Legal Cover Letter: Examples and Spelling (+25 Tips) (2023)

It doesn't matter if you had a sense of injustice since your early teens that you needed to right, or if you just really liked Harvey Specter on Suits. To get the legal jobs you want, you need to show you can do what you routinely do. Build an argument.

A legal cover letter should demonstrate your powers of argument and persuasion to provide compelling arguments that you are a fit for the position at hand. You must demonstrate both an empirical and theoretical basis for why you are the best candidate for the position.

This guide is intended for legal professionals who wish to pursue barrister or barrister training after their LPC. However, you can use these tips whether you're applying for a job as a paralegal, paralegal, or otherwise. The same rules apply. time to go to court.

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Are you looking for another sample cover letter? To see:

  • Cover letter from a business analyst
  • Note application letter
  • Cover letter to Goldman Sachs
  • Cover letter for investment banking
  • Cover letter for a paralegal

Couldn't find your job? To seea complete list of our cover letter templates.

Sample legal cover letter

Jim Patterson

Royal College Street 291

London

NW1 4RW

07586123198

jim@patterson.com

John Smith

Recruitment Manager

Duncan Lewis

Chancellery Avenue 1

London

EC2Y 8HQ

12. June 2021

Dear Mr Smith,

Having completed my LPC with honors from City University and a 1st Class LLB with honors from Durham University, I am ready to embark on a challenging and rewarding career as an Associate with Duncan Lewis. I am passionate about immigration, asylum and human rights and want to start a career where I make a difference every day.

I developed my commercial awareness during my 3 week internship at DLA Piper, assisting the financial services team on a compliance project which helped avoid potential £4million in regulatory liability. But the most formative thing for me is still my first legal experience, when I was helping my best friend's father's father with his immigration dispute in sixth grade. I helped him navigate the first stages of the process and explained the feedback I had received from the authorities. If necessary, I found a pro bono advocate in Mr. Al-Mudaris of the Good Advice Foundation, who commended me for summarizing the case and confirmed the advice I had given so far. With the advice of Mr Al-Mudaris my friend's family in the UK stayed intact and the difference this lawyer made was something I have always wanted to do, sadly too young and unqualified to do at the moment.

Times are different now. I am qualified to make a difference and with your guidance I hope to get there. The type of work you do is the type of legal work I find most rewarding and inspiring, and I am confident in being a productive addition to Duncan Lewis.

When would be a good time to set up a meeting or give me a call to let you know how my mini students at 39 Essex Chambers have further validated my decision to help individuals?

Best regards,

Jim Patterson

How to get your legal cover letter to the point. Let's create your own recipe step by step. Here isWhat should a cover letter say?:

1. Start with a professional headline and salutation

StartWriting your application letterby formatting the header like any other business letter:

  • Align your contact details to the right (including email and phone)
  • Left-align your hiring manager's information
  • drop the date
  • Please enter the subject (i.e. the function) of your cover letter

Try if possibleaddress the cover letterdirectly to the person concerned. In this profession, the surname may be better than the first name. Reference to this sample legal cover letter:

Sample header for a cover letter

Jim Patterson
Royal College Street 291

London

NW1 4RW

07586123198

jim@patterson.com

John Smith

Recruitment Manager

Duncan Lewis

Chancellery Avenue 1

London

EC2Y 8HQ

12. June 2021

Subject: position lawyer in training

Dear Mr Smith,

You can customize any cover letter created in the builder to fit the job requirements. Choose the name of your profession and the company you want to apply to and the builder will automatically customize the content for you.Create a cover letter faster than you ever thought possibleand apply for the position in record time.

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2. Open your cover letter with compelling evidence

Your legal cover letter should not be an investigation. It has to be evidence. Don't save the best for last, unlike in court. Download it ASAP to give them a reason to keep reading. There are dozens of these applications.

Since you are most likely just starting out in your legal career, you should state what your ambitions are and how they fit with the profile of the law firm you are applying to. This section should be between 40 and 80 words.

