Are you a legal professional seeking lawyer jobs in Houston? The First Court of Appeals in Houston, Texas, is currently seeking a talented and highly motivated Staff Attorney to join the chambers of Justice Jennifer Caughey. This is an exceptional opportunity to engage in intellectually stimulating work at the heart of the Texas judicial system, offering a unique platform for professional growth and contribution to appellate law.
This position is ideal for an attorney with a strong academic background, exceptional legal research and writing skills, and a keen interest in appellate procedure. As a Staff Attorney, you will play a crucial role in assisting Justice Caughey in the disposition of a wide range of appeals and original proceedings. This role demands a high degree of independence, mature judgment, and a commitment to upholding the strictest standards of confidentiality and judicial ethics.
Embark on a Rewarding Legal Career in Houston at the First Court of Appeals
The First Court of Appeals is a respected institution within the Texas judicial system, known for its rigorous approach to legal analysis and its significant impact on Texas jurisprudence. Joining the court as a Staff Attorney means becoming part of a team of dedicated legal professionals committed to ensuring justice and upholding the rule of law. This lawyer job in Houston offers more than just a paycheck; it provides a pathway to significant career advancement and the chance to work on complex and impactful legal cases.
Key Responsibilities for this Houston Lawyer Job
As a Staff Attorney in this Houston lawyer job, your responsibilities will be diverse and challenging, encompassing a wide spectrum of appellate court functions. These include:
- In-depth Case Review: Analyzing appellate records and filings in both civil and criminal cases, as well as original proceedings, to provide comprehensive support to the justices in resolving complex legal issues.
- Comprehensive Legal Research: Conducting thorough electronic and manual legal research, delving into statutes, judicial precedents, and other pertinent legal sources to inform the court’s decisions.
- Jurisdictional and Procedural Analysis: Evaluating cases for jurisdictional concerns and addressing specific procedural challenges and administrative tasks that arise during the appellate process.
- Collaborative Legal Consultation: Engaging in discussions with justices and other members of the court to contribute to the disposition of substantive and procedural matters, developing recommendations for panel members, and drafting crucial memoranda and initial opinion drafts.
- Motion and Writing Assistance: Supporting the court in reviewing motions, preparing separate legal writings, and undertaking related tasks as required by the court’s needs.
- Oral Argument Preparation and Participation: Assisting panel members in preparing for oral arguments, presenting key appellate points, attending oral arguments, participating in pre- and post-submission conferences among justices, and conducting necessary follow-up research and record reviews.
- Rehearing Motion Review: Examining motions for rehearing and formulating recommendations for panel members, ensuring thorough reconsideration of cases when necessary.
- Chambers Operations and Confidentiality: Contributing to the smooth operation of the chambers by adhering to court rules, processes, and procedures, and maintaining the highest levels of confidentiality regarding court matters.
Qualifications to Excel in Lawyer Jobs in Houston at the Court of Appeals
To be considered for this Staff Attorney position and other lawyer jobs in Houston within the First Court of Appeals, applicants must meet the following minimum qualifications:
- Juris Doctor Degree: Graduation from an accredited law school with a Juris Doctor degree and eligibility to sit for the Texas Bar Exam.
- Civil Law Expertise: Solid knowledge of legal principles within civil law areas.
- Texas Legal Procedure Proficiency: Familiarity with the Texas Rules of Appellate Procedure, the Uniform System of Citation, and the Texas Rules of Form.
- Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills: Demonstrated ability to identify, analyze, and effectively resolve legal and procedural issues, and to clearly present findings and conclusions both verbally and in written formats.
- Exceptional Legal Research Skills: Proficiency in legal research, including advanced computer-based research and meticulous cite-checking abilities.
- Superior Legal Writing and Editing Abilities: Possession of excellent legal writing, editing, and proofreading skills, essential for drafting court documents and opinions.
- Word Processing Skills: Competence in word processing software for document preparation and management.
- Organizational and Communication Skills: Strong ability to plan, organize, and manage workload effectively, coupled with clear and effective communication skills.
Preferred Qualifications that Will Set You Apart
While the above qualifications are essential, the First Court of Appeals also values candidates who possess the following preferred qualifications, which can significantly enhance your application for this Houston lawyer job:
- Texas Bar License: License to practice law in the State of Texas.
- Appellate Court Experience: Prior experience working within an appellate court environment.
- Private Practice Experience: Four to six years of experience in private legal practice, providing a strong foundation in legal application.
- Academic Excellence: Graduation in the top 20% of your law school class, indicative of outstanding academic performance.
- Law Review/Journal Experience: Experience on a law review, law journal, or other legal publication, demonstrating advanced legal research and writing capabilities.
- Moot Court/Mock Trial Experience: Participation in moot court and/or mock trial programs, highlighting strong advocacy and courtroom skills.
Applying for Lawyer Jobs in Houston at the First Court of Appeals
If you meet the qualifications and are eager to pursue this exciting lawyer job in Houston, we encourage you to apply. The First Court of Appeals is an Equal Opportunity Employer, committed to diversity and inclusion.
To apply, please submit a single, complete electronic application in PDF format containing the following documents:
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae: Detailing your professional and academic history.
- State of Texas Job Application: Electronically signed and available on the First Court’s website career page.
- Law School Transcripts: Including class rank or an explanation of general percentile rankings from your law school. For applicants with over three years of practicing attorney experience, a resume may initially substitute for law school transcripts.
- Writing Sample: Showcasing your legal writing abilities.
- Professional References: A list of three references familiar with your work product and habits.
- Cover Letter: Expressing your interest in the position and highlighting your relevant qualifications.
Please email your completed application to [email protected]. For any inquiries, you may also reach out to [email protected]. Personal interviews will be conducted by invitation only.
Apply today and take the next step in your legal career with this exceptional lawyer job in Houston at the First Court of Appeals!
