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Paralegal Cover Letter Example

March 8, 2021 | By the Resume Genius Team | Reviewed by Samuel Johns, CPRW

Use our paralegal cover letter example and writing tips to help you write a strong cover letter of your own and land more interviews.

Don’t like the look of this cover letter? Find a new design in our collection of free cover letter templates .

Other Samples Related to a Paralegal Cover Letter

Office Assistant Cover Letter

Academic cover letter, paralegal cover letter template (text format).

Pay attention to the formatting used on your cover letter to guarantee it’s both readable and professional.

[Today’s Date]

[341 Company Address]

Company City, State, xxxxx

(xxx) xxx-xxxx

[email protected]]

Dear Mr./Mrs./Ms. [Hiring Manager’s Name],

This letter is in regards to my interest in applying for the entry-level paralegal position at [company name]. With my skills and qualifications, I am more than capable of providing paralegal support services to protect your company’s innovations and intellectual property.

While pursuing an Associates Degree in Paralegal Studies from [university name], I have developed knowledge of intellectual property law. As a member of the Junior Paralegal Club, I was able to stay up to date on all current affairs in relation to corporate law. With an internship at a mid-size law firm I was able to apply this knowledge and gain hands on experience in the field.

During my internship with The Wachester Firm, I was responsible for:

Together, I believe my educational background and internship experience makes me a suitable a candidate for the paralegal position at your firm. I have attached my resume highlighting my academic and professional skills and look forward to hearing from you in due course. I appreciate your time and consideration.

Yours sincerely,

[Your Name]

How to Write a Paralegal Cover Letter

Learning how to put together a cover letter for the specific job(s) you want will help you land more interviews.

Legal professionals depend on the support of talented paralegals to lighten their workload. To show them you’re the right person to assist with cases, showcase your paralegal skills in a stellar cover letter.

Use these three tips to write a paralegal cover letter that gets the hiring manager excited to learn more about you in person:

Highlight your paralegal skills

As a paralegal, your cover letter should highlight the technical skills relevant to your career, such as your legal knowledge and computer literacy. Additionally, certain key soft skills are needed to support daily operations, such as organizational skills and time management skills .

However, your day-to-day tasks as a paralegal can vary depending on the type of firm you work for and their field of law. To show the hiring manager you’re a strong candidate, you need to emphasize the skills and experience you have that are relevant to the needs of the firm.

For example, if you’re applying to be a real estate paralegal, talk about your experience negotiating lease agreements and preparing legal documents for real estate and commercial transactions.

Additionally, here are important paralegal hard skills to highlight in your cover letter:

In addition to your hard skills , here are some paralegal soft skills employers seek:

Use proper cover letter format

As a paralegal, you can expect employers to pay close attention to your professionalism and attention to detail throughout the hiring process. This also applies to your cover letter.

To give the hiring manager a great first impression, present your qualifications effectively and clearly by using traditional cover letter format .

Here’s how to properly format your paralegal cover letter:

Additionally, keep your cover letter at the ideal cover letter length , which is between 250 to 400 words.

End with a convincing closing statement

Jobs in the legal field are highly competitive. Knowing how to end your cover letter memorably can turn a good paralegal cover letter into a great one. This makes all the difference when a hiring manager is deciding between two candidates with similar qualifications.

To convince them there’s no better person for the job, restate your interest in the position, then list your key qualifications while emphasizing the value you can add to their firm.

Here’s how to write a strong paralegal closing statement:

Other Paralegal Cover Letters, Resumes, & CVs:

Cover letters:.

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Paralegal Cover Letter Example + Tips

Samuel Larson

859 Red Road Kings Landing, TX 79601 Cell: 555.322.7337 E-Mail: [email protected]

Dear Mr. Zonfrillo,

I am a highly trained paralegal with a background in divorce settlements, and I am excited by the opportunity to work for Zonfrillo & Smith Law Firm. I have a history of consistent, accurate legal support, and I know I could step in and make an immediate impact on your company. My objective as a paralegal is to provide excellent support for firm lawyers, and my expertise aligns with the qualifications needed for your open position. A desire to provide effective legal support is paramount to me and is shown in my career through a strong eight-year history as a certified paralegal. While my on-the-job experience has afforded me a well-rounded skill set, including first-rate resourcefulness and organizational abilities, I excel in the following areas: Performing thorough and efficient legal research. Managing trial, judicial, and master calendars. Drafting legal correspondence, managing client data, and handling court mailings. Preparing clients for appointments, depositions, and court appearances.