Sample legal cover letter – introductory paragraph

Having completed my LPC with honors from City University and a 1st Class LLB with honors from Durham University, I am ready to embark on a challenging and rewarding career as an Associate with Duncan Lewis. I am passionate about immigration, asylum and human rights and want to start a career where I make a difference every day.

3. Make a clear statement in the body of your cover letter

That's the process. In the body of your letter, you present most of your arguments and evidence. Relate it to the needs of your future employer and explain how these experiences motivate and inspire you to work in this position.

If you have experience in more commercial law areas, it is easier to put your experience into numbers.

You could also try to estimate, in the more personal areas of law, how many cases you were involved in during your internship or studies and what the significance of that was. It's also a good place to show your passion for this particular area of ​​law.

If you are applying for an apprenticeship contract with rotating faculty, you can discuss why you prefer this approach to another company's approach and demonstrate that you have done your research. This section can be between 120 and 200 words. It's better to be concise, as HR managers prefershort cover letter.

Sample Legal Cover Letter – Main Paragraph

I developed my commercial awareness during my 3 week internship at DLA Piper, assisting the financial services team on a compliance project which helped avoid potential £4million in regulatory liability. But the most formative thing for me is still my first legal experience, when I was helping my best friend's father's father with his immigration dispute in sixth grade. I helped him navigate the first stages of the process and explained the feedback I had received from the authorities. If necessary, I found a pro bono advocate in Mr. Al-Mudaris of the Good Advice Foundation, who commended me for summarizing the case and confirmed the advice I had given so far. With the advice of Mr Al-Mudaris my friend's family in the UK stayed intact and the difference this lawyer made was something I have always wanted to do, sadly too young and unqualified to do at the moment.

You don't have to create any content yourself. TheLiveCareer cover letter makerautomatically suggests the best content for your cover letter with ready-made examples and expert tips.

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4. Provide a final argument with a call to action

The third paragraph should list exactly what you want to do for your employer and for yourself. Spend 60-80 words on your closing argument to clarify open questions. Add a call to action below.

Request a call or meeting to discuss a specific matter, accomplishment, or nuances of working at this company. Make it interesting and don't be passive and immature. Show conviction and determination in pursuing your desired path.

AlwaysOfficially complete your cover letterwith "Best regards" or a suitable alternative.

Sample cover letter - final paragraph

Times are different now. I am qualified to make a difference and with your guidance I hope to get there. The type of work you do is the type of legal work I find most rewarding and inspiring, and I am confident in being a productive addition to Duncan Lewis.

When would be a good time to set up a meeting or give me a call to let you know how my mini students at 39 Essex Chambers have further validated my decision to help individuals?

Best regards,

Jim Patterson

5. Apply a correct legal format for a cover letter

Princeton students found this outWe impress a person's reliability within 100 ms. It could be similar for legal cover letters. Whatever position you are applying for, you have a lot of documents to prepare.

This is the first thing you will see and it may be the last. Don't let accidents happen. Conciseness is the soul of humor. Here are a fewTips for writing a cover letter:

Length of legal cover letter

Here ishow long your cover letter should be:

  • 1st paragraph – 40-80 words
  • 2nd paragraph - 120-200 words
  • Closing paragraph - 60-80 words
  • call to action
  • Formal Graduation
  • 200 - 350 words in total
  • Maximum 1 page A4

Use the resume format

Yourlegal resumeCover letter and cover letter must be in the same style. They're two segments of the same document, and when they don't match, they look weird. A detail like this is bad in such a demanding job. For better readability use asimple template for a cover letterwithout images or icons.

Use an elegant font

Choose a font size between 10 and 12. Choose a legible yet elegant font that suits youResume Font- think of Arial, Calibri, Noto, Garamond.

Use even margins and white space

IfPut down your cover letterUse white space between sections and paragraphs to draw the reader's attention. Center your cover letter on all sides with even 1 inch margins. If you're running out of space, think about some bullet points for key points.

