Law Clerk Openings to Judges of the Court at ICJ (International Court of Justice). Last Date to Apply: 13th Nov 2025.

Law Clerk Openings to Judges of the Court at ICJ (International Court of Justice). Last Date to Apply: 13th Nov 2025.

About ICJ:

The International Court of Justice (ICJ) is the UN’s main judicial body, composed of 15 elected judges. It settles legal disputes between States and gives advisory opinions to UN organs. Unlike other UN bodies, it has its own administration—the Registry, led by an elected Registrar.
The ICJ seeks Law Clerks to assist judges with legal research and support.

Responsibilities of Law Clerk:

Under the supervision of the judge to whom he or she is specifically assigned, the Law Clerk will provide such judge with legal research and related assistance with regard to cases pending before the Court. The Law Clerk may also be required to provide legal assistance and support to a judge ad hoc participating in a particular case. In co-ordination with his or her judge, the Law Clerk may also from time to time be called upon to perform some specific legal tasks for the Registry.

Competencies:

• Demonstrates expert knowledge of public international law and legal procedures.
• Skilled in legal research, analysis, drafting, and applying sound judgment under pressure.
• Maintains high professional standards, meets deadlines, and integrates gender perspectives.
• Communicates clearly, listens actively, and adapts tone and style to the audience.
• Values open dialogue and keeps others informed.
• Collaborates effectively, respects team decisions, and shares responsibility for outcomes.
• Plans strategically, prioritizes tasks, and manages time and resources efficiently.
• Takes full accountability for assigned duties and supports team performance.
• Pursues continuous learning, welcomes feedback, and fosters professional growth.

Educational Qualification:

An advanced university degree in law, with significant academic background in Public International Law or professional experience in the field; a first-level university degree in combination with qualifying experience may be accepted in lieu of an advanced university degree. Postgraduate studies in public international law would be an asset.

Job-Specific Qualification:

Postgraduate studies in public international law is desirable.

Work Experience required:

Two years’ experience in the settlement of international legal disputes with an international organization, government, law firm or other private sector entity is desirable. Significant academic background in public international law or professional experience in the field is required.

Languages:

English and French are the official languages of the Court. Excellent knowledge of and drafting ability (UN Level IV – Expert) in one of these languages is required. A good comprehension of the other language (UN Level III – Advanced) and a basic ability to communicate in that other language (UN Level I – Basic) are also required. Knowledge of other official languages of the United Nations would be an asset. To view the table showing the minimum required level for each skill in these languages, according to the UN Language Framework:

Selection Procedure:

Candidates on the shortlist will be tested and interviewed. Prospective applicants should be prepared to demonstrate in the exam and interview that they have expertise in a wide range of topics in public international law.

Important Note:

Appointments as Law Clerk to Judges of the Court is for a two year fixed term, renewable once for a second and final two year period. Applicants are specifically requested to provide, at the time of their application, a full PDF copy of their official academic record indicating the level of attainment achieved (e.g., class of degree, GPA, mark awarded, or position in overall ranking) in respect of any university or professional qualification obtained.

All candidates should be in a position to submit an electronic copy of their passport, recent performance appraisal reports, and all diplomas listed on their profile when requested. The Registrar reserves the right not to appoint any candidate to the post, or to appoint one at a lower level or on the basis of a modified job description.

NO FEES: ICJ does NOT charge any fees or request money from candidates at any stage of the recruitment process, nor does it concern itself with bank account details of applicants. Requests of this nature allegedly made on behalf of ICJ are fraudulent and should be disregarded.

How to Apply?

• First register yourself on the website by creating new Username and Password.
• Verify your profile by entering the verification code provided through your registered email ID.
• Login using your Username and Password
• Enter all the requisite details and remember these details must be accurate as changes later are not allowed.
• To view the Application link:

For more detailed information and updates kindly:

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