognize when an issue should be escalated to an attorney;
Proactive, dependable, and comfortable taking ownership of assigned responsibilities;
Detail-oriented and able to follow established procedures;
Genuine interest in litigation and the practical, day-to-day practice of law;
Ability to work collaboratively with attorneys, paralegals, and other staff; and
Ability to work effectively in a hybrid environment and maintain appropriate confidentiality and professionalism when working remotely.
Prior law firm experience is helpful but not required. Third-year students, students with prior legal experience, and students with a demonstrated interest in family law, criminal defense, or litigation are particularly encouraged to apply.

Applicants should submit a current resume and a brief cover letter explaining their interest in the position and in family law, criminal defense, and/or litigation. Please also include your anticipated graduation date and general availability during the academic year.

Writing samples and law school transcripts are not required with the initial application.