In the course of my work, I have regularly organized case exhibits and acted as a liaison between all parties of active cases. Additionally, I am a decisive person and have trained numerous incoming staff on office procedures and case-related tasks. I am extremely enthusiastic about Zonfrillo & Smith’s focus on civil law and would love the opportunity to contribute to your success in this area. My resume details my additional work experience. Thank you for your consideration and I look forward to learning more about this position. Please let me know if you would like any additional information to be considered for an interview.

Sincerely, Samuel Larson

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What it’s like to work in the paralegal field.

The paralegal cover letter breaks down why a candidate will be invaluable to any law office. They’re in fact the backbone of most practices. How a lawyer looks in court or the conference room is usually the result of the paralegal’s research. They assist attorneys in pretty much every aspect of preparation. They are a lawyer’s right hand. Paralegals are in every corner of the legal profession. They work for judges and in the district attorney’s office. Corporate, state, federal and local agencies that have legal departments utilize paralegals. The work these professionals perform could vary from organization to organization. There could as much administrative duty as legal.

Benefits of Working in the Paralegal Field

The paralegal world is the start of any legal career. Not that being a lawyer has to be the objective. If you’re smart, organized and focused, It’s a way to make money before applying to grad school. If your interest is law, being a paralegal can help you decide career goals. It’s also a great way to find a job. Paralegals have been known to move laterally within a company or to another company based on impressive work in the unrelenting legal field. Hiring managers understand the pressures involved and talent needed, and will take this into account when choosing an applicant for their positions.

Why You Need a Cover Letter

The paralegal cover letter is the first step that introduces you and your potential. Check out MyPerfectResume’s resources for well-written and highly professional cover letters that promise to catch a hiring manager’s eye. It’s a streamlined process that consists of hundreds of templates and samples that are all industry, individual and job specific, using a simple click through process.

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How to Write a Paralegal Cover Letter (Samples & Tips)

As a paralegal, you will be required to carry out legal work on behalf of a lawyer. You will be applying for jobs either at government agencies, law firms or corporate legal departments. Some of your tasks will include drafting documents, organizing files, research, helping the lawyer during trials, writing reports, investigating case facts, etc. Your paralegal cover letter should provide top reasons that make you an excellent fit for the position.

A good cover letter will encourage the hiring manager to read your resume . If looking for an entry-level position, the cover letter should highlight expertise and skills gained through internships and education.

For many people, being a paralegal jumpstarts their legal profession while others stick to being paralegals for life. They assist lawyers whose job involves using their legal expertise in cases.

Legal cases generate lots of paperwork and documentation, and it’s the work of a paralegal to copy and send this to different entities. As a paralegal, you must ensure that the copies are of high quality and have no secret or privileged information revealed. It would help if you oversaw the copying process to ensure correctness. Most of the time will be spent covering or redacting privileged information before making copies and stamping numbers to account for every paper.

Over time your job becomes sophisticated and you begin researching on behalf of the attorneys. Eventually, paralegals become trusted and proficient in their position. This allows them to be involved in writing first drafts for attorneys. At this point, the paralegal will be as skilled as the lawyers themselves in different subject matters.

Do’s and Don’ts for a paralegal cover letter

Being a paralegal can be overwhelming due to the amount of documentation and filing required. For one to succeed you must be:

Tips on writing the paralegal cover letter

When writing your cover letter , make sure it portrays you as the best candidate for the position. A well-written cover letter will represent the candidate’s intelligence, self-motivation, meticulous and hard working skills. These will free up the attorney so that they get time to do legal work. It should show excellent writing and communication skills too.

Paralegal cover letter template

[Applicant’s Name] [Applicant’s current Address] [City, state, zip] [Telephone number] [official email address]

[Name of hiring manager] [their title] [name of the law firm or company] [address] [city, state, zip]

Dear Mr./Ms. Last name

I am applying for the paralegal position advertised on [name where you found the job description] at [name the firm/ company]. I am a highly competent, hardworking and service focused paralegal. I believe that my skills and experience make me an excellent fit for this position.

