As a legal professional, your resume is one of the most important tools you have to sell your skills and experience to potential employers. Whether you’re an attorney or a law clerk, your legal resume is the first impression you’ll make on a hiring manager or legal recruiter.

Licensing Administrator at Arvato CV Sample

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Hired by: Arvato

Legal Counsel Resume Sample

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Hired by: Cyprusjobs

Law School Application Resume Sample

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To help you navigate the legal hiring process, we’ve rounded up some handy tips, real-life examples, and compelling templates on how to write a legal resume that will help you get noticed. (But for all the right reasons.)

Read on and learn all about:

• Exploring useful legal resume examples
• Selecting the right format for your legal resume
• Crafting an attention-grabbing resume summary or objective
• Highlighting top legal skills in your resume
• Building a compelling work experience section
• Including powerful action words in your legal resume
• Listing your educational credentials properly
• Choosing relevant extra sections for your legal resume
• Avoiding common mistakes in a legal resume
• Pairing your resume with a relevant legal cover letter
• Learning about the average salary and job outlook for legal occupations
• Finding top resources for job-seeking legal professionals

Legal assistant resume example

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Why does this resume example work?

• Strong educational background: The resume emphasizes a robust educational background, including a degree in Legal Studies from York University with a high GPA of 3.96 and a distinction in the IB Diploma Program. This demonstrates the candidate’s academic excellence and commitment to their field, making a strong impression on potential employers.
• Relevant work experience: The work experience section is detailed and relevant, showcasing specific responsibilities such as legal research, trial preparation, and document management. The mention of being recognized as "Employee of the Month" highlights the candidate’s exceptional performance and dedication.

What could be improved?

• Repetitive language: The tasks listed under the work experience section are somewhat repetitive. Statements like “offered valuable support and assistance to senior lawyers” and “reviewed and managed legal documents” could be diversified to keep the reader engaged. Introducing varied action verbs and providing more specific examples would enhance this section.
• Lack of quantifiable achievements: The resume lacks quantifiable achievements. Including metrics such as "assisted in the successful resolution of 20+ cases" or "improved document filing efficiency by 30%" would provide a clearer picture of the candidate's impact and contributions.

Public defender resume example

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Why does this resume example work?

• Comprehensive skill set: The resume lists a wide range of skills that are relevant to the role of a Public Defender. This includes critical thinking, negotiation skills, and a deep understanding of the law. Additionally, the inclusion of languages and computer skills shows versatility and the ability to adapt to various work environments and client needs.
• Quantifiable achievements: The work experience section includes specific, quantifiable achievements that provide a clear picture of the candidate's capabilities. For instance, actively participating in over 100 misdemeanor/felony cases and being recognized as the "#1 Public Defender" for exceptional results showcases the candidate's effectiveness and recognition in their role.

What could be improved?

• Repetitive language: The resume could benefit from varied language to describe tasks and achievements. Verbs such as "participated" and "conducted" are repeated. Using a broader range of action words could make the resume more engaging and dynamic.
• Overemphasis on education: While the candidate’s educational background is impressive, it occupies too much space relative to the work experience. For someone with over four years of professional work, the focus should be more on practical achievements and less on past academic accomplishments. Balancing the sections can provide a more up-to-date and relevant view of the candidate's abilities.
• Lack of focus on specific legal skills: While the resume lists general skills like "communication skills" and "multitasking," it would be more impactful to highlight specific legal skills such as "case law research," "trial preparation," or "client advocacy." This could provide a more targeted insight into the candidate’s legal expertise.

Paralegal intern resume example

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Why does this resume example work?

• Multilingual abilities: The candidate's proficiency in Japanese, English, and Spanish sets them apart in a globalized legal environment. This skill can be particularly valuable in law firms dealing with international clients or cases, and it demonstrates the candidate's versatility and ability to handle diverse linguistic needs.
• Internship recognition: Being recognized as "Intern of the Month" during their tenure at ACLU, LLC, means high performance and dedication. This accolade highlights the candidate's ability to exceed expectations and deliver top-notch work, making them a strong contender for future roles.

What could be improved?

