<p>A pawl assembly comprising a threaded shaft of noncircular cross section, a pawl of generally elongate shape having a circular through hole, and a clip that is nonrotatably mounted on the shaft and which contacts the pawl to prevent rotation thereof. The clip has a noncircular through hole that corresponds to the noncircular cross section of the shaft and a bent portion that contacts a side surface of the pawl to prevent rotation. By using such a clip, the pawl can be oriented in multiple angular directions while also providing for precise axial placement on the shaft. The pawl assemblies may be used in latches for cabinets and the like.</p>