I pursued an Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies at [name the university or college] and interned at [name the law firm or organization] during my summer holidays. I worked under senior paralegals who guided and instructed me on procedures and court case protocols. My background includes motions, discoveries, pleadings, and briefs. I got the opportunity to work under different areas of law including medical malpractice litigation, insurance defense, and workers’ compensation.

Some of the highlights of my experience include:

I am a highly motivated paralegal who is ready to take on more responsibility at [name of the firm/ company]. I have become an expert at time and self-management. I follow through tasks at hand while keeping communication open with clients and colleagues.

I believe that my skills and experiences make me an asset to your company. I have attached my resume and look forward to learning more about the position. I hope to join the diverse and growing team of professionals at [company or firm name]. Please contact me via phone or email to further discuss the position and how I can contribute towards meeting your goals.

Thank you for taking the time and considering my application.

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Paralegal Cover Letter Examples

Paralegals are in charge for assisting attorneys and completing legal work. Some of their duties are performing administrative duties, preparing legal documents, interviewing clients, providing quotes to clients, taking part in court procedures, and attending client meetings. A professional presentation is vital for this job.

Not exactly what you are looking for? Check our complete library of over 1000 cover letter examples .

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For help with your resume, check out our extensive Paralegal Resumes .

Improve your chances of getting noticed with a powerful cover letter. Take a look at our guide to create the best cover letter in 2023 .

Include These Paralegal Skills

A sample cover letter for Paralegal displaying a similar skill set is available below.

Dear Mr. Maurer:

As a skilled paralegal with more than 15 years of experience drafting legal documents, performing in-depth research, and providing general administrative support , I am pleased to present the enclosed resume. I am confident that you will find my dedication and enthusiastic attitude to be of value to your firm.

My experience in providing general legal assistance has prepared me to make a significant contribution to Mahoney, Stevens, and Baker, LLC. My background includes preparing pleadings, motions, discoveries, and briefs, as well as interacting with courts and clients to facilitate streamlined legal operations. My career tenure has encompassed a variety of areas of law, including insurance defense , liability, workers’ compensation, and medical malpractice litigation.

Highlights of my experience include:

Effectively managing legal research, document preparation, and general legal support to drive streamlined firm operations and ensure top-flight client service, satisfaction, and retention.

Drafting deposition / trial documents, interviewing clients and witnesses, assembling trial materials and exhibits, and collecting and evaluating evidence to facilitate court proceedings and provide maximum assistance to attorneys.

Establishing solid and trusting relationships through exceptional communication skills; utilizing superior organizational, interpersonal, and problem-solving skills to realize first-rate results.

Effectively balancing multiple competing tasks within high-pressure atmospheres, streamlining processes and procedures to maximize productivity and efficiency.

Attaining professional certification as a Paralegal in 2000.

With my finely honed skills in general legal support, accompanied by my core strengths in legal research, court interactions, and client service, I am well positioned to vastly exceed your expectations for this role. It will be a pleasure to offer more insight into my qualifications, and I look forward to meeting with you soon; thank you for your consideration.

Stephanie W. Carter

A professional cover letter is the first step toward your new job!

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Cover Letter Examples

Paralegal Cover Letter Sample [+Entry-Level Candidates]

Ready to have a job doing hours of difficult, thankless paralegal work so a lawyer can get all the credit? In this paralegal resume guide, we walk you through it step by step.

As seen in:

You’re about to draft a stunning paralegal cover letter .

From paraphrasing legal jargon to drafting documents to preparing subpoenas, you change lives in the background.

First, though—

You need to submit evidence proving you’re the best law candidate by delivering an awesome cover letter for paralegal jobs.

Don’t worry.

This paralegal cover letter guide will show you:

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

Create your cover letter now

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

Want to explore your options further? See our full selection of cover letter examples for every career: Best Cover Letter Examples for All Professions

First, here’s our take on the perfect cover letter for paralegal jobs:

Sample Paralegal Cover Letter No Experience

Gretchen & Gretchen, LLP

233 Broadway, 11th Floor

New York, NY 10279

Dear Whitney,

Coming out of a successful paralegal internship and having earned a Bachelor’s in Legal Studies, I am excited to have the opportunity to apply for your paralegal position. My research and investigative skills have been sharpened significantly during my law internship, and I am confident I have the focus and mettle to be a great addition to your paralegal team.