• Profile specificity: The profile section could be more tailored to the specific role being applied for. Phrases like "driven and ambitious" are somewhat generic. Instead, the candidate could specify particular areas of legal interest or accomplishments, such as "Passionate about civil rights law with a proven ability to conduct thorough legal research and assist in case preparation.
• Extracurricular relevance: While the candidate’s involvement in clubs and societies demonstrates a well-rounded background, some extracurricular activities listed, like the Volleyball Team or Golf Club, may not be directly relevant to the paralegal role. Emphasizing more pertinent activities, such as participation in the Debate Club or FinTech Society, would be more advantageous.

1. Format your legal resume properly

Not every legal resume is equal. The expectations and roles vary, and so do your own experiences and skill set. It’s important that you’ve chosen a resume format that highlights your strengths. 

In fact, the layout and format of your resume is just as important as the actual content. If the reviewer is unable to easily parse out the most critical information, it’s unlikely that they’ll review it in depth.

The format you choose can significantly impact how easily a hiring manager can navigate through your information and grasp your qualifications. Here are three main types of resume formats: chronological, functional, and combination:

• Chronological resume format: The chronological format lists your work experience in reverse-chronological order, starting with your most recent job and working backward. This format is ideal for candidates with a strong and consistent work history in the legal field. It highlights a clear career progression and recent experience.
• Functional resume format: The functional format focuses on skills and competencies rather than a detailed work history. It emphasizes what you can do rather than where you have worked. This format is suitable for those with gaps in their work history, career changers, or recent graduates who may not have extensive legal experience.
• Combination (hybrid) resume format: The combination format merges elements of both chronological and functional formats. It highlights your skills and competencies while also providing a timeline of your work history. This format is ideal for experienced professionals who have a varied skill set and want to showcase both their skills and their work history. It’s also beneficial for those making a slight career shift within the legal field.

And so, if you’re a new graduate looking for their first role in the legal world, you may want to highlight your relevant education and academic accolades. If you’re a legal professional with over 10 years of experience, you will likely want to highlight the times and roles where you’ve made the biggest impact.

Writing a new resume can feel overwhelming but it’s easier than you might think. To help you land your next job in the legal industry, we’ve put together some legal resume templates and samples that you can easily adapt to your own skills and goals.

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2. Craft an attention-grabbing resume summary or objective

Crafting a compelling resume summary or objective is crucial for making a positive first impression in the competitive field of law. Both elements aim to highlight your qualifications, but they serve slightly different purposes and are used in different contexts.

1. Resume objective: Typically used by recent graduates or those making a career change, a resume objective outlines your career goals and explains why you are a good fit for the position. It’s a statement of intent, focusing on what you aim to achieve in your next role. It includes:

• Specific career goals
• Relevant skills and qualifications
• How you can contribute to the firm

Why does this objective fall flat? It's too vague and generic. It doesn't specify how the candidate's skills align with the job or what they can contribute to the firm.

Why does it work? This objective is specific and clearly outlines the candidate's education, focus area, and what they aim to achieve while contributing to the firm's success.

2. Resume summary: Generally used by experienced professionals, a resume summary provides a brief overview of your key qualifications and career accomplishments. It highlights what you bring to the table and why you are an ideal candidate for the job. It includes:

• Years of experience
• Areas of expertise
• Key accomplishments
• Relevant skills and qualifications

Why is it so bad? This summary is too broad and lacks specific details about the candidate's areas of expertise, accomplishments, and the value they can bring to the potential employer.

Why is this a strong example? This summary provides a concise overview of the candidate's specific experience and expertise. It highlights key accomplishments and areas of proficiency, making a compelling case for their suitability for the role.

A strong legal resume summary or objective can make a significant difference in capturing the attention of hiring managers. Whether you are a recent graduate crafting an objective or an experienced professional writing a summary, avoid vague statements and ensure that your resume effectively communicates your qualifications and career aspirations in the legal field.

3. Select the best skills for your legal resume

Selecting the right skills for your legal resume is crucial for demonstrating your qualifications and alignment with the job you’re applying for. Understanding the difference between hard and soft skills, and effectively highlighting the most relevant ones, can make your resume stand out to recruiters and hiring managers in the legal field.

