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How to Write a Legal Cover Letter for Law Firms (that Gets you Noticed)

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Whether you’re just starting your legal journey or are an experienced legal professional seeking a new role, there’s no way around it: demand for legal positions is high, and the job outlook for lawyers in the US grows at a faster-than-average pace . Pair this industry growth with movement from lawyers already working in the industry (the 2022 Legal Trends Report found that in the 12 months before April 2022, nearly one in five lawyers left the law firm they were working for, and nine percent planned to leave their firm in the next six months), and it’s clear that many lawyers will find themselves needing to stand out in a competitive job market. 

However, despite the high demand for legal positions, people still need legal expertise—and law firms need capable legal professionals to fill open roles.

Whether you’re a law student, recent graduate, or experienced legal professional, this post will help you with your legal cover letter writing. We’ve started by providing sample cover letters for legal positions below and will then guide you through the essentials of writing a compelling cover letter for law firms. 

Legal cover letter examples

If you’re feeling overwhelmed when drafting a cover letter for law firms, don’t worry. Seeing a legal cover letter example can give you the confidence to write your own. Below, we’ve compiled some sample cover letters for legal positions, covering different backgrounds and levels of experience.

• Cover letter examples for summer associates and interns, Columbia Law School.  
• Cover letter examples for 1L – 3L students, Harvard Law School .
• Cover letter examples for 1L – 3L students, Yale Law School .
• Cover letter example for applying to an immigration law firm by a recent graduate with previous paralegal experience .
• Cover letter example for applying to a Big Law firm, Boston University. 
• Cover letter example for an IP lawyer with 11 years experience, Monster .
• Cover letter example for a litigation attorney with 12 years experience, My Perfect Resume .
• Cover letter examples for applying for private sector roles, Yale Law School .
• Cover letter example for seeking a summer judicial internship, University of Georgia School of Law .

Berkeley Law also provides an excellent guide for legal cover letters. 

You can start by using one of these examples as inspiration when structuring your cover letter and what you may want to highlight. You can also take insights from these sample cover letters for lawyers—insights you can apply to your own cover letter when following our tips below.

How to draft a cover letter for a law firm

It’s one thing to review examples of legal cover letters, but how to write one? By following the standard etiquette and structure—and then personalizing it—you can draft an effective cover letter. First, let’s review some legal cover letter best practices.

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Even after reviewing some legal cover letter examples, the dos and don’ts of legal cover letter writing aren’t always easy to spot. You may ask yourself: what should a legal cover letter include for a law firm? While the content of your cover letter will differ between employers, these points of etiquette should not.

• Don’t skip it. The first—and potentially most important—element of legal cover letter etiquette is just writing one. While job sites and hiring portals may state “Cover Letter Optional,” disregard this, it is always best to send a cover letter.
• Be concise. The hiring manager is likely receiving dozens, or maybe even hundreds, of cover letters a day. Respect an employer’s time by getting straight to the point. Long legal cover letters may also indicate an inability to achieve quick and succinct results.
• Match their tone. Write as if you’ve already been hired for the role. It’s subtle, but an employer will appreciate this personal touch.
• Prioritize the employer. Don’t include unnecessary details about your life that won’t impact how you’ll perform the job.
• Don’t recycle legal cover letters. Be original. It’s time-consuming work, but it’ll show your potential employer your dedication.
• Triple-check it. Spelling and grammatical errors should be avoided at all costs. Given the highly competitive nature of the legal job market, you don’t want to be passed up over a simple error.

Addressing cover letters for lawyers

To whom it may concern: Always take the time to find the correct contact. When writing cover letters for law firms, it’s a common misstep to dedicate so much time and attention to the body of the letter that you overlook the basics—like who and how you’re addressing the letter. 

Here are some best practices for addressing your legal cover letter:

• Know who you’re speaking to. Do your research and be specific. Address your cover letter to the person responsible for hiring at the firm you’re contacting, like the senior partner or hiring manager. If you don’t have this information, the law firm’s website might come in handy, or you can contact the law firm’s human resources department for guidance. 
• Be careful with salutations. The salutation is a place to convey respect and showcase that you’ve taken the time to personalize the letter. Mistakes in the salutation are a sign that you’ll miss details, which won’t bode well for your chances of impressing your potential employer. If you’re certain of the recipient’s preferred gender-identifying language, you can write the salutation as “Dear Ms.” or “Dear Mr.”; however, if you aren’t certain (and don’t make assumptions) or you don’t want to use gender-identifying language, drop the “Ms.” or “Mr.” and write out the person’s full first and last name.
• Double-check your spelling. People will always notice if you spell their name wrong, and there are multiple ways to spell even common names. Ensure you start on the right foot by getting the basics right.

Introductory paragraph

In your cover letter’s opening paragraph, you have two main goals:

• Introduce who you are.
• Explain why you’d be a good fit for this particular firm. 

In the first paragraph, include details about:

• Who you are. Are you currently a law student? Are you an associate at a law firm?
• Who you know. Mention any referrals or mutual acquaintances right away.
• Why you’d be a great fit for the firm. Include specific reasons—you’re looking for a way to create connections with the senior partner or hiring manager.

Main cover letter body

The body section of your cover letter is your chance to shine—and to concisely summarize exactly how you meet the requirements in the job description. 

In one or two paragraphs, give a high-level overview of your legal education and experience to show:

• Why you want to work for this firm. Elaborate on what makes you genuinely excited about the firm—whether it is an area of interest you’ve specialized in, the firm’s reputation or mission, or past experiences that will make you a uniquely good fit.
• Why this firm should hire you. Make clear connections between your qualifications and aspects of the role you’re applying for. If there is a job posting, look closely for key attributes that the firm is looking for, and then detail how you meet those expectations. 

Highlighting your qualifications

Above all else, ensure your legal cover letter highlights your skills. Relevant qualifications for a law firm cover letter include: 

• Past legal work experience or positions.
• Community service roles.
• Academic or research specializations.
• Publications.
• Relevant awards you’ve received.
• Your personal background.

For example, consider a job posting that describes their ideal candidate as someone with personal injury litigation experience, excellent communication skills, and who works well both independently and as a part of a team in a fast-paced office environment.

If you were applying for this role, your cover letter’s body paragraphs might detail your past personal injury litigation experience and specific examples of how you’ve successfully communicated within a team and in a fast-paced environment.

Remember: Be specific, but keep in mind that this is not the place to restate your resume —if you can grab the hiring manager’s attention here, they will read your resume for those details. Your cover letter is where you can entice the reader to move on to your resume by providing context and highlighting how your experience lines up with what’s needed for the role.

For tips on writing a standout lawyer resume, read our blog post here.

