Education · 1 of 5

The path

A short, cheap path. Most of the learning happens after you are hired.

1. 1

   High school diploma or GED (General Educational Development certificate)

   Grade 12

   This is the minimum in most courts. Typing speed, accuracy and a clean record matter more than grades.

2. 2

   Optional two-year degree or certificate

   0 to 2 years

   An associate degree in paralegal studies, criminal justice or office administration. It is not required, but it lifts you above other applicants for the same posting.

3. 3

   Apply for a posted vacancy

   Weeks to months

   Court jobs are advertised by the county, the state court administrator or the federal judiciary. Expect a typing and data entry test and a background check.

4. 4

   On the job training

   Months

   You learn the case management software, the local rules and the filing codes. Anywhere from a few days to a year depending on the court.

5. 5

   Move up

   Years

   Clerk, then senior or lead clerk, courtroom deputy, division supervisor, and eventually clerk of court, which runs the whole office.