TABLE OF CONTENTS
Free Law Clerk Cover Letter Example
Fill in the blanks in this cover letter template to create a customized application letter for free. You'll find specific instructions on completing each paragraph to wow recruiters.
Your name
[City, State ZIP Code]
[Your Email Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Today’s Date]
[Hiring Manager’s Name]
[Company Name]
[OPTIONAL: Department Name]
[Company Address]
[City, State ZIP Code]
Dear [Mr./Ms. Hiring Manager or Recruiter last name],
This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.
This section is your opener and should contain your ‘purpose’ or interest statement that explains why you would be interested in the job posting or the company. Make sure to reference keywords and statements from the job description.
The body paragraph (s): should contain skills and qualifications related to the job, i.e., provide a narrative example of how your job-related skills were obtained/honed. Your goal here is to match the skills to the employer’s needs. Justify how your career experiences could fit into the position and the organization.
The end paragraph: is the closer that would signify a ‘call to action’ by reiterating an essential qualification for the position you possess and an appreciation for the employer’s consideration.
Closing statement: Thank the employer/recruiter for their time.
Sincerely,
— Your Full Name
If you want to make it more presentable, check out our professional cover letter templates, which include more than a dozen customizable job-appropriate designs.
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How to Write a Law Clerk Cover Letter
If you're starting to write a cover letter, the example below will help you identify must-have sections and what to include in each one.
Now that you've got an idea of the cover letter basics let's dive into the details of optimizing your letter to land a specific role.
STEP 1
Format your cover letter’s header correctly
A well-formatted header will helm your law clerk cover letter, showcasing essential details about the letter's date and recipient. Complete this section by including the date, the hiring manager's name and job title, the company's name and address and a formal greeting.
Strong cover letter header example:
April 10, 2025
Olivia Morgan, Hiring Manager
Anderson & Associates Law Firm
1234 Justice Street
Los Angeles, CA 90015
Dear Ms. Morgan,
Weak cover letter header example:
Jim Smith
132 Banana Street
Nashvile, TN 37203
j.s@example.com
(098) 123-4567
Date: 13/45/2022
To whom it may concern,
Mgmt. Luis Rodrigez
Partner, Rose, Pedal & Bloom Law Firms
567 Apple Avenue
New York, CA 23789
PRO TIP
If you can't find the hiring manager's name, you can address your cover letter with “Dear Hiring Manager.“ but never use the generic “To Whom It May Concern.“
STEP 2
Introduce yourself in the opening paragraph
Your law clerk cover letter must quickly capture the hiring manager's attention. Introduce yourself with your professional title and key qualifications, such as in-demand skills or specialized expertise. For example, see how these two opening paragraph examples compare:
Strong opening paragraph example:
As a paralegal with five years of experience in corporate law, I am eager to apply for the law clerk position at Sullivan & Cromwell LLP. My background in legal research and drafting has equipped me for this role, particularly through my experience assisting in a high-value merger deal. Recently, I streamlined our document review process, reducing project time by 30%, enhancing efficiency significantly.
Weak opening paragraph example:
Hey there Lee & Partners, I’d like to apply for the law clerk spot. I’ve dabbled in law-related stuff and feel sort of ready for this role. Hoping to chat soon! Thx.
PRO TIP
Do you know someone in your target company who would be willing to vouch for you? Check out how to approach referrals with these example referral cover letter openings.
STEP 3
Share relevant achievements in the body paragraph
Your cover letter's body paragraph should include unique achievements you didn't already mention on your resume. There's so much you can do with this section: share your long-term career goals, share anecdotes demonstrating your work ethic or commitment to the job, or narrate the story of your career growth so far.
Strong body paragraph example:
During my tenure as a law clerk, I efficiently managed over 100 case files, demonstrating my organizational skills and attention to detail. I successfully drafted legal documents that contributed to winning 70% of motions filed, illustrating my strong legal writing capability. By liaising with attorneys and clients, I resolved conflicts swiftly, showcasing my problem-solving abilities and commitment to client satisfaction. My experience equips me to contribute effectively and positively to your firm.
Weak body paragraph example:
I'm seeking a law clerk position since I need a career change and believe I'd be suitable. Although I don't have specific clerk experience, I'm eager to learn the legal field. I've not really worked with legal documents but am willing to grasp the tasks. I believe I could contribute if given the chance.
STEP 4
Finish by encouraging next steps
The closing paragraph will be the final section of your law clerk cover letter. Use this section to share any final skills or qualifications you possess and state your interest in a future interview. Go for confident tone and proper sign-off before signing your name.
Strong closing paragraph:
Having honed my legal research and analytical skills through my studies and internships, I am confident in my ability to effectively contribute to the team at Perkins Coie LLP. I am eager to bring my passion and dedication to this role and would appreciate the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview. Thank you for considering my application.
Sincerely,
Samuel Thompson
Weak closing paragraph:
I feel I might fit in as a law clerk at your office because I'm interested in the field, and while I may not have all the experience, I'm eager to learn. If you think I might suit the role, I hope to discuss this opportunity further. Thank you for looking at my application.
Sincerely,
Michael Carter
See? Writing a cover letter for your law clerk role can be easy with the right help. Check out our Cover Letter Builder for an even faster and more efficient way to create a custom cover letter tailored to your target job.
Top Skills to Include in Cover Letter Examples for Law Clerk
The cover letter is a great place to include more skills you couldn't fit into your resume. Here are some of the most in-demand skills for a law clerk. Incorporate a balanced mix of soft skills and hard skills that show you're a top candidate.
- Legal Research
- Case Management
- Drafting Documents
- Court Procedures
- Client Communication
- Legal Writing
- Document Review
- E-filing Systems
- Office Software Proficiency
- Legal Database Navigation
- Ethical Judgment
- Confidentiality
Explore more relevant skills and content suggestions for your letter of application in our Cover Letter Builder. Type in your target job title or upload your resume to generate a custom cover letter in minutes!
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