How to write a cover letter for a lawyer
First experiences are crucial, specifically when writing a resume, CV, or cover letter for law jobs. That is, the quality of your submission is just half the battle; as a law professional, you must be able to write precisely and compellingly.
Furthermore, headhunters are always time-pressed experts who want to instantly skim the applications before reaching out to prospects who stand out due to their college backgrounds, career experience, or varied aspirations. So, to assist you in putting your best foot forwards, we've compiled some pointers on how to write a professional lawyer cover letter.
Tips for writing a lawyer cover letter
A cover letter is similar to a sales pitch, except the product you're seeking to market is your viability for a specific job role. Here are some tips on writing a compelling lawyer cover letter;
- Emphasize the most relevant aspects of your resume.
- Provide an example of your written language skills.
- Demonstrate how your expertise, qualifications, and training apply to the role for which you wish to qualify.
- Mention the unique selection requirements from the job posting.
- Highlight your accomplishments.
- Use proper formatting as well as a polished and optimistic tone of speech.
- Persuade hiring manager to delve more into your cover letter by demonstrating understanding of grammar and style guidelines.
What to include in a lawyer cover letter
- Write your name, and if you're an attorney, add the one with which you were appointed to the bar. Provide your home address along with state and postcode. Add your phone number, email address since most hiring managers like to contact qualified employees by email initially. Specify the date below this detail, preceded by the law firm's contact details. Insert an "ATTN:" section after that with the name of the employer who will be reviewing your document. Optionally, you should call the person on the first line and then list their location immediately under it, above the business name. Both versions are suitable. Naturally, you'll begin with 'Dear Employer.
- In the introduction part, describe the job role you want to apply for and discuss how you heard about the job vacancy. It is also an excellent spot to list the name of someone who introduced you, a mutual contact, or a snippet of information you have about the firm—perhaps a big case they won or a legal claim they created. It shows that you took the initiative to do some analysis. Write the introduction of your cover letter in a convincing manner that will entice the employer to continue reading. It's okay to brag about yourself a bit. For instance, you may say, "As a successful lawyer with 12 years of law industry experience, I am writing about the lawsuit legal secretary job posted in the ABC Law Journal.
- Use the second paragraph to describe your educational background and training. Remember that this is all listed in your resume, and so you don't have to talk in detail. A lawyer cover letter must include a concise rundown of what the reviewer may encounter when they check your resume; your law university, where did you receive your certification to the bar, your employment record, and your responsibilities in those companies. Then, adapt your qualifications to the job's specifications and show any related recognition you have won and other achievements. When appropriate, back up the claims with facts. Don't just declare that you're a good writer. Provide evidence to back things up. Address that you have obtained two legal writing contests and wrote more than 100 papers.
- In your final paragraph, acknowledge the employer for reviewing your proposal and explain why you will be an asset to the company. Describe how your history, qualifications, experience, and previous accomplishments make you the ideal fit for the position. Then ask for an appointment or an interview. Signify how and where you can follow up on your cover letter, and provide the appropriate way to contact you. It is a safe way to send the reader to your P.O. box if your postal address is not your mailing address because the hiring manager will have to notify you of a possible interview by regular mail.
- End your letter by writing 'Sincerely' or something similarly official, then insert your name. Also, describe and draw attention to everything you're adding to the document.
- All your hard work will be worthless if the employer will not review your cover letter and any other details you have provided. Small, silly mistakes will lead them to dismiss your cover letter and resume after a quick glimpse. You're applying for a career in the legal industry, which indicates you ought to have a keen attention to detail and writing abilities. Look for spelling mistakes—they'll be easier to spot if you go back to it the next day. Examine the text for grammar errors and correct punctuation.
Lawyer cover letter examples
Junior Associate Attorney Cover letter example
Barbara J. Shute
913 Confederate Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204
622-10-7869
barbarashute@gmail.com
April 26, 2021
The Legato Network,
202 Clamento Avenue,
New York, 10018
Dear Mr. Stallman,
I am applying my application for the role of Junior Associate Attorney at Legato Network. I am now a law clerk at William & Collins Co. While my current J.D. education at New York College of Law, I found an interest in immigration law and started pursuing education in this field. I will graduate next week with a 3.91 GPA and am ready to take the Massachusetts State bar test in May.