Concluding paragraph

Finally, your concluding paragraph is where you’ll succinctly wrap the cover letter up, close the loop, and leave a positive impression. In your closing paragraph, be sure to:

• Say thank you. Gratitude can make a difference, so always thank the reader for their consideration.
• Assert your next steps. It’s fine to clearly outline how and when you will follow up on your application, rather than waiting indefinitely for an answer. And, if you say that you’ll follow up at a specific time, be sure to do it—and hold yourself to your word.
• Provide relevant contact details. Let the reader know how to reach you by phone or email, if these details are not already outlined in your letter’s header.

Tips for using your legal cover letter to stand out

The legal industry is rapidly evolving, and job hunters need to set themselves apart to get hired (unless, of course, you decide to start your own law firm ). 

If you’re applying for a job as a lawyer, whether it’s a traditional position or a legal work-from-home job , here are five tips to make sure your cover letter lands at the top of the pile.

1. Make it personal

Perhaps the most important tip for writing cover letters for lawyers is to make it personal. 

Many of your competitors have similar education and professional experience, so being generic is a fast track to being forgotten. 

Use a personalized cover letter to showcase the unique reasons why you’re the best candidate. Show that you know the person you’re writing to, and highlight any connections. If that isn’t possible, you can always write about the firm to show that you’ve done your research. 

2. Prioritize the positive 

When writing a lawyer cover letter, focus on what you have to offer. Regardless of why you’re looking for a new job, you bring a unique mix of attributes to the table. Highlight these attributes, whether they’re your: 

• Other legal careers
• Relevant work experience 

If you’re a law student or recent graduate, you may not have a long legal career to highlight. However, you can still note strengths like technology skills that make you an asset.

To a hiring law firm, being tech-competent and familiar with certain cloud-based tools like Clio could be an advantage that sets you apart from other candidates.

For example, more and more law firms are adopting artificial intelligence (AI) tools to help them run their practices more efficiently, with the 2023 Legal Trends Report finding that nearly one in five legal professionals are using some form of AI in their practices already. With this in mind, lawyers up-to-date with AI technology may stand out for hiring law firms.  

3. Get to the point

Legal cover letters are not the place to be long-winded, and droning on will almost certainly have the opposite effect of what you’re going for. Keep cover letters for attorneys short, to the point, and persuasive—the trick is to be memorable and limit yourself to one page. Because you want to make a lasting impression on a single page, it’s also a good idea to check your cover letter’s sentence structure. Do you start all of your sentences the same way? Are they all the same length? Ensure there’s some variety so your reader stays engaged.

4. Set the right tone

Tone matters. While what you say in a cover letter for lawyers is obviously important, it also matters how you say it. 

No matter what type of legal job you’re applying for, you always want to convey a professional tone. However, depending on the law firm you’re applying to, using a personal tone may work to your advantage. Tailor your tone to match the law firm you’re applying to. 

If you’re writing a Big Law cover letter, for example, you’ll want to err on the side of being more formal. For a smaller local law firm? Check their website and match the tone to demonstrate your familiarity with their firm. 

5. Proofread

There is zero room for typos or grammatical errors in cover letters for lawyers. With so much competition for legal jobs, don’t give hiring managers a reason to eliminate you. Take the time to carefully proofread your cover letter yourself, and consider enlisting someone else to proofread your cover letters as well.

Final thoughts on how to write a legal cover letter for a law firm

In a crowded legal job market, there’s no better way to outshine the competition than an excellent legal cover letter. Ensure you’re putting your best foot forward with your future employer by: 

• Making it personal. At every step, customize your cover letter to the firm you’re applying to—from the tone to the specific skills you detail.
• Keeping it brief. Cover letters for lawyers are a one-page summary to let the hiring manager know that you’re a candidate they should talk to further. You want to give them enough information to draw them in, but not overwhelm them and risk losing interest.
• Showcasing your strengths. Focus on the positives, and don’t be afraid to highlight how your past experiences make you uniquely qualified.

While finding a new legal job in a competitive market isn’t exactly easy, staying resilient and adaptive will lead you to success. By crafting a great cover letter, you’re more likely to be noticed in this—and any—job market. 

And, no matter what job you’re applying for, knowing technology can help set you apart—both when job hunting and once you’re working at your new firm. If you’re a law student and want a head start, you may be able to get free Clio access via Clio’s Academic Access Program (CAAP) at your law school. Learn more about CAAP here .

Do law firms read cover letters?

In a competitive job market, hiring managers at law firms read cover letters to help determine which candidates may be the best fit. A well-written legal cover letter can entice the reader to review your resume—and, hopefully, invite you for an interview—by showcasing how your experience and skills align with the role. 

We published this blog post in June 2020. Last updated: June 13, 2024 .

Categorized in: Business

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Resume Worded   |  Career Strategy

14 associate attorney cover letters.

Approved by real hiring managers, these Associate Attorney cover letters have been proven to get people hired in 2024. A hiring manager explains why.

Table of contents

• Associate Attorney
• Senior Associate Attorney
• Senior Legal Counsel
• Employment Law Associate
• Labor and Employment Attorney
• Corporate Associate
• Junior Associate Attorney
• Entry-Level Attorney
• Alternative introductions for your cover letter
• Associate Attorney resume examples

Associate Attorney Cover Letter Example

Why this cover letter works in 2024, high success rate in negotiations.

This sentence showcases the candidate's strong negotiation skills and ability to achieve favorable outcomes for clients, which is a valuable asset for any law firm.

Process Improvement Expertise

By highlighting their experience in implementing a new case management system, the candidate demonstrates their ability to improve efficiency and adapt to new technologies, a key skill for an Associate Attorney.

Passion for Making an Impact

This sentence conveys the candidate's genuine excitement for the role and its potential to make a positive impact on the environment and communities, aligning their personal values with the company's mission.

Gracious and Respectful Closing

Ending the cover letter with a polite thank you and an expression of interest in further discussion shows respect for the hiring manager's time and keeps the door open for future conversations.

Alignment with the Firm's Focus

Aligning your professional interests with the firm's specializations instantly shows you're invested in your field of work and demonstrates a clear fit. In this case, you've mentioned your interest in international law and litigation, a focus area for Baker & McKenzie. It's an effective way to show that you've done your homework about the firm and that you understand what they do.

Quantifiable Achievements

When you share specific numbers, like the 150 client cases you managed or the 98% success rate, it provides concrete proof of your capabilities and achievements. It also shows that you're results-driven. Plus, it's excellent that you mentioned an initiative you undertook to improve efficiency, as it shows your proactive nature and problem-solving skills.

Show Enthusiasm for the Role

Describing how the job aligns with your professional passion is a powerful way to show genuine interest. In this case, you've connected the job at Baker & McKenzie with your love for challenging, multi-faceted work, which reflects positively on your attitude and eagerness for the role.

