Remote Conciliation Court Referee, Attorney (Per Diem)

Minnesota Judicial Branch; United States; Remote; USD 24,000 - 31,000; Full time

Job summary

The Minnesota Judicial Branch seeks qualified attorneys to serve as per diem conciliation court referees for the Tenth District. Sessions are conducted remotely via Zoom, with compensation of $75.00 per half‑day session. These positions are contractors and do not include employee benefits.

Conciliation court handles claims up to $20,000 and consumer credit claims up to $4,000. Referees preside over calendars and must meet Minnesota qualifications; postings stay open until filled.

Qualifications

• Must reside in Minnesota.
• Must be a licensed attorney in the State of Minnesota.
• Must have at least five years of experience as a practicing attorney.
• Must be in good standing with Office of Lawyers Professional Responsibility board and have no disciplinary actions within the past five years.
• Must pass criminal background check.
• May not have a client base that would create a frequent conflict in the type of cases commonly heard in the conciliation court (e.g. credit card debt, landlord-tenant).

Responsibilities

• Preside over general conciliation calendars and debt collection calendars ranging from 12 to 50 cases per half day session. Review court calendars, case filings, and related materials in advance of scheduled proceedings.
• Hear and evaluate testimony, allegations, and evidence presented by parties, witnesses, and technical experts. Determine whether claims are supported by the facts and applicable law, rule on the admissibility of evidence, and oversee the orderly presentation of testimony and proceedings.
• Prepare orders and related documentation in compliance with Minnesota Judicial Branch standards and perform legal research as necessary to support judicial decision-making. Prioritize assignments and promptly dispose of pending conciliation court matters.
• Exercise substantial discretion and independent judgment carrying out duties in accordance with applicable state statutes, court rules, local practices, and Minnesota Statute § 491A.03, Subdivision 1.
• Maintain order, decorum, and professionalism during all proceedings. Ensure all parties are afforded the opportunity to be heard in accordance with the law while maintaining timely and quality calendar management, treat all parties with courtesy and respect, and enforce prohibitions on broadcasting, recording, televising, or photographing court proceedings.
• Maintain compliance with the Minnesota Code of Judicial Conduct as adopted by the Minnesota Supreme Court.

Skills

Tech proficiency

Time management

Attention to detail

Interpersonal skills

Job description

The Minnesota Judicial Branch seeks qualified attorneys to serve as per diem conciliation court referees for the Tenth District. Sessions are conducted remotely via Zoom, with compensation of $75.00 per half‑day session. These positions are contractors and do not include employee benefits.

Conciliation court handles claims up to $20,000 and consumer credit claims up to $4,000. Referees preside over calendars and must meet Minnesota qualifications; postings stay open until filled.