During my Fordham University coursework and subsequent legal internship at Smith & Sosnowski, I acquired and developed many skills which would serve me well as a paralegal at Gretchen & Gretchen. My experience spans probate cases, legal writing, bankruptcies, research, and investigations, and it positions me suitably for this new role.

During my time at S&S, I’ve had several wins I’m quite proud of:

As my accomplishments detail, I’m particularly fond of performing the research and data aspect of the industry, whether it’s liaising with courts and opposing counsel or preparing motions and discovery. If granted the opportunity to work alongside the great legal minds at Gretchen & Gretchen, that same grit and determination comes with me.

I would welcome the chance to discuss Gretchen & Gretchen’s upcoming cases and plans, as well as to share with you how my legal and administrative achievements provide me with an excellent foundation for inclusion on your legal team.

P.S. Perhaps we could meet over lunch and I can explain my ideas to translate the 12% administrative expense reduction to your legal team?

How’s that?

Writing a paralegal resume cover letter that’s awesome beyond any reasonable doubt is simpler than you think. Read on to learn more!

Pick the Best Format for a Paralegal Cover Letter

Before a legal team has its day in court, there’s a lot of work to be done to prepare its case (much of which will fall on your shoulders).

Same here—

Prior to writing it, you need to make sure your paralegal cover letter format won’t get dismissed with prejudice .

Here’s a sample paralegal cover letter outline to follow like a court docket:

Cover Letter Paralegal Sample—Format Template

Keep your entry-level paralegal cover letter to around 200-300 words. If you have some paralegal or legal assistant experience, slightly more is fine.

Start With a Paralegal Cover Letter Intro They’ll Love

Paralegal and legal assistant jobs are projected to grow by 15% between 2016 and 2026 in the US alone, adding more than 41,000 jobs.

That means—

You’ve got to grab their attention like a John Grisham novel.

So start off strong right out of the gate.

Begin with their name.

People love hearing their own names, based on brain studies —first name, especially:

Paralegal Cover Letter Examples—Salutation

Easy as winning an ex parte decision!

Search the law firm’s website and scan through LinkedIn to find the hiring manager’s or partner’s name to whom you should address it.

Need to be more formal for more venerable institutions? Using their last name beats no name at all: Dear Ms. Park-Simons .

Can’t locate a name?

No worries.

Choose a neutral greeting, like Dear Hiring Manager —it’s still way better than To whom it may concern !

Pro Tip : Larger law firms may have their own HR department, or they hire an external recruiter to fill positions. In these cases, you’ll address HR. At small legal firms, however, you could address a law partner directly, so be formal and include their title.

Don’t care for Dear ? Not able to find a name? We’ve got other options for various scenarios: How to Start a Cover Letter For a Job: Sample & Guide [20+ Examples]

Now, the opening statement.

For any trier of fact , the opening statement is often the first opportunity to hear from each side.

It’s similar here—

On any legal cover letter, the opening statement is your first chance to make a great impression.

Here’s how to start a cover letter for paralegal jobs:

Cover Letter for Paralegal Job Examples—Introductions

To paraphrase the most popular legal proverb: If you don’t make it prime, you won’t get the time (at an interview).

That wrong one is super generic and feels quite selfish—

Your job application will be immediately sentenced to life in the recycle bin.

The right one, though, makes you immediately appear to be a competent law firm candidate. Your background shows you have the experience they need, even if it’s for an entry-level paralegal position.

Prima facie , excellent!

Pro Tip : Writing a general cover letter is a capital offense—it’ll immediately kill your chances. Instead, tailor your cover letter for this one specific paralegal job at this one particular law firm. If you need to apply for a second job, write a new cover letter.

There are other ways to go about your paralegal or legal internship introduction statement. For more ideas, see: How to Write a Cover Letter For a Job: Sample & Guide [20+ Examples]

Write a Great Middle for Your Cover Letter for Paralegals

You need to habeas an awesome cover letter corpus if you want to get considered for the paralegal job offer.

So, make a solid case for your employment in the main body area.

In 2 or 3 paragraphs, here’s how to present your side in a legal cover letter body:

Here’s a sample paralegal cover letter with no experience main statement:

Sample Cover Letter for Paralegals—Body Paragraphs

During my university coursework and subsequent law internship at Smith & Sosnowski, I developed and built many skills which would serve me well as a paralegal at Gretchen & Gretchen. My experience spans probate cases, divorce actions, bankruptcies, and investigations, and it positions me suitably for this new role.