Express Confidence and Openness to Discuss Further

By saying you're confident about your ability to contribute to the team, you communicate a strong belief in your own skills and experiences. Also, expressing your eagerness to discuss this further in an interview is a proactive move which may prompt the hiring manager to schedule a meeting.

Align personal values with company ethos

When you mention how your upbringing shaped your appreciation for law and its power to create change, it paints a picture of someone truly passionate about their career. It's important to show that your personal values align with the firm's mission, which in this case, is seeing beyond the case files.

Showcase unique experiences

Highlighting unconventional beginnings, like your volunteer mediator role before passing the bar, adds a layer of uniqueness to your profile. It's refreshing to see someone who's walked a less beaten path in law, proving their dedication and adaptability, and setting you apart from the competition.

Highlight innovative thinking

By sharing how you've successfully leveraged technology to streamline processes, you prove your adaptability and innovative thinking - both key traits for a modern legal professional.

Recognize company culture

By acknowledging the firm's commitment to nurturing young attorneys, you show you've researched their culture and value it. This resonates positively with hiring teams and demonstrates your interest in their firm beyond the role.

Explain what you bring to the table

Stating that you are ready to contribute your blend of legal knowledge and tech-savviness underlines the value you can bring to the firm. It's not just about what the job can do for you, but what you can do for the job.

Show your employment law passion

Starting your cover letter with a clear statement about your enthusiasm for employment law sets the right tone for the rest of your application. It tells me, as a hiring manager, that you're not just looking for any job – you're looking for this job.

Highlight your legal foundation

When you talk about your solid foundation in legal research, writing, and analysis, you're letting me know that you come equipped with the essential skills needed in an associate attorney role. This is exactly what hiring managers want to hear.

Demonstrate your advocacy skills

Advancing to the semi-finals in a moot court competition is a concrete example of your oral advocacy abilities. It's achievements like these that make a candidate stand out because they show you can perform under pressure.

Connect personal background with the firm's values

Your personal journey as a first-generation college graduate adds a unique layer to your candidacy. It shows you're likely to bring a fresh perspective to the table, aligning with Littler Mendelson's commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Express eagerness to join the team

Ending on a note of eagerness to contribute and discuss your qualifications further shows me you're not just interested in the role but also ready to be a proactive member of the team. This attitude is highly valued in any law firm.

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Connect personal interest with the firm’s expertise

Linking your fascination with law and business to the firm’s focus area shows that your personal interests align with their work, suggesting a natural fit.

Demonstrate expertise through past experiences

Detailing your experiences with legal research, writing, and contract negotiation provides concrete examples of your capabilities and readiness for the role.

Emphasize your strong professional attributes

Stating your attention to detail, analytical abilities, and commitment to service positions you as a candidate capable of excelling in a demanding environment.

Express eagerness for teamwork and collaboration

Showing excitement to join a team reflects your understanding of the importance of collaboration in achieving outstanding results for clients.

Invite discussion of your potential contribution

Ending your letter with an invitation to discuss your fit for the firm encourages the hiring manager to envision you as a key part of their success.

Show your alignment with the firm's values

Starting your letter by highlighting how the firm's values match your own showcases that you've done your homework and are not just looking for any job but the right job. It's a smart way to catch a hiring manager's attention.

Highlight your relevant experience

Mentioning specific projects and accomplishments, like drafting a successful amicus brief, directly shows your capability and readiness for the role. It's evidence of your ability to contribute from day one.

Demonstrate your readiness for challenges

By detailing your experiences, you're telling us that you're not just qualified on paper but also seasoned through real-world challenges. That’s exactly what firms look for in a new associate attorney.

Connect your passion to your profession

Showing your commitment to pro bono work reveals your character and professional values. It’s a powerful way to tell us that you're not just about billable hours but also about making a difference.

Express eagerness to contribute

This closing statement is strong because it moves beyond gratitude and expresses a clear desire to add value to the firm. It's a proactive stance that hiring managers appreciate.

Senior Associate Attorney Cover Letter Example

Appreciation for the firm's services.

You've recognized Latham & Watkins' dedication to quality in varied practice areas, which shows your respect for their work and aligns your values with theirs. It's a great way to build a connection with the firm right from the start.

Share Success Numbers and Process Improvements

Highlighting your successful case arguments and settlements gives a concrete idea of your legal prowess. It's also impressive that you've mentioned a case management system you developed to improve team efficiency. This shows you're not just about personal success, but also about improving the team and the work process.

Connect with the Firm's Values

Expressing your admiration for the firm's dedication to pro bono work not only shows your awareness of their initiatives, but also aligns your values with theirs. This is a subtle yet effective way to show that you would fit in with the firm's culture.

Reassure Your Value and Openness for Discussion

Expressing your eagerness to bring your skills to the firm and your openness to discuss this further shows your enthusiasm and confidence. It's a polite and assertive way to ask for an opportunity to move forward in the hiring process.

Senior Legal Counsel Cover Letter Example

Highlight industry-specific interests.

By emphasizing your passion for companies that redefine the digital age, you're showing an appreciation for the field beyond your legal skill set. This indicates a deep interest in the industry and aligns your aspirations with the company's aims.

Emphasize specialized expertise

When you mention your expertise in international intellectual property law, it's clear that you're not just a general legal expert, but possess specific knowledge that would be invaluable to a tech company. Your specific mention of international patent litigations reassures the employer of your ability to handle complex issues within their industry.

Connect with company initiatives

When you mention that the company's initiatives in privacy and digital rights are close to your heart, it shows that you appreciate the ethical and societal implications of their work. This connection makes you more relatable and shows a deeper level of commitment to their mission.

Establish your unique proposition

By stating that you're excited to bring your legal expertise in intellectual property and digital compliance to the company, you're giving the employer a clear idea of where you fit in their organization. You're not just a legal professional, but one with a specific focus that matches their needs.

By expressing your enthusiasm to contribute to the company beyond your job description, you show a willingness to go the extra mile. This forward-thinking approach and eagerness to make a difference will be well appreciated by any employer.

Employment Law Associate Cover Letter Example

State your specific law interest.

By mentioning your focus on labor and employment law right at the beginning, you're showing me that you have a clear direction in your legal career. This specificity is appealing as it suggests you're likely to be highly motivated and engaged in your work.

Showcase practical experience

Detailing your hands-on experience with a wage and hour dispute not only demonstrates your familiarity with employment litigation but also that you have already applied your knowledge in real-world scenarios. This practical experience is invaluable in a new hire.

Appreciate the firm's proactive approach

Your admiration for Jackson Lewis P.C.'s approach to employment law shows that you've done your homework on the firm and understand what sets them apart. It also suggests that your approach to law aligns with theirs, making you a potentially good fit.

