The History and Role of Law Clerks in the United States Supreme Court
A Historic Tradition
The tradition of law clerks assisting the justices of the United States Supreme Court dates back to 1882, when Justice Horace Gray hired the first law clerk. Since then, law clerks have played an integral role in the Court's operations, providing research, analysis, and writing support to the justices.
The Role of Law Clerks
Law clerks typically serve one-year terms with individual justices. They assist with a wide range of tasks, including:
- Conducting legal research
- Drafting opinions and orders
- Analyzing briefs and petitions
- Preparing for oral arguments
- Managing the justice's caseload
Law clerks play a critical role in the decision-making process of the Supreme Court. Their work helps the justices to understand complex legal issues, evaluate the merits of cases, and write clear and persuasive opinions.
Current Law Clerks
As of 2023, the justices of the Supreme Court have hired the following law clerks:
John Roberts' Clerks
- Shelby Baird
- Thomas Gaiser
- Eric Palmer
- Edward West Jr.
Brett Kavanaugh's Clerks
To be announced
Ketanji Brown Jackson's Clerks
To be announced
Sonia Sotomayor's Clerks
To be announced
Elena Kagan's Clerks
To be announced
Amy Coney Barrett's Clerks
To be announced
Neil Gorsuch's Clerks
To be announced
Clarence Thomas' Clerks
To be announced
Samuel Alito's Clerks
To be announced
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