ICJ Clerkship Forum

[Anonymous User]

Hi!

Does anyone have any experience with ICJ clerkships / applications?

Are there particular classes you must have taken (evidence, etc.)?

Is there any kind of work experience that ICJ judges particularly value?

(Note: I go to a school that makes nominations. Just looking to hear from people with previous experience & advice.)

Thanks!

[Anonymous User]

I've heard that typically ICJ clerks possess at least 3-4 years of prior experience with international law from firm work or other legal organization

[Anonymous User]

I've heard that typically ICJ clerks possess at least 3-4 years of prior experience with international law from firm work or other legal organization

I don't think this is true. I know 3 people personally who came right out of law school to clerk at the ICJ. I think its more about networking / connections / who you know. I would highly recommending connecting with anyone who is a former ICJ clerk who you may know or have some connection with.

What do you mean though that your school "makes nominations"? GW and UMich have both had programs with the ICJ that guarantee a spot goes to one of their graduates. If your school has a program like that then it just means you have a much better chance than most people.

As far as classes, I think they look for a focus on / experience with international law. Everyone I know that has clerked there is either an international LLM or had an exceptional international law background. Doing Jessup (and doing well) is definitely a big plus / something I think they look for. I would say taking international law is a requirement, and you should probably have multiple international law related courses on your transcript.

[Holly Golightly]

Do they pay their clerks or do you have to find funding?

[rockyship]

I was hoping if anyone can comment more on clerking at the ICJ (hiring process, timeline, salary, background, exit options, etc.)