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Best Law Student Cover Letter Samples (Email Examples)

Law is one of the most highly prestigious professions in today’s society. Law practitioners will often have to undergo a rigorous recruitment process, from beginners to senior counsel, whenever applying for a job. Therefore, as a law student, you should always look for the proper techniques and tools to edge out your competition. A cover letter is one of the most efficient tools for making your case to the recruiter as a capable and suitable candidate for law. It highlights your most marketable qualities, qualifications, passion, and motivation to become a lawyer. This article will discuss why this letter is worth any aspiring lawyer’s time and how to create one professionally.

Free Samples

It is the first impression job applicants make on recruiters. How well an applicant has presented information and their qualifications can give the recruiters an idea of who the applicant is. The first impression significantly convinces the reader to review the candidate’s resume. Submitting a well-written cover letter also signifies professionalism, which is highly valued in legal practice.

The letter shows how you are suitable for the position and why you deserve to be selected, other than the fact that you are academically qualified in law. This presents the law student with an opportunity to distinguish themselves from other applicants and portrays their knowledge and experience in the legal sector.  

Essential Details to be Included

The essential details that should be mentioned include:

Highlight your achievements

In the first few sentences, you should highlight any significant accomplishments you’ve made as a law student. Your recipient should not waste time looking for this vital information.

You stand a better chance of securing an opportunity at a law firm if you express sentiments that indicate you understand what the company does. For example, highlight any significant cases the firm has handled successfully. In your letter, you should inform the recruiting manager why you are a perfect match for the position.

Appreciate the hiring manager

As you come to the close of the letter, you should thank the hiring manager for taking the time to read it and for their consideration. Polite words can go a long way in helping you get hired.

Before closing it, it’s essential to ensure you’ve shared your contact details with the recipient. Ensure you’ve shared adequate information, such as your email and phone number; in case you’re not reachable via one, they can contact you via the other method.

Practices for Addressing Law Firms

To ensure your letter gets to the right person in the organization and maintains the required level of respect when referring to the recipient, below are several things you can implement.

They include:

Address the letter accordingly

The letter should be addressed to the right staff member in charge of recruitment in the law firm. More often than not, finding out the recipient’s name will require you to make some inquiries at the head desk or HR. Alternatively, review their website, and hopefully, staff members and their titles will be listed.

Be keen and use appropriate salutations

It is a formal document; therefore, salutations are a massive consideration for recipients. The salutation used should reflect the recipient’s rank, position, and gender. Do not make any assumptions. Consider researching further to determine what you are uncertain of. Traditionally, professional salutations are Mr., Ms., or Mrs. followed by the recipient’s last name.

Always go through the document before submitting

You must verify whether you captured names and positions correctly. Do not assume that names are spelled how you spell them; similarly sounding names can have different spellings. Misspellings can be enough reason for the recipient to dismiss your letter and should therefore be avoided.

Format to Write Law Student Cover Letter

It should give the hiring manager, senior partner, or director enough information to assess your competencies and suitability for the position. You can use the steps below to write a professional cover letter :

The header is the first item included in it. The header should entail your details, including your and the recipient’s name and contact information such as the mailing address. The date and salutation should also be included. The letter should be professionally formatted (in business format).

This format is characterized by:

• One-inch margins aligned to the left on all sides.
• The line spacing should be single or 1.15 spacing.
• All the contents of the header should be aligned to the left.
• Use a professional/formal font such as Calibri, Arial, or Times New Roman.
• Skip a line after the date, your contact details, the recipient’s contact information, salutation, each paragraph, and after the complimentary close.
• The letter should also be saved in PDF format. Avoid saving it as a Word document as its format may be disarranged depending on which device the recipient will open it in.

Introduction

After the salutation/greetings, provide an introduction. The introduction should include the following details:

State the position you are applying for

Make it clear from the get-go which position you are interested in at the firm. This can be an associate job, an internship , a summer job , or a part-time job . Recruiters always appreciate a direct approach, as it signifies respect for their time.

State how you came to know about this job

The introduction also needs to mention how you found out about the job opening. If this was a referral, mention the person who referred you. Common avenues of job ads are company websites, newsletters, referrals, digital advertisements on social media, etc.

The next section is the body. In this section, you can cite your academic credentials, professional experience, and any other qualifications. The following information should be captured in this section:

Give your educational background

Start by mentioning relevant educational background. This may involve citing certifications, coursework, or research projects you’ve done in your field of study. Always review the job description and confirm that you meet the educational requirements, as academic qualifications are typically the first criterion employers consider in legal practice. Also, avoid restating the resume; try to expound on the qualifications outlined in the resume. Choose the most relevant qualifications to the domain the firm deals with.

Highlight your skills and experiences

Afterward, provide any experience you have in law. If you have worked at the firm previously, mention this in the cover letter. Tie the experience and skills into a viable persuasive narrative. Avoid mentioning skills that you cannot substantiate. You must use real-life examples to demonstrate your experience and skills. Pick several solid and relevant skills instead of writing down everything you can do.

Examples of skills that employers will be looking for include negotiation, verbal communication skills, organization, interviewing skills, etc. If you are a first-year law student, employers will ordinarily not expect you to have extensive experience and skills. However, you should indicate any of your relevant skills to the potential employer. Also, reviewing the job description can help you determine which skills to include, that can be relevant in completing the job’s duties and responsibilities.

Explain why you want to work here

Next, give an exhaustive but concise justification of why you are interested in the organization. Try referring to the firm’s vision-mission statements and core values. Mention how your interest in working at the law firm came about, maybe their core values align with yours, or they won a case that caught your attention. Show that the firm is a good fit for you as it aligns with what you want to achieve in your legal career. Include notable personalities and enthusiasm for the position and the organization.

Justify how you would be a great asset to the company

It should also show what would make you an asset to the law firm in the long term. For example, you can mention how your skills can be helpful if they contribute to the organization’s vision and mission. Also, reiterate your suitability for the position.

To conclude the letter, mention any attached documents. This should then be followed by an appreciation message for reviewing it. Next, provide your phone number or email and let the recipient know you are available for an interview. Afterward, sign it off using a formal complimentary close like “Respectfully Yours” and sign the document appropriately.

Cover Letter Template for a Law Student 

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[City, State, Zip Code]

[Your Email Address]

[Your Phone Number]

[Recipient’s Name]

[Recipient’s Position]

[Organization’s Name]

[Organization’s Address]

Dear [Recipient’s Name],

I am a [2nd/3rd]-year student at [Your Law School’s Name], pursuing a Juris Doctor degree, and I am writing to express my keen interest in the [internship/job position] at [Organization’s Name], as advertised on [where you found the listing]. With a solid academic background and a proactive involvement in [legal clinics/moot court/legal internships], I am eager to apply my skills in a practical setting and contribute to your team’s success.

Throughout my legal studies, I have consistently maintained a high GPA, demonstrating my commitment to academic excellence and my ability to grasp complex legal concepts. Courses such as [Course Name], [Course Name], and [Course Name] have provided me with a strong foundation in [mention relevant areas of law, e.g., corporate law, intellectual property, civil rights]. Moreover, my experience with [describe any relevant experience, such as participation in a legal clinic or internship] has equipped me with practical skills in legal research, analysis, and drafting.