• Hard skills: These are specific, teachable abilities or knowledge sets that are often acquired through formal education or training. In the legal field, hard skills might include knowledge of specific areas of law, proficiency in legal research, or expertise in using legal software.
• Soft skills: These are personal attributes that enable someone to interact effectively and harmoniously with others. While they're not job-specific, they're crucial for performing well in any working environment. In the legal field, soft skills can include communication, problem-solving, and negotiation abilities.

Now, it's important to prioritize the skills listed in the job ad first. This practice, known as "keyword matching," can help your resume pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) and catch the attention of hiring managers who are looking for specific qualifications. By aligning your skills with the job description, you show that you've done your homework and tailored your application accordingly.

The legal industry is an incredibly specific area of employment that requires special education. However, you may be surprised to find that there are many additional skills (outside of the legal sphere) that can make your application stronger.

Take the time to tailor your resume to the role you’re applying for. If you have any unique or specialized skills that would be relevant to the position, highlighting these will help a hiring manager take notice of your application:

• Proficiency in foreign languages
• Experience in specific practice areas
• Client services experience
• Critical hinking
• Business acumen

Remember, choosing the right skills to include in your legal resume is essential for showcasing your qualifications and matching the job requirements. 

4. Make your work experience section stand out

A legal resume should be more than just a laundry list of all your past job duties and responsibilities. While it might feel more impressive to list out all the things you’ve done, a few specific legal examples will make a better impact.

Unspecific examples of resume points include phrases like, “Wrote emails and coordinated appointments” and “Filed and organized documents.” These are tasks or skills that could be related to any industry or role. And so, make sure to avoid them.

Instead, use specific examples of the legal work you've done and the results you've achieved. If possible, include the metrics, impact, and the relevant practice area. The more details you can include, the better.

Let's take a look at two contrasting examples:

Why is this entry weak? These points are too vague and generic. They don't illustrate candidate's specific contributions or accomplishments within the legal field.

Why does this example hit the mark? These points are specific and detailed, showcasing your direct impact on the firm's success. The use of metrics ("over 50 complex contracts annually," "reducing document retrieval time by 30%") makes the achievements quantifiable and impressive.

Making your work experience section stand out is crucial for a successful legal resume. By avoiding generic statements and focusing on specific, detailed examples of your legal work and accomplishments, you can effectively showcase your expertise and impact.

5. Include powerful action words in your legal resume

When describing your legal experience and accomplishments on your resume, use action words. Action words, also known as action verbs, clearly communicate your successes and skills on your resume.

They're effective at helping your resume tell a story. They also convey a level of confidence in your skills to the reviewer. This is particularly important in the legal field where being able to deliver successful results is incredibly valuable.

And remember, using a variety of action verbs can also enhance the readability of your resume and keep it engaging. Avoid using repetitive verbs, as they can make your resume monotonous. Diversify your action words to better illustrate the range and depth of your responsibilities and achievements.

Additional tips:

• Customized action words: Tailor your action words to the specific job description to better align your resume with the employer's needs. This can also help your resume pass through Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS).
• Quantify your achievements: Whenever possible, pair action verbs with quantifiable achievements to provide a clear picture of your impact. For example, “Negotiated settlements totaling over $1 million.”
• Showcase soft skills: Integrate verbs that demonstrate your soft skills, such as "Mentored associates" or "Facilitated team meetings." These verbs show your ability to contribute to a collaborative and productive work environment.

All in all, including a wide range of powerful action words into your legal resume can significantly enhance its impact. By clearly communicating your skills and accomplishments, and avoiding repetitive verbs, you can create a dynamic and compelling resume that effectively showcases your qualifications.

6. List your educational credentials properly

Accurately listing your education on a legal resume is essential for showcasing your qualifications and the foundation of your expertise. In the legal profession, educational background plays a crucial role in demonstrating your knowledge of the law, your analytical abilities, and your commitment to an intellectually demanding field.

Including your educational background can highlight relevant courses, honors, and achievements, reflecting your preparedness for a legal career.

For those whose education is directly related to the legal field, this section solidifies their foundation in law. For those coming from different academic backgrounds, emphasizing relevant courses, projects, and skills can demonstrate how their education has equipped them for a legal role.