For seven years, I worked as a paralegal for William & Collins Co., I supervised a caseload of 70 lawsuits, received my credential as a Certified E-Discovery Specialist. And I educated the firm's lawyers on employing the Symantec e-Discovery framework.
As a result, I can give you real-life expertise in legal study and writing, e-discovery, client interviews, and trial planning, and case management. My transfer from corporate dispute practice to my dream of becoming an immigration law attorney would also aid by my extensive proficiency in written and spoken Spanish, as my responsibilities often include acting as a court interpreter when necessary.
Thank you for taking the time to review my application; I would appreciate the opportunity to speak with you and explore my credentials for this role in depth.
Sincerely,
Barbara J. Shute
Corporate Counsel cover letter example
Barbara J. Shute
913 Confederate Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204
622-10-7869
barbarashute@gmail.com
April 26, 2021
The Legato Network,
202 Clamento Avenue,
New York, 10018
Dear Mr. Stallman,
I am responding to share my interest in the Corporate Counsel role at the Legato Network advertised and publicized on lawjobs.com. I am convinced that my skills and abilities make me an excellent candidate for this position. And I also feel that it will be a once-in-a-lifetime chance for me to contribute my knowledge and develop professionally.
First and foremost, I am a New York University graduate with a Juris Doctor in Law, demonstrating my expertise in the area. At college, I was among the highest 2% of students in educational achievement, and I also held a Vice President position of the New York university student association for a year.
Also, I am working at The Legato Network. I am primarily in charge of growing legal team productivity, overseeing a network of outside lawyers, and designing and introducing new allegations handling protocols. Besides, I offered competent legal advice to executives, created numerous forms and agreements, and stored sensitive records and archives.
Lastly, I am a detail-oriented and driven person with incredible social skills and the capability to keep calm under pressure. I appreciate your understanding and time, and I hope to talk with you further.
Sincerely,
Barbara J. Shute
Public Defender cover Letter example
Barbara J. Shute
913 Confederate Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204
622-10-7869
barbarashute@gmail.com
April 26, 2021
The Legato Network,
202 Clamento Avenue,
New York, 10018
Dear Mr. Stallman,
When I reviewed your listing on Monster.com for the Public Defender position inside New York State Court, I was delighted to find that your qualifications for this work match well with what I provide as a specialist. I feel that I am an ideal choice, and it will be a valuable experience for me to expand my knowledge and learn.
With over four years of significant hands-on experience, I am entirely capable of performing any job-related activities. Also, doing legal studies, advising indigent claimants, and offering expert advice and guidance to clients.
Assessed and reviewed legal evidence, educating and organizing Legal workers, and taking part in all aspects of felony cases.
Different managerial responsibilities include conducting pre-trial proceedings and reaching plea deals.
Handling classified records and archives, as well as doing all other tasks assigned.
I received a Juris Doctor degree from New York University, with an academic performance of 4.0 GPA. I also have the ACD Certification, excellent strategic thinking, and observational capabilities, and the critical capacity to stay calm in challenging conditions. I am an in-depth professional with advanced legal expertise and a deep willingness to meet and surpass all of your standards for this job.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Barbara J. Shute
Legal Receptionist cover letter example
Barbara J. Shute
913 Confederate Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204
622-10-7869
barbarashute@gmail.com
April 26, 2021
The Legato Network,
202 Clamento Avenue,
New York, 10018
Dear Mr. Stallman,
As a Legal Receptionist with three years of work experience with a multinational company and a startup firm, I am applying for this role.
I am presently the Receptionist/Legal Secretary at The Legato Network, where I am assisting 23 lawyers in family legislation, human rights, and immigration for the last two years.
