law firm lateral cover letter

A Compelling Lateral Attorney Cover Letter Example

Making a partner is considered to be a huge accomplishment among attorneys. Thus, many focus on building their career within one firm in hopes of reaching that coveted position someday. However, apart from “doing face time”, there is another way to partnership.

Legal firms will often recruit attorneys from other practices to become partners in theirs as they expand into new areas. Such ‘laterals’ are valued because they bring experience and talent with them. Of course, being poached is certainly flattering. But you can also market yourself as an excellent choice as a lateral hire. However, it doesn’t guarantee that you’ll get the job. You’ll have to impress the hiring committee. To start that process, be prepared with a great cover letter.

You can begin by checking out the tips below. Then, take a look at our sample lateral attorney cover letter.

Start With an Acknowledgment

In most cases, you are in the running for this position because somebody reached out to you. They either did so directly, through a common connection, or via a headhunter/ recruitment agency , In any case, it’s an honor to be considered for a partnership position. So it’s best to lead off your cover letter with a quick sentence or two of thanks. Personalize that thanks if you know who expressed interest in you. Remember, connections are everything. Here’s a quick example:

“I’d like to begin by thanking my former colleague Steve Shipman, as well as the Davis Law Group Partnership committee for reaching out to me. I’m honored to be considered for this position.”

Show You Operate a Strong Practice

A law partner often operates as a “law firm within a law firm”. Many partners have their client base, do their billing, and otherwise operate rather independently. They likely have a legal secretary, clerk, or paralegal working with them as well. Ideally, you are also familiar with the people and procedures at your local courthouse.

Put more succinctly, your letter should demonstrate that you are a more than a capable attorney . It should illustrate how you can begin your first day as a productive and profitable attorney who brings something of value to the firm.

Understand Why They Are Recruiting You

The standard advice is to only include the most relevant points in your cover letter, rather than rehash your entire resume. Here, the best approach is to identify why the law firm has reached out to you. Doing so may be as simple as having a frank discussion with your recruiter. You may also reach out to the person who referred you.

Once you’re sure, you can customize your cover letter. Pick two or three of the company’s most important needs. Then, use your cover letter to show how you will be able to meet those requirements.

Quantify The Points You Make

Now that you’ve lined up your ‘talking points’, work on making them a bit less generic. For example, “I have plenty of corporate law experience.” is true, but sounds pretty vague. On the other hand, “I have 5 years of experience in corporate litigation. The majority of that has been representing pharmaceutical companies and hospitals.” gives the reader some extra valuable context. 

Here are a few other detailed statements:

• I have taken more than 200 cases to trial.
• My experience includes 3 years of experience as a prosecuting attorney.
• In 2019, I negotiated a 1.5 million dollar settlement with a major railcar manufacturer.

Also, check cover letter examples for other legal professions to get an even better sense of how you should frame your accomplishments. 

Lateral Attorney Cover Letter Example in .docx Format

Here’s a sample letter from an attorney who has been directly recruited by an area law firm. Feel free to use it as a guide.

Download example (Word)

Lateral Attorney Cover Letter Sample – Text Format

Dear Therese Miller,

Thank you for reaching out to me regarding the position of junior partner at Miller and Pike. I’m honored that you thought of me when you decided to expand into the area of criminal defense law. I believe I would be an excellent fit for this position. Thus, I am eagerly submitting my application.

I’ve been in private practice as a criminal defense attorney for three years. Prior to that, I worked in the Minneapolis, Public Defenders office. I specialize in jury trials, and cases involving civil rights violations. In 2018, I successfully argued the dismissal of charges in The State V. Laramie case on the grounds that evidence was gathered illegally. Also, I have an 80% success rate at trial and have achieved positive results in more than 95% of the cases I have settled.

I currently work with a paralegal and legal secretary. Both are talented professionals who are committed to following me into any new position. Further, I have more than 75 clients on retainer. I also average more than 40 new client inquiries each month. 

If you are interested in bringing in an experienced criminal defense attorney with an established client base, I’d love to meet with you. Please expect me to reach out again late next week. Perhaps we can meet for dinner.

Stewart Ninja, ESQ.

Final Tip: Be Proactive

Don’t make the mistake of submitting your application packet, then waiting for a response. Instead, show some initiative by planning out your next steps and a future interview. Legal partners are expected to be assertive!

Other Cover Letter Samples

A convincing credit controller cover letter example, cover letter example for mechanic (+writing tips), bartender cover letter example: on-point & memorable, cover letter example for mortgage loan processor.

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Lawyer Cover Letter Example (w/ Templates & Tips for 2024)

You've come a long way to reach your legal goals.

From your early dreams to helping justice thrive to making a career in the world of law, your journey has been amazing. 

But as you’re preparing for your next big professional step, there's a challenge: writing a great lawyer cover letter.

We don’t blame you; showing off your legal skills can be tough. 

That’s why, in this article, we'll help you create a cover letter that highlights your skills and gets you closer to your dream legal job.

Here’s what’ll cover: 

• An Outstanding Lawyer Cover Letter Example
• 5 Essential Steps to Crafting a Top-tier Legal Cover Letter
• 3 Lawyer Cover Letter Tips

...and much more!

Lawyer Cover Letter Example

5 Steps for the Perfect Law Cover Letter

You've just had a glimpse of what a stellar cover letter looks like, and now you're well-equipped to craft your own . 

It's as simple as following a few straightforward steps to make it shine, starting with:

#1. Put Contact Information in the Header

Your cover letter should start with your contact information neatly placed in the header, just like on your resume. 

Here's what you should include:

• Full Name: Your complete name should be at the top of the page.
• Professional Title: Tailor your professional title to match the precise job you're seeking. Hiring managers juggle applications for several roles at the same time, so making the position you’re interested in clear can help make their lives easier.
• Email Address: Opt for a professional and straightforward email address, like a combination of your first and last name. Those quirky high school email addresses won't cut it. (e.g., [email protected] is good, but [email protected] isn't)
• Phone Number: Ensure the number you provide is accurate for easy contact. If you're applying for an international position, include the appropriate dial code.
• Location: Typically, your city and state or country suffice. However, if you're pursuing a remote position or considering relocation, make that clear in your lawyer cover letter.
• Relevant Links (Optional): You can include links to pertinent websites or social media profiles, such as your LinkedIn.