I am particularly drawn to [Organization’s Name] due to its reputation for [reasons you are attracted to the organization, such as pioneering legal strategies, commitment to social justice, excellence in a particular field of law]. I admire your work in [mention any specific project, case, or initiative], and I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to be part of such impactful endeavors.

In my previous roles, including [mention any past internships, part-time jobs, or volunteer work], I have demonstrated my ability to [mention specific skills or achievements, such as efficiently managing caseloads, contributing to research projects, or providing support in high-stakes environments]. My [mention any personal qualities, such as attention to detail, adaptability, teamwork skills] further enhance my capability to contribute positively to your organization.

Enclosed, please find my resume, which provides additional details about my education and experience. I am excited about the possibility of bringing my blend of academic knowledge, practical experience, and enthusiasm for the law to [Organization’s Name]. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [Your Phone Number] or [Your Email Address].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the ongoing success of [Organization’s Name] and gain invaluable experience under the mentorship of your esteemed team.

Dear Ms. Harper,

I am a second-year law student at New York Law School, with a keen interest in civil litigation and family law. It is with great enthusiasm that I submit my application for the Summer Internship Program at Harper & Associates Law Firm, as advertised on the NYLS Career Services Board. I am particularly drawn to your firm’s commitment to providing compassionate and comprehensive legal services to families in transition, and I am eager to contribute to your team while expanding my practical knowledge in family law.

Throughout my academic career, I have excelled in courses related to civil litigation and family law, maintaining a GPA of 3.8. My coursework has not only provided me with a solid foundation in legal principles but has also honed my analytical, research, and writing skills. In my Family Law class, I was particularly fascinated by the complexities of custody disputes and marital property division, which inspired me to write a research paper on “The Impact of Social Media on Family Law Cases,” which was selected for publication in our law school’s journal.

In addition to my academic pursuits, I have actively participated in the Family Law Clinic at my law school, where I worked under the supervision of experienced attorneys to provide legal assistance to low-income families. This experience allowed me to apply my classroom knowledge to real-world situations, improving my client interviewing, case management, and negotiation skills. I have also volunteered with the Legal Aid Society, assisting with community outreach programs designed to educate the public on family law issues.

I am particularly impressed by Harper & Associates’ innovative approach to family law cases and your dedication to advocacy and client education. I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to learn from and contribute to your esteemed team of professionals. I am confident that my academic background, coupled with my clinic and volunteer experience, will enable me to make a meaningful contribution to your firm.

Enclosed is my resume, which further outlines my education and experience. I am very much looking forward to the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to the impactful work being done at Harper & Associates Law Firm. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at (555) 123-4567 or via email at [email protected].

Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of joining Harper & Associates Law Firm as an intern and gaining invaluable experience in the field of family law.

Jasmine Patel

Dear Mr. Rivera,

As a motivated third-year student at the California Law School with a profound interest in corporate law, I am excited to apply for the Summer Internship Program at Crestview Corporate Law Group, as detailed on your firm’s website. The opportunity to engage with Crestview’s renowned legal team, known for its expertise in mergers and acquisitions, securities, and corporate governance, aligns perfectly with my academic focus and career aspirations.

Throughout my law school journey, I have achieved a GPA of 3.9, with particular success in courses such as Corporate Finance Law, Securities Regulation, and Business Associations . These courses have not only solidified my understanding of the legal frameworks governing corporate operations but have also equipped me with critical thinking and analytical skills essential for navigating complex legal challenges in the corporate sector.

My internship last summer with a local business law firm provided me with hands-on experience in the initial stages of M&A transactions and corporate compliance matters. This experience was instrumental in developing my ability to conduct thorough legal research, draft memorandum and transaction documents, and contribute to strategy discussions. Additionally, my role as the treasurer of the Business Law Society at California Law School has enhanced my leadership skills and deepened my interest in the financial aspects of corporate law.

I am particularly attracted to Crestview Corporate Law Group’s innovative approach to legal services and its commitment to mentorship and professional development. I am eager to bring my academic knowledge, practical experience, and passion for corporate law to your esteemed firm. I am confident that my background makes me a strong candidate to contribute to and benefit from the dynamic and intellectually stimulating environment at Crestview.

Enclosed with this letter, you will find my resume, which provides further details on my academic achievements and work experience . I am enthusiastic about the possibility of discussing how I can contribute to the success of Crestview Corporate Law Group. I am available for an interview at your convenience and can be reached at (555) 678-9101 or via email at [email protected].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to learn from and contribute to Crestview Corporate Law Group, gaining invaluable insights and experience in corporate law.

Michael Chen

Subject: Application for Associate Attorney Position – Jane Doe

Dear Mr. Smith,

I hope this email finds you well. My name is Jane Doe, and I recently graduated from the University of State Law School. I am writing to express my interest in the Associate Attorney position at Smith & Associates, as advertised on your firm’s careers page. With a strong academic background, a passion for litigation, and a commitment to excellence, I am excited about the opportunity to begin my legal career with your esteemed firm.

During my time at the University of State, I graduated with honors, securing a place in the top 10% of my class. My academic journey was marked by a keen interest in civil litigation, as evidenced by my focused coursework and my active involvement in the Moot Court Honor Society. Here, I developed a robust foundation in legal research and argumentation, representing my school in national competitions and receiving commendation for my oral advocacy skills.

My internship experiences further shaped my aspiration to pursue a career in litigation. At City Legal Services, I had the opportunity to work closely with seasoned attorneys on a variety of cases, from initial client consultations to courtroom observations. This experience was invaluable, providing me with a practical understanding of legal procedures and client representation. It honed my skills in legal research, drafting legal documents, and developing litigation strategies.

I am particularly drawn to Smith & Associates because of your firm’s reputation for fostering a collaborative work environment and your commitment to mentorship for young attorneys. Your firm’s dedication to pro bono work and community service resonates with my personal values and my desire to contribute positively to the community through my legal career.

I am enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring my academic knowledge, practical experience, and passion for the law to Smith & Associates. I am confident that my background and skills make me a strong candidate for the Associate Attorney position. I am eager to contribute to your team and to grow professionally under the guidance of your esteemed attorneys.

Enclosed with this email is my resume, which provides further details about my education and experience. I would be honored to discuss how I can contribute to Smith & Associates in more detail. I am available for an interview at your convenience and can be reached at (555) 123-4567 or via email at [email protected].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of contributing to the success of Smith & Associates and to the opportunity to learn and grow as part of your team.

Best regards,

[email protected]

(555) 123-4567

Key Takeaways

These sample internship and job application letters effectively showcase the candidates’ qualifications and enthusiasm for the positions. Here’s why they are effective:

Personalized Introduction: Each letter addresses the recipient directly, demonstrating a personalized approach and genuine interest in the opportunity.

Academic Excellence and Relevant Coursework: The candidates highlight their academic achievements and coursework relevant to the positions, showcasing their preparedness and suitability for the roles.

Practical Experience: They discuss relevant internship experiences , demonstrating hands-on skills and knowledge applicable to the positions they’re applying for.

Alignment with Firm Values and Goals: Each candidate researches the firm and articulates why they are interested in joining, showing alignment with the firm’s values, practice areas, and professional development opportunities.