Highlight leadership and teamwork

Organizing a volunteer initiative effectively showcases your leadership and teamwork skills. It tells me that you're not just good on paper but also have the soft skills necessary to work well with both colleagues and clients.

Communicate your desire to make an impact

Expressing your enthusiasm and commitment to excellence in the conclusion of your cover letter leaves a lasting impression. It makes me as a hiring manager eager to learn more about how you might contribute to our team.

Labor and Employment Attorney Cover Letter Example

Show enthusiasm for the attorney position.

Telling the hiring manager about your excitement makes your application stand out. It shows you have a genuine interest in the firm and the work you would be doing.

Highlight specific legal achievements

Describing a particular case where you made a significant impact demonstrates your ability to handle important tasks and achieve positive outcomes for clients.

Express admiration for the firm’s values

By mentioning what impresses you about the firm, you connect your personal values and professional interests with those of the firm, making you a more attractive candidate.

Show commitment to community service

Discussing your pro bono work highlights your dedication to using your skills for the greater good, an attractive quality for firms invested in social responsibility.

Reinforce your fit for the role

Ending with confidence in how your skills and passion align with the firm’s needs invites the hiring manager to see you as a contributing member to their team’s success.

Corporate Associate Cover Letter Example

Show passion for corporate law.

Expressing a strong interest in a specific field, like corporate law, immediately sets a positive tone. It tells me you're not just looking for any job, but this job.

Highlight key achievements in corporate deals

Detailing your involvement in significant transactions, especially with numbers, shows you're capable of handling important tasks and have real-world experience.

Emphasize commitment to staying current

Being passionate about keeping up with industry trends suggests you're a proactive learner. This is highly valued in dynamic fields like corporate law.

Demonstrate drive and enthusiasm for corporate law

Stating your drive and commitment indicates you have the right attitude and work ethic to excel in a fast-paced environment.

Express eagerness to contribute to team success

Offering to discuss how you can add value shows you're not just interested in what the firm can do for you, but what you can do for the firm.

Junior Associate Attorney Cover Letter Example

Share excitement for intellectual property law.

Mentioning your passion for a specialized area of law and admiration for the firm's work sets a positive tone. It shows you're genuinely interested in the job.

Detail experience in intellectual property

Discussing specific projects and results, such as saving a client money, showcases your practical skills and potential impact on future cases.

Showcase problem-solving skills in law

Describing yourself as a creative problem-solver highlights an essential skill for navigating complex legal challenges.

Align with the firm's values in law

Expressing a shared commitment to diversity and inclusion demonstrates you're not just a good fit for the job, but also the firm's culture.

Express willingness to add value to the law team

Ending on a note of eagerness to contribute shows you're ready to be an active, valuable member of the team.

Start with your strong educational background

Leading with your recent graduation from a prestigious law school serves as a strong introduction. It immediately establishes your credibility and the rigorous training you've undergone.

Detail your academic involvement

Talking about your role in the law journal not only highlights your writing skills but also your ability to engage with complex legal discussions. It’s a subtle way to show you're well-prepared for the intellectual demands of being a junior associate attorney.

Showcase hands-on legal experience

Describing your experience as a student attorney demonstrates that you’ve already stepped into a role similar to that of a junior associate attorney. This practical experience is invaluable and exactly what hiring managers want to see.

Share your commitment to making an impact

Illustrating how you’ve used your skills to assist refugees puts a human face on your legal expertise. It tells us that you view law as a tool for positive change, which is a great fit for firms with a strong community focus.

Communicate your enthusiasm for the role

This closing line does more than thank the reader; it underscores your excitement and readiness to bring your skills to their firm. It leaves a lasting impression of your eagerness and drive.

Entry-Level Attorney Cover Letter Example

Highlight education and enthusiasm.

Telling me about your education, especially from a well-known school, right away shows you have a strong foundation. Your excitement about the entry-level attorney job also tells me you're not just looking for any job—you want this one, which makes me pay closer attention.

Show entry-level attorney skills

When you mention your role in the Stanford Law Review, it's not just about a title. It tells me you've worked hard on your legal writing and editing skills, which are crucial for an entry-level attorney. It's impressive and relevant.

Connect past experiences to job requirements

You’re showing me that you've already faced similar challenges to those our clients have. This reassures me that you're ready to jump in and handle the complex issues we work on at our firm. It's a strong point in favor of your application.

Demonstrate impact beyond academics

Volunteering shows you're not just about books and grades. You’ve applied your knowledge to help real people with real problems. This kind of practical experience and willingness to help is exactly what we look for in candidates.

Ending your cover letter on this note is smart. You’re not just thanking me for reading your application; you’re underscoring your desire to bring your passion and skills to our firm. It makes me believe you could be a great fit.

Alternative Introductions

If you're struggling to start your cover letter, here are 6 different variations that have worked for others, along with why they worked. Use them as inspiration for your introductory paragraph.

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Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.

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!

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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How to Write a Legal Cover Letter for Lawyers That Stands Out

The legal industry is competitive, making it crucial for lawyers to have a cover letter that makes them stand out. A cover letter is important to get right for job seekers. It’s an introduction to your prospective employers and your opportunity to make a great first impression. 

Here are our tips for writing a cover letter that will get your resume read and prompt the call for the interview.

Why a Strong Cover Letter for a Lawyer Matters

When employers have a mountain of applications to narrow, a cover letter could mean the difference between being in the “interview” pile or getting an automated rejection response — or no response at all.

Additionally, you’ll need to tailor your cover letter to each job description for automated screening software , which scans for specific keywords and phrases before a human even sees your application package. Understanding and leveraging these technologies can prevent your application from being filtered out before a hiring manager even has a chance to glance at your qualifications.

After you pass the automated screening, the hiring manager will usually read your cover letter before they look at anything else.

What Is a Good Cover Letter for a Law Firm?

No matter the industry, cover letters should always be tailored to the prospective employer. In this case, the cover letter is an opportunity to match your skills, connections, and passion to the law firm’s needs.

Your cover letter should be:

• Personalized: Customize your cover letter to the tone of the firm and the skills you have that are listed in the job description.
• Brief: Keep it short and simple. Your cover letter should only be one page, if not less, and hit on all the points that make you an attractive candidate. Avoid the urge to just summarize your resume and overwhelm the reader.
• Positive: This is an opportunity to highlight how your past educational and professional experiences give you a unique edge over the other candidates, and why you’re the best fit for the position.
• Professional: Writing professionally is essential for lawyers. Keep your cover letter professional to showcase that you have this necessary skill set.