During my time at S&S, my achievements included:

This body area is as brief as an amicus , at only three paragraphs long.

However, in such a short space, it successfully covers your legal wins, related experience, and paralegal skill set. On top of that, it subtly conveys enthusiasm by throwing in a bit of flattery.

Sure to please the court!

Pro Tip : Emphasize the fact that you want to be a paralegal, and you’re not just interested in the position as an entry-level lawyer job stepping stone. Law firms want to see passion for law and justice, rather than to be used as a means to your career ends.

Need more ideas on how to tweak these middle bits? We’ve got all the cover letter dos and don’ts here: 35+ Best Tips and Advice For Writing a Cover Letter

How to Close Paralegal Cover Letters Like a Boss

Like Clarence Darrow, you’ve got to hold their attention in your closing arguments.

It doesn’t have to be 12 hours long, though.

Here’s how to bring your cover letter to a satisfying end:

Paralegal Cover Letters Samples—Closing Paragraph

The first example is curt and brutally impersonal—

A misdemeanor, at least.

The other one, though, closes it out respectfully and effectively.

It’ll make even Clarence Thomas offer up some verbal praise!

Next up, an easy closing sentiment and your full name:

Sample Cover Letter Paralegal—Valediction

And finally, we have a postscript.

While it isn’t mandatory, including a P.S. below your signature is a great way to grab their attention one last time.

Here’s a paralegal cover letter example postscript:

Sample Entry-Level Paralegal Cover Letter —Postscript

P.S. Perhaps we could meet over a lunch and I can explain my ideas to translate the 12% administrative expense reduction to your legal team?

How about it?

This example is efficient because it briefly reminds them of your accomplishments. And, for even more effectiveness, it adds a personal touch to the otherwise formal nature of any cover letter.

Sure to convince any grand jury!

Pro Tip : To boost your paralegal job chances even further, mention any relevant certifications you’ve acquired. Don’t have any? Get one! NALA’s Certified Paralegal (CP) program is a respected one to consider, for example.

Looking for more ideas on how to close out a bankruptcy paralegal or litigation paralegal cover letter? We’ve a great guide right here: How to End a Cover Letter: Sample & Complete Guide [+20 Examples]

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Key Takeaway

So you see, writing a great cover letter for paralegal jobs causes no undue hardship .

Let’s bring it all together.

Here’s how to write the perfect paralegal cover letter:

Now THAT’S a paralegal cover letter as exciting as any Andy Carpenter mystery!

Have questions on how to write a paralegal internship cover letter? Not sure how to talk up your legal skills, relate your paralegal achievements, or mention your law experience? Get at us in the comments below, and we’ll answer your questions. Thanks for reading!

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How to Write a Paralegal Resume and Cover Letter (With Examples!)

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Contents: Guide To Paralegals

1. what is a paralegal, 2. legal assistants vs. paralegals: what’s the difference, 3. how to become a paralegal.

4. How to Write a Paralegal Resume and Cover Letter (With Examples!)

5. 5 tools every paralegal needs, 6. a guide to paralegal billing, 7. everything you need to know about paralegal automation, 8. choosing the right paralegal software program: a guide.

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The legal industry occupies a critical role in our society, and legal professionals face many demands and pressures. This naturally leads to lawyers expecting nothing but the best from the paralegals they work with. Accordingly, it’s important for a paralegal to put their best foot forward in their job application by crafting a top-notch paralegal resume and cover letter.

The good news is there has never been a better time to look for a paralegal job, with employment of paralegals and legal assistants expected to increase by 14% from 2021 to 2031 . To compete in this growing market, paralegal job applicants need all their ducks in a row.

What are the skills that employers are looking for in a paralegal?

Law firms look for a number of skills when hiring paralegals, including:

Be sure to highlight these skills—and other relevant skills, depending on the firm you’re applying to — in your paralegal resume and cover letter.

How do I write a paralegal resume?

When crafting your paralegal resume, be organized and concise. A paralegal resume details your career history, while your paralegal cover letter provides you with the opportunity to highlight more specific details that demonstrate why you are a great fit for the position.

