Law resume example
What makes this resume great
This resume is a strong example for a law position because it highlights a clear progression through relevant legal roles, from paralegal to associate attorney, demonstrating growth and increasing responsibility. The candidate has attended prestigious institutions, which adds credibility. The skills section is comprehensive and tailored to the legal field, covering both technical and interpersonal abilities. The resume also includes a professional online presence, which is increasingly important in the legal industry. The experience is recent and relevant, showing continuous engagement in the legal sector.
Resume summary examples for Law
Example #1
Strong Summary
Detail-oriented Associate Attorney with 5+ years of experience in litigation, contract drafting, and regulatory compliance at top New York law firms. Proven track record of managing complex cases, delivering favorable outcomes for clients, and excelling in high-pressure environments. Adept at legal research, negotiation, and client counseling.
Weak Summary
I am a lawyer who has worked at a few law firms and can do legal research and write contracts.
Example #2
Strong Summary
Results-driven legal professional with a JD from Columbia Law School and a strong background in litigation, client advocacy, and compliance. Skilled in managing multiple cases and providing strategic legal solutions.
Weak Summary
Graduated from law school and have worked in law for a few years. Can handle cases and talk to clients.
Example #3
Strong Summary
Experienced attorney with expertise in legal writing, document review, and oral advocacy. Committed to delivering high-quality legal services and maintaining strong client relationships.
Weak Summary
I have experience in law and can write documents and talk in court.
Resume achievement examples for Law
Example #1
Strong Achievement
Successfully managed a portfolio of 30+ litigation cases, achieving a 90% favorable outcome rate for clients at Smith & Partners LLP.
Weak Achievement
Worked on many cases and helped clients win.
Example #2
Strong Achievement
Drafted and negotiated over 50 commercial contracts annually, reducing client risk exposure by 25% through meticulous review and compliance checks.
Weak Achievement
Drafted contracts and made sure they were compliant.
Example #3
Strong Achievement
Conducted legal research and prepared briefs that contributed to the successful resolution of 10+ high-profile cases during tenure as a Legal Intern at Johnson Legal Group.
Weak Achievement
Did legal research and wrote briefs for cases.
Essential skills for a Law
- Legal research
- Contract drafting
- Litigation
- Client counseling
- Regulatory compliance
- Case management
- Negotiation
- Legal writing
- Document review
- Oral advocacy
Resume best practices
Tailor Your Resume for a Law
Customize your resume for the specific position you're applying for. Use keywords from the job description and highlight the most relevant experience.
Keep It Concise and Focused
Ideally, your resume should be one page (two if you have extensive experience). Focus on achievements and essential information and avoid fluff.
Use a Clean, Professional Format
Stick to a simple layout with consistent font, spacing, and section headings. Use bullet points for readability. Avoid overly decorative fonts or colors.
Start with a Strong Summary
Write a compelling summary or objective at the top that briefly outlines your background, key skills, and what you bring to being a Law.
Emphasize Achievements Over Duties
Use bullet points to describe what you accomplished as a Law, not just what you were responsible for. Include measurable results when possible (e.g., "Increased sales by 25% in six months").
Use Action Verbs
Start bullet points with strong action verbs like "Led," "Developed," "Improved," "Streamlined," to convey impact and ownership.
Highlight Skills and Tools
Create a dedicated skills section that includes technical tools, software, or soft skills relevant to being a Law (e.g., Excel, Python, CRM systems, leadership, communication).
Include Education and Certifications
List your educational background and any relevant certifications or ongoing courses. Mention GPA if it’s strong (generally above 3.5) and you're early in your career.
Proofread Carefully
Avoid spelling or grammatical errors since they can be deal-breakers. Ask someone else to review your resume or use tools like Grammarly.