Next, it's time to include the hiring manager's details:

• Company Name: Specify the name of the company you're applying to.
• Hiring Manager's Name: If possible, identify the hiring manager for the department you're interested in. You can check the job listing, the company's website, or their LinkedIn page to find this information.
• Hiring Manager's Title: If you discover the name of the hiring manager for the specific job listing and realize they're the head of the department, use that instead of "Hiring Manager."
• Location: Mention the city, state, or country, particularly for globally operating companies. If you want to be more specific, you can add the company's exact street address.
• Email Address (Optional): If available, include the hiring manager's email address.
• Date of Writing (Optional): Consider adding the precise date when you composed your cover letter for a professional touch.

#2. Address the Hiring Manager

After jotting down all the necessary contact details, ensure you address your cover letter to its intended audience.

And, skip the old-fashioned "To Whom It May Concern" while you’re at it.

The way you address your cover letter can set a positive tone with the recruiter, especially if you give it some thought.

Start with a bit of digging around. Scour the job advertisement, law firm's website, or LinkedIn profile to pinpoint the person in charge of hiring for the position you're eyeing. A bit of effort can help you discover their name and email contact.

Next, greet them respectfully. Opt for Ms. or Mr., followed by their surname. If you're uncertain about their gender or marital status, simply use their complete name. For instance:

• Dear Mr. Thompson,
• Dear Jordan Thompson,

If you can’t find out their details, though, no worries! You can address your letter to the specific department or the law firm more broadly:

• Dear Legal Department,
• Dear Legal Hiring Committee,
• Dear HR Selection Team,
• Dear Lead Attorney,

#3. Write an Eye-Catching Opening Statement

Hiring managers often spend just seven seconds scanning an application to decide whether it’s worth their time and attention.

So, it's crucial to grab their attention fast with your lawyer cover letter.

Start your cover letter with your name and why you're interested in the legal job. Show your passion for law to make them want to know more about you.

Researching the law firm also helps. Knowing about their work and values lets you show what a great fit you’d be for the job. Not to mention, it proves you're really interested in this specific role, not just any role out there.

If you've got lots of legal experience, mention an important achievement , like a big case you've won, or special skills you have that are relevant to the position. But remember to keep your introduction short. Your aim is to get the hiring manager to read the rest of your cover letter.

Check out our other cover letter examples to write an attention-grabbing opening paragraph. 

#4. Use the Cover Letter Body for the Details

The main part of your legal cover letter lets you explain why you're the right fit for the job in more detail.

The trick here is to not merely repeat your lawyer resume. This is where you get to put your top legal skills and experiences into the spotlight. Your goal? To show the hiring manager you're the best choice among all the candidates. 

For starters, mention any big achievements in law and explain how you accomplished them or what skills it took you. Let the job ad guide you through for the best possible outcome. For example, if the role you’re gunning for is related to intellectual property law, focus on your knowledge of that instead of other law areas.

Additionally, show that you know about the firm's big cases or how they work. This proves you're really interested in working with them and that you fit their culture.

End by showing how passionate you are about the role. Say how you believe you can add value to their team with your legal skills and experience.

Also, make sure to avoid making any of these common cover letter mistakes to make sure your application is spotless. 

#5. Wrap It Up and Sign It

Ending your cover letter is like giving a strong closing in court.

Make sure your ending leaves the hiring manager convinced about your abilities and interested in calling you in for an interview. It should build trust in what you offer and remove any doubts that you may not be the right fit for the role.

Your cover letter’s ending is your time to summarize your top legal skills and why you're a great fit for their team. Alternatively, talk about your biggest achievements or the unique things you can bring to the table. 

After that, urge the hiring manager to take the next step by including a call to action. That could be a chat or an in-person meeting. This shows you're invested in the position and could help you get an interview.

Finally, when you sign off, stay professional. End with a simple sign-off and your full name. For example:

Should you wish for further clarification or insights regarding my legal qualifications, please reach out via the provided email or contact number. I eagerly anticipate the prospect of delving deeper into how I can contribute to your esteemed legal firm.

Yours sincerely,

If you feel "Yours sincerely" is rather commonplace, here are some alternative sign-offs tailored for the legal profession:

• In utmost respect,
• With appreciation,
• Thank you for your due consideration,

3 Essential Law Cover Letter Tips

You've mastered the cover letter fundamentals! Let's step it up and delve into some key cover letter tips specifically designed for lawyers to make your letter truly stand out:

#1. Match Your Resume

When applying for a legal position, consistency is your best friend.

Make sure your cover letter matches your resume visually as much as it matches it in content quality. This will help you come across as attentive to detail and well-organized.

Your name and contact details should sit tidily on the page. Also, keep your fonts and their sizes uniform throughout both documents. Remember to also adjust the margins and space between lines to keep your cover letter to a single page . 

Ready to make a great impression?

Or Use A Cover Letter Template Instead

Starting from scratch can be a drag. 

Take advantage of our cover letter templates for a swift fix. Together with our free resume templates , they can be the solution you’ve been looking for. 

Made hand-in-hand with global hiring pros, they hit all industry marks and just pop. Go on, match that resume with style!

#2. Emphasize Your Achievements

Highlighting your achievements isn't just about a humble brag; it's about showcasing the tangible results of your dedication and expertise. 

When hiring managers sift through stacks of cover letters, they're not just looking for claims. They want evidence. They want to see that spark of exceptional talent and commitment. Achievements offer a snapshot of what you've accomplished and hint at what you're capable of achieving in the future.

Now, here's the tricky part. While your resume might list your achievements in bullet points, your cover letter should weave them into a compelling narrative. Think of it as telling a story, where your achievements serve as key plot points and demonstrate your ability to handle challenges and achieve results.

For instance, instead of just stating you led a high-profile case, delve a bit into the complexities of the case and how your innovative approach made a difference. Link these accomplishments directly to the requirements of the job you're applying for. This not only reinforces your capabilities but also illustrates your deep understanding of the role.

#3. Add Any Relevant Links

Including relevant links in your cover letter is like opening a door for hiring managers to step right into your professional world. While your resume provides a structured outline of your career journey, links offer a more dynamic glimpse into your accomplishments, be it published articles, notable cases, or a well-curated LinkedIn profile.