Picture two different scenarios: one for a candidate whose education is directly related to law, and another for someone coming from an unrelated academic background:

This example clearly illustrates the candidate's specialized legal education and highlights achievements that are directly applicable to a legal career.

On the other hand, a candidate with a degree in Political Science might present their education like this:

In this scenario, even though the degree is not in law, the candidate emphasizes relevant courses, a notable academic project, and significant achievements that demonstrate their analytical and research skills, which are applicable in a legal context.

What's more, it’s essential for any attorney, law clerk, or legal assistant to keep up with the latest legal trends. You can easily demonstrate this commitment by listing relevant courses or seminars you've taken to upskill yourself. Be sure to include these in your education section to showcase your ongoing professional development.

Whether your degree is in a related field or not, tailored educational information can provide a strong foundation for your legal resume. Highlighting the most relevant aspects of your education ensures that your resume effectively communicates your readiness and capability to excel in your dream legal role. 

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7. Choose relevant extra sections for your legal resume

Often, it's the additional sections on your resume that make you stand out as a top pick. Here are a few suggestions for your legal resume to shine:

• Bar admission: In the field of law, your bar admission status is vital. Specify the state(s) where you're admitted to practice law.
• Certifications: If you've earned any certifications beyond your Juris Doctor degree, such as Intellectual Property Law, Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP), or others, be sure to include these.
• Volunteering experience: Have you offered pro bono legal services or volunteered in a community legal clinic? This reinforces your commitment to the law outside of a business context.
• Publications: If you've written legal briefs, articles, or have been published in a law journal, this can highlight your expertise and communication skills.
• Languages: Legal work can often necessitate interaction with diverse clients. If you're multilingual, include the languages you speak and your proficiency level.

Remember, these sections can underscore your strengths and demonstrate your diverse skills apart from essential legal competencies. Therefore, hand-pick those that best showcase your qualifications and fit the role you're applying for.

8. Avoid common mistakes in a legal resume

Creating a polished and professional legal resume requires attention to detail and a thorough understanding of what potential employers are looking for. Even the most qualified candidates can make mistakes that may hinder their chances of landing their desired roles. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Using generic statements: One frequent mistake is using vague or generic statements that fail to effectively communicate your skills and achievements. Instead of making broad claims like "Handled various legal tasks," be specific about your responsibilities and accomplishments. For example, "Managed 15 client cases simultaneously, drafting motions and conducting depositions that led to a 95% success rate" provides a clearer picture of your capabilities and impact.
• Ignoring keyword optimization: Another common error is ignoring keyword optimization. Many firms use Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) to filter through resumes, and failing to incorporate relevant keywords can result in your application being overlooked. Carefully review the job posting and integrate specific keywords throughout your resume. This not only helps your resume pass through the ATS but also shows that you have tailored your application to the specific role.
• Lack of focus on quantifiable achievements: A lack of focus on quantifiable achievements is also a major pitfall. Legal employers want to see evidence of your impact in previous roles. Rather than listing duties, emphasize your accomplishments with numbers and statistics. For instance, "Successfully negotiated settlements totaling over $2 million" is far more impactful than simply stating "Negotiated settlements."
• Overloading with legal jargon: While it's important to demonstrate your expertise, overloading your resume with too much legal jargon can make it difficult to read and understand. Balance technical language with clear, straightforward terms. This ensures that your resume is accessible not only to legal professionals but also to HR personnel who may not have a legal background.
• Poor formatting and spelling errors: Poor formatting and spelling errors can severely detract from the professionalism of your resume. Use a clean, straightforward layout with consistent fonts and headings, and carefully proofread your resume to eliminate any typos or grammatical mistakes. Even minor errors can leave a negative impression and suggest a lack of attention to detail.
• Failure to highlight relevant skills: Neglecting to highlight relevant skills is another frequent mistake. Ensure that your resume includes both hard and soft skills that are pertinent to the job. For example, "Strong legal research abilities" and "Excellent negotiation skills" are valuable additions that can make your resume stand out.
• Listing unrelated experience: Including too much unrelated experience can dilute the focus of your resume. While it’s okay to list diverse roles, make sure to frame them in a way that highlights transferable skills. Focus on how your past experiences can bring value to the legal role you are applying for.