Your paralegal resume should include your contact information, education and certifications, work experience, and other relevant experience or skills (for example, additional languages spoken, volunteer experience, or proficiency with various legal practice management software programs). Under each category, you can highlight job duties, responsibilities, achievements, and skills acquired through your experiences.

What should a paralegal put on a resume?

Your paralegal resume should provide law firms with a snapshot of your work experience, education, and abilities. It should also concisely highlight your relevant skills, such as the following:

Paralegal resume examples

While it’s critical to tailor your paralegal resume to your unique experience (and the firm you’re applying to), it never hurts to review paralegal resume examples to get a sense of what your resume should look like.

Sample resumes specific to paralegals can also be helpful. If you’re applying for paralegal jobs but lack experience, be sure to check out some examples geared to your situation.

How do I write a paralegal cover letter?

When crafting your paralegal cover letter, first focus on the main purpose of the letter. While a resume details your career history, a cover letter provides more specific details and insights into why you would be a good fit for the role. A cover letter is also a great opportunity to get creative and highlight useful skills in the legal industry. This is especially important if you lack industry experience.

What should a paralegal cover letter include?

A paralegal cover letter should include an introductory paragraph, a main body, and a conclusion. Your main body should highlight your skills and experience. We delve into these different sections in more detail below.

Introductory paragraph

In your introductory paragraph , you should both (1) introduce yourself and (2) provide a brief summary of why you’d be a good fit for the firm. Explain who you are—an experienced paralegal? Someone who was recently certified as a paralegal? Now is the time to mention any referrals or mutual acquaintances. Finally, include a few reasons why you’d be a good fit for the firm.

In the main body , you have one or two paragraphs to explain two things: (1) why you want to work for this firm and (2) why this firm should hire you. Avoid the trap of simply summarizing your resume. While you should provide an overview of your education and experience, you should primarily focus on answering the above two questions.

Specify what makes you excited to work for this firm in particular. Does the firm work in a practice area that interests you, or in which you have experience? Is it the firm’s stellar reputation?

Finally, elaborate on why the firm should select you as their new hire. Explain how your qualifications would assist in fulfilling paralegal duties at the firm. Look for the key attributes named by the firm in their job posting, and detail how you meet those standards.

The concluding paragraph of the cover letter should succinctly wrap up the letter and leave the reader with a positive impression. Thank the reader for their consideration and outline how and when you will follow up on your application. You can also specify how you can be reached, but preferably your contact information is already included in the letter’s header.

What do law firms look for in paralegal cover letters?

Here we summarize the main points employers are looking for in your paralegal cover letter. These items all relate to how law firms hire paralegals and how they assess candidates for paralegal roles.

A personal touch

Ensure your cover letter doesn’t look like generic mass-mail correspondence. Include a personal touch that shows the letter is directed to the hiring firm in particular.

This could include writing about the firm’s specific practice areas. Not only does this show you’ve done your research, it’s sure to be more compelling for the hiring personnel reading it. Highlighting your interest in real estate work will not be appealing to a personal injury firm—so do your homework.

It’s also critical to outline your relevant experience. You can rest assured that attorneys will be checking your previous paralegal experience and the firms you have worked for.

Keep in mind even if your experience doesn’t line up exactly with the job description, it may still be worth applying. Just be sure to highlight what you bring to the table despite your lack of experience. For example, you may have copy editing experience, or you may have developed writing and editing skills in another role outside of the legal industry.

Soft skills

Be sure to highlight soft skills that aren’t the easiest to emphasize on a resume. Not only does this help the firm see you as a living and breathing human, it illustrates what it might be like to work with you day-to-day. For example, if you work well as part of a team, definitely let them know! And be sure to provide one or two specific examples that highlight these skills, as opposed to simply declaring “I am detail oriented.”

Make an attempt to let your enthusiasm shine through in your cover letter. Highlight why you’re excited about this job in particular. For example, has it always been your dream to work for a personal injury firm because you were injured in a car accident as a child and now want to help others? Personal touches like this can help, since attorneys want to be confident you will bring high energy levels to the job every day.

Tips for writing a winning paralegal cover letter

Beyond knowing the basic format and structure of the cover letter, you should also remember a few key points as follows. Highlight what makes you unique (early!)

If you have any skills or experience that make you uniquely suited to this role, highlight those items early in the cover letter. It’s best practice to summarize the top things you want the firm to know about you in the introductory paragraph.