Imagine the hiring manager's perspective. They’re intrigued by your cover letter and think you might be a good fit. Now, instead of Googling you or hunting down that specific case you mentioned, they have instant access via a link you provided. It's immediate, efficient, and showcases your proactive nature.

Links also offer a chance for you to steer the narrative. By guiding hiring managers to specific pages or platforms, you're highlighting the parts of your career you're most proud of. It might be a detailed portfolio, showcasing your prowess in legal briefs, or perhaps glowing recommendations on your LinkedIn profile.

Key Takeaways

And that’s all there is to crafting a stellar lawyer cover letter! Hopefully, you’re on track to secure that ideal legal position in no time.

But before you send off your cover letter, here are some main points from our article:

• Start your lawyer cover letter by detailing both your contact information and that of the hiring attorney or law firm's HR representative. Ensure your details are accurate so that they can reach out to you for a potential interview.
• The opening paragraph of your lawyer's cover letter should capture the interest of the hiring party, compelling them to continue reading.
• In the main section of your cover letter, emphasize your most notable achievements and skills that align with the legal role you're pursuing.
• It's effective to include a persuasive call to action towards the conclusion of your law firm cover letter, prompting the hiring party to consider calling you or arranging an interview.
• Maintain a consistent design between your cover letter and resume. If you're short on time, think about using one of our resume and cover letter templates for a cohesive appearance.

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• What Law Firms Look for in a Lateral Resume
• Legal Articles
• Attorney Career Advice
• Making a Lateral Move

published february 12, 2021

published January 07, 2013

• Your lateral cover letter should always explain why you are looking for a new position. Firms always want to know why an experienced attorney is on the job market, and if that information is excluded, a worst-case scenario may be assumed. No news is not necessarily good news.  
• Lateral cover letters should also be one page in length. While a lengthy explanation of your circumstances may be necessary, no one willingly reads long cover letters. Remember that the purpose of a cover letter is to highlight points in your resume and to bring to light things that may not be readily apparent on your resume, such as why you are on the job market.  
• You may also want to spend one paragraph briefly highlighting the more important aspects of your work experience. The experience on your resume probably doesn't go into great detail because it would be too long, so a succinct cover letter is a great opportunity to add a little more information about what you have done, hopefully whetting the appetite of your reader. But make sure you don't disclose confidential or privileged information on your resume or cover letter. If you're an international tax attorney who worked on a precedent-setting case before the tax court, you might spend a few sentences describing your experience, going into a level of detail not found on your resume.  
• Refrain from making negative comments in your cover letter about former employers. Never make negative comments, especially in writing, about a former employer. Even if your former law firm sold your firstborn child, find something nice to say about them, or say nothing at all. The line of thinking is that if you will make negative comments about one employer, then you'll say bad things about all of them. No one wants or needs to be bad-mouthed.
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How To Write An Effective Cover Letter

Here are 10 tips that will help you to put your best foot forward.

When you work with a recruiter, there is generally no need to write your own cover letter; the cover letter comes from us. But that doesn’t mean you should skip the exercise of writing a cover letter altogether. It’s crucial that you work with your recruiter to convey any information that may be helpful in marketing yourself to the prospective employer.

I shy away from giving candidates a detailed cover letter template. You do not want your letter to sound too formulaic. It should be authentic and, if signed by you, in your voice. Even using the same cover letter to apply for multiple positions can get risky. It’s easy to spot the non-tailored cover letter.

Here are 10 tips that will help you to put your best foot forward:

• Read the job description . Read it line by line. I cannot stress enough the importance of tailoring your cover letter to the specific job.
• Do not simply repeat what is on your resume . You may want to highlight just the most important points from your resume, but you primarily want to include relevant information  not  in your resume.
• Think of your cover letter as a first-round interview . What questions might you anticipate? You will want to address: a. Why are you looking to make a move, and why specifically do you want to work  here , with  us? b. If applicable, why do you want to move to the new city? What personal or professional ties do you have to the new location? c. If applicable, why do you want to move from a firm to an in-house role?
• Above all, your cover letter must answer the question,  “How are you going to add value to our firm/company?”  In your cover letter and in your interviews, remember that it’s not about you. It’s about what  you  can do for  them . A prospective employer will be turned off by candidates who only talk about how this move will advance their own careers.
• Remember the old adage  “Show, don’t tell.”  Give concrete examples of your relevant soft skills: a. What precise skills or experiences do you have that qualify you for this job? b. What do you bring to the table that makes you unique? c. Why should we hire you instead of your competition?
• Give your cover letter a basic structure , for example, an opening sentence/paragraph, your “arguments,” and a conclusion. Your cover letter will offer substantive information, but it will also be judged as a representation of your writing and communication skills.
• Be concise .
• Try to find the appropriate recipient’s name . I am always turned off by the “To Whom it May Concern” letters.
• If you are applying for a lateral law firm position and  your class year  for promotion purposes is different from your JD year, be sure to highlight this.
• Proofread . Absolutely no typos!

Your cover letter, whether it comes from you or from your recruiter, should not be a recap of your resume. It should add color and personality to your application, offer the reader a chance to see you as a real human being, and answer the question, “Why should we hire  you ?” Think of it as a practice screening interview.

Will a good cover letter really move the needle? Realistically, it may only make a difference to a small percentage of applications. But why not give every job application your best shot?

Home » How To Write An Effective Cover Letter

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• Cover Letter Examples

Law Firm Cover Letter: Sample and Writing Guide

Our customers have been hired by:

Your law firm cover letter has to work like a case brief of your application. Why? Because your legal resume won’t speak for itself. To get interviewed, summarize your skills and qualifications in a quick four-paragraph letter. But there’s a plan to follow if you want to get the partners and HR director on your side.

Don’t worry—

This guide will show you a law firm cover letter example and the best tips on how to write a cover letter for law firm jobs step-by-step.

Want to write your cover letter fast? Use our cover letter builder. Choose from  20+ professional cover letter templates  that match your resume. See actionable examples and get expert tips along the way.

Create your cover letter now

Sample cover letter for a resume— See more cover letter samples and create your cover letter here .

