How to Become a Judicial Law Clerks in California
Judicial Law Clerks in California earn a median salary of $76,410/year, which is 27% above the national average. California has a state income tax of ~4.2%. After taxes and rent, a judicial law clerks takes home approximately $3,496/month. Most positions require Doctoral or professional degree.
What a judicial law clerks can afford in California
Becoming a judicial law clerks in California
Meet education requirements
Judicial Law Clerks positions in California typically require Doctoral or professional degree. Programs are available at colleges and training institutions across California. Research accredited programs in your area.
Gain required experience
Many judicial law clerks positions in California require hands-on experience through internships, apprenticeships, or entry-level roles. Look for training programs and mentorship opportunities in your metro area.
Obtain California licensure or certification
California may require specific licensing or professional certification for judicial law clerkss. Requirements vary by state — contact the California Department of Labor or relevant licensing board for current requirements, exam schedules, and application procedures.
Find positions in California
California employs 1,520 judicial law clerks. The highest concentrations are in San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont and Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario.
Judicial Law Clerks salary by metro area in California
| Metro area | Median | Hourly | Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont | $86K | $41.39/hr | 180 |
| Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario | $76K | $36.74/hr | 330 |
| Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim | $75K | $36.06/hr | 140 |
Judicial Law Clerks salary range in California
Judicial Law Clerks careers in other states
Frequently asked questions
How much does a judicial law clerks make in California?▼
The median judicial law clerks salary in California is $76,410 per year ($36.74/hr). This is 27% above the national median of $60,400. Salaries range from $49,240 to $86,090.
What are the requirements to become a judicial law clerks in California?▼
Judicial Law Clerks positions in California typically require Doctoral or professional degree. California may have specific licensing or certification requirements. Check with the California licensing board or department of labor for current requirements.
Can a judicial law clerks afford to live in California?▼
At the median salary of $76,410, a judicial law clerks in California would take home approximately $4,908/month after taxes. With median 2-bedroom rent at $1,412/month, that's 28.8% of take-home pay going to housing. This is within the recommended 30% guideline.
What are the best cities for judicial law clerks in California?▼
The highest paying metro areas for judicial law clerks in California are San Francisco-Oakland-Fremont ($86,090), Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario ($76,410), Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim ($75,010). However, cost of living varies significantly between metros — a higher salary may not mean more purchasing power.
Does California have state income tax for judicial law clerks?▼
Yes, California has a state income tax rate of approximately 4.2%. On a $76,410 salary, this means roughly $3,244/year in state income tax. Use our take-home pay calculator for a detailed breakdown.