Enthusiastic Conclusion: The letters end with strong expressions of gratitude and eagerness to contribute, leaving a positive impression on the recipients.

Overall, these letters effectively communicate the candidates’ qualifications, passion for their respective fields, and alignment with the firms’ goals, making them strong samples for aspiring interns and job applicants.

Do’s and Don’ts

You want to present yourself as a competent law student in the legal profession. This letter is an opportunity for any law student to showcase their ability to follow the basics of professionalism.

Below are several writing techniques worth considering during the writing process:

The essential points to consider include:

Personalize it

Personalizing your letter is an effective way to stand out from the crowd. Show some uniqueness by mentioning additional experiences such as community service, connections you may have with members of the law firm, or specific details about the firm such as previous cases or current projects that signify you did your research. Sometimes, there will be applicants with similar academic qualifications and professional experience; highlighting individualism can make all the difference in ensuring you get selected. 

Prioritize your best skills

As much as it should be genuine, focus on the positives, whether you are discussing experiences or skills. More so, you should prioritize positive skills that are relevant to the position you are applying for. Positive skills demonstrate that you will be a good addition to the team if selected and maintain your positive impression on the employer. 

Keep it concise

It should be objective. It should highlight only what is necessary. This means it does not have to be too long if the relevant information has been outlined. Long cover letters become less persuasive and uninteresting, which means they can easily get dismissed.

Set the right tone

Employers will always consider how you communicate and articulate your points. The letter should use a professional tone that matches that of the firm. This may call for some research on the firm and reviewing their publications and documents.

It should be a genuine representation of your qualifications and suitability for the position. This may require personal language and references to experiences that are specific to you. Do not oversell or exaggerate any skills and qualifications.

Always proofread your work and correct any grammatical, spelling, or typographical errors accordingly. Error-free cover letters indicate a high level of professionalism. It is a quality that employers expect to be reflected in your application documents, especially in a legal career where you are expected to be observant and pay attention to details. Take your time to review the letter or ask another person to go through it. Writing the letter a few days earlier than the submission date also helps with leaving enough time for review and editing.  

The cover letter scenarios to avoid include:

Restating resume

Do not repeat facts that the employer can lift from the resume. A cover letter is not a narrated resume. It should give the employer a more in-depth look into who the applicant is. Talk about developing your interest in law, unique experiences, and motivation in your career, not how many years or where you took your law degree.

Focusing on what you gain

Avoid focusing on what you intend to gain from the firm. Instead, discuss the potential benefits you can bring to the organization if offered the job. Focus on your value to the employer.

Setting informal tone

The use of an informal tone is a quick way of losing the employer’s interest. Don’t use an informal tone; find a way to restate informally constructed statements professionally.

Recycling the cover letter

Don’t reuse it for different jobs. Instead, always craft a new document for each application. It may be time-consuming but it is worth it. Employers want original letters tailored for the specific job and organization.

Don’t overuse adverbs

Avoid overusing adverbs such as fully, quickly, fast, etc., when stating how actions occurred. They may seem unprofessional to the employer, lowering the chances of your cover letter being read to the end.

Don’t be too generic

Do not be generic when making salutations or any other statements. Do not address the letter to “ To Whom It May Concern .” If you don’t know the name of the recruiter, address it to the head of the department, for example, “hiring manager,” “senior partner,” or “director.”

Job applications in legal practice are typically competitive at every level. A cover letter is one tool that law students use as the focal point of their application to ensure they have a competitive edge over their counterparts. It is meant to give the employer insight into how qualified and suitable the law student is for the position they are applying for. Also, it is used to gauge your level of professionalism. Therefore, it is your chance to market or sell yourself as an asset to the organization. You should thus aim to write a solid cover letter by deliberately addressing the contents discussed in this article.

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• Vide o and Slides from the CDO program “ Cover Letters That Do The Job” and handouts: Job Postings & Tips and Sample PIPS Cover Letters .

Your cover letter is as important as your resume because it is often read first and plays a vital role in your quest for an interview. A cover letter is not a transmittal letter, and you may be surprised at how time-consuming it is to craft a good one. A cover letter has a purpose, which is to let an employer know why they should bother reading your resume and why they should meet you. It also serves as an example of your written work product; thus it should be clear, brief, and written in a business letter style, without any typographical errors.

1. Cover letters for unsolicited applications come in three main types:

• Personal Letter. These are the most effective cover letters and are sent to people you have met or with whom you have a mutual acquaintance. These letters should all start with the sentence: “_______ recommended that I contact you.” As this type of letter is most likely to get a response, if you have any possibility of establishing this sort of connection to a prospective employer in advance of sending your letter, you should try your best to do so.
• Targeted Letters. Next best thing. Targeted letters are based on research of the employer, and are individually tailored. Your letter should incorporate the information learned through your research to show the employer that you have skills they will be able to put to use.
• Mass Mailers. Least desirable. These are generic except for the name and address of the employer, and have a very low success rate of getting interviews.

2. When you respond to a job listing, you will usually be requested to submit a cover letter as part of your application. In this case, use the job description and requested qualifications as a guide. While not simply imitating the language of the listing, your letter should demonstrate that you have what the employer is looking for.

3. A few employers at OCI request that students bring a cover letter to the initial interview. This is essentially to require students to think about why they want to work for this employer, but it makes for a letter which deviates from the usual “please consider me for an interview” approach. See below for suggestions on OCI cover letters.

Cover letters should follow standard business letter format, as to spacing, salutation, etc. If you are not sure of the fine points, consult a business correspondence reference source. Avoid abbreviations, contractions and shortcuts (such as a slash instead of “or”), although if there is an accepted short form of the name of the organization you are writing to (e.g., ACLU or Coblentz) it is acceptable to use it in the text of your letter. Your telephone number and email address should appear somewhere in the letter, either at the top with your address, or in the closing paragraph, when you ask them to contact you. Note that your resume is “enclosed,” not “attached” (which means clipped or stapled).

If you are not sure to whom you should send your letter, it is always acceptable to write to the executive director of a nonprofit, or the hiring partner or head of recruiting at a firm; they can forward your application to the appropriate person within the organization. If at all possible, write to an individual by name, not to “Director” or “Recruiting Coordinator.” Firm and organization web sites are very useful in finding this information (and for confirming correct spellings and the like); it may be more difficult to find the name of an individual addressee for government job opportunities. If you do not have the name of an individual, the salutation should be “Dear Sir or Madam” (not “To Whom It May Concern”). Of course if you are responding to a job posting, address your letter exactly as instructed.

As for the appropriate salutation, traditionally, it is “Dear [Mr./Ms.] [Last Name].  However, we understand that this prevailing business norm may not be inclusive of individuals who do not use either of those titles (for example, because they identify as gender nonconforming). One alternative, “Dear [First Name] [Last Name]”, avoids presuming how the recipient may identify, but it is not without some risk.  

If you use this approach, a recipient less attuned to thinking about gender inclusivity (and accustomed to seeing only “Dear [Mr./Ms] [Last Name]”) may wrongly conclude that you were unfamiliar with professional etiquette or that you used a mail merge template and did not bother to customize it.  While awareness around these issues is increasing, we believe that, unfortunately, it is still not a small number of recruiting representatives and attorneys who might draw the wrong conclusion.