Law Firm Cover Letter Sample

Michael Nagy

Harvard Law School Student

887 Cherry Ridge Drive

Cambridge, MA 02141

508-306-0385

[email protected]

linkedin.com/in/michaelznagy

Kimberly Boyer

Boyer, White & Boyer

46 Stadium Drive

Boston, MA 02138

Dear Ms. Boyer,

I’m a second-year student attending Harvard Law School, writing to apply for your summer internship position. I learned about the position through Harvard’s public service database, but I’ve also heard good things from three older students I met as Junior Vice President of Harvard Law’s ACLU Club. Interning at Boyer, White & Boyer would allow me to strengthen my research and writing skills, and I’m confident that my work ethic and trial preparation experience will help your partners and associates improve their client service and efficiency.

Your job posting on LinkedIn says you need an intern with litigation knowledge, research skills, and writing skills. As a member of the Moot Court Honors Board, I presented 5 legal arguments and was on the team that won State Finals. I also researched 22 cases during my first-year internship with Locklin & Dubord, with multiple commendations from the partners for efficiency and accuracy. I wrote a weekly column on trial law in the Harvard Civil Rights-Civil Liberties Law Review. Finally, I’ve written 50+ memoranda and correspondences for partners and associates.

In the past two semesters, I got involved with Harvard’s Alliance for Reproductive Justice, where I worked directly with professors Alice Wharton and David Mathieu to facilitate discussions and perform research. I also volunteer for the Animal Law Society, and my work as a Junior Editor and Researcher for the  Journal on Legislation  has helped broaden my knowledge of the current regulation environment. I believe an internship at Boyer, White & Boyer would increase my hands-on knowledge in these areas.

My resume and enclosed references will show the other ways I fit your internship requirements. I would value the opportunity to speak with you in person about how I can help extend your firm’s efficiency and accuracy. I’ll check back with your office in a couple weeks to see if we can arrange a time to meet.

Kind regards,

That’s a Jones-Day-level law firm cover letter example.

Your cover letter for law firms needs an equally strong resume. See our guide: Legal Resume Sample

Hunting a specific law firm job? See these guides:

• Legal Cover Letter Sample
• Legal Assistant Cover Letter Sample
• Paralegal Cover Letter Sample
• Judicial Clerkship Cover Letter Sample
• Formal Cover Letter Sample
• Federal Cover Letter Sample
• Best Cover Letter Samples for All Careers

Law Firm Cover Letter Template

Here’s how to write a cover letter for law firm jobs:

1. Use the proper law firm cover letter formatting and layout

• Cover letter font : Select a professional font (Cambria, Arial, Helvetica, Verdana).
• Margins: one inch on both sides and the top and bottom.
• Cover letter line spacing : 1.15.
• Cover letter outline : 4 paragraphs.

Read more:  Cover Letter Format

2. Create a professional law firm cover letter heading

• Make your cover letter header match your resume header.
• Start your cover letter with your name, job title , and contact info: email, phone, and LinkedIn ( 87% of recruiters use Linkedin to investigate applicants.)
• Add the date a double-space below your contact info.
• Leave another double-space, then add the partner’s name and info.

Read more:  How and to Whom Should I Address a Cover Letter?

3. Use a personal greeting with a targeted first paragraph

• Start with “Dear [Partner Name],” (never use “ To Whom It May Concern” cover letters ).
• Introduce yourself with your name, title, and the job you’re applying for.
• Make it clear why this job and law firm matter to you.
• Link your interest in the firm to your legal skills and accomplishments to date.

Read more: How to Start a Cover Letter

4. Prove you’re the perfect candidate in your middle paragraphs

• Restate the legal job requirements from the firm’s job posting.
• Show how your achievements make you a match.
• Don’t restate your entire resume.
• Do highlight the best features in your resume that fit the role.
• Unlike most jobs, law firm cover letters can be 4 or 5 paragraphs.

Should you mention salary in a cover letter? See our guide: How to Include Salary Requirements in a Cover Letter

5. Explain why you want to join the firm

• Say what you like about the law firm.
• Convince them why this job matters to you.
• Ideally, spend a sentence or two on this in each paragraph.
• Doing this proves you’ll value the position if you get it.

U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows jobs for legal assistants and other law firm support staff rising much faster than average. Your cover letter helps you get the best of these.

6. Offer something to end your law firm cover letter

• Point the partners to your other application documents.
• Ask to set up a meeting.
• Suggest more skills and benefits you’ll bring to the table.
• Set expectations for the future.

Read more:  The Best Cover Letter Closings

7. Add a professional sign-off at the end

• Write, “Best regards” or “Kind regards” and then a double-space.
• Repeat your name, title, number, and email address.
• Add a digital signature for a professional touch.
• Include a list of cover letter enclosures .

Don’t wait too long. Follow up more than once with a brief phone call or email. Learn more: Job Application Follow-Up Email Templates

When making a resume in our builder, drag & drop bullet points, skills, and auto-fill the boring stuff. Spell check? Check . Start building a  professional resume template here for free .

When you’re done, our professional resume builder will score your resume and our resume checker will tell you exactly how to make it better.

Questions? Concerns? We’re here for you. If you’ve still got questions about how to write a Sullivan & Cromwell-level cover letter for law firm jobs, drop me a line in the comments.  

About Zety’s Editorial Process

This article has been reviewed by our editorial team to make sure it follows Zety's editorial guidelines . We’re committed to sharing our expertise and giving you trustworthy career advice tailored to your needs. High-quality content is what brings over 40 million readers to our site every year. But we don't stop there. Our team conducts original research to understand the job market better, and we pride ourselves on being quoted by top universities and prime media outlets from around the world.

• https://www.bls.gov/ooh/legal/paralegals-and-legal-assistants.htm

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Lateral Lawyer Cover Letter Example

A Lateral Lawyer is an experienced attorney working in an experienced law firm, and when they move to a new law firm, they often transfer their existing clients as well. The job description entails providing legal services and delivering a high standard of professional ethics and competence to their clients.

A well-written cover letter will create a good first impression on the recruiter. We have drafted a Lateral Lawyer Cover Letter Sample to help you get the desired job. To make matters much simpler, you can use our cover letter generator to draft the perfect cover letter.

