Legal Cover Letter Example & How to Write
Get your employer’s attention in the overcrowded legal job market with these fantastic legal cover letter examples.
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Legal cover letter sample
Regardless of whether you are a law student applying for your first job or you are an experienced legal professional familiar with the job search procedure, a well-written cover letter can help you land the job. Many employers read the cover letter before moving on to the resume, which means your resume won’t make it to the “yes” pile if your letter is unprofessional. Furthermore, a cover letter allows you to explain why you want the job and why you would be a great addition to a legal team.
In this article, we will provide you with an example cover letter and cover letter tips to inspire you and to help you understand how to write a dazzling cover letter.
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Tips for writing your legal cover letter
First paragraph
The first paragraph of Ms. Smith’s letter starts by stating where she studied and where she currently works. She also noted that she is just one small step away from taking the California state bar exam. When writing your cover letter, catch the employer’s attention by immediately naming your best achievements. Furthermore, name your connection to the employer, if you have one. In this legal cover letter example, the writer states that she applied for the job at the suggestion of Judge Adams, a mutual connection.
Second paragraph
In the second paragraph, provide more information to help the hiring manager see why you are the best person for the job. Keep in mind that most of your accomplishments are listed in your resume, so you shouldn’t just copy them into your cover letter.
Instead, try to tie them together in a way that will help your prospective employer see your true potential. For instance, Ms. Smith didn’t just write that she worked at Johnson and Johnson for six years. She made it very clear how she contributed to the team’s success by stating that she educated the company’s attorneys in the use of the Veritas eDiscovery Platform. She also draws attention to the time when she served as a court translator, highlighting her knowledge of a foreign language.
Read the job posting carefully and see which of your relevant skills may impress the recruiter the most.
Closing paragraph
In the closing paragraph thank the employer for their time. The most significant part of this paragraph is the “call to action” statement. Instead of just writing that you hope to hear from the employer, let them know you intend to follow up with them. Sign off with a professional and respectful letter closing, using a closing such as “Sincerely” or “Best regards.”
If you need more help creating a cover letter, you can always use a cover letter template. Do not forget to proofread your letter so there aren’t any spelling mistakes that bring your writing skills into question. Need more cover letter advice? Browse through our General Cover Letter Examples article.
Resources for Your Next Career Move
Explore our complete cover letter examples selection for tips and resources tailored to every career path.
FAQ: Legal cover letter example
Have questions? We’re here to help.
Do I really need a cover letter to get a legal job?
A compelling cover letter is the first step toward landing the job and advancing your legal career. Most hiring managers won’t even read resumes if a cover letter does not accompany it. In the cover letter, you have the opportunity to introduce yourself and explain why you want a legal career and why you would be a great addition to the company. Check various cover letter samples to better understand how to create the best legal cover letter.
How long should my cover letter be to get a job in the legal profession?
Your legal cover letter should be short and sweet. Be concise and organize your letter into three to four paragraphs. Ideally, your legal cover letter should be 3/4 of a page.
Can I use this cover letter example if I don’t have a lot of work experience?
Even if you are a first-year student trying to land your very first job, you can use ResumeHelp example cover letters to write your individualized cover letter. Instead of your past work experience, highlight your academic success, internship or volunteering experience.
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