One way to navigate this tricky situation might be to see if the recipient has an online presence (e.g., on the firm website or LinkedIn) that might give you a strong clue as to how they would like to be addressed.  Otherwise, you will need to make your own judgment as to whether recipients are more likely to recognize your inclusivity or to view the greeting as awkward or erroneous.

In our office, we are also working to help employers become familiar with gender-inclusive approaches like “Dear [First Name] [Last Name],” but like any process of education, this will take time. In the meantime, our primary goal is to make sure that all Berkeley Law students are fully informed as you navigate legal job markets. We are always available to discuss individually what approach would be the best fit for you.

First Paragraph. Begin your letter with a statement of who you are and why you are writing. Introduce yourself as a law student (including the year you are in) or a graduate of Berkeley Law and specify what it is you are seeking: a summer job, an associate position, a clerkship, part-time work during the school year, etc.

The goal of this paragraph is to give the reader a reason to want to finish reading the letter. If you don’t have a personal connection to cite, try to establish a nexus between yourself and the employer, such as knowledge of their practice, an established commitment to or interest in their work, a connection to their city, or something else which conveys that you are not just writing to them as part of a mass mailing for any job in any location. (If that in fact is what you are doing, try not to be too obvious about it. An employer wants to think that you sought him or her out purposely rather than randomly.)

Body Paragraph(s). This is the section in which you “sell” your experience and qualifications to the employer. Your goal here is to answer the question, “Why should the employer meet you?”

Call attention to something which substantiates your interest in this particular employer. It could be coursework in their specialty, the recommendation of a professor in their area of practice, undergraduate residency in their city, or any other indication of your interest. Try also to show how your experiences will translate into skills which will be useful to this particular employer. Highlight relevant qualifications which are not on your resume, such as coursework, research, or a prior connection to the organization or the issues they work on. If you have general legal skills such as negotiation, litigation, client counseling, interviewing, mock trials, etc., you may want to include them. As much as possible, try to convey understanding of, and enthusiasm for, the aims of the organization.

Employers do not expect first-year students to have highly-developed legal skills to offer. Therefore, for first-year students writing to private firms, this section can be a single, short paragraph, unless you have a strong background in a relevant area. However, even inexperienced first-year students writing to public interest/sector organizations should make an effort to describe skills and interests that are relevant to the employer.

It is appropriate and not uncommon for a public interest cover letter to be somewhat more detailed or personal than a private sector cover letter. Of course, it is still very important to be concise, but it is acceptable for the letter to be a full page if your experience dictates. In a public interest cover letter, it is important both to highlight your demonstrated commitment to the mission/work/client base of the organization through your own relevant work or life experience, and to illustrate your relevant skills. Take another look at your resume for items that show your interest, commitment and skills. Even if you do not have experience in the specific area in which an organization works, it is still important to emphasize your demonstrated commitment to the public interest, and to draw connections between that general commitment and the specific work of the organization. As it is important not to merely regurgitate your resume, consider including a story that illustrates you are interested or qualified in the position.

If your application raises questions that are readily answered, such as availability after the Bar exam, judicial clerkship plans, etc., the letter can address those; other issues may be better deferred to the interview stage. Consult a CDO attorney-counselor if you’re not sure whether to include something in your cover letter.

Final Paragraph. In your last paragraph, thank them for their consideration, and say you hope to hear from them soon. For out-of-town employers, indicate when you plan to be in their geographic area and state your availability for an interview. Be sure to include your phone number and email in this paragraph unless you use a letterhead style that includes them at the top of the page. If you state that you will call the employer to follow up on your application, be sure you do so.

If you are bringing a cover letter to an on-campus interview (which you should do only if the employer requests you to), the content will be a bit different. You don’t need to introduce yourself, as you will be there in person, and you won’t request an interview at the closing. But you can thank the employer for interviewing you and say that you welcome the opportunity to learn more about the employer and to discuss the possibility of working for them. The important thing is to show why you are interested in this particular employer, and how you think your background makes you a good match for them.

The mistakes most commonly found in student cover letters are:

• Restating your resume. “ I graduated from the University of Oregon in 2005, with a B.A., cum laude, in Political Science, then worked as a substitute teacher in an urban high school before starting law school in the fall of 2008 .” Don’t waste space with facts that are readily gleaned from your resume! Instead, you could say (briefly) how your work experience led you to pursue a legal career in an area practiced by the employer.
• Focusing on what you stand to gain from the job . “ I am particularly interested in your firm’s excellent training program for summer associates, and in gaining exposure to a variety of different practice areas.” Remember, employers only grant interviews to candidates who offer something of potential use to the employer. Try to say how your skills and enthusiasm will help the employer serve its clients, or otherwise further its aims.
• Being too informal or familiar. “I’m thrilled by the possibility of working with you this summer, and would love to meet with you in person/by phone to chat about what the options might be.” Enthusiasm is good, but it must be presented professionally.

Other cover letter mistakes include: being defensive or apologetic; appearing arrogant or entitled, and being too long and wordy. Unsupported statements of your qualities (“I am highly motivated and a quick study”) do not help your case. Generic reasons for your interest in the employer (e.g., its “excellent reputation”) tend to demonstrate your lack of specific knowledge. Of course typos and inaccuracies, such as misspelled names, or (please!) stating an interest in a practice area that the firm doesn’t have, are automatic application-killers.

Our cover letter template  provides suggestions only; please do not feel excessively constrained by its approach. Your letter should, of course, be original work that reflects your unique background and the job you are aiming at.

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Law Student Cover Letter Samples

If you’re studying law and looking to review some law student cover letter samples, then this blog is for you! Whether you’re applying to an internship, or hoping to obtain employment in your field, you’ll need a specific cover letter detailing your qualities and skills as a law student. A law student cover letter differs from a law school letter of recommendation , as you’ll write it yourself and you’ll only need it once you’re already admitted into your program. A well written cover letter can help you acquire great learning opportunities!

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Law student cover letters are extremely important for students of law to know how to write and have on-hand, regardless of what year of study you’re currently in. A cover letter serves as your chance to show off your skills and to make sure that the motivation behind your career choice and your suitability for the role; this is especially important for things like summer job opportunities related to your program and internships. This blog will walk you through everything you need to know about writing a law student cover letter—from what information it should contain, how it should be formatted, and a few samples of law student cover letters so you’ll know how to prepare your letter with ease!

What is a Law Student Cover Letter?

You are now a law student! After completing dozens of application components, such as your law school personal statement, law school resume , and other law school optional essays , you have finally made it! But, if you think that you are done planning and working on application materials, you are wrong! Now that you’re a law student, you must work to gain relevant experience and knowledge by participating in internships, articling, and other law-related job opportunities. To succeed in your applications, you will need a stellar law student cover letter.

A law student cover letter is a document that you write to accompany your resume, which you send along with your application for various internships or employment opportunities that are related to your area of study. In your case, this is law, but it may be a specific sector of law that you have a special interest in, such as family law or environmental law. A cover letter is used to connect the dots between your experiences listed on your resume by providing your potential employer with a short, organized narrative that details why you’re an ideal candidate for the role.

As a law student, it's important for you to create effective marketing materials that stand out from the crowd of applicants. A well-written cover letter will help employers remember who sent them the application—and put it at the top of their pile when they're shortlisting candidates for an interview!

