Law cover letter example

What makes this cover letter great

This cover letter is a strong example for a law position because it clearly outlines the candidate's relevant education, practical experience, and specific legal skills. It demonstrates familiarity with essential legal tools and highlights both technical and soft skills, such as research, advocacy, and communication. The letter is tailored to the legal field and shows genuine passion for the profession. It also emphasizes teamwork and a commitment to professional growth, which are valued in legal environments. The writing is concise, professional, and well-organized.

Cover letter example for Law

Strong cover letter

I am writing to express my interest in the Law position at your esteemed organization. With a strong academic background in legal studies and hands-on experience in both litigation and legal research, I am confident in my ability to contribute effectively to your team. I hold a Juris Doctor degree from a top-tier law school, where I graduated with honors and participated in moot court competitions, further honing my advocacy and analytical skills.

During my internship at Smith & Associates, I assisted senior attorneys in preparing case files, drafting legal documents, and conducting in-depth research on complex legal issues. My experience also includes client consultations, where I developed strong communication and negotiation skills. I am proficient in legal research databases such as Westlaw and LexisNexis, and I am adept at managing multiple cases simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail and meeting tight deadlines.

I am passionate about upholding the principles of justice and am committed to providing high-quality legal services. My ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, coupled with my dedication to continuous learning, makes me a strong candidate for this role. I am eager to bring my legal expertise and enthusiasm to your organization and contribute to its ongoing success.

Weak cover letter

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am applying for the law job at your company. I studied law in school and have done some internships. I can do research and write documents. I am a hard worker and want to work for you. Please consider my application.

Sincerely,
Applicant

Cover letter best practices

Tailor Each Cover Letter to being a Law

Avoid generic letters. Customize your content to reflect the specific job description, company values, and how your experience aligns with their needs.

Use a Professional Format

Stick to a clean, business-like layout with consistent fonts, spacing, and margins. Match the formatting of your resume for a cohesive application package.

Address the Right Person

Whenever possible, address the letter to a specific individual (e.g., “Dear Ms. Johnson”). Use LinkedIn or the company website to find the hiring manager’s name.

Start with a Strong Opening

Capture attention in the first paragraph by stating the position, expressing genuine interest, and previewing the value you’ll bring to the role.

Highlight Relevant Achievements

Focus on 1–2 specific accomplishments that relate directly to the job. Use metrics, outcomes, or project details to demonstrate impact.

Show You Understand the Company

Demonstrate knowledge of the company’s mission, recent news, or culture. This shows you’ve done your homework and care about where you work.

Explain Career Transitions Briefly

If you’re changing industries, roles, or returning to work, provide context for your move and highlight transferable skills.

Keep It Concise and Focused

Limit your letter to one page and avoid repeating your resume. Aim for clarity and brevity—ideally 3–4 paragraphs.

Use a Confident, Professional Tone

Write assertively without arrogance. Avoid overused buzzwords unless supported by real examples.

Close with a Clear Call to Action

End with a confident statement of interest, and invite the employer to connect or schedule an interview.

Proofread Carefully

Typos and grammatical errors can ruin a strong letter. Review it multiple times, and consider reading it out loud or asking someone else to check it.