• Cover Letters
• Law Enforcement, Military & Security

A Lateral Lawyer provides legal advice and services to clients on various matters. Working in a law firm, these professionals tend to have a good grasp of all aspects of law and handle all cases from civil to criminal proceedings. They negotiate with clients, and parties, and provide advice on various matters including employment, property, business agreements, and intellectual property contracts.

What to Include in a Lateral Lawyer Cover Letter?

Roles and responsibilities.

• Interviewing clients, and determining their legal needs.
• Conducting independent research based on the case details.
• Analyzing facts and evidence.
• Providing legal advice.
• Representing clients in the Court of Law.
• Helping clients with all legal needs including paperwork filling, preparing contracts, getting affidavits, and negotiating settlements.
• Drafting legal documents, preparing pleadings, and reviewing documents .
• Presenting cases in court, and maintaining client’s rights and confidentiality.

Education & Skills

Lateral lawyer skills:.

• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• The ability to understand and interpret complex legal data and draw appropriate conclusions.
• The ability to communicate well and effectively.
• Knowledge of fostering relationships with clients, and other key people in the industry.
• The ability to build trustworthy relationships.
• Excellent research and writing skills for crafting arguments, and presenting cases.
• Solid subject knowledge.
• Proficiency with technical and legal terminologies.

Lateral Lawyer Educational Requirements:

• To become a Lateral Lawyer, one needs to have a degree and a Juris Doctor degree. Some states even necessitate the Lateral lawyers to pass the bar examination, and obtain a license.

Lateral Lawyer Cover Letter Example (Text Version)

Dear Mr./Ms.

I am writing this cover letter to express my interest in working for the XYZ Law Firm. My area of expertise is criminal and constitutional law, and I am aware that your organization provides the best legal aid and services in the States. I have considerable expertise in handling litigation and investigations from my tenure working at the court, and I would like to use this knowledge in this position as a lateral step.

I am a motivated and experienced professional with a Bachelor’s Degree in Law from the reputable ABC Law School. I have been able to improve on the abilities I gained as a Lateral Lawyer and have worked as the principal associate on many civil issues, including witness interviews and fact-finding. I also have a strong background in writing court documents, appellate briefs, legal memos, and pleadings.

Some of my accomplishments and qualifications include the following –

• I have been trained and gained practical knowledge with one of the top lawyers in the region in the law field.
• Excellent verbal and writing communication skills with the capacity to communicate information in an understandable yet convincing way.
• Exceptional debating skills and won 3 national-level Debate competitions.
• Able to manage several cases at once while being effective and meeting deadlines.
• Have prior experience working individually or in a team under pressure.

In addition to my professional experience and personal attributes, I have a strong educational background and so much passion for law and upholding justice. I was looking forward to a firm that has a keen interest in criminal law and XYZ Law Firm’s emphasis on criminal law, and I would appreciate the chance to help you maintain your position as the benchmark in the field.

To learn more about my experience and professional accomplishments, please contact me without any hesitation. I will follow up to schedule a meeting to talk about how my background and skills align with your needs. I appreciate your thoughts and time.

Sincerely, [Your Name]

A good Lateral Lawyer Cover Letter should include your educational qualifications, skills, work experience, and highlights of your career. Addressing the recruiting manager by his name will add a personal touch to the cover letter. In addition to the cover letter, you can create a good resume by using our Lateral Lawyer Resume Samples .

Customize Lateral Lawyer Cover Letter

Get hired faster with our free cover letter template designed to land you the perfect position.

Related Law Enforcement, Military & Security Cover Letters

Cover Letter Advice & Samples

Cover letter advice and samples.

Section Menu

• Draft your cover letter knowing it is your first writing sample.
• Understand that a cover letter should persuade the reader.
• Use the cover letter to “connect the dots” of your experiences.
• Resist the temptation to restate your resume.
• Keep your cover letter to one page.
• Use the font style and point size that match your resume.
• Remember that the reader is busy: less is more.
• Ensure your cover letter is error free.

Cover Letter Construction

Address block and salutation.

• Address the cover letter to an actual person.
• Research websites or call employer to determine recipient’s name.
• If you cannot find the name of a hiring contact, address your letter to the head of the unit, department, or office.
• While this is the least-preferred option, you may address your letter to “Dear Hiring Committee” if you cannot locate the name of an actual person.
• For firms, address your letter to the recruiting director. For larger firms, contact information for recruiting directors is available at www.nalpdirectory.com in the Basic Information section.
• In the salutation, include the recipient’s title and last name (e.g., “Dear Ms. Raintree”) or write the recipient’s entire name (e.g., “Dear Jamie Morales”).

Paragraph One

• Tell the employer who you are and what you are seeking.
• Highlight (past, present, and future) geographic connections.
• Indicate if you have talked to students/faculty/friends/alumni who speak highly of the organization.

Paragraph Two

• Show that you understand the employer’s mission/practice, the work its attorneys do, and the clients it serves.
• Demonstrate your proven interest in and connection to that mission/practice, work, and clients.

Paragraph Three

• Describe skills you will contribute to support that mission/practice, work, and clients.
• Provide evidence from your experiences and coursework.

Paragraph Four

• List the documents included with the letter.
• Tell the employer how to get in touch with you by email, telephone, and mail.
• Convey your availability for a conversation, mentioning upcoming trips to the area.
• Thank the employer for considering you.
• Mention availability of Yale summer funding, if applicable.
• Optional: Promise that you will follow up in a few weeks if you think the employer would appreciate the diligence.

Sample Cover Letters (PDF)

First Year Student Examples | Second Year Student Examples | Third Year Student Examples

Cover Letters

E. common cover letter mistakes.

• 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.

Return to Contents

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.

• Skip to content

How to write winning covering letters for law firms

targetjobs editorial team

Last updated: 24 Mar 2023, 17:42

When applying for a training contract or vacation scheme, your covering letter may be the first part of your application a law firm considers.

Your covering letter creates a powerful first impression, so make it easy for the recruiter to see that you have strong potential as a lawyer.

Many law graduate jobs at solicitors’ firms in the UK will ask you to apply for a training contract with a covering letter. Read this advice from recruiters at Slaughter and May, Cleary Gottlieb and Ince & Co, then follow our law cover letter template.