Simply put: you’ll want to stand out to potential employers, and having a well written cover letter can enhance your application!

Need help with your cover letter? Reach out to a law school advisor:

Without a cover letter, your application may only consist of a resume, and/or any other documentation that is required. Most, if not all, jobs recommend a cover letter. The same can be said for internships. Whether paid or unpaid, internship positions are often in high demand, and many law students will likely apply for the same position. Many students may have similar academic paths and accomplishments, so, having a stellar cover letter gives you an opportunity to stand out (in just a few short paragraphs) and works to enhance the valuable information and experiences on your resume.

You should prepare a law-specific cover letter when you want to apply for any professional role related to law. Commonly, law student cover letters are required/recommended to go along with internship applications.

Even if you’re not currently seeking an internship or employment, you may also want to have an established cover letter if you’re interested in alumni networking as a law student, or learning about opportunities without the immediate intent of applying to them.

Your cover letter is a professional extension of you, and should almost act as a narrative that encompasses your abilities as a law student as they relate to the role you’re hoping to obtain.

Every law student cover letter you create and submit should be completely unique. This doesn’t mean that your latest cover letter cannot follow the same format as another you’ve written, or include the same background information about your skills. Rather, you should ensure each cover letter is tailored to the specific company and position you’re applying for. Each role has different requirements and expectations, so it’s important you take the time to share why you feel you’d be a good fit for a specific role, and not submit the same, generalized cover letters to every role you apply for while you’re in law school.

If you're a law student, cover letters are an important part of your job search while you’re still in school, and can really come in handy if you’re planning on pursuing an internship, whether one is a mandatory component of your program or not.

Even if internships are required by your institution, it does not mean you’ll be automatically awarded an internship. You may need to apply yourself in order to stand out and be considered above other candidates for your desired position at the company you wish to intern with; especially if it’s competitive.

Cover letters give you the chance to explain why you would be a good fit for a position and show that you're serious about getting the job. Resumes are brief and often point-form, highlighting a few academic accomplishments and credentials, along with employment history and workplace skills. But sometimes, a job title and a brief description of your duties isn’t sufficient enough to look like the best candidate in the application pool!

The first thing most hiring managers look at when they get an application is the cover letter; this is true across many fields, but especially in law. It gives them a sense of who you are as a professional, and shows them whether or not you may be an ideal fit for their company. Each company has its own culture and set of values; they’re looking for specific talent and skills to add to their team, and the only way they’ll know if you have these is by reading your detailed cover letter.

If yours doesn't stand out from the rest, you may not hear from your dream company!

What Information Should I Include in my Law Student Cover Letter?

Your law student cover letter should include the following:

• Your name, address and phone number.
• The date of your application. If you are applying for multiple positions at once, it’s helpful to make sure that your cover letter goes with each job posting.
• A short summary of your career history so far (including any relevant work experience). This could be a paragraph or two long, but shouldn't take up more than half the page.
• Brief descriptions of the internship or role you are applying for and what makes you qualified for it. You should emphasize the knowledge and skills you possess, and experiences you’ve had, in order to demonstrate why you think you’re a perfect candidate.
• A concise summary about why you want to work in law, and why you want to work for this employer in particular. You can include the steps you’ve taken towards achieving this goal so far—this would include some information about your years spent at university as well as activities outside of class, such as extracurriculars related specifically to legal studies or volunteer opportunities.

What Information Should I Refrain from Putting in my Cover Letter?

Yes, there is definitely information that should not be included in any cover letter, but especially a law student cover letter.

First, you should refrain from including overly personal information. This means you should not provide details about your personal life, irrelevant points about hobbies or interests unrelated to law, and any information about your age, race, gender, political opinion, or preferences, unless this was a requirement for the role! For example, some internship and job postings may be looking for students under 30 years of age, somebody who is bilingual, somebody who identities as female, or even a person with a specific area of interest that is relevant to the position.

When formatting your law student cover letter, consider the following:

Remember, no matter what position you\u2019re applying for, or what your experience is, your cover letter is to serve as an informative, concise piece\u2014a narrative\u2014explaining your professional qualifications! Your resume is the place to list your accomplishments and extensive history (usually in point-form of brief sentences), however, your cover letter should highlight skills and points that are specific to the role you\u2019re hoping to obtain. "}]">

November 1, 2020

Mr. John Smith

XYZ District Attorney’s Office

123 Anywhere Street

Newtown, NY

Dear Mr. Smith,

I am a second-year student at ZYX Law School and I’m elated to be writing to you in response to your posting for a spring intern at your downtown office. I have been a passionate advocate for many social justice movements in the downtown core, and feel working at the XYZ District Attorney’s Office would be an invaluable experience. I am also confident that I have several established skills that would make me a great addition to your office over the course of the fourth month position.

I attended ABC University for my undergraduate degree and received my honors degree in Justice, Political Policy and Law in 2017, with a minor focus in Labor Studies. Prior to beginning my current program, I accepted a part-time position as a youth program coordinator at Newtown’s Indigenous community center. I thoroughly enjoy drafting and organizing programs that will benefit the young minds in this city, and throughout my academic and professional endeavors, I’ve grown to be the passionate, dedicated law student I am today.

I am passionate about social justice and empowerment which is why a role interning at your office not only piqued my interest as somebody eager to learn more about district law, but somebody who is so excited about working in this city. I also firmly believe I am capable of demonstrating the intensive research skills and organizational abilities required for this role, as I exceeded in political research and research analytics during my undergraduate degree, specifically with my fourth-year thesis, where I presented my case on the relation of Generational Trauma, Systemic Racism and Social Welfare Crises. Last summer, I completed an internship at CDF Law Firm as a research assistant and thoroughly enjoyed my time there. I successfully compiled and drafted several documents during my two months at CDF, and, I learned how to best organize my findings in an approachable and concise manner.

Overall, I feel an internship at XYZ District Attorney’s Office would be phenomenal opportunity. I feel in this position, I’d be able to successfully enhance my skills as a law professional, and learn new research and leadership skills that will be imperative to my growth and will contribute to my journey toward one day becoming a District Attorney myself. I have a lot to learn, but I know I have a lot of value and skill to offer.

Thank you in advance for taking the time to review my cover letter. I look forward to connecting with you. I can be reached at (102)-304-1234, or by email, [email protected] .

Sample Law Student Cover Letter 2

ABC County Municipal Government Center

1999 Anytown Ave - 18

Anycity, NY

March 10, 2018

To Whom it may Concern,

I am a third year ABC Law student determined to pursue a career as a public defender, which is why I am excited to be formally applying for your internship at ABC Country Municipal Government Centre. I have an extensive background studying criminal law and public defence, both in my post secondary courses and internships, and volunteer endeavors. I feel my combination of experience and dedication to becoming a law professional allow me to demonstrate the skills necessary for this role, including knowledge of the criminal justice system, municipal law, and defence, as well as impeccable analytical and critical thinking abilities.

