Paralegal Cover Letter Example
Are you ready to land your dream Paralegal job? The key to success lies in crafting an outstanding cover letter that features your strengths and grabs the attention of hiring managers from the very first paragraph.
Paralegal Cover Letter
As a Paralegal, featuring your exceptional communication, organizational, critical thinking, and research abilities in your cover letter is crucial to setting yourself apart from other candidates.
A well-crafted cover letter allows you to present these in smart ways that will impress recruiters in the legal field.
In this article, you will look into:
- Which essential Paralegal skills you should highlight and how
- Invaluable advice and proven strategies to stand out, even with no experience
- Expertly crafted examples to help you “build your case” compellingly
Combine our valuable tips with the efficiency of our cover letter creation tool, and you’ll have a powerful cover letter crafted in just a few minutes.
Now, let’s begin your journey toward writing an excellent Paralegal cover letter!
Skills Every Paralegal Should Feature in Their Cover Letter
As an integral part of a legal team, you play a vital role in ensuring the success of legal cases and initiatives.
You possess a wide range of qualifications that enable you to provide first-class support to attorneys and clients, but there are 4 skills hiring managers pay special attention to and that you should highlight in your Paralegal cover letter:
- Communication: Mention any experience you have working directly with clients, attorneys, or court personnel. Provide examples of how you have effectively communicated complex legal concepts or information in writing or verbally.
Example:
In my previous role as a Paralegal at [company name], I worked on a complex litigation case where I was responsible for drafting legal documents, including pleadings, motions, and discovery requests. In doing so, I was able to use my knowledge of legal terminology and concepts to communicate effectively with attorneys, judges, and court personnel.
- Organization: A great Paralegal is detail-oriented and has excellent organizational skills. They can manage and organize large volumes of information, and they pay close attention to every detail to ensure accuracy and completeness.
Example:
At [company name], I was responsible for maintaining case files, managing calendars, and scheduling meetings for multiple attorneys. There, I developed a new filing system for case documents that reduced the time it took to locate and retrieve important documents by 50%. This not only saved time for the attorneys but also improved the accuracy and completeness of the case files.
- Critical thinking: A top-notch Paralegal has strong critical thinking skills and is able to analyze complex legal issues and identify potential problems or areas of concern. They can provide valuable insights and perspectives to attorneys and develop creative solutions to legal challenges.
Example:
In one case, I worked on a dispute over the division of assets in a divorce proceeding. Through my analysis of the relevant legal precedents and statutes, I was able to propose a creative settlement agreement that enabled both parties to receive a fair share of the assets and avoid a protracted legal battle.
- Research: An outstanding Paralegal has strong research skills to locate and analyze relevant legal information and sources. They contribute to the development of legal strategies and the building of cases by providing comprehensive research support.
Example:
I worked on a case involving a complex merger and acquisition deal, where I was responsible for researching regulatory compliance and industry standards. Through my research in exisNexis, Westlaw, and Bloomberg Law, I was able to identify relevant legal precedents and regulations and provide valuable insights to the attorneys that helped them to build a strong case and negotiate a favorable settlement.
In case you need to quickly customize your resume to complement your cover letter, our user-friendly resume builder can be of great help.
Crafting an Effective Paralegal Cover Letter When You Have Experience
A Paralegal cover letter contains all the typical elements that should be included in this type of document.
However, the ones listed below are designed to help you improve your chances of getting an interview dramatically.
Read carefully and analyze the examples to get the most out of this section:
- Start with a strong opening: Consider starting with a compelling statement or anecdote that demonstrates your passion for the legal field or your relevant experience as a Paralegal. A strong opening can help ensure that the recruiter continues reading your cover letter and is excited to learn more about your qualifications and experience.
Wrong ❌
I am writing to express my interest in the Paralegal position at your law firm. I have attached my resume for your review.
This opening statement is generic and does not provide any specific information about the candidate’s experience or qualifications.