I handle the office schedule, legal records, and reports, approve fees and perform audio typing as per your specifications. Also, respond to and direct phone calls, and ensure high standards in the waiting hall and conference areas.
Before moving to Miami, I worked as a Legal Secretary at A&B Legal Firm for a year. Along with my industry experience, I am pursuing my Juris Doctor. I am proficient in all of the applications mentioned in your job post, like MS. Office, Bill4Time, and Slack.
I have good verbal and written interpersonal abilities, a high degree of precision and eye for detail, solid organizational and prioritization capabilities, a constructive understanding of the problem, and the willingness to work well when meeting strict deadlines.
Please find my attached resume for your reference.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Barbara J. Shute
Legal Secretary cover letter example
Barbara J. Shute
913 Confederate Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204
622-10-7869
barbarashute@gmail.com
April 26, 2021
The Legato Network,
202 Clamento Avenue,
New York, 10018
Dear Mr. Stallman,
I am writing to convey my enthusiasm for the Legal Secretary position, as I am convinced that the blend of my formal training, field expertise, and proven ability qualifies me for the role. Besides this, I feel that I will be an asset to your team and the organization.
To briefly present myself, I am a competent Legal Secretary with outstanding technical capabilities and the vital capacity to think logically and resolve challenging problems. At Bailey & Smith, Corp, I was in charge of doing extensive legal analysis, offering appropriate legal advice to many Senior Lawyers and Advocates, and updating legal records to make sure the data was correct.
Also, I retained classified files and documents, examined clients, and helped with office administration. Throughout my time there, I demonstrated in many situations that I am a proactive person proficient in employing software required for the work, like MyCase and Alt Legal.
I graduated from New York University with a college degree in Legal Studies, highlighting my business experience. At the university, I obtained a 4.0 GPA score and worked as a Class President for a year. This experience led me to be a capable leader and facilitated me in developing exceptional time management abilities.
I look forward to meeting with you and discuss my expertise in greater detail with the job requirements.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Barbara J. Shute
Court Reporter cover letter example
Barbara J. Shute
913 Confederate Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204
622-10-7869
barbarashute@gmail.com
April 26, 2021
The Legato Network,
202 Clamento Avenue,
New York, 10018
Dear Mr. Stallman,
I am excited to apply for the Court Reporter position at New York Sheriff Court because I feel that the mix of my work experience, acquired skills, and many essential traits make me an ideal candidate for the job. I have a proactive outlook and the commitment to fulfill all of your goals and objectives.
I am a New York University graduate with a bachelor's degree in media and communications that demonstrates my experience in this area. At college, I was a student with high scores for my involvement in numerous clubs and activities, my representation of the college in tournaments and events, and my exceptional academic performance (4.0 GPA).
For more than two years, I served as a Court Reporter at Massachusetts legal Court. There, I was in charge of documenting the courthouse trials and maintaining the consistency of all records.
- Gathered and analyzed records and forms and organized extensive documentation of cases.
- Cooperated and interacted regularly with Judges and Lawyers, assisting them with any tasks allocated to them.
- Stayed consistent with applicable laws and legislation, established classified communications, and focused on the continuous enhancement of internal reporting systems to mitigate needless expenditure - cut costs by 12percent in a year.
I am fluent in Spanish, English, and French, and I am familiar with all of the software applications necessary for the position. Please find my attached resume for your reference.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Barbara J. Shute
Litigation Associate cover letter example
Barbara J. Shute
913 Confederate Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204
622-10-7869
barbarashute@gmail.com
April 26, 2021
The Legato Network,
202 Clamento Avenue,
New York, 10018
Dear Mr. Stallman,
I'm writing in response to your job posting for the Litigation Associate position at The Legato Network. With a wide range of essential skills and talents, as well as extensive field knowledge, I think I will be an asset to your organization.
I have practical experience working as a Litigation Associate for more than four years, so I'm well-versed in all facets of the job. I also provide expert legal guidance and referrals to numerous parties involved in litigation and interacting with clients to assess their priorities and objectives.