Last summer, I worked for the Public Defender Service for the District of CBA as a part-time intern. There, I helped my designated attorney prepare for trial and conducted extensive research on cases specific to juveniles, as well as other crimes that impacted the community, like vandalism. I helped prepare court documents and by the end of my contract, I was preparing documents entirely on my own; they were then granted approval upon review and used in court. I also witnessed and participated in defence interviews as an observer and got a first-hand look at what it takes to not only question to convicted, but to see the big picture and understand, from a professional standpoint, what their true intent is/was. I always strive to hear everybody and ask the appropriate questions to ensure I have a thorough understanding of every case.

I have completed eight criminal law courses, with honors, in my current program, and exceeded in criminal law during my undergraduate career, too. Currently, I volunteer as a journalist for the law “paper”, that is a student-run and funded blog, at ABC University. I enjoy volunteering my time to not only to inform the law community of pertinent issues and stories in our community, but to ensure I have polished and pristine research and writing skills. I believe the only way to learn and improve, is by doing.

My training during workshops and mock trials has helped me to develop the strong oral advocacy skills critical in the courtroom, which I am looking to put to use, alongside my research, writing, and analytical skills, at an internship at your office. My academic career and professional goals, make me a strong candidate for this position. I would appreciate the chance to discuss my qualifications with you.

Thank you for your time and consideration.

As a law student, you’ll benefit tremendously from knowing how to draft a quality, concise law student cover letter for all of your future internships and employment opportunities. It’s essential that you mention relevant details and highlight your assets in your law student cover letter, as it’s your only opportunity to offer a narrative to support your resume/application, and speak to your own character and potential!

Be sure to review our samples above, and review the recommended structure so that you can format your law student cover letter well and attach it to all of your applications! Remember, for each job you apply for, you should create a custom cover letter.

A cover letter is a one-page document that you include with your resume when applying for jobs, internships and other positions. The cover letter’s purpose is to introduce yourself and explain why you are the best candidate for the job. It should also highlight why you would be an asset to the company or law firm in question.

A law student cover letter is different from a cover letter you’d send along to support your application for a job outside of law. As a law student, you’ll require a cover letter when you apply for internship opportunities, or for positions related to the field of law.

Yes, and no. While having a template and outline for your law student cover letter is generally a good idea, you should customize all of your cover letters so that they are tailored to each individual role you are applying for. Be sure to state the company’s name, and personalize what you say so it stands out to specific employers!

Mentioning specific skills you have that align with their ideal candidate (refer to job description),and supplying a brief, supportive narrative can strongly support your resume. Remember, your resume acts as an organized list to detail your experience, whereas a cover letter gives you the chance to speak to your character, experiences, and skills, and convince the employer that you’re right for the role!

Refrain from providing extensive information about past experiences (educational, employment or personal) that are not relevant to the position of which you’re applying! You only have one page, so be sure to only add details that matter and relate to law!

No, when you have not yet entered your law program, you are not yet a law student! You can use cover letters for any job you apply for, however, they should be tailored specifically to your program.

It’s important to remember that a law student cover letter is vastly different than a law school letter of recommendation. Your letter of recommendation supports your application to law school, and is written by a recommender. Your law student cover letter will be written by you, once you’re already admitted into your law program.

You need one cover letter for each job/internship you apply for, unless you are given instructions that state otherwise. Your cover letter should be no more than one page, and should be broken up into 3-5 short paragraphs to make it readable and professional.

BeMo Academic Consulting can help you! We offer academic support for students studying in a variety of fields, including law, and we’d be happy to help you write your law student cover letter.

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Law School Toolbox®

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Six Essential Cover Letter Tips for Law Students

March 1, 2017 By John Nikolaou Leave a Comment

1. Put the Pieces Together

What material are you submitting for this job? A writing sample? A resume? Make sure that your cover letter adds something different to your application and doesn’t just repeat information from each of these other elements. Your cover letter needs to be the bridge between your resume and the job listing. Explain to the person hiring how the skills they are seeing on your resume translate to the job listing. Don’t assume they will make the connection themselves – make it for them. This is especially true when applying for jobs to which you are not an obvious fit.

2. It’s Not All About You

One key distinction you should make in your cover letter is talking about how you will benefit the company , not just the other way around. While you want to spend some time showing you know about the employer, spend more time on the parts where you describe what you will do for the them. The difference is spending less time saying “working here will give me such great experience” and more time saying “as a member of the team, I can bring these skills to the table and help the company reach its goals.” The person hiring you is not looking to help you polish your resume, they want someone that will help their company.

3. Remember It’s a Job

Demonstrate your understanding of the work required by the job itself. A hiring manager won’t be fully convinced if your cover letter is all about the fact that you want to join the company because of its great culture. They want to know the reasons why you can successfully do the job. Find a balance between showing you understand the company, describing how you can make it better, and explaining that you understand that hard work is required and can do it.

4. Promote yourself

There is a big difference between “I think I’d be a good fit for the company” and “I have the experience and skills required for this job and will use them to help the company reach its goals.” If you don’t communicate why you are the best candidate, the person reading your cover letter will have less incentive to figure it out themselves. One tip to help you break through to promoting yourself is pretending the person reading the email already likes you. This thought should make you more comfortable writing your cover letter to someone you don’t know. If you write like you have already made an impression and they like you, you should be comfortable with making that forward suggestion that you are the best candidate. Push yourself over that line to convince them you’re the one. Hype yourself!

5. Showcase Your Work

If you have written something that was published or you recently wrote an A+ paper, make it available to the hiring manager if possible. There is no better way to convince them of the quality of your work than having them see it! This goes for any skills of yours that you are promoting – if you can show them, do it.

6. Exceed Expectations

When a manager posts a job, they are looking for a particular skill set. You don’t have to only appeal to that skill set if you can in fact offer more! Show your commitment and value to them by being prompt with email replies, courteous, and doing all of the optional parts of the application. Dedication is something an employer always values. Show them you have it!

And there you have it, our top six cover letter tips. Be sure to listen to our podcast on resumes and cover letters! In this post you can also read resume advice from a top law recruiter. Good luck!

Looking for some help to do your best in law school? Find out about our law school tutoring options.

About John Nikolaou

John is a pre-law student interested in all things law school. He enjoys helping other people learn about things he studies like the intersection of law and public policy. His favorite topics to write on are choosing law schools and time management in law school. Hailing from Texas, his favorite study snack is a good pile of nachos.

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Include your name, address, phone number and email address at the top of the letter. Consider using the same format as your resume. Your name and contact information can be placed at the left margin, the center or the right margin. A NOTE ABOUT YOUR ADDRESS: If you are applying in St. Louis, use your school address. If you are applying in your hometown, include both your school and home address to show the connection.

The address block should be left justified and include a contact name, if possible.

Do not use first names. Do not use Miss or Mrs. The salutation should be followed by a colon, not a comma.

In this paragraph: \(1\) identify your class year and school; \(2\) mention any geographic ties to the area; and \(3\) include information about why you are interested in the specific employer. If you are applying to multiple offices, indicate that here. For example: "In addition to your Washington, D.C. office, I am also applying to your Baltimore, Philadelphia, and New York offices."

The second paragraph \(and if applicable, the third\) is an opportunity for you to market yourself. Do not regurgitate your resume. Talk about the skills and abilities you possess and back it up with examples from your prior work experience and academic studies. If you do not have prior work experience, look to your extracurricular activities to convey your skills. The skills you reference can be legal in nature and/or general \(e.g., research and writing, attention to detail, communication, diligence, work ethic\). If you are a 2L, you should lead with your legal experience - both your 1L summer position and your law school performance.