Some recruiters will want you to upload your covering letter as part of an online application form (such as Baker McKenzie and Jones Day), while others – usually smaller, high street law firms – will want you to send the letter alongside a CV (see our law CV example here ).

• Cover letter template: see our annotated law covering letter sample for more tips and format examples .

How to write a law cover letter tip #1: use the letter to explain why you want to be a solicitor at that particular law firm

A covering letter is a golden opportunity to explain your motivations for becoming a lawyer and for applying to that specific firm. ‘My advice is to use the cover letter to introduce yourself and to explain why you are applying to that firm,' says Janine Arnold, trainee recruitment manager at Slaughter and May . ‘Be sure to include any additional information that you feel is relevant to your application.’

If you’re uploading a covering letter as part of a larger application form you should avoid repeating examples you’ve used to answer questions on the form. Give as broad a picture of your skills and experience as possible and only repeat something if you think it is particularly significant to that law firm. Your covering letter is an introduction to get the recruiter’s attention – a sample of your potential, if you like – not your overall application.

‘A well-written, succinct, persuasive covering letter crafted by an aspiring trainee solicitor who has really thought about the firm stands out,’ says Nichola Rowe, director of legal human resources at Cleary Gottlieb . ‘Ask yourself: what sets this firm apart from other law firms and how do my individual skills and experiences marry with that firm?’.

How to write a law cover letter tip #2: how long should it be?

A covering letter should be a maximum of one page, with a font size of 11 or 12. Slaughter and May ’s Janine Arnold agrees: ‘A lengthy covering letter is not necessary; aim for it to be no longer than one side of A4.' Remember that some firms will give a word count for the covering letter they want you to write as part of your application. It's important to stick to that word count. It shows that you can write succinctly and follow instructions.

Get the insights and skills you need to shape your career journey with Pathways. We’ll show you exactly what goes into a convincing cover letter, so you can give yourself the best chance of getting to the next stage of the application process.

How to write a law cover letter tip #3: the format law firms like

The best law cover letter examples have a clear structure, such as:

1. The introduction to your cover letter

Introduce yourself, explain what stage you are at in your degree course (including the university you’re attending), state that you are applying for a training contract and where you read about the law firm. This should only be a sentence or two.

2. A paragraph on why you want to work at that law firm

The second paragraph should cover why you want to be a solicitor and why you want to work for that law firm in particular. Highlight any experiences you’ve had that have convinced you that you want to be a solicitor, such as vacation schemes, open days or insight days. You can even mention mini-pupillages – it will impress graduate recruiters if you’ve put the effort into comparing the two sides of the legal profession, as long as you have good reasons for picking a career as a solicitor (this could come up at interview).

Make it clear why you want to work in the particular area of law that the firm focuses on. For example, if it’s a commercial firm you’ll want to draw on any work experience you’ve had at other commercial firms. Show off your research about the firm by explaining your interest in their main legal practice areas – don’t just say ‘I am interested in shipping law’, for example, but provide evidence of that interest.

You might also want to mention the firm’s training structure. Some firms will have compulsory seats, in which case you’ll need to show an interest in those areas. If you’ve chosen a firm that doesn’t have compulsory seats, or has no seat structure at all (such as Jones Day for example), then you could explain why this appeals to you above a more defined training contract structure.

3. A paragraph highlighting why you're a good fit for the law firm

Next, you need to pitch yourself to the recruiter. Make it clear that you are suited to a career as a solicitor: highlight achievements that show you have the competencies the firm has asked for. If the firm hasn’t specified exactly what it's looking for, see our article here on the skills most legal recruiters want from applicants. Don’t just say ‘I have good communication skills’ – you need to mention an achievement that hinged on your use of those skills.

4. The ending to your law covering letter

Close by referring the recruiter to your CV or application and stating your availability for interview(s) or assessment centre(s).

How to write a law cover letter tip #4: explain any extenuating circumstances

'Covering letters should also explain any mitigating circumstances relating to exam results and to address any questions that you may reasonably expect to arise from your application, such as any gaps in your CV,’ explains Janine.

How to write a law cover letter tip #5: proofread your cover letter before you hit ‘send’

Once you’ve put your covering letter together, don’t be tempted to rush it off. Ask friends, family and your university careers adviser to check it. ‘There is no good excuse for spelling errors, especially when you’re applying for a job that requires scrupulous attention to detail,’ points out a legal recruitment adviser at Ince & Co . ‘The number of applications we receive that contain errors is surprising. Your application is all we’ve got to go on, so you owe it to yourself to ensure it’s not let down by something so easily avoidable.’

Remember that law firms will be judging your ability to communicate professionally with clients on the professionalism of your covering letter – you’re making a pitch, just like you would do as a practising lawyer.

Legal recruiters at major law firms read through hundreds, if not thousands, of applications from aspiring trainee solicitors each year and will only spend a minute or so reading your covering letter. Some recruiters say that they make their decision paragraph by paragraph – if you haven't impressed upon them that you would be a good fit for their firm halfway through the cover letter, they might not even read the rest. Your covering letter creates a powerful first impression, so make it easy for the recruiter to see that you have strong potential as a solicitor by following the tips above.

In other news: Massive changes to the way solicitors qualify are on the horizon. Do you know how they will affect you? Find out here .

targetjobs editorial advice

This describes editorially independent and impartial content, which has been written and edited by the targetjobs content team. Any external contributors featuring in the article are in line with our non-advertorial policy, by which we mean that we do not promote one organisation over another.

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What Law Firms Want to See in Your Cover Letter

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The best use of the cover letter is not to re-state your resume in paragraph form , but to anticipate questions that the recruitment coordinator or partners may have and to provide these answers in a concise, yet comprehensive way.

Here's what the law firms will want to know:

What you offer them:

Why should they hire you? Firms are interviewing attorneys because they have a problem. They have a need to fill. You have to be their solution . Yes, you went to an excellent law school and have terrific experience. You should state this concisely in the cover letter, but employers will already have seen this on your resume. In addition to your law school and the title of your firm, think about accomplishments that may not be on your resume (or something listed that you can expand upon, briefly). This can be something from law school or during your practice as an attorney.