I am a Certified Litigation Specialist with a legal education degree from the New York University. With a progressive approach and a keen eye for detail and precision, I succeed at employing all software applications required for the job, like Bill4Time and ActionStep. Lastly, I would appreciate the opportunity to examine the role and my credentials in detail.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Barbara J. Shute
Court Clerk cover letter example
Barbara J. Shute
913 Confederate Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204
622-10-7869
barbarashute@gmail.com
April 26, 2021
The Legato Network,
202 Clamento Avenue,
New York, 10018
Dear Mr. Stallman,
I am applying for the job of Court Clerk role at Massachusetts Sheriff Court. I am sure that I am an excellent choice for the job, as I have more than three years of professional experience and an established track record of achievement in finishing all allocated tasks on time.
I am a Certified Court Clerk with a keen eye for detail and consistency and the willingness to multitask well in fast-paced team settings. I spent the majority of my time at Massachusetts Court filing and storing legal records, as well as overseeing all correspondence.
- Filed legal paperwork, kept track of cases, and assisted supervisors in the courtroom.
- Introduced modern clerical procedures that improved the productivity of everyday administrative activities dramatically.
- Performed other responsibilities as necessary.
I have expertise with all of the software applications needed for the job, like eCourt and Incode. I would appreciate the chance to meet with you and discuss the job role in depth.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Barbara J. Shute
If you want to know the requirements, certifications necessary to be a lawyer, then here is a comprehensive guide on how to become a lawyer.
Corporate Legal Assistant cover letter example
Barbara J. Shute
913 Confederate Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204
622-10-7869
barbarashute@gmail.com
April 26, 2021
The Legato Network,
202 Clamento Avenue,
New York, 10018
Dear Mr. Stallman,
I am applying for the job role of a Corporate Legal Assistant position at The Legato Network. With over two years of professional experience, well-structured field knowledge, and many essential qualities, I am confident that I will effectively manage the job.
I graduated from New York University with a bachelor's degree in International Law. At college, I was in the top 2percent of students with the highest academic performance 3.99 GPA. Also, I was frequently involved in many school activities, like Economics Group, Math Society, and Swimming Group.
I have more than three years of experience as a Corporate Legal Assistant at A.J. & McRoe Corporation, and I am well-versed in all facets of the job. Aside from helping Senior Lawyers with case planning and resolution drafting, I have expertise in;
Checking different legal records to verify that all evidence is valid.
- Scheduling and managing group sessions.
- Finalizing numerous other administrative tasks.
I have excellent analytical thinking capabilities and the potential to use software applications stated in the job listing.
Thank you for your time and consideration. I look forward to meeting with you.
Sincerely,
Barbara J. Shute
Litigation Assistant cover letter example
Barbara J. Shute
913 Confederate Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204
622-10-7869
barbarashute@gmail.com
April 26, 2021
The Legato Network,
202 Clamento Avenue,
New York, 10018
Dear Mr. Stallman,
I am applying for the role of Litigation Assistant at The Legato Network as a performance-driven and inspired legal expert with more than three years of substantial industry knowledge and an established track record of exceptional accomplishments. I am sure that I am an excellent candidate for your business, but I also feel that this will be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for me.
I completed my Legal Studies program from New York University and can provide the job with well-constructed domain experience and expertise. At college, I received the highest academic grades with a 4.0 GPA. Also participated in school events, like the business group and the sports club. Taking part in such events encouraged me to develop outstanding leadership skills while also helping me to strengthen my organizational and time management skills.
For over four years, I served as a Litigation Assistant at Magnus C&C, LLC. I was primarily in charge of undertaking technical research work and drafting numerous legal methods and records and maintaining the validity of all details. My expertise includes;
- Assisting Senior Litigation Advocates with different tasks, communicating with clients, developing and managing the office schedule.
- Collecting lawyer fees and compensation, scheduling conferences and seminars, and act as a link between departments.
- Recognized and initiated meetings with prospective clients, revised new client records, and completed other clerical activities.