The last paragraph should thank the employer and provide for future contact. For example, if you are direct applying in a city where you are not located for the summer, if possible, offer a date you will be in town for a potential meeting. Alternatively, simply state "Please feel free to contact me at the phone number listed above." If you are direct applying and applying through OCI, state that here or in the first paragraph.

Use standard business closings, such as Sincerely, Truly, Regards, and Respectfully. The signature block can be centered, left justified or closer to the right margin.

If you are enclosing only your resume, use "Encl." If you are enclosing more than one other document \(e.g., resume and transcript\), use "Encls."

The date can be centered or left justified and should be placed above the employer's address block.

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How to Write a Legal Cover Letter for Law Firms (that Gets you Noticed)

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Whether you’re just starting your legal journey or are an experienced legal professional seeking a new role, there’s no way around it: demand for legal positions is high, and the job outlook for lawyers in the US grows at a faster-than-average pace . Pair this industry growth with movement from lawyers already working in the industry (the 2022 Legal Trends Report found that in the 12 months before April 2022, nearly one in five lawyers left the law firm they were working for, and nine percent planned to leave their firm in the next six months), and it’s clear that many lawyers will find themselves needing to stand out in a competitive job market. 

However, despite the high demand for legal positions, people still need legal expertise—and law firms need capable legal professionals to fill open roles.

Whether you’re a law student, recent graduate, or experienced legal professional, this post will help you with your legal cover letter writing. We’ve started by providing sample cover letters for legal positions below and will then guide you through the essentials of writing a compelling cover letter for law firms. 

Legal cover letter examples

If you’re feeling overwhelmed when drafting a cover letter for law firms, don’t worry. Seeing a legal cover letter example can give you the confidence to write your own. Below, we’ve compiled some sample cover letters for legal positions, covering different backgrounds and levels of experience.

• Cover letter examples for summer associates and interns, Columbia Law School.  
• Cover letter examples for 1L – 3L students, Harvard Law School .
• Cover letter examples for 1L – 3L students, Yale Law School .
• Cover letter example for applying to an immigration law firm by a recent graduate with previous paralegal experience .
• Cover letter example for applying to a Big Law firm, Boston University. 
• Cover letter example for an IP lawyer with 11 years experience, Monster .
• Cover letter example for a litigation attorney with 12 years experience, My Perfect Resume .
• Cover letter examples for applying for private sector roles, Yale Law School .
• Cover letter example for seeking a summer judicial internship, University of Georgia School of Law .

Berkeley Law also provides an excellent guide for legal cover letters. 

You can start by using one of these examples as inspiration when structuring your cover letter and what you may want to highlight. You can also take insights from these sample cover letters for lawyers—insights you can apply to your own cover letter when following our tips below.

How to draft a cover letter for a law firm

It’s one thing to review examples of legal cover letters, but how to write one? By following the standard etiquette and structure—and then personalizing it—you can draft an effective cover letter. First, let’s review some legal cover letter best practices.

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Even after reviewing some legal cover letter examples, the dos and don’ts of legal cover letter writing aren’t always easy to spot. You may ask yourself: what should a legal cover letter include for a law firm? While the content of your cover letter will differ between employers, these points of etiquette should not.

• Don’t skip it. The first—and potentially most important—element of legal cover letter etiquette is just writing one. While job sites and hiring portals may state “Cover Letter Optional,” disregard this, it is always best to send a cover letter.
• Be concise. The hiring manager is likely receiving dozens, or maybe even hundreds, of cover letters a day. Respect an employer’s time by getting straight to the point. Long legal cover letters may also indicate an inability to achieve quick and succinct results.
• Match their tone. Write as if you’ve already been hired for the role. It’s subtle, but an employer will appreciate this personal touch.
• Prioritize the employer. Don’t include unnecessary details about your life that won’t impact how you’ll perform the job.
• Don’t recycle legal cover letters. Be original. It’s time-consuming work, but it’ll show your potential employer your dedication.
• Triple-check it. Spelling and grammatical errors should be avoided at all costs. Given the highly competitive nature of the legal job market, you don’t want to be passed up over a simple error.

Addressing cover letters for lawyers

To whom it may concern: Always take the time to find the correct contact. When writing cover letters for law firms, it’s a common misstep to dedicate so much time and attention to the body of the letter that you overlook the basics—like who and how you’re addressing the letter. 

Here are some best practices for addressing your legal cover letter:

• Know who you’re speaking to. Do your research and be specific. Address your cover letter to the person responsible for hiring at the firm you’re contacting, like the senior partner or hiring manager. If you don’t have this information, the law firm’s website might come in handy, or you can contact the law firm’s human resources department for guidance. 
• Be careful with salutations. The salutation is a place to convey respect and showcase that you’ve taken the time to personalize the letter. Mistakes in the salutation are a sign that you’ll miss details, which won’t bode well for your chances of impressing your potential employer. If you’re certain of the recipient’s preferred gender-identifying language, you can write the salutation as “Dear Ms.” or “Dear Mr.”; however, if you aren’t certain (and don’t make assumptions) or you don’t want to use gender-identifying language, drop the “Ms.” or “Mr.” and write out the person’s full first and last name.
• Double-check your spelling. People will always notice if you spell their name wrong, and there are multiple ways to spell even common names. Ensure you start on the right foot by getting the basics right.

Introductory paragraph

In your cover letter’s opening paragraph, you have two main goals:

• Introduce who you are.
• Explain why you’d be a good fit for this particular firm. 

In the first paragraph, include details about:

• Who you are. Are you currently a law student? Are you an associate at a law firm?
• Who you know. Mention any referrals or mutual acquaintances right away.
• Why you’d be a great fit for the firm. Include specific reasons—you’re looking for a way to create connections with the senior partner or hiring manager.

Main cover letter body

The body section of your cover letter is your chance to shine—and to concisely summarize exactly how you meet the requirements in the job description. 

In one or two paragraphs, give a high-level overview of your legal education and experience to show:

• Why you want to work for this firm. Elaborate on what makes you genuinely excited about the firm—whether it is an area of interest you’ve specialized in, the firm’s reputation or mission, or past experiences that will make you a uniquely good fit.
• Why this firm should hire you. Make clear connections between your qualifications and aspects of the role you’re applying for. If there is a job posting, look closely for key attributes that the firm is looking for, and then detail how you meet those expectations. 

Highlighting your qualifications

Above all else, ensure your legal cover letter highlights your skills. Relevant qualifications for a law firm cover letter include: 

• Past legal work experience or positions.
• Community service roles.
• Academic or research specializations.
• Publications.
• Relevant awards you’ve received.
• Your personal background.

For example, consider a job posting that describes their ideal candidate as someone with personal injury litigation experience, excellent communication skills, and who works well both independently and as a part of a team in a fast-paced office environment.

If you were applying for this role, your cover letter’s body paragraphs might detail your past personal injury litigation experience and specific examples of how you’ve successfully communicated within a team and in a fast-paced environment.

Remember: Be specific, but keep in mind that this is not the place to restate your resume —if you can grab the hiring manager’s attention here, they will read your resume for those details. Your cover letter is where you can entice the reader to move on to your resume by providing context and highlighting how your experience lines up with what’s needed for the role.