Focus on each legal cover letter

Many companies do similar things, but every company is different. And above all, every company believes that it is special. Do a thorough research on each place you are applying to so that you can focus sufficiently on their priorities when discussing your strengths and interestscapabilities.

Save as PDF unless...

Large companies use almost all applicant tracking systems to manage their applications. For each job posting, please carefully review the format you wish to receive the documents in as some are not compatible with certain ATS software.

Otherwise, save it as a PDF to protect the fileFormatting of your cover letter.

A cover letter is not enough, you also need an informative CV. Create your CV in minutes.Choose a professional resume templateand quickly fill out each resume section with ready-made content and expert advice.

Legal Cover Letter: Examples and Spelling (+25 Tips) (4)

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Does this answer the question of how to write a cover letter for legal jobs? Still have questions about what to include? Did you find the sample cover letter for law school helpful? Let us know in a comment!

FAQs

How do you write a strong legal cover letter? ›

Your cover letter for a legal internship should be concise, non-generic, error-free, and employer-focused. Use your opening paragraph to introduce yourself, the main body to summarize your qualifications, and the concluding paragraph to leave a positive impression and outline next steps.

What are 5 common cover letter mistakes? ›

Common Mistakes Made When Writing a Cover Letter
  • Being overly formal. “Dear Sir/Madam…” ...
  • Being too informal. On the opposing side of the court is the peril of being too informal. ...
  • Using a stock cover letter. ...
  • Saying too much. ...
  • Forgetting to proofread. ...
  • Bragging. ...
  • Focusing too much on yourself. ...
  • Clumsy language.

What are the top 5 tips for a cover letter? ›

How to write a cover letter for a job: 5 essential tips
  • Customize your letter. ...
  • Supplement your resume, don't repeat it. ...
  • Include keywords and supporting details. ...
  • Address any missing pieces. ...
  • Proofread and ask for feedback.

What is the rule of thumb for cover letter? ›

Here's the general rule of thumb to follow: Your cover letter should be a single page (no more!) and around 300-350 words. If you're writing a cover email, three to five sentences works (since you usually have attachments or links for a hiring manager to click on).

What are the top three things that should be in an impressive cover letter? ›

Beyond that, Siegel boils down the most important things to include in a cover letter to three points. “Show enthusiasm, show you've done research, and show you want to come in there and make a contribution,” he says.

What makes an impressive cover letter? ›

Highlight your qualifications and emphasize your strengths which are most relevant to the industry, organization, and position. Be specific. Use 2-3 examples of your work or academic experience to communicate your motivation and how your skills and experience prepared you for the job.

What should be avoided in cover letter? ›

5 things to avoid when writing a cover letter
  • Using a general greeting.
  • Being overly friendly.
  • Only focusing on what the company can do for you.
  • Underselling yourself.
  • Copying and pasting a template.

What are do's and don ts in cover letter? ›

Do tell the employer how you can be of benefit to the company. Don't rehash your resume. Use your cover letter to highlight the aspects of your resume that are relevant to the position. Don't forget to personally sign the letter (if mailing the letter).

What you shouldn't include in a cover letter? ›

What not to include in a cover letter
  • Highlighting any lack of skills. ...
  • Lack of attention to detail. ...
  • Remaining stuck in the past. ...
  • Talking about money too soon. ...
  • Making it all about you. ...
  • It personalizes your application. ...
  • It showcases your interest in the position and/or company. ...
  • It demonstrates your hard work.
Feb 21, 2023

What are the 4 C's used to write a cover letter include? ›

Use the 𝗿𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁 recruiter for the…

To become an employer magnet, they'll need a handful of essential qualities known as the 4 C's: Creativity, Communication, Collaboration, and Critical Thinking.

What are the four 4 important parts of a cover letter? ›

  • Parts of a Cover Letter.
  • First Paragraph: The Purpose.
  • Middle Paragraph: The Proof.
  • Last Paragraph: The Close.

