Law Clerk (Contract) - Handshake AI

Role Overview

Handshake is seeking experienced Law Clerks and legal professionals to support AI research through flexible, hourly contract work. This is not a traditional full-time law firm or court role. You’ll use your real-world legal research and drafting experience to evaluate AI-generated content and provide feedback that helps AI better understand legal tasks, reasoning, and professional language.

This is an ongoing, project-based opportunity that can be done alongside your primary employment. If you're a detail-oriented legal professional with a passion for accuracy and a desire to contribute to the future of legal technology, this role is for you.

A Day in the Life of a Law Clerk (Contract) at Handshake AI

As a Law Clerk (Contract) at Handshake AI, your day will be focused on leveraging your legal expertise to improve AI models. Here's what a typical day might look like:

• Reviewing AI-Generated Content: You'll analyze AI-generated legal documents and responses to legal queries, assessing their accuracy, completeness, and relevance to real-world legal scenarios.
• Providing Feedback: You'll provide detailed feedback to the AI models, highlighting areas where they excel and areas where they need improvement. This feedback will help the AI learn and refine its understanding of legal concepts.
• Designing Evaluation Questions: You'll contribute to the development of job-related questions and scenarios to effectively test the AI's legal reasoning abilities.
• Conducting Legal Research: You'll utilize your legal research skills to verify the accuracy of AI-generated content and to provide context for your feedback.
• Collaborating with the Team: You'll work closely with other legal professionals and AI specialists to share insights and refine the AI models.
• Staying Up-to-Date: You'll stay informed about the latest developments in legal technology and AI, and you'll apply this knowledge to your work.

Why New York, NY? (Location Flexibility)

This Law Clerk (Contract) position is a fully remote opportunity. While the job is listed in New York, NY because Handshake has a presence there, you can work from anywhere with a reliable internet connection. New York represents the hub, but the work can be done anywhere!

Career Path for Law Clerks

While this is a contract role, it provides valuable experience in the rapidly growing field of legal AI. This role can open doors to various career paths, including:

• Legal AI Specialist: Utilize your legal expertise to develop and improve AI-powered legal tools.
• Legal Technology Consultant: Advise law firms and legal organizations on how to leverage AI and other technologies to improve their operations.
• Legal Research and Writing Specialist: Continue to hone your legal research and writing skills and apply them in various legal settings.
• Compliance Officer: Ensure that organizations comply with legal and regulatory requirements.
• Paralegal/Legal Assistant: Advance your career in legal support roles with a strong foundation in legal technology.

The experience gained in this role can also be a stepping stone to pursuing a law degree or other advanced legal certifications.

Salary & Benefits

The hourly rate for this Law Clerk (Contract) position typically ranges from $35 to $70 per hour, depending on experience and the complexity of the project. As an independent contractor, you will be responsible for your own taxes and benefits. However, the flexible work schedule allows you to pursue other opportunities and manage your income effectively.

Handshake AI's Mission

Handshake AI is dedicated to revolutionizing the legal industry through the power of artificial intelligence. Our mission is to empower legal professionals with AI-powered tools that enhance their efficiency, accuracy, and access to justice. By joining our team, you'll be contributing to a future where legal services are more accessible and affordable for everyone.

How to Apply

To apply for the Law Clerk (Contract) position, please submit your resume and cover letter through the Handshake platform. In your cover letter, highlight your relevant experience, skills, and your interest in legal AI. Be sure to emphasize your attention to detail and your ability to work independently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What type of experience is preferred? We are looking for candidates with at least 4 years of experience as a Law Clerk or in a similar legal research or support role. Experience with legal research, drafting, and document review is essential.
2. Is prior AI experience required? No, prior AI or technical experience is not required. We are looking for legal professionals who are willing to learn and adapt to new technologies.
3. What are the working hours? The schedule is flexible and asynchronous, with no minimum hour requirement. Many contributors work approximately 5–20 hours per week when assigned to an active project.
4. How long do projects typically last? The duration of projects can vary depending on the scope and complexity of the work. Some projects may last a few weeks, while others may last several months.
5. What type of feedback is expected? We are looking for detailed and constructive feedback that helps the AI models improve their accuracy and relevance. Your feedback should be based on your legal expertise and your understanding of real-world legal scenarios.
6. How is payment processed? Payment is processed on an hourly basis and is typically paid bi-weekly or monthly. Specific payment details will be outlined in your contract.
7. What tools and resources will I have access to? You will have access to online legal research databases and other tools necessary to complete your work. We will also provide training and support to help you effectively use these resources.
8. Is this position eligible for CPT or OPT for F-1 students? F-1 students who are eligible for CPT or OPT may be eligible for projects on Handshake AI. Work with your Designated School Official to determine your eligibility. If your school requires a CPT course, Handshake AI may not meet your school’s requirements. STEM OPT is not supported.
9. What are the opportunities for advancement? While this is a contract role, it can open doors to various career paths in the legal AI field. You may also have opportunities to work on different types of projects and expand your skills.
10. What is the company culture like? Handshake AI fosters a collaborative and innovative culture. We value teamwork, creativity, and a commitment to excellence.