Job Details for Career Law Clerk to Honorable David A. Bragdon
| Court Name/Organization | North Carolina Middle District Court |
| Overview of the Position | The full-time Career Law Clerk works with Judge David A. Bragdon, two term law clerks, the court’s case manager, and any judicial interns to help Judge Bragdon decide and manage his civil and criminal docket. Federal district court covers a wide variety of issues, and the team works together to serve the public through timely and thoughtful resolution of cases. While the work is serious, the team has fun, encouraging one another and handling challenges with cheer. As the right hand of the judge, the Career Law Clerk will review cases, draft opinions, oversee term clerks and interns, and handle administrative matters. The Career Law Clerk must have writing skills, research skills, people skills, and a willingness to do anything needed. The position is expected to begin in March or April 2026. Judge Bragdon is open to hybrid work but prefers candidates who are willing to work in person most days. The Career Law Clerk is expected to serve at least a four-year term. |
| Location | Winston-Salem, NC |
| Opening and Closing Dates | 01/16/2026 - Open Until Filled |
| Appointment Type | Permanent |
| Salary | Not specified |
| Link to Court Careers Information | https://www.ncmd.uscourts.gov/employment-0 |
| Announcement Number | 26-01 |
| Link to Job Announcement | |
Qualifications
Required:
- Juris Doctorate degree from an ABA accredited law school
Preferred:
- Top 25% of graduating class
- Prior legal work and/or clerkship experience
- Analytical and writing skills demonstrated by Moot Court, law journal, or other serious writing activity
Employee Benefits
Federal benefits include eleven paid holidays, paid vacation and sick leave, participation in the Federal Employees Retirement System and matching and tax-deferred Thrift Savings Plan. Optional participation in Federal Health Insurance, Supplemental Dental/Vision Insurance, Federal Group Life Insurance Program, and Flexible Benefits Program. A comprehensive summary of benefit information is available for review via Benefits | United States Courts (uscourts.gov).
Application Info
To apply for this position, qualified applicants should submit:
- A cover letter addressing qualifications and relevant experience
- A chronological résumé
- One or two writing samples (demonstrating substantive legal analysis)
- Two personal references
- A copy of law school transcript
The completed package should be submitted as a single PDF application package to Judge_Bragdon_Clerkships@ncmd.uscourts.gov with the subject heading: Career Clerkship.
*Travel and relocation expenses will not be reimbursed.
The federal Judiciary is an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.