For instance, if you have experience with cloud-based legal practice management (LPM) software and the firm uses Clio , you should state this early and expand on the point further in the main body.

Get to the point

Your paralegal cover letter should be memorable without exceeding one page in length. This means you’ll have to avoid any temptation to be overly wordy or long-winded. Instead, get to the point quickly while adding enough polish and substance to be persuasive.

When trying to be compelling and concise at the same time, it’s important to also make sure to add variety to your sentence structure. Vary the length of your sentences, as well as how you start sentences, to keep the reader engaged.

Set the right tone

Any written letter conveys a certain tone , and you want to be sure your cover letter conveys the right one. For a paralegal position, you must definitely use a professional tone. However, making the tone a bit more personal may help in certain instances.

If you’re applying and wanting to work at a Big Law firm , you should err on the side of a more professional style. But for a smaller firm, check their website and see if they use a more lighthearted or conversational feel. Matching that tone in your cover letter could be a positive sign in the eyes of their attorneys. Plus, it’s yet another way to show you have done your homework on the firm.

You only have one opportunity to make a good first impression. Don’t let spelling or grammatical errors ruin an otherwise excellent cover letter. From the firm’s perspective, if you can’t catch these errors in your own cover letter, how will you avoid critical errors with their court filings and other legal documents? It may be worthwhile to ask a friend or family member to review your cover letter to ensure you don’t miss any mistakes.

proofreading a paralegal resume and cover letter

Paralegal cover letter examples

Looking at paralegal cover letter examples can give you a sense of what your cover letter should look like. Sample cover letters specific to paralegals can also be helpful. If you’re a paralegal job applicant lacking experience, be sure to check out some examples geared to your situation.

While samples can be helpful, it’s important to remember the best cover letter emphasizes your skills and experience while being tailored to the firm you’re applying to. Feel free to look at cover letter samples for assistance, but don’t forget the guidelines above.

Final thoughts on paralegal resumes and cover letters

A well-crafted paralegal resume and cover letter can help you land the opportunity to fill a demanding role in our growing industry. Simply be sure to structure your letter properly, keep your mind on what firms are looking for, and follow the tips outlined above. With a great cover letter, in addition to experience with the right tools and a well-written paralegal resume , you’ll be well on the way to the successful paralegal career you deserve.

Law firms are looking for paralegals who know their way around the latest tech. Watch how law firms use Clio here to give yourself an edge.

Want more paralegal resources?

How to Become a Paralegal

10 Paralegal Interview Questions you Need to be Ready For

Legal Assistants vs. Paralegals: What’s the Difference?

Paralegal cover letter

As a paralegal, you know the power of the written word when it comes to persuading someone. To be considered for top paralegal jobs, your cover letter must demonstrate your skills and experience, as well as your passion for service. For writing tips, view this sample cover letter for a paralegal, or download the paralegal cover letter template in Word.

From 2016 through 2026, jobs for paralegals are projected to grow by 15% (or 41,800 jobs), which is much faster than average, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). You'll find the highest level of employment for this job in the following states: California , Florida , New York , Texas , and Illinois ; and in the following metropolitan areas: New York City , Los Angeles , Chicago , Washington D.C. , and Atlanta .

In terms of salaries, you can expect to earn a median wage of $50,410 per year (or $24.24 per hour) as a paralegal, according to the BLS.

Additionally, you can learn about legal careers and look for paralegal jobs on Monster.

Paralegal cover letter template

Sean Wofford Sometown, MA 55555 | (555) 555-5555 | [email protected]

August 10, 2017 Mr. Walter Smythe HR Manager ABC Corporation 55 Pioneer Way Sometown, MA 55555

Re: Paralegal Position Advertised on Monster

Dear Mr. Smythe:

Throughout my six-year career as a paralegal and legal assistant, I earned consistent praise for my attention to detail, organizational abilities, legal research skills and strong grasp of case law and litigation management. These skills appear to be an excellent match to the requirements listed in your paralegal job posting, and I am very interested in the opportunity.

I currently serve as a paralegal for XYZ Corp., where I work closely with general counsel to provide paralegal support on a number of high-priority cases and projects. Within the first few months of my employment, I created XYZ’s centralized system for corporate and subsidiary records, garnering feedback from the CEO and general counsel for this “outstanding effort” that improved information accessibility, prevented missed deadlines and ensured compliance with state requirements.

