Getting a job at a law firm can be a difficult feat to accomplish. Writing a law firm cover letter is often the first step in securing an interview—making it an important part of your job application suitcase. Crafting a good law firm cover letter is key to showing your qualifications and interest in the position. Therefore, in this article, we will offer tips on how to write an effective, engaging law firm cover letter in four steps.
Step 1: Research the Firm
Before you embark on writing your cover letter, it’s important to research the firm you are applying for, such as their history, values and mission statement.
Gathering Details
Research the law firm you apply to by looking at the firm’s website, talking to people you know who work in a similar field, looking for news articles and attending law events. This will give you a better idea of the firm’s culture and how you might fit in.
Lawyer Database Tools
Take advantage of lawyer database tools such as Vault and Justia to search for practice area, benefits, news and reviews about the firm. These tools also allow you to search for specific lawyers and get a better feeling of the firm’s environment.
Dig Deeper
Unearth further information to see if your research is on track. Check out the firm’s lawyers on social media to see what legal opinions they have shared and how they engage with their users. Follow the firm’s bloggers and get to know their areas of expertise.
Step 2: Use a Professional Tone
When writing a law firm letter, the language and tone should remain professional. Avoid the use of humor or inappropriate language, and keep it concise, clear and to the point. The introduction should be dramatic, appealing and inspire the reader to continue.
Connecting with the Readers
Connect with the reader as you would with a mentor or a professor. Address them by name or professional title, if known. Demonstrate that you understand their industry, current issues, and field of expertise.
Polite and Respectful Speech
When writing a law firm letter, it is essential to remain polite and respectful in your speech. Explain the reasons you’re the best candidate for the role, avoiding any kind of exaggeration. Use “Please” and “Thank you”.
Appropriate Use of Vocabulary
Use a formal academic style, with an appropriate use of grammar, punctuation and vocabulary. Avoid the use of vocabulary from pop culture, slang and curse words.
Step 3: Mention Your Qualifications
When writing a law firm letter, you should include several qualifications that demonstrate why you are a great fit for the position. Explain the core skills that make you a qualified candidate without going into too much detail.
Mission and Values of the Firm
Outline the special characteristics that make you suitable for the job and mention the mission and values of the firm you are applying to. Show why you are the right choice and list your relevant experiences.
Legal Accomplishments
If you have any legal accomplishments, be sure to let your reader know. This could include internships, awards, initiatives etc. Also, be sure to include your legal strategies, specific cases, and legal opinions that highlight your expertise.
Certifications and Licenses
Additionally, don’t forget to list any certifications and licenses that you may have. This can include completing the Bar exam, passing the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam, or passing the Multistate Bar Exam, and other law certificates.
Step 4: End with a Call to Action
When writing a law firm letter, be sure to end with a call to action. This is an invitation or suggestion to the reader to contact you or even to meet in person. Make sure to include your contact information and a polite request for a callback, interview or meeting.
Expressing Your Interest
Express your eagerness to know if your letter was read and understood and if there is further action you can take. Show enthusiasm and energy throughout, without being overly pushy.
Following Up
If you don’t hear back from the reader, don’t forget to check in and follow up. Contact the firm two weeks after your initial contact and remind the firm of your interest in the position, once again.
Sending a Thank You
Once the application process is over, make sure to write up a thank you note to the firm’s employees you were in touch with.
Final Words
In conclusion, writing a law firm letter can help you get one step closer to a great career in law. Don’t forget to research the firm, use a professional tone, mention your qualifications, and end with a call to action. Before you know it, you will be writing the best law firm letters with ease!
People Also Ask:
Q: What Should You Include in a Law Firm Cover Letter?
A law firm cover letter should include your contact information, a greeting, research on the firm and its culture, your qualifications, and a call to action.
Q: How Long Should a Law Firm Cover Letter Be?
A law firm cover letter should be no more than one page and 300-500 words in length.
Q: How Do You Start a Law Firm Cover Letter?
Start your law firm cover letter by introducing yourself, your research on the firm, and why you’re the perfect candidate for the role.
Q: Do I Need to Include an Objective in My Cover Letter?
It is not necessary to include an objective on your cover letter, but it is good to mention your qualifications, mission and goals aligned with the firm.
Q: How Do I Include My References in a Law Firm Cover Letter?
Adding references to your law firm cover letter is not necessary, but you can include a separate section at the end of the letter that states “References upon request”.
Conclusion
Writing a law firm letter can be a daunting task. You need to know the right techniques to make sure your letter stands out and makes a great impression on your reader. By following these steps, you can effectively craft an impressive law firm letter and increase your chances of success in landing a job at a law firm.