Why you are interested in other opportunities:

Sometimes you just want "a change," right? Well, that explanation is not going to cut it from the law firm perspective. Employers want to know that you have solid career objectives and a good "head on your shoulders." They tend to not hire attorneys that don't have a reasonable explanation for their job search, since this can reflect a lack of judgment. However, you need to be sure that this explanation reflects positively upon you. It's NOT a good idea to bash your current firm or come off as complaining or negative. The best reasons for seeking new opportunities should always be to better yourself as an attorney and take a step closer to your overall career objective.

• See Top Ten Interview Questions for more information

Here are some good explanations for wanting to lateral to a new firm:

Geography: You needed to relocate. Perhaps your significant other obtained a position in a different city. Maybe you are seeking to be closer to family/friends, or returning to a place you once lived. If the firm you are applying to is in a different location, it is essential that you establish your connection to the area.

Practice Area: You are interested in expanding or narrowing your practice area. Your current firm is staffing you on a variety of matters, but you seek to specify your practice so that you can become an expert in one area. Conversely, if your firm is limiting the type of work that you're handling, you might be seeking to broaden your practice gain a greater exposure to more areas.

Growth: You feel that you have reached a plateau in a certain position and need to make a lateral move to enhance your growth as an attorney. Perhaps you are seeking a position that would allow you to conduct depositions or give you first or second-chair experience. Maybe you are interested in running your own cases or having greater client contact.

Platform: This is a particularly crucial area for Partners and for associates that are interested in developing business (which, honestly, should be the majority of you). Perhaps, you are currently at a regional law firm, but have opportunities to develop business from another state and are looking to lateral to a firm with a national presence. Or, you are at a specialty tax boutique and your clients have additional labor/employment matters that they would like to send your way, but cannot because your current firm does not support that type of business. In essence, you are seeking to lateral to a firm that has a platform that can better suit your clients and be more conducive to you developing business.

Your PAST Moves - Why you previously moved from XXX LLP to YYY LLP:

Again, employers want to see that you have good judgment. Every one of your lateral moves should make logical sense according to your career objective. All of the reasons mentioned above can also be used as explanations for past moves. Even if you have a number of lateral moves on your resume, the proper narrative can help your cause immensely.

However, if you previously transitioned to a new firm with a partner or group, this should be made abundantly clear in the cover letter (and on the resume , for that matter). If the partner you were primarily working for invited you along to his or her new firm, this speaks volumes about your value as an attorney.

What you are seeking in a new position:

Prior to the interview , firms will want to be certain that what you are seeking in a new position is something in line with what they can offer you. You can keep this concise, but you will want to reflect why a position with their firm will help you meet your career objective. Firms do not want to bring on a new attorney, spend a few months acclimating this attorney, and then have that individual realize they are not happy. You know what you want - and they are the type of firm you want.

Many recruitment coordinators will not read your entire cover letter. They will review your resume and transcript and see if those documents inspire any questions. Then, they will go to the cover. Anticipate the questions and make the answers easy to find . A great way to do this is by piecing the cover letter together in sections and giving each section a heading. Feel free to BOLD or underline section headings and important information.

See 6 Things Attorneys and Law Students Need to Remove from Their Resumes ASAP If They Want to Get Jobs with the Most Prestigious Law Firms for more information.

Employers can have a tendency to assume the worst. Law firms are continually inundated with solid resumes and gatekeepers are trained to look for flaws in the applications. If you can anticipate the questions they may have about your submission and use the cover letter to answer the "holes" on your resume in an efficient way, you prevent them from contriving their own explanations and give yourself the opportunity to be seen in the best possible light, and the best chance at securing an interview!

Frequently Asked Questions  

How Do You Write A Cover Letter For An Attorney?

Cover letters for lawyers.

• Know who you’re speaking to. Take the time to research. You should address your cover letter to the person responsible for hiring at the firm you are contacting, such as a senior partner or hiring manager. The law firm's website might come in handy if you don't have this information, or you can contact human resources. 
• Be careful with salutations. Salutations are a great way to show respect and prove that you took the time to personalize the letter. You will not impress your potential employer if you make mistakes in the salutation. If you are certain of the recipient’s preferred gender identifying language, you can write the salutation as “Dear Ms. or Mr.”; however, if you are not sure (and do not assume) or you do not want to use gender-specific language, simply write the person's full first and last name.
• Double-check your spelling. When you misspell someone's name, they will notice, and even common names can be spelled in different ways. Make sure you get the basics right.

Introductory Paragraph

• Introduce who you are. 
• Convey why you would be a good fit for this particular firm. 
• Who you are. Are you currently a law student and if so which law school? Are you an associate at a certain firm?
• Who you know. Mention any referrals or mutual acquaintances right away.
• Why you would be a great fit for the firm. Include specific reasons, as you are looking for a way to create connections with the senior partner or hiring manager.

Body of Cover Letter

• Why do you want to work for this firm? Describe what makes you genuinely excited about the firm-whether it's an area of expertise you have, its reputation or mission, or your past experiences that will make you a good fit.
• Why this firm should hire you. Make clear connections between your qualifications and the role you are applying for. Look closely at the job posting for qualities the firm is looking for, and then describe how you meet those needs. 
• Past legal work experience or positions
• Community service roles
• Academic or research specializations
• Publications
• Relevant awards you have received
• Your personal background

Concluding Paragraph

• Say thank you. Thanks for the reader's consideration can make a difference, so be grateful.
• Assert your next steps. To avoid waiting indefinitely for an answer, it is fine to clearly outline how and when you will follow up on your application. If you say you will follow up at a certain time, be sure to follow through - and hold yourself accountable.
• Provide relevant contact details. If these details are not already stated in the header of your letter, let the reader know how to reach you.

What Is A Lateral Attorney?

What should a legal cover letter include.

• Tells the employer who you are (e.g., a first-year student) and what you are seeking (e.g., a summer intern position);
• Shows that you know about the particular employer and the kind of work the employer does (i.e., civil or criminal work, direct client service, "impact" cases, antitrust litigation); 
• Demonstrates your writing skills;
• Demonstrates your commitment to the work of that particular employer and conveys that you have something to contribute;
• Shows that you and that employer are a good "fit;" and
• Provides contact information so that the employer can get in touch with you by email, telephone, and mail.