How to Address a Cover Letter to a Law Firm

Addressing the cover letter correctly is a must to set the right tone for the reader. It doesn’t say much for your attention to detail if you don’t get the basics right.

Do your research and address the cover letter to the specific person in charge of hiring, such as the hiring manager or partner. If you’re not sure, look on the firm’s website, check LinkedIn, or contact human resources to find out. This will make a much better impression than “to whom this may concern.”

For the salutation, make sure to show respect for the reader to reinforce your attention to detail. For example, if you know the preferred gender prefix for the recipient, you may use “Ms.” or “Mr.” or “Mx.” If you’re not sure, don’t assume! Just write the person’s full first and last name, being careful of correct spelling.

Cover Letter Introduction

The cover letter’s opening paragraph must capture the attention of the reader. Introduce who you are and why you’re a good fit for the firm. Mention your current position, such as a new law school graduate or an associate at a firm.

If you have mutual acquaintances or referrals, mention them right away. Then, discuss the specific reasons you’re a good fit for the firm.

Cover Letter Body

The body of the cover letter is where the bulk of your summary will go. In just a paragraph or two, give an overview of your education and experience to show why you want to work for the firm and why you’re an ideal fit.

For example, discuss the reasons you want to work for this firm specifically. Maybe it has a great reputation or you admire a lawyer who works there. Maybe the practice areas align with your desired career path.

When you’re connecting yourself to the role, use some key attributes that the firm is looking for that you possess. These may include academic or research specializations, community service history, past legal positions, publications, or awards. 

This is also a great place to speak about your familiarity with legal technology. With more than 65% of law firms citing they use law practice management software , it’s worth highlighting your experience in the cover letter. 

Pro Tip : Set yourself apart by getting a certification in law practice management software. PracticePanther is trusted by tens of thousands of lawyers and offers a comprehensive certification program . The program is free and you can work at your pace.

Again, don’t just summarize your resume. The hiring team can look at your resume independently. This is your opportunity to capture attention by putting your resume and experience into context and connecting it to the specific position.

Cover Letter Conclusion

The concluding paragraph is where you wrap everything up and make a positive impression. Make sure to say thank you for their consideration and outline your next steps. You don’t have to wait endlessly for an answer to your application — be clear about how and when you intend to follow up. Make sure you keep your word!

Finally, make sure your cover letter has relevant contact details, including your phone number, email, and address. These may be included in the header in a conventional letter format, but if not, put them at the bottom of the letter where they’re readily available for the hiring manager.

Tips for Lawyers to Make a Cover Letter Stand Out

The legal industry keeps evolving. Candidates need to set themselves apart to get hired, no matter the circumstances. Here are some tips:

1. Keep it human: Many of the candidates you’ll be up against have similar education and experience, so simply highlighting these aspects won’t help you stand out. The cover letter is where you can showcase how you are different and what you have to offer that other candidates may not.

2. Stay succinct: You don’t want to overwhelm the reader with a long and drawn-out cover letter. Keep it short and to the point — you want to be memorable. Challenge yourself to stay under a page to see how well you can summarize your unique value.

3. Set the tone: It’s vital that you are professional in your cover letter, but that doesn’t necessarily mean formal. If the firm you’re applying to takes a more casual or personable tone, it’s best to mimic that in your cover letter. If the firm is large and prestigious, it may be best to speak formally. The firm websites should give you some insight.

4. Always proofread: The worst thing you could do in your cover letter is have typos and grammatical errors. There’s a lot of competition, not to mention that lawyers and legal professionals need to have command of the English language for their job responsibilities. Proofread, and if possible, enlist someone’s help to catch any errors, awkward phrasing, or ambiguities. You can also use grammar review websites, like Grammarly, to catch any additional errors.

Legal Cover Letter Samples

Drawing a blank on what to say? Here’s some inspiration from sample cover letters for lawyers with different educational backgrounds and experiences.

• Law student cover letter
• Graduate with previous experience cover letter
• Experienced IP attorney cover letter

Let these samples inspire you to construct a compelling cover letter that gets you into the “interview” pile.

Final Thoughts

Being a job seeker in a competitive market is challenging, but taking the time and care to draft a well-written and personalized cover letter is the best way to get yourself noticed and get the interview. 

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Taylor Dahlem

Taylor Dahlem is the Senior Product Marketing Specialist at PracticePanther, the all-in-one law practice management software company. He is on a mission to deliver technology solutions that provide the most value to legal professionals daily through exciting and impactful go-to-market campaigns.

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Legal Associate Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

Use these Legal Associate cover letter examples and writing tips to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

Table Of Contents

• Legal Associate Example 1
• Legal Associate Example 2
• Legal Associate Example 3
• Cover Letter Writing Tips

Legal associates provide legal support to attorneys by researching cases, drafting legal documents, and preparing for court appearances. They may also be responsible for interviewing witnesses and clients.

To land a job as a legal associate, you need a well-written cover letter. Use these examples and tips to learn how to write a cover letter that will make hiring managers want to meet you in person.

Legal Associate Cover Letter Example 1

I am excited to be applying for the Legal Associate position at ABC Law Firm. I have a passion for the law and a dedication to providing excellent client service. I believe that my skills and experience would be a valuable addition to your team.

I have worked as a legal assistant for the past four years, providing support to attorneys in a corporate law setting. I have experience conducting legal research, preparing legal documents, and managing case files. I am also proficient in Microsoft Office and various legal software.

Most importantly, I have a strong commitment to client service. I pride myself on being able to anticipate the needs of my clients and on providing exceptional customer service. I am proactive and take initiative to ensure that all deadlines are met and that all client needs are met.

I am confident that I have the skills and experience to be a successful Legal Associate at ABC Law Firm. I look forward to discussing this opportunity further with you and to learning more about the firm and its culture. Thank you for your time and consideration.

Legal Associate Cover Letter Example 2

I am writing to apply for the Legal Associate position that was recently advertised on your company website. I am confident that I have the skills and qualifications that you are looking for, and I am eager to put my experience to work for your organization.

As an experienced legal professional, I have a proven track record of success in this field. I have worked as a legal associate for three years, and during that time I have handled a wide range of legal cases. I have a deep understanding of the law and of the court system, and I am confident in my ability to provide sound legal representation to my clients.

In addition to my legal skills and experience, I am also a highly effective communicator and team player. I have a strong working relationship with my colleagues, and I am confident that I can be an asset to any team. I am also a motivated individual who is always looking for new challenges and opportunities to learn.

I am eager to put my skills and experience to work for your organization, and I would be grateful for the opportunity to discuss this position with you in further detail. Thank you for your time and consideration, and I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Legal Associate Cover Letter Example 3

I am writing to express my interest in the Legal Associate position that you have posted. I believe that my background and experience make me an excellent candidate for this position.