I would welcome the chance to come in for an appointment and explore the job and my credentials in greater depth.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Barbara J. Shute
Law Office Assistant cover letter example
Barbara J. Shute
913 Confederate Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204
622-10-7869
barbarashute@gmail.com
April 26, 2021
The Legato Network,
202 Clamento Avenue,
New York, 10018
Dear Mr. Stallman,
I'm applying for the role of Law Office Assistant at The Legato Network. I assume that I am an excellent candidate for the job because I have years of comprehensive business experience with the required skills and attributes. Besides that, I am confident that I will be an asset to your team and organization.
I am a detail-oriented specialist with excellent multitasking and time management abilities, with the ability to collaborate and function well both individually and in group settings. I provided guidance and support to Senior Advocates with numerous clerical tasks, such as filing and editing legal forms, at A&A law firm, where I served for more than a year.
I am a qualified Lawyer with a Law course from New York University, with a 4.0 GPA in academic performance. At school, I was also active in several co-curricular events, including the Psychology Society and the Horse Club.
Please feel free to contact me if you need any additional details about my credentials. I have enclosed my current resume for your reference.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Barbara J. Shute
Case Worker cover letter example
Barbara J. Shute
913 Confederate Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204
622-10-7869
barbarashute@gmail.com
April 26, 2021
The Legato Network,
202 Clamento Avenue,
New York, 10018
Dear Mr. Stallman,
I am writing to apply for the Case Worker role at The Legato Network, promoted on Monster.com. When I reviewed the job description, I was pleasantly surprised to see how well my skills matched the criteria listed in the job listing. Besides that, I feel that I will be an asset to your company.
As a committed and self-motivated person with over three years of working as a Case Worker at A&B Pvt Ltd, I am completely capable of achieving any tasks related to the job. I excel at delivering several support services to families and people, conducting psychosocial evaluations, and designing customized recovery strategies.
I was responsible for training clients and their families on health problems, preserving and handling sensitive documentation and information. Throughout my tenure there, I demonstrated on several occasions that I am an outstanding team member with the capacity to direct any project to a satisfactory conclusion.
I am a Registered Social Work Caseworker with strong strategic thinking and observational abilities, with the ability to stay calm in high-stress environments. Lastly, I am fluent in Spanish, English and have a thorough understanding of French.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Barbara J. Shute
Court Officer cover letter example
Barbara J. Shute
913 Confederate Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204
622-10-7869
barbarashute@gmail.com
April 26, 2021
The Legato Network,
202 Clamento Avenue,
New York, 10018
Dear Mr. Stallman,
I am writing to apply for the Court Officer position at The Legato Network. I believe that my credentials qualify me for the job, and it will be an excellent chance for me to advance my career.
Throughout my career, I have shown that I can operate individually and as part of a group. Besides that, I am a precision-focused person with excellent analytical skills and valuable organizational qualifications required for the role.
I was well-known at Plymouth District Court for my diligent attitude and excellent proven record in finishing all scheduled assignments and ventures on time. I was responsible for designing and organizing the court calendar, as well as communicating with witnesses and lawyers, in addition to conducting other regular clerical tasks.
Also, I participated in the introduction and adoption of a new court file system that reduced court office expenditures by 25percent in about a year. I am a Registered Office Manager with a Master of Legal Studies from New York University. I had the ability to engage and collaborate with legal business experts from all over the globe while in college.
I am fluent in English, French and have extensive knowledge of different crucial software applications such as eCourt, Incode, and CMS 360. Having outstanding multitasking abilities and an incredible capacity to think logically and solve challenging problems, I can be a valuable asset to your business.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Barbara J. Shute
Compliance Officer cover letter example
Barbara J. Shute
913 Confederate Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204
622-10-7869
barbarashute@gmail.com
April 26, 2021
The Legato Network,
202 Clamento Avenue,
New York, 10018
Dear Mr. Stallman,
I saw your job advertisement for The Legato Network's Compliance Officer role on Indeed.com. I've been observing your organization for a long time, and it'd be a privilege for me to be a part of your organization. Additionally, I assume that my extensive career experience, proven record of accomplishments, and acquired applicable skills and knowledge make me an ideal applicant for the position.