All in all, crafting an effective legal resume requires precision, relevance, and attention to detail. By steering clear of these common pitfalls and focusing on your unique achievements, you'll greatly increase your chances of catching a potential employer's eye.

9. Pair your resume with a relevant legal cover letter

A well-crafted cover letter is an essential companion to your resume and can greatly enhance your job application. While both documents are crucial, they serve different purposes.

A resume provides a structured overview of your work history, skills, and education, focusing on your achievements and qualifications in a concise format. In contrast, a cover letter offers a narrative that allows you to express your enthusiasm for the role, explain why you're a perfect fit for the position, and provide context to your resume.

Including a cover letter with your resume is almost always a good idea unless the job posting explicitly states otherwise. A cover letter allows you to tailor your application to the specific job, demonstrating that you have taken the time to understand the role and the company. It’s your opportunity to shine beyond the bullet points of your resume, showcasing your personality and passion.

Moreover, it's vital to ensure that your cover letter and resume share a consistent design. This means using the same:

• fonts
• color schemes
• headers

A unified design not only looks more professional but also helps the hiring manager easily identify both documents as part of the same application. Consistency in design creates a cohesive and polished look, making a strong first impression.

By pairing a well-crafted cover letter with your resume, you create a compelling narrative that not only showcases your qualifications but also demonstrates your genuine interest and enthusiasm for the role. This thoughtful approach can set you apart from other candidates and leave a memorable impression on potential employers.

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10. Average salary and job outlook for legal occupations

The legal field offers promising career opportunities, both in terms of salary and job growth. According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average yearly salary for legal occupations was $99,220 as of May 2022. This figure reflects the high earning potential within various legal roles, including attorneys, paralegals, and legal assistants.

Looking ahead, the outlook for legal occupations is positive. Overall employment in this field is projected to grow faster than the average for all occupations from 2022 to 2032. The BLS projects about 91,700 openings each year, on average, in legal occupations. This demand is driven by employment growth and the need to replace workers who leave these roles permanently.

The robust job growth and competitive salaries make legal occupations an attractive career choice for those with the requisite skills and qualifications. Whether you are just entering the field or are an experienced professional considering a new opportunity, the legal profession offers a promising future with both financial and professional rewards.

11. Essential resources for navigating the legal job market

Entering the legal job market or advancing your career can be a challenging endeavor. Fortunately, the right resources can make a significant difference. Whether you’re a law student exploring career options or an experienced attorney seeking new opportunities, these tools can provide invaluable support.

• Legal job boards: Platforms like Lawjobs and Indeed aggregate numerous job listings tailored to the legal profession, making it easy to find roles that match your qualifications and aspirations.
• Networking: Building connections is crucial. Use LinkedIn and other social media platforms to network with legal professionals. Additionally, joining legal associations and attending industry conferences can introduce you to mentors and peers who can offer guidance and opportunities.
• Continued education: Staying ahead in the legal field often requires ongoing education. Websites like Coursera and Lawline offer courses and seminars that can help you acquire new certifications and skills, keeping you competitive in the job market.
• Legal blogs and news: Keeping up-to-date with industry trends is essential. Resources like Law.com and the ABA Journal provide the latest news, articles, and insights, helping you stay informed about the legal landscape.
• Mentorship: Seeking advice from seasoned lawyers can provide valuable insights into the profession. Mentors can share their experiences and offer guidance that can help you navigate your career path effectively.
• Career counseling: Many educational institutions offer career counseling services for students and alumni. These services can assist with resume and cover letter writing, interview preparation, and job search strategies, providing tailored support to enhance your job applications.
• Social media engagement: Leveraging social media can be incredibly beneficial. Platforms like X (formerly Twitter) can help you engage with legal influencers, participate in industry discussions, and stay updated with the latest trends. Following hashtags like #LawJobs or #LegalCareer can also expose you to valuable information and job leads.

Navigating the legal job market requires a combination of the right resources and strategic effort. By using these tools, you can equip yourself with the knowledge and connections needed to thrive in the legal profession.