Our shadowing program provides a hands-on introduction to the Clerk’s Office and public service careers for upper-level high school students, college students, and recent graduates. This personalized, single-day experience is designed for students curious about careers in law, government administration, public affairs, and leadership.
Each schedule is tailored to your interests and goals, offering opportunities to:
- Shadow courtroom proceedings and observe real cases in action (based on availability and age-appropriate/sensitive cases)
- Explore the inner workings of administrative operations across the Clerk’s Office divisions
- Meet and discuss career paths with our leadership team and courthouse partners
By participating, you’ll gain valuable insights, hands-on experience, and professional connections, and see firsthand what a career in public service can look like. Your involvement is essential to making this a meaningful and educational experience.
What you’ll experience?
- Gain real-world experience in public service
- Build professional skills and connections
- Explore career paths in law, government, and administration
Have Questions? 📧 Reach out to our Public Affairs team at publicaffairs@stjohnsclerk.com.
Who can apply?
Upper-level high school students, college students, and recent graduates interested in careers in law, government, or public service.
What is the time commitment?
The experience is typically a one-day shadowing opportunity, but schedules may vary depending on availability and student interests. Our office is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Friday.
Do I need prior experience?
No prior experience is required—just curiosity, professionalism, and interest in learning about public service.
How is my schedule determined?
Each schedule is customized to your goals and interests, with opportunities to observe office operations, administrative functions, and, if desired, court proceedings.
Is my requested date guaranteed?
No—dates are requested only. A member of our Public Affairs team will contact you to confirm availability.
Will I get to interact with court staff or judges?
If you wish, you may observe courtroom proceedings and learn how our office collaborates with courts and local government partners. Observations are subject to availability with our court clerks, and some proceedings may be limited due to the age of participants or the sensitivity of the case. Interaction with judges is also based on availability.
Is this program paid?
No, this is an unpaid educational opportunity.
Who can I contact with questions?
Email the Public Affairs team at 📧 publicaffairs@stjohnsclerk.com.
Dress code / professional expectations
Business casual attire is recommended for all participants. Students are expected to conduct themselves professionally at all times.
If your shadowing experience includes observing or participating in courtroom proceedings, participants must follow professional courtroom attire guidelines. Any participant who does not comply with the dress code may not be permitted to participate in the courtroom.
Documentation / Forms
Minors will be required to submit a permission form or waiver prior to participation.
Follow-up opportunities
Students may receive guidance on mentorship, networking, and other Clerk’s Office programs for further learning.
Ready to get started? Fill out our online form → to submit your inquiry. A member of our Public Affairs team will review your submission and reach out to confirm next steps.
This program provides a hands-on introduction to the Clerk’s Office and public service careers. Participants will explore the inner workings of our office and its divisions, gain insight into administration and governmental affairs, and, if desired, see how we collaborate with the courts and local government partners. Each experience is tailored to the student’s interests and career goals, offering a unique look at public service in action.
By participating, students will:
- Explore the inner workings of the Clerk’s Office and its divisions
- Observe administrative operations and daily public service functions
- Learn how our office collaborates with courts and local government partners
- Gain exposure to career paths in law, public administration, and public affairs
- Have an experience tailored to their goals and interests
This program is ideal for students interested in:
- Government and public administration
- Law and court-related roles
- Public affairs and leadership
- Administrative functions
- Any career in public service