How to Make Your Cover Letter Stand Out?

1. make it personal, 2. prioritize the positive , 3. get to the point, 4. set the right tone, 5. proofread.

In the case of legal cover letters, there is no space for typos or grammatical mistakes. Do not provide hiring managers a reason to eliminate you—take the time to carefully proofread your cover letters. It is also a good idea to have someone else check your cover letters for you; you could miss any own errors. Learn why attorneys usually fail law firm phone-screening interviews in this article:  

• Why Most Attorneys Fail Telephone-Screening Interviews

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Harrison Barnes does a weekly free webinar with live Q&A for attorneys and law students each Wednesday at 10:00 am PST. You can attend anonymously and ask questions about your career, this article, or any other legal career-related topics. You can sign up for the weekly webinar here: Register on Zoom

Harrison also does a weekly free webinar with live Q&A for law firms, companies, and others who hire attorneys each Wednesday at 10:00 am PST. You can sign up for the weekly webinar here: Register on Zoom

You can browse a list of past webinars here: Webinar Replays

You can also listen to Harrison Barnes Podcasts here: Attorney Career Advice Podcasts

You can also read Harrison Barnes' articles and books here: Harrison's Perspectives

Harrison Barnes is the legal profession's mentor and may be the only person in your legal career who will tell you why you are not reaching your full potential and what you really need to do to grow as an attorney--regardless of how much it hurts. If you prefer truth to stagnation, growth to comfort, and actionable ideas instead of fluffy concepts, you and Harrison will get along just fine. If, however, you want to stay where you are, talk about your past successes, and feel comfortable, Harrison is not for you.

Truly great mentors are like parents, doctors, therapists, spiritual figures, and others because in order to help you they need to expose you to pain and expose your weaknesses. But suppose you act on the advice and pain created by a mentor. In that case, you will become better: a better attorney, better employees, a better boss, know where you are going, and appreciate where you have been--you will hopefully also become a happier and better person. As you learn from Harrison, he hopes he will become your mentor.

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How to Write a Cover Letter: Junior Associate

As a candidate, you cannot control how accurately the firms you’re considering portray themselves. You can, however, protect your interests by asking good questions and doing your homework. What’s more, you can—and must—present an accurate and compelling value proposition. When you do, you’ll increase the chances of a solid step towards your professional goals. That’s where the cover letter comes into play.

Hiring newly minted law school graduates presents law firms with mission-critical decisions. When the firms choose well, their new Junior Associate will fit the firm’s strategic needs and mesh seamlessly with its culture. When the firms choose poorly, however, everyone suffers—employers and associates alike—and the consequences can be significant.

In this high-stakes employment dance, a clear understanding—from both parties—is most likely to result in a happy marriage. As a candidate, you cannot control how accurately the firms you’re considering portray themselves. You can, however, protect your interests by asking good questions and doing your homework. What’s more, you can—and must—present an accurate and compelling value proposition. When you do, you’ll increase the chances of a solid step towards your professional goals. That’s where the cover letter comes into play.

Basic Requirements for Junior Associate Positions

Junior Associates must be highly knowledgeable about legal principles, systems and procedures. They must be adept at legal research, legal writing, and have the ability to apply relevant law to a changing array of fact patterns. (Yes, your law school transcript is evidence of these skills—but it’s your cover letter’s job to highlight this information.)

Beyond these educational achievements, however, discriminating employers will want more. You’ll need to demonstrate administrative skills, technical skills, and the ability to successfully interact with clients, courts, and other legal institutions.

Traits Prized in a Junior Associate

A successful Junior Associate is a dependable, self-motivated professional who pays close attention to detail. They “play well with others” even when high-pressure situations cause tempers to flare.

Ultimately, however, it is the capacity for sustained productivity that distinguishes the best Junior Associates. They may or may not be the brightest, the nicest, or the most popular member of a firm’s incoming class; but these successful new associates will be among the hardestworking people in any given firm. If you truly are prepared to work hard, make sure that prospective employers understand this.

Junior Associate Cover Letters: What to Include, What to Avoid

• Speak the specific language of each firm to which you apply
• Differentiate yourself! Make a clear and compelling representation of your best skills
• Be accurate and truthful at all times
• Show enthusiasm for the opportunity. (If you’re not enthusiastic, why bother?)
• Use meaningful, well-chosen details to provide context that brings your accomplishments to life.

Don’t:

• Waste the reader’s time (or your own) by trying to “shoehorn” yourself into a position that clearly is not a good fit for your skill set, experience, values, or career goals
• Water down your background or job history with non-essential details
• Make excuses for any capabilities you might lack

What Experience Should a Junior Associate Applicant Reference?

Stellar law school grades are important—as an indication of your competitive nature, and as “proof points” of your ability to master numerous subjects. A high rank in your graduating class also shows that you know how to please a variety of “clients” (your professors) and that you’ve consistently earned the approval of these knowledgeable individuals.

Here again, however, the critical underlying factor often will be your consistent history of achievement under highly demanding workloads. (Don’t assume that a hiring partner will automatically draw this conclusion from your superior resume. Make sure you highlight your work ethic—and your enthusiasm for this opportunity—in all communications.)

To Win a Junior Associate Position, Find Your “Sweet Spot”

Needless to say, your competition includes lots of top students from many notable law schools. For the most part, your rivals’ college histories and their law school curricula will not be dissimilar to your own. That means your key challenge now is to differentiate and position yourself, so that your candidacy stands out from all the rest

A well-crafted cover letter will help you reach this goal. But don’t underestimate the difficulty of this task. You need to find “the sweet spot”—that place where the needs of the legal marketplace intersect with what makes you unique and your ultimate career goals.

Define Your Unique Value Proposition as a Junior Associate

Will your differentiation grow out of your longstanding involvement in a particular cause? Will it be your passion for a developing issue that promises to be a high-growth practice area? Or will it be language skills, technological expertise, a well-cultivated network that could be important for business development? Now is the time to put on your “marketing” hat.

Find out what’s important to each firm, then customize persuasive cover letters showing why the optimal choice is you.

Remember to customize this for each application you submit. Good luck!