11.1 The Role of a Judicial Intern

The role of a clerk or judicial intern is to work closely with people who happen to be Judges. Judicial interns are in a workplace that is not ordinarily open to the public. While the “open court principle” typically allows the public and press to view court proceedings, judicial interns are given much more access. Judicial internships allow law students to assist judges in their chambers. This is where the background work of reviewing filed materials, weighing the strengths of submissions, and drafting of decisions happens. Judges are independent decision makers, so it is often not possible for judges to discuss their thought process with others, aside from their busy colleagues. Judicial internship and clerkship programs allow for relational learning opportunities for both judges and interns. Students can gain fresh perspectives on the law and gain insight on judicial decision-making by engaging in dialogue with judges. See former Supreme Court of Canada Justice Marie Deschamps speak about this, below.