For tips on writing a standout lawyer resume, read our blog post here.

Concluding paragraph

Finally, your concluding paragraph is where you’ll succinctly wrap the cover letter up, close the loop, and leave a positive impression. In your closing paragraph, be sure to:

• Say thank you. Gratitude can make a difference, so always thank the reader for their consideration.
• Assert your next steps. It’s fine to clearly outline how and when you will follow up on your application, rather than waiting indefinitely for an answer. And, if you say that you’ll follow up at a specific time, be sure to do it—and hold yourself to your word.
• Provide relevant contact details. Let the reader know how to reach you by phone or email, if these details are not already outlined in your letter’s header.

Tips for using your legal cover letter to stand out

The legal industry is rapidly evolving, and job hunters need to set themselves apart to get hired (unless, of course, you decide to start your own law firm ). 

If you’re applying for a job as a lawyer, whether it’s a traditional position or a legal work-from-home job , here are five tips to make sure your cover letter lands at the top of the pile.

1. Make it personal

Perhaps the most important tip for writing cover letters for lawyers is to make it personal. 

Many of your competitors have similar education and professional experience, so being generic is a fast track to being forgotten. 

Use a personalized cover letter to showcase the unique reasons why you’re the best candidate. Show that you know the person you’re writing to, and highlight any connections. If that isn’t possible, you can always write about the firm to show that you’ve done your research. 

2. Prioritize the positive 

When writing a lawyer cover letter, focus on what you have to offer. Regardless of why you’re looking for a new job, you bring a unique mix of attributes to the table. Highlight these attributes, whether they’re your: 

• Other legal careers
• Relevant work experience 

If you’re a law student or recent graduate, you may not have a long legal career to highlight. However, you can still note strengths like technology skills that make you an asset.

To a hiring law firm, being tech-competent and familiar with certain cloud-based tools like Clio could be an advantage that sets you apart from other candidates.

For example, more and more law firms are adopting artificial intelligence (AI) tools to help them run their practices more efficiently, with the 2023 Legal Trends Report finding that nearly one in five legal professionals are using some form of AI in their practices already. With this in mind, lawyers up-to-date with AI technology may stand out for hiring law firms.  

3. Get to the point

Legal cover letters are not the place to be long-winded, and droning on will almost certainly have the opposite effect of what you’re going for. Keep cover letters for attorneys short, to the point, and persuasive—the trick is to be memorable and limit yourself to one page. Because you want to make a lasting impression on a single page, it’s also a good idea to check your cover letter’s sentence structure. Do you start all of your sentences the same way? Are they all the same length? Ensure there’s some variety so your reader stays engaged.

4. Set the right tone

Tone matters. While what you say in a cover letter for lawyers is obviously important, it also matters how you say it. 

No matter what type of legal job you’re applying for, you always want to convey a professional tone. However, depending on the law firm you’re applying to, using a personal tone may work to your advantage. Tailor your tone to match the law firm you’re applying to. 

If you’re writing a Big Law cover letter, for example, you’ll want to err on the side of being more formal. For a smaller local law firm? Check their website and match the tone to demonstrate your familiarity with their firm. 

5. Proofread

There is zero room for typos or grammatical errors in cover letters for lawyers. With so much competition for legal jobs, don’t give hiring managers a reason to eliminate you. Take the time to carefully proofread your cover letter yourself, and consider enlisting someone else to proofread your cover letters as well.

Final thoughts on how to write a legal cover letter for a law firm

In a crowded legal job market, there’s no better way to outshine the competition than an excellent legal cover letter. Ensure you’re putting your best foot forward with your future employer by: 

• Making it personal. At every step, customize your cover letter to the firm you’re applying to—from the tone to the specific skills you detail.
• Keeping it brief. Cover letters for lawyers are a one-page summary to let the hiring manager know that you’re a candidate they should talk to further. You want to give them enough information to draw them in, but not overwhelm them and risk losing interest.
• Showcasing your strengths. Focus on the positives, and don’t be afraid to highlight how your past experiences make you uniquely qualified.

While finding a new legal job in a competitive market isn’t exactly easy, staying resilient and adaptive will lead you to success. By crafting a great cover letter, you’re more likely to be noticed in this—and any—job market. 

And, no matter what job you’re applying for, knowing technology can help set you apart—both when job hunting and once you’re working at your new firm. If you’re a law student and want a head start, you may be able to get free Clio access via Clio’s Academic Access Program (CAAP) at your law school. Learn more about CAAP here .

Do law firms read cover letters?

In a competitive job market, hiring managers at law firms read cover letters to help determine which candidates may be the best fit. A well-written legal cover letter can entice the reader to review your resume—and, hopefully, invite you for an interview—by showcasing how your experience and skills align with the role. 

We published this blog post in June 2020. Last updated: June 13, 2024 .

Categorized in: Business

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Legal Intern Cover Letter Example

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Start your Legal Intern cover letter with a professional greeting addressed directly to the hiring manager, if their name is available. If not, use a general salutation like "Dear Hiring Manager." Then, introduce yourself and state the position you're applying for. Mention where you found the job posting and express your interest in the role. For example, "I am a third-year law student at XYZ University and I am writing to apply for the Legal Intern position posted on your website." Make sure to convey enthusiasm for the opportunity and briefly mention why you are a good fit for the role. This could be based on your academic achievements, relevant coursework, or previous internships.

The best way for Legal Interns to end a cover letter is by expressing gratitude and showing enthusiasm for the potential opportunity. You should reiterate your interest in the position and the firm, and express your eagerness to contribute and learn. For example, you could say, "Thank you for considering my application. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your team and learning from the wealth of experience at your firm." Also, make sure to include a professional closing, such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name. Remember, the ending of your cover letter is your final chance to make a strong impression, so make it count.

Legal Interns should include the following elements in their cover letter: 1. Contact Information: At the top of the letter, include your name, address, phone number, and email address. If applicable, also include your LinkedIn profile or professional website. 2. Professional Greeting: Address the hiring manager by name if possible. If you can't find the name, use a professional greeting such as "Dear Hiring Manager." 3. Introduction: In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and state the position you're applying for. Mention where you found the job posting. 4. Body of the Letter: This is where you sell yourself. Highlight your relevant skills, experiences, and achievements. As a legal intern, you should focus on your legal research skills, analytical abilities, knowledge of legal terminology, and any relevant coursework or previous internships. Make sure to provide specific examples. For instance, you might discuss a research project you completed in law school or a case you worked on during a previous internship. 5. Explanation of Interest: Explain why you're interested in this particular internship. This could be because of the firm's reputation, the opportunity to gain experience in a particular area of law, or the chance to work with a specific attorney you admire. 6. Closing Paragraph: Reiterate your interest in the position and thank the hiring manager for considering your application. Mention that you're looking forward to the possibility of discussing the internship further in an interview. 7. Professional Closing: Close the letter with a professional sign-off such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name. 8. Enclosure Notation: Finally, if you're sending additional documents with the cover letter (like a resume or transcripts), include an "Enclosures" or "Attachments" notation at the bottom. Remember, a cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression. Be sure to proofread carefully for any errors, and consider having a mentor, career counselor, or trusted peer review it as

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