During my tenure at K&C Pvt Ltd, I have repeatedly shown that I succeed at operating in fast-paced settings, and I can perform well individually or as part of a team. And I am capable of taking action and completing every given task or assignment successfully.
Aside from regularly engaging in contract talks and giving valuable assistance and encouragement to executives and administrators, I also maintain and manage the regulatory database, developing and implementing new processes to minimize documentation and improve productivity as much as achievable.
I am a Licensed Compliance Officer with a New York University Business degree. During my time at university, I gained significant experience and skills in a range of core areas of business growth, including advertising, finance, and I also engaged in many clubs and associations.
Following an analysis of your company's goals, I assume my expertise matches your existing requirements. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Barbara J. Shute
Legal Intern cover letter example
Barbara J. Shute
913 Confederate Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204
622-10-7869
barbarashute@gmail.com
April 26, 2021
The Legato Network,
202 Clamento Avenue,
New York, 10018
Dear Mr. Stallman,
I am writing to apply for a Summer Legal Internship position at The Legato Network posted on Glassdoor.com. I think I am eligible and have everything required for this job, so I am sending my application.
I am a third-year Law undergraduate student at New York University. There, I studied and developed experience in various law disciplines. Not only did I obtain excellent academic performance (3.98 GPA), but I participated in clubs and activities over the years.
For instance, at TEDx Club, I worked as an Event Organiser and was responsible for all facets of event preparation, scheduling, and organization. This training improved my time management and organizational ability.
I served as a Legal Intern at AV&J law firm, where I was responsible for doing extensive legal studies, drafting and updating licenses and contracts, and engaging with clients. Besides, I helped in executing patent applications and managed all legal records and archives for my clients. I am an excellent team member but can still perform individually.
I have outstanding oral and written communication capabilities, and I am proficient in English, Chinese, and German. Lastly, I am very confident of my excellent logical reasoning abilities and determination to tackle complicated issues.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Barbara J. Shute
Legal Officer cover letter example
Barbara J. Shute
913 Confederate Drive, Syracuse, NY 13204
622-10-7869
barbarashute@gmail.com
April 26, 2021
The Legato Network,
202 Clamento Avenue,
New York, 10018
Dear Mr. Stallman,
On Indeed.com, I recently found a new job opportunity for a Legal Officer role at The Legato Network. As a seasoned business specialist, I offer a proactive approach and an established previous performance of conducting any tasks associated with the position. I feel that I will be an excellent addition to your organization.
An analysis of my enclosed resume would verify that I have a thorough understanding of the profession, which I gained while pursuing a master's degree in Legal Studies at New York University with a GPA of 3.98. Also, I took part in co-curricular events such as Political Society and Table Tennis Club.
My legal expertise entails two years at J&J law company, where I was regarded for consistently doing outstanding work and achieving all goals and deadlines. To further explain the activities on which I spent the majority of my working time;
- Paralegal responsibilities included managing and reviewing all legal records as well as participating in commercial discussions.
- Collaborated with members from different agencies and performed policy studies.
- Prepared agreements, offered expert legal counsel to management and executives, and reported and resolved possible legal issues.
I am enthusiastic about my job and succeed at customer contact. Also, I have a high degree of precision, outstanding analytical capabilities, and the willingness to learn and contribute well in a team.
Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Barbara J. Shute
Key Points
- Informs the hiring manager who you are (for example, a first-year student or an entry-level job candidate). and what you're aiming for (like summer internship or traineeship)
- Illustrates knowledge of the specific workplace and the kind of job the employer performs (for example, civil or criminal work, antitrust lawsuits)
- Display your writing abilities.
- Signifies your dedication to the work of the particular organization and reflects that you have everything to offer.
- It reveals that you and the hiring manager are a perfect match.
- Conveying the employer how to contact you by email, phone, and postal mail.
To complete you job application, you will need a resume with your cover letter, here is a resource on how to write a lawyer resume.
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