What is the golden tip for a cover letter? ›

5 golden cover letter rules

Remind the recruiter what they're looking for. Tell them you are what they're looking for (and explain how you fit the job description) Demonstrate why you are the best choice with examples. Keep it simple.

How do you nail a cover letter? ›

How To Nail Your Cover Letter
  1. 1: Address who you are speaking to. Your cover letter should always formally address who it is speaking to. ...
  2. 2: Be concise and outline how you can fulfil the job role (use keywords) ...
  3. 3: Add personality. ...
  4. 4: End with a call to action. ...
  5. 5: Proofread!

How long should a good cover letter be? ›

A cover letter can be anything between half a page and a full-page long. Generally, you should aim for a cover letter word count of 250 to 400 words and about three to six paragraphs.

What do employers look for in a cover letter? ›

Recruiters say your cover letter should be succinct and: Show how your achievements relate to the role. Highlight how your skills and work experience are what the employer needs. Show genuine excitement and enthusiasm for the role.

How do you sell yourself in a cover letter? ›

Tips for selling yourself in a cover letter
  1. Quantify your accomplishments. ...
  2. Reference your career aspirations. ...
  3. Express your enthusiasm for the job. ...
  4. Limit your content to one page. ...
  5. Request feedback before submitting the application. ...
  6. Include your contact information.
Jun 30, 2022

What is the most important section of a cover letter? ›

The body is the most important part of a cover letter or an email message applying for employment. The body of a cover letter includes the paragraphs where you explain why you are interested in and qualified for the posted job: Why you are writing.

What is the first line of a cover letter? ›

The opening paragraph of your cover letter should grab the hiring manager's attention and make them want to read your cover letter. Some tips to write an attention-grabbing opening paragraph include being direct, starting with a strong belief statement, or leading with a relevant achievement.

What is the first paragraph of a cover letter? ›

1st paragraph: State why you are writing, the position or type of work for which you are applying. Mention how you heard of the vacancy. 2nd paragraph: Discuss why you are interested in this position, the company , and its products. Describe your background (skills, accomplishments, and abilities).

What is a sentence starter for a cover letter? ›

As a (research, congressional, etc.) intern with (name of organization) I gained valuable experience in _______ that makes me an ideal candidate for the position of _______. I am eager to apply for the position of ________ because I have the _______ that it takes to be successful in the position.

What is the biggest error most applicants make when writing a cover message? ›

Cover Letter Mistake #1: Lack of research

If you skip this step, you're sending the message to the reader that you don't really care enough about the position to do your homework. In a world where employers are inundated with applications, any excuse to eliminate candidates along the application process will do.

Should you introduce yourself in a cover letter? ›

Briefly introduce yourself and explain why you are interested in the position. This is your chance to make a good first impression, so be sure to be polite and professional. Highlight your relevant qualifications and experience. This is where you can really sell yourself as the ideal candidate for the job.

What not to say in a job application? ›

What not to do on a job application
  • List a salary expectation that's too high or too low. ...
  • Include information that's different from the information on your resume. ...
  • Submit outdated contact information. ...
  • List negative reasons for leaving a job. ...
  • Forget to check for errors. ...
  • Leave some response boxes blank.
Mar 6, 2023

What are two things that should be included in a cover letter? ›

The following information should be included in your cover letter.
  • Information about you.
  • Date.
  • Contact Person's Name, Title, Employer, and Address.
  • Salutation.
  • Opening Paragraph.
  • Middle Paragraph.
  • Second Middle Paragraph.
  • Contact Information and Closing.

Can you say I in a cover letter? ›

Mistake #1: Don't Overuse "I" Your cover letter is not your autobiography. The focus should be on how you meet an employer's needs, not on your life story. Avoid the perception of being self-centered by minimizing your use of the word "I," especially at the beginning of your sentences.

Do employers care about cover letters? ›

How important is a cover letter? A cover letter is important as about 26% of recruiters read cover letters and consider them critical in their decision to hire. Another study on employer preference suggests that 56% want applicants to attach a cover letter to the resume.

