Lawyer cover letter example
What makes this cover letter great
This cover letter is a strong example because it clearly outlines the candidate's relevant education and experience, highlights specific legal skills, and demonstrates a track record of success in previous roles. It provides concrete examples of the candidate's abilities, such as managing caseloads and negotiating settlements, and shows adaptability across multiple areas of law. The letter also emphasizes important soft skills like communication, ethical standards, and teamwork, making the candidate well-rounded and appealing to employers.
Cover letter example for Lawyer
Strong cover letter
I am writing to express my interest in the Lawyer position at your esteemed firm. With a Juris Doctor degree from a top-tier law school and over five years of experience practicing law, I have developed a strong foundation in legal research, litigation, and client advocacy. My background includes representing clients in civil and criminal cases, drafting legal documents, and providing strategic counsel on a variety of legal matters. In my previous role at Smith & Associates, I managed a diverse caseload, successfully representing clients in court and negotiating favorable settlements. I am adept at conducting thorough legal research, preparing persuasive arguments, and maintaining meticulous attention to detail in all aspects of case management. My experience spans contract law, corporate law, and family law, allowing me to adapt quickly to new legal challenges. I am committed to upholding the highest ethical standards and delivering exceptional service to clients. My strong communication skills, analytical thinking, and ability to work collaboratively with colleagues make me a valuable asset to any legal team. I am eager to contribute my expertise and passion for the law to your organization and help achieve successful outcomes for your clients.
Weak cover letter
I am applying for the Lawyer job at your firm. I have a law degree and some experience working as a lawyer. I have worked on different types of cases and can do legal research and write documents. I am a hard worker and want to join your team. Thank you for considering my application.
Cover letter best practices
Tailor Each Cover Letter to being a Lawyer
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.