I graduated from the University of Michigan with a Bachelors of Arts degree in Political Science and a minor in Business Administration. While at the University of Michigan, I was a member of the Phi Delta Theta fraternity and served as Vice President of the Interfraternity Council. I also served as a Resident Assistant in the Northwood Community Apartments during my junior year.

After graduating from the University of Michigan, I attended Thomas M. Cooley Law School where I received my Juris Doctorate degree in May of 2010. During law school, I was a member of the Moot Court Honor Society and competed on the Moot Court Team. I also served as a Student Attorney for the Michigan Innocence Clinic where I represented indigent clients in post-conviction proceedings.

Upon graduation from law school, I passed the Michigan Bar Exam and became licensed to practice law in the State of Michigan. In August of 2010, I joined the law firm of Smith & Associates where I currently work as a legal assistant. My duties include drafting pleadings, motions, discovery requests and responses, correspondence, and other documents necessary to represent our clients in both state and federal court proceedings.

I believe that my background and experience make me an excellent candidate for this position. I am confident that my skills and abilities will allow me to be an asset to your organization.

Legal Associate Cover Letter Writing Tips

1. use your cover letter to show your passion for the law.

When applying for a legal associate position, it’s important to show hiring managers that you have a passion for the law. You can do this by providing specific examples of times when you utilized your legal knowledge in a practical way.

For instance, you might talk about a time when you had to research a complex legal issue and then present your findings to a group of people. Alternatively, you could describe a situation where you had to use your legal skills to resolve a dispute.

2. Tailor your cover letter to the specific job opening

When applying for a legal associate position, it’s important to take the time to tailor your cover letter to the specific job opening. This means that you should read the job description carefully and make sure to highlight any skills or experience that you have that match the requirements of the position.

You should also mention the name of the company in your cover letter, and explain why you’re interested in working for them.

3. Demonstrate strong writing skills

As a legal associate, you will be required to write legal documents, briefs, and memos on a regular basis. To demonstrate that you have the writing skills necessary for the job, make sure to include a few writing samples in your cover letter.

If you don’t have any writing samples, you can always write a short essay discussing a legal topic of your choice.

4. Proofread your cover letter

One of the most important things you can do to improve your chances of getting hired as a legal associate is to proofread your cover letter. This means checking for spelling and grammar mistakes, as well as ensuring that your cover letter is formatted correctly.

Crisis Worker Cover Letter Examples & Writing Tips

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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.

4 Legal Assistant Cover Letter Examples

Legal Assistants are the linchpin of any law firm, adept at managing complex cases, ensuring accuracy, and maintaining confidentiality. Similarly, your cover letter is the linchpin of your job application, skillfully weaving your professional narrative, showcasing your meticulous attention to detail, and demonstrating your commitment to integrity. In this guide, we'll delve into the best cover letter examples for Legal Assistants, helping you to present a compelling case for your next role.

Cover Letter Examples

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The best way to start a Legal Assistant cover letter is by addressing the hiring manager directly, if their name is available. Then, introduce yourself and briefly mention the position you're applying for. Make sure to highlight your interest in the role and the firm. For example, "Dear Mr. Smith, I am writing to apply for the Legal Assistant position at XYZ Law Firm. With my strong legal research skills and passion for criminal law, I am confident I can make a significant contribution to your team." This approach is professional, direct, and shows your enthusiasm for the role.

Legal Assistants should end a cover letter professionally and enthusiastically, expressing their interest in the role and eagerness to discuss their qualifications further. You can say something like, "I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my skills and experiences to your team and am confident that I can bring value to your firm. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my application with you further." After this, you should thank the reader for their time and consideration. Lastly, end with a professional closing such as "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name. Remember, the ending of your cover letter is your final chance to make a good impression, so keep it positive, confident, and professional.

A Legal Assistant's cover letter should ideally be about one page in length. This is because hiring managers often have many applications to go through and a concise, well-written cover letter is more likely to grab their attention. It's important to keep it succinct while still highlighting your key skills, experiences, and why you're interested in the specific role and firm. Remember, the cover letter is your chance to make a strong first impression, so make sure every sentence counts. Longer cover letters may not be read in full, so it's crucial to keep it to the point and relevant.

Writing a cover letter with no experience as a Legal Assistant can seem challenging, but it's all about showcasing your transferable skills, passion for the field, and eagerness to learn. Here's how you can approach it: 1. **Address the Hiring Manager**: Start your cover letter by addressing the hiring manager directly. If you don't know their name, do some research or use a general salutation like "Dear Hiring Manager." 2. **Introduction**: In the first paragraph, introduce yourself and express your interest in the Legal Assistant position. Mention where you found the job posting and why it caught your attention. 3. **Highlight Transferable Skills**: Even if you don't have direct experience, you likely have transferable skills from other jobs, internships, or academic experiences. These could include research skills, attention to detail, organization, communication, and more. Use specific examples to demonstrate these skills. For instance, if you have experience in customer service, you can highlight your communication skills and ability to handle difficult situations. 4. **Show Your Passion and Knowledge**: Show your enthusiasm for the legal field. If you've taken relevant courses or have a degree in a related field, be sure to mention it. Discuss any knowledge you have of legal procedures, terminology, or administrative tasks. 5. **Express Willingness to Learn**: As someone without experience, it's crucial to show your eagerness to learn and grow in the role. Convey your willingness to undergo training and learn on the job. 6. **Conclusion**: In your closing paragraph, reiterate your interest in the role and your readiness to contribute to the team. Thank the hiring manager for considering your application. 7. **Professional Closing**: End your letter with a professional closing like "Sincerely" or "Best regards," followed by your full name. Remember to keep your cover letter concise and to the point, and proofread it carefully for any errors. Tailor it to each job application, focusing on the skills and qualifications mentioned in the job description.

Related Cover Letters for Legal Assistants

Attorney cover letter.

Lawyer Cover Letter

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Auditor Cover Letter

Policy Analyst Cover Letter

Legal Assistant Cover Letter

Entry Level Legal Assistant Cover Letter

Legal intern cover letter, personal injury legal assistant cover letter, related resumes for legal assistants, legal assistant resume example.

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Pro Bono and Volunteer Opportunities

We welcome a diverse range of individuals of all educational and professional backgrounds, including high school and college students, graduates, paralegal students and active paralegals, law school graduates, and any civic-minded individuals dedicated to helping.

How to Get Involved Background and application information for pro bono and volunteer opportunities

As the largest provider of free civil legal services in the San Francisco Bay Area, we rely on the support of hundreds of volunteers every year who are dedicated to helping us achieve our mission. For all volunteer opportunities, please complete the Volunteer Application below, and return with your cover letter  and  résumé , and  (Law Clerks Only)   writing sample  to Andrea Del-Pan, Pro Bono Director, at  [email protected] . Please email [email protected] with any questions.

