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How to Become A Legal Clerk

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What is a Legal Clerk

A Legal Clerk is a key support role in the legal world. They help solicitors and legal teams handle their daily tasks.

Legal Clerks do a mix of jobs, from preparing legal documents to managing case files and talking to clients. They also assist with court filings, legal research, and scheduling. No two days are quite the same, which keeps the role interesting.

This role suits people who are organised, detail-focused, and keen on a career in law. It is a great way to learn how the legal system works from the inside. Many Legal Clerks go on to become paralegals, solicitors, or legal secretaries.

About 9,000 people work as Law Clerks in Australia. That figure comes from Jobs and Skills Australia (2025). The median age is just 29, making it a popular first step for young Australians in the legal field.

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Career Outlook for Legal Clerk

A career as a Legal Clerk is a solid entry point into the Australian legal field. About 9,000 people work as Law Clerks in Australia, with demand set to stay stable (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). The median age is 29, showing this is a popular choice for young Australians starting out.

About 58% of Legal Clerks work full-time, putting in around 40 hours a week. Women make up about 81% of the workforce, showing the strong female presence in legal support roles. Median weekly pay sits at $1,384 (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Senior clerks and those who focus in one area can earn more.

There is good room to grow in this role. Many Legal Clerks go on to become paralegals, legal secretaries, or even solicitors after more study. Focusing on family law, conveyancing, or commercial law can lead to higher-paying roles in firms.

On this Article

Introduction

Average Salaries

Resources

Steps to Become a Legal Clerk

Step 1: Research the role and what it involves

Start by learning what Legal Clerks do. They perform specialised clerical work in legal offices and courts. Their main tasks include supporting solicitors in conveyancing, contracts, common law, and probate. Knowing the daily tasks will help you see if this career suits you.

Step 2: Complete a Certificate III in Legal Services (BSB30320)

Enrol in the Certificate III in Legal Services (BSB30320) at a TAFE or registered training organisation (RTO). This takes 6 to 12 months full-time. It covers legal methods, how to prepare documents, and how to talk with clients. It gives you the skills to work in an entry-level Legal Clerk role.

Step 3: Upgrade to a Certificate IV in Legal Services (BSB40620)

Take the Certificate IV in Legal Services (BSB40620) at a TAFE or RTO to build a stronger base. It takes about 12 months and builds your legal document skills, research ability, and knowledge of legal rules. Most employers want a Certificate IV for roles where you work more on your own.

Step 4: Gain hands-on experience in a legal setting

Apply for an internship, work placement, or entry-level role at a law firm, court, or government legal department. Even part-time or casual work gives you real exposure to how legal offices run. Use this time to build your skills and grow your network in the legal field.

Step 5: Apply for Legal Clerk positions

Tailor your resume to highlight your certificates, practical experience, and key skills. Contact law firms, courts, and government agencies directly to ask about openings. Your placement contacts and network can also help you find roles that are not listed online.

Step 6: Build your expertise and advance your career

Once you are working, look for ways to keep learning and growing. Your employer, the state law society, or a Diploma of Paralegal Services (BSB50720) are all good options. Focusing on family law, conveyancing, or commercial law is a great next step. This can open doors to more senior roles and better pay.

What does a Legal Clerk do?

A Legal Clerk is kept busy with a wide range of tasks every day. They help prepare legal documents, manage case files, and do research on legal cases. They file documents with courts, schedule appointments, and keep accurate records. Legal Clerks also talk to clients, witnesses, and other legal staff to keep everything on time. This dynamic role suits people who are organised and detail-focused. It is perfect for those who want to learn how the law works in practice.

Tasks

Legal Clerks are a vital part of any law firm or court. They handle a mix of clerical and legal support tasks. This gives them exposure to a wide range of legal matters.

  • Assisting solicitors – supporting legal professionals in conveyancing, contracts, common law, and probate.
  • Document preparation – drafting and reviewing legal documents to ensure accuracy and legal compliance.
  • Filing and maintaining records – organising case files so all documentation is up-to-date and easy to find.
  • Conducting legal research – gathering relevant case law and information to support legal arguments.
  • Client communication – keeping clients informed and gathering the information solicitors need.
  • Scheduling appointments – coordinating meetings and court dates for solicitors and clients.
  • Assisting in court – preparing materials and attending hearings to support solicitors.
  • Maintaining confidentiality – handling all client information and documents with care and discretion.

Skills for Success

Legal Clerks use a great mix of practical and people skills every day. Strong organisation is key, as clerks juggle filing, scheduling, and managing case files all at once.

Attention to detail matters just as much. Legal documents must be exact, and mistakes can have real costs. Good writing and speaking skills help clerks talk to clients, solicitors, and courts with confidence.

Tech is reshaping legal workplaces. Knowing how to use case management tools and legal databases is a big plus. Being open to learning new skills will help you go far in this career.

Skills & Attributes

  • Strong organisational skills
  • Attention to detail
  • Clear written and verbal communication
  • Effective time management
  • Knowledge of legal terminology and documentation
  • Legal research skills
  • Understanding of legal procedures and court systems
  • Ability to work in a team
  • Problem-solving ability
  • Adaptability to changing legal environments
  • Commitment to confidentiality and ethics
  • Proficiency in legal software and office tools

Average Salaries

Legal Clerks in Australia earn a median of around $72,000 a year (Jobs and Skills Australia, 2025). Entry-level clerks usually start at about $55,000, while experienced clerks can earn up to $90,000 (SEEK, June 2026). Pay varies by state, practice area, and firm size.

min $55 K

max $90 K

av $72 K

About the author

Laura Atkinson - Course Finder Groups
Laura Atkinson

Laura Atkinson is an Account Management and SEM specialist at Course Finder Group with six years' experience in the Australian education sector. She works day to day with universities, TAFEs and independent training providers, which gives her a close view of how courses map to real career outcomes. She writes practical guidance on career pathways, choosing the right qualification and what to expect when moving into a new field.