How many typos mistakes are permitted in a cover letter? ›

A recent poll asked hiring managers how many spelling errors they could tolerate on a resume or cover letter. The answer: One or none, according to most managers. One-fifth said they throw resumes away after spotting a single mistake, according to a survey by temp agency Accountempts.

What should a cover letter say? ›

When writing a cover letter, you should:
  • introduce yourself.
  • mention the job (or kind of job) you're applying for (or looking for)
  • show that your skills and experience match the skills and experience needed to do the job.
  • encourage the reader to read your resume.
Dec 18, 2018

What words should you use in a cover letter? ›

In a cover letter, emphasize your excellent communication skills by using words such as “negotiated,” “addressed,” “persuaded” and “encouraged.” To describe your writing abilities, use words such as “authored,” “corresponded” and “publicized.” Choose words that are logical, concise and reader-friendly.

What are the 3 F's in cover letter? ›

Prepare students to understand the purpose of a resume, including its Function, Form, and (e)Ffectiveness (the 3 Fs).

What are the 3 basic structure of a cover letter? ›

Here's a section-by-section approach that has helped hundreds of our clients land job interviews:
  • 1: A strong lead. Your lead is the heart of your cover letter. ...
  • 2: Direct evidence that you're a fit. Next, provide evidence that you've got the specific skills this company is looking for. ...
  • 3: A solid close.
Apr 26, 2018

What is the most difficult of the cover letter components? ›

Cover Letter—Second Paragraph (“Make an Offer”)

This is the most difficult of the cover letter components. But that doesn't mean it's impossible, so don't dramatically fling yourself on your bed just yet. Use the job ad as a cheat sheet and explain how your skills and experience can benefit them.

What color cover letter is best? ›

The best color scheme for your cover letter is black or dark grey on a white background. Cover letters are slightly different than resumes in terms of color scheme and strategy because employers expect and are most comfortable with a color-free cover letter.

How much time do employers spend looking over a cover letter? ›

Recruiters say it takes an average of 60 seconds to decide whether a candidate is viable on paper. Since your resume is only given a glance, Brooke says recruiters focus on figuring out whether you have the skill set, education and years of experience required for the job—so make sure your resume has those answers.

Do employers like long cover letters? ›

Keep it brief.

So, keep it professional, and concise. “Usually around four to five short paragraphs will be sufficient for a cover email,” she says. “An attached letter might be a little longer but shouldn't be more than one page.

What are 3 reasons why cover letters are important? ›

Here are 6 valid reasons why a cover letter is absolutely necessary:
  • It tells the employer who you are and why they want you. ...
  • It showcases your writing ability. ...
  • It lets you highlight your strengths. ...
  • It shows that you're serious about the opportunity. ...
  • It makes up for a resume that can't stand alone.

How do you write a strong legal argument? ›

You need to:
  1. identify relevant legal issues.
  2. apply the law to the facts.
  3. structure your answer clearly and logically (use the model plan)
  4. use appropriate language for a legal argument.

What is a great sentence for a cover letter? ›

I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you to discuss my potential contributions to your company. I believe that my skill-set perfectly matches your requirements. I look forward to hearing from you. I look forward to your response.

How do you write a strong legal brief? ›

A legal brief should include:
  1. The name of the case.
  2. The names of the parties involved.
  3. The current stage of litigation.
  4. The legal issue being addressed.
  5. Relevant facts of the case.
  6. The rule of law applied.
  7. Your argument.
  8. A conclusion.

Do law firms want cover letters? ›

The legal industry is competitive, making it crucial for lawyers to have a cover letter that makes them stand out. A cover letter is important to get right for job seekers. It's an introduction to your prospective employers and your opportunity to make a great first impression.

What are the 5 types of legal arguments? ›

The five types of argument are therefore text, intent, precedent, tradition, and policy.

What are strong valid arguments? ›

Definition: A strong argument is a non-deductive argument that succeeds in providing probable, but not conclusive, logical support for its conclusion. A weak argument is a non-deductive argument that fails to provide probable support for its conclusion.

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