Details on Volunteering at BayLegal

More information - law clerks.

Bay Area Legal Aid (BayLegal) ensures fairness in the civil justice system for the most vulnerable members of our community. From Silicon Valley to Napa Valley, we help clients protect their livelihoods, their health, and their families. Our clients include the working poor, families with children, foster youth, seniors, immigrants, veterans, and persons with disabilities. Through our regional county offices, our mobile advocacy clinics, and our nationally-recognized Legal Advice Line, BayLegal prevents domestic violence and sexual assault, increases economic stability, protects consumers, expands access to healthcare, and prevents homelessness. For our clients, BayLegal makes the difference between staying in poverty and thriving toward a brighter future.

We are now accepting applications for 2024 fall semester clerkships ! Please apply through the link to the volunteer application form at the top of this page.

BayLegal will likely have a hybrid remote/in-person work environment for  Fall, 2024. Under the supervision of staff attorneys, clerks have the opportunity to engage in our work by conducting client interviews and initial case statements, preparing clients for trials, obtaining discovery and other evidence, writing briefs and other legal memoranda, participating in community outreach and education, assisting self-represented litigants, representing clients at administrative hearings and state court hearings/trials, participating in broader impact litigation, and drafting writs of mandamus to Superior Court and California appellate court.

• Consumer Rights Clinics  –  Alameda, Contra Costa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara  – These clinics consist of know-your-rights workshops and one-on-one meetings with attendees to provide information about consumer law problems and assist with necessary forms. Law clerks focus on assisting people with forms related to debt collection lawsuits and to protect clients’ exempt income and wages from collection activity.
• Economic Justice (EJ)  –   Alameda, Contra Costa, Marin, Napa, San Francisco, Santa Clara  – Assist clients in obtaining desperately needed health coverage, as well as public and disability benefits. Participate in direct individual representation and ongoing impact litigation. Clerks learn about Medi-Cal, Medicare, Healthy Families, CalWORKs, General Assistance, CalFresh, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and general health access issues. Cases often intersect with civil rights, language access, and domestic violence. For EJ clients, clerks have the opportunity to identify their eligibility, gather and build evidence, prepare briefs, assist with negotiations, and possibly represent the client at an administrative hearing.
• Domestic Violence Restraining Order Clinic  –   Contra Costa, San Mateo  – Assist self-represented litigants seeking civil domestic violence restraining order protection—including child custody, visitation and support orders—through all stages of the process. A great opportunity to work directly with litigants by conducting interviews and drafting pleadings. Applications accepted year-round, substantive training provided on a rolling basis.
• Health Access  –  Oakland, San Jose  – Opportunity to assist in providing counsel; to negotiate with agencies and organizations which provide health services; and to represent clients in state administrative hearings (no certification necessary) on a variety of legal issues related to obtaining health care services and coverage, including the Affordable Care Act (“Obamacare”); and to engage in policy advocacy to address systemic barriers to health care.
• Housing Preservation  –  Alameda, Contra Costa, Napa, San Francisco, Santa Clara  – Work on homelessness prevention, file administrative complaints (HUD & CRD) using Fair Housing laws to address housing discrimination issues, preserve affordable housing, and fight illegal evictions. Interview clients, prepare legal pleadings and assist with a full civil litigation case over a short amount of time (include jury trial).
• Housing Rights Clinic  –  Contra Costa  – Meet with clinic attendees one-on-one to provide information about tenant rights and the unlawful detainer (eviction) process. Law clerks may provide legal information and assist with necessary forms, including Answers to Unlawful Detainers, rent board petitions and demand letters to landlords to make repairs. Applications accepted year-round, substantive training provided on a rolling basis.
• Immigration Advocacy for Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Survivors  –  Alameda, Contra Costa, Napa, San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara  – Assist in our provision of comprehensive legal services to low-income immigrant survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault. Assist with VAWA Self-Petitions and U Visa Non-Immigrant Petitions—immigration remedies that provide relief for survivors who are either immediate family members of abusive U.S. Citizens or Legal Permanent Residents, or who cooperate with the investigation and/or prosecution of the crimes perpetrated against them. Learn how to assess eligibility, prepare immigration pleadings and work directly with immigrant survivors.
• Individualized Legal Support Services (ILSS)  –  San Francisco  –– Help eliminate legal barriers to employment and self-sufficiency, such as suspended driver’s licenses, employment rights regarding criminal background checks, housing habitability, and consumer credit issues.
• Reentry  –  Alameda, Contra Costa  – Low-income individuals seeking to overcome a criminal conviction or arrest history and reestablish themselves within our communities face multiple civil barriers, including in housing, occupational licensing, access to public benefits, and consumer debt. We provide wrap-around legal services for these clients by assisting with criminal record remedies, driver’s license restoration, direct representation in a wide array of civil legal practice areas, and by participating in ongoing impact litigation.
• Medical Legal Partnership (MLP)  –  Contra Costa, Alameda – Assist in providing wrap-around support for clients whose legal issues are affecting their health, while learning about the MLP model of addressing social determinants of health. These partnerships are growing across the United States, allowing attorneys to work with clients across multiple areas of law. We participate in case reviews with Contra Costa Health Services and the Community Health Center Network in Alameda County, and their public health nurses and social workers refer their patients to BayLegal. The majority of these referrals are related to Housing and Social Security, although there are opportunities to represent clients in other areas of law as well.
• Youth Justice Team (YJT)  –  Alameda, Santa Clara, Contra Costa, San Francisco  – Legal advocacy for youth, including foster care entry and benefits, guardianships, education advocacy to break school-to-prison pipeline, immigration, restraining orders, family law, public benefits, and SSI.

Requirements –

• Completion of the first year of law school.
• A passion for social justice and poverty-related issues.
• A sensitivity to working with people from diverse backgrounds.

Desired Skills and Abilities  –  We encourage students who have completed the required Evidence Course to become certified by the California State Bar to represent clients in court. Students who speak Spanish, Cantonese, Russian, Vietnamese, or other Southeast Asian languages, are encouraged to apply. Special consideration will be given to students who have a demonstrated commitment to serving low-income or disadvantaged communities.

Funding –   Students are encouraged to apply for funding through their law school and other grant opportunities (please contact us if we can be of assistance). See  https://www.psjd.org/  for more information.

Timeline  –  Law clerkships are available throughout the school year and applications are accepted on an ongoing basis for semester clerkships. For 2025 summer clerkships, BayLegal will begin reviewing applications in mid-October. We recommend applying before February 2025. Our summer program is nine weeks – beginning in early June through early August.  If you are interested in a 2024 fall semester clerkship, please submit a completed law clerk application by clicking on the application button, above.