Previously as a paralegal for DEF Corp. (a law firm specializing in criminal and civil litigation), I thrived within a high-volume and deadline-intensive environment. I received commendations for my trial preparation work, ability to handle complex assignments and dedicated support of senior attorneys. I demonstrated due diligence in preparing hundreds of discovery demands, motions and case-status reports and managed clients from diverse backgrounds.

My qualifications include a bachelor’s degree in business administration, a paralegal/litigation specialty certificate, training in IP law and proficiencies in Westlaw, LexisNexis, Summation and MS Office Suite.

I would like the opportunity to discuss how I can contribute to your legal team. To arrange a meeting, please call (555) 555-5555 or email [email protected] Thank you.

Sean Wofford Enclosure: Resume

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Paralegal Cover Letter Examples

Composing a cover letter is among the essential tasks job seekers must undertake to increase their chances of success. Your cover letter should offer the top reasons that make you a great candidate for the position. Take a look at our paralegal cover letter example and review our do’s and don’ts to get a clearer idea of how to craft a successful letter of your own.

Paralegal Advice

The cover letter examples below will help you create an effective paralegal cover letter. Use these samples as a guide when crafting your own cover letters, and get hired faster!

Cover Letter Tips for Paralegal

When looking for jobs as a Paralegal, knowing what the best steps to take will greatly improve your success. Take your job search to the next level by taking a look at the following short guide about how to find work.

1. Incorporate elements of your chosen field into your applications. Research the unique hiring practices and expectations for the job you want and let this information guide how you apply. This will lead to much stronger applications.

2. Make an effort to keep a positive attitude. The average job search is getting longer, but you cannot afford to become discouraged. Employers are looking for workers that are confident and optimistic.

3. Use your network to your advantage. Take time to build your network as you seek work. You never know when a connection you make may lead to the job you have been searching for. Everyone you meet is a potential lead.

4. Research all your options. You may have a first choice for the position you want, but there are many jobs that will benefit your career. If you are having trouble being hired, you should already be familiar with other positions that will make it easier to acquire your desired job later.

5. Be persistent. Many applicants are filtered out of consideration simply because they give up. Until you are given a definitive answer, you should never assume you did not get the job and continue to follow up with phone calls.

Paralegal Job Seeking Tips

One of the most important aspects to keep in mind when looking for jobs as a Paralegal is how strong your cover letter is. Some of the universal rules that you should follow are detailed below.

1. Be active when writing. Employers are most interested in the actions you have taken when working. Be sure to extensively use strong action verbs, especially when detailing your work history. Emphasize that you are an active worker.

2. Prioritize your experience and accomplishments sections. Because these are the sections that include information about your previous working experiences, they are the most important. Ensure that they include the most information and that they are strong.

3. Be as specific as possible. Show that you know the field that you are trying to enter. Every position has unique attributes, so you should be slightly reworking your cover letter for each application to make it as relevant as it can be.

4. Find a way to stand out. You are going to have a lot of competition, so you need to be memorable. Remember that there are strict format restrictions, so the content of your cover letter should be a unique and interesting aspect.

5. Analyze the surface appearance of your cover letter as well. While the content is more important, the organization of information will still influence the first impression you make. Find and eliminate all instances of gaps, wasted space, large blocks of text, and typographical errors.

*As seen in :

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COMMENTS

Paralegal Cover Letter Examples and Templates
I'm delighted to be applying for the Paralegal position at Cloud Clearwater. This field has been a dream of mine ever since I visited a
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This letter is in regards to my interest in applying for the entry-level paralegal position at [company name]. With my skills and qualifications
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I have a history of consistent, accurate legal support, and I know I could step in and make an immediate impact on your company. My objective as a paralegal is
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A paralegal cover letter should include an introductory paragraph, a main body, and a conclusion. Your main body should highlight your skills and experience. We
Paralegal Cover Letter Sample
Paralegal cover letter template ... Dear Mr. Smythe: Throughout my six-year career as a paralegal and legal assistant, I earned consistent praise
Outstanding Paralegal Cover Letter Examples
Cover Letter Tips for Paralegal · 1. Incorporate elements of your chosen field into your applications. · 2. Make an effort to keep a positive attitude. · 3. Use