Questions?  Email Andrea Del-Pan, Esq., Director of Pro Bono –  [email protected]

More Information - Pro Bono Attorneys and Other Volunteers

For all volunteer opportunities, please complete the Volunteer Application (see link at the top of this page) and return with your cover letter  and  résumé , and  (Law Clerks Only)   writing sample  to Andrea Del-Pan, Pro Bono Director, at  [email protected] . Please email [email protected] with any questions.

Work directly with highly experienced BayLegal staff attorneys and advocates assisting in one or more of our priority areas:

• Domestic Violence Prevention : Assisting domestic violence survivors escape the violence and create a safe and stable environment for themselves and their families through Family Law, Restraining Order, and Immigration assistance
• Housing Preservation : Assist clients to access and preserve safe affordable housing free of discrimination, with specific focus on Eviction defense and Fair Housing
• Economic Security : Assisting clients secure public benefits and eliminate the barriers to employment and self-sufficiency
• Health Access : Assisting clients secure public benefits and eliminate the barriers to employment and self-sufficiency
• Consumer Protection : Assist low-income consumers with debt collection, credit reporting, student loan and foreclosure matters through consumer education, pro per clinics, workshops and full representation.

Locations :

Alameda County (Oakland); Contra Costa (Richmond, Pittsburg); Marin (San Rafael); Napa (Napa); Santa Clara (San Jose); San Francisco; San Mateo (Redwood City)

Commitment :

Minimum of 8 hours/week for 3 months

BayLegal staff and volunteers assist self-represented domestic violence survivors complete the paperwork and understand the process to request a restraining order and important custody, visitation and support orders.

Domestic Violence Restraining Order Clinics : BayLegal staff and volunteers assist self-represented domestic violence survivors complete the paperwork and understand the process to request a restraining order and important custody, visitation and support orders.

Consumer Rights Legal Clinics  – BayLegal staff and volunteers assist self-represented litigants in limited civil debt collection matters. Clinics are offered weekly in Bay Point, Fremont, Redwood City, Richmond, Napa, and San José.

BayLegal screens all pro bono clients for eligibility and determines whether a case is appropriate for pro bono representation. BayLegal provides training, manuals and samples, and ongoing mentorship throughout the pro bono project.

Limited Scope Representation in Domestic Violence Restraining Order Hearings  – Volunteer attorneys provide limited scope representation (appx. 1 or 2 hearings) for domestic violence survivors seeking permanent restraining orders and important related child custody, visitation and support orders. Volunteers receive training, a practice manual and sample pleadings and ongoing mentorship. Opportunities are available throughout the year and the project runs a summer associate program. Estimated time commitment: 25 hours.

San Mateo Domestic Violence Prevention Collaborative Partnership  with Legal Aid Society of San Mateo County (LASSM) and Communities Overcoming Relationship Abuse (CORA) (hearings are: Wednesday afternoons and Friday mornings)

Protecting Domestic Violence Survivors and their Children 2009 PART I Oct 2009 : Overview of Domestic Violence Restraining Order law and procedure Overview of Domestic Violence (definition, cycles of violence and working with survivors); Domestic Violence Prevention Act Restraining Orders (law and process/procedure); mock attorney-client interview. Click to View Webcast

Protecting Domestic Violence Survivors and their Children Part II 2010 June 2010 : Obtaining Safe Custody/Visitation orders: Overview of CA child custody and visitation law in domestic violence cases (overview of substantive law and procedure); Role of Family Court Services and preparing clients for mediation; Creating safe and enforceable child custody and visitation orders (child development, specific tips on creating safe orders) Click to View Webcast

Certified paralegals and paralegal students are encouraged to apply. Paralegal interns will work directly with BayLegal staff. Therefore, this offers an opportunity to learn legal procedure and draft legal pleadings. BayLegal commonly hosts paralegal students seeking to fulfill school required internship hours. Volunteers/Interns have an opportunity to learn a wide range of legal pleadings and practice.

Volunteers fluent in a language other than English can assist BayLegal in our mission to provide high-quality legal services to low-income people regardless of their location, language or disability. Volunteers generally work alongside our staff or volunteer attorneys assisting clients with a range of civil legal needs. This volunteer position is flexible and generally contacted on an as-needed basis to assist with particular cases or projects.  BayLegal Interpreter/Translator Application   (return with resume).

Work together with BayLegal attorneys and volunteers assisting with expert assessments needed within a case. For example:  business or property evaluation; computer forensics; etc. Please complete the Volunteer Application and submit with a copy of your resume.

Immigration Relief for Survivors of Domestic Violence and Violent Crime : (VAWA Self-Petitions and U Visa Non-Immigrant Petitions) are means to immigration relief for Victims of Domestic Violence, Sexual Assault and other Violent Crimes who are either immediate family members of abusive US Citizens or Legal Permanent Residents OR who cooperate with law enforcement in the investigation and/or prosecution of the crimes perpetrated against them.

With BayLegal’s  training and ongoing mentorship ,  Volunteer Attorneys have the opportunity to work with clients to: Elicit facts related to the abuse suffered and help prepare client’s declaration; Prepare immigration petitions and related forms; Collect supporting evidence and documents; Understand the broader immigration petition process; and Obtain work authorization and benefits vital to fleeing and recovering from abuse. TRAINING: Webinar and live trainings available.

Youth Justice Pro Bono Project:  Representation of Poor Foster Care Youth to obtain needed health and financial benefits.  Pro Bono Attorney/Volunteer  (license is not required) meets with the client at BayLegal’s Oakland office or receives direct referral of a case. Volunteer attempts to negotiate for appropriate benefits, if initial attempts to negotiate a settlement are unsuccessful, the volunteer submits a Request for administrative hearing, prepares a Position Statement (due day of hearing), and provides representation (hearing is approximately 3-4 weeks from Request). Estimated time: 25 hours.

Hypothetical Case : Child is removed from parent(s) by Child Protective Services (CPS) and dropped off with grandmother or other relative. The grandmother receives help with applying for and obtaining Child-Only CalWORKs (appx. $370/month), but is not informed or is denied AFDC-FC ($450-$700+ funds to help address additional needs). The denial of these additional benefits may result in the child returning to the CPS system because the family member lacks the means to provide for the child (causing further instability, etc).

TRAINING: DVD and live trainings can be arranged.

Family Law Pro Bono Advocacy Program : BayLegal provides training and mentorship to attorneys interested in assisting low-income family law litigants with limited and full scope representation in family law matters, including Dissolution, Domestic Violence, Custody, and Support.

QUESTIONS : Please contact the BayLegal Pro Bono Counsel with any questions:  [email protected]

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