It is unlikely to capture the hiring manager’s attention and may cause them to skip over the rest of the cover letter.
Right ✅
As an accomplished Paralegal with a passion for advocating for clients, I am thrilled to apply for the Paralegal position at your prestigious law firm. With over 5 years of experience in civil litigation, I have had the privilege of working on a variety of cases, from high-stakes corporate disputes to personal injury claims.
In this case, the opening is more compelling because it emphasizes the candidate’s passion for advocating for clients and their confidence in their ability to contribute to the firm’s continued success.
The language is more descriptive and demonstrates the applicant’s skill set persuasively and engagingly. This is sure to capture the attention of the hiring manager and encourage them to read on to learn more about the candidate’s qualifications.
- Showcase your familiarity with sources: Research being a key responsibility of Paralegals, employers want to see you have a deep understanding of legal tools and resources. This can make you a valuable asset to a law firm and help set you apart from other candidates.
Ensure you mention in your cover letter at least one of these databases:
- Legal Information Institute (LII)
- Westlaw
- LexisNexis
- FindLaw
- Law360
Here is how to do it:
Example:
With 4+ years of Paralegal experience, I possess a deep understanding of legal research tools, including LII, Westlaw, and LexisNexis. I excel at navigating databases of case law, statutes, and regulations to identify relevant information for each case.
- Use keywords to your advantage: Many employers use applicant tracking systems (ATS) to screen resumes, which means that including relevant keywords can increase the likelihood of your resume being selected for further review. To identify relevant keywords, carefully review the job posting and make note of any specific skills, qualifications, or job duties mentioned.
Example:
Replying to a Paralegal job advertisement that contains the keywords contract drafting, due diligence, and corporate governance.
As a corporate Paralegal at [company name], I gained extensive experience in conducting due diligence reviews on corporate acquisitions. I was responsible for analyzing purchase agreements and employment contracts. Additionally, I drafted and negotiated contracts with third-party vendors and customers to ensure compliance with corporate governance requirements.
A Sample Cover Letter for Experienced Paralegals
Reviewing the provided sample will provide you with a deeper understanding of what to feature in your cover letter when applying for Paralegal positions.
Hiring Manager’s name
Company name
Company address
Date
Dear [Hiring Manager’s Name],
I am thrilled to express my strong interest in the Paralegal position recently opened at [Name of Firm]. I was excited to learn about this opportunity from Mr. [Name of Referee], an associate at your firm whom I worked with at [Name of Previous Firm]. He has graciously offered to provide a reference for me, should you require one.
As a Paralegal with seven years of experience, my passion for the law has only grown stronger. In my current role at [Name of Current Firm], I assist senior attorneys specializing in property law. I enjoy taking on new challenges and cases that keep me on my toes, and I thrive in a diverse environment with pressing deadlines. My solution-driven mindset constantly seeks new ways to streamline processes and increase efficiency.
To that end, I spearheaded the creation of a new user-friendly, keyword-based database that has been instrumental in helping Paralegals and attorneys locate relevant information and solutions for past cases. The system received high praise from all users and reduced the time dedicated to research and investigation by 26% within the first three months. Additionally, I created a guide for new team members that directs them to the specific resources they need across all our files, resulting in a 97% satisfaction rate among new hires.
My strong communication skills have allowed me to liaise effectively with courts, clients, and other firms, consistently representing my organization in the best light. I have prepared countless preparatory pieces of research, discovery demands, motions, and case-status reports, while also showing dedication to optimizing operations and maintaining professionalism.
My resume, which details my work history and educational background, is attached for your review. Please do not hesitate to contact me after 9 am on workdays to schedule a meeting to discuss my qualifications further. Thank you for your time and consideration.
Sincerely,
Name
Address
Phone number
Email address
Use our comprehensive cover letter writing guide to craft your letter with ease and confidence, and put your best foot forward in your job application.
Creating an Impressive Paralegal Cover Letter Without Experience
Crafting a cover letter with no experience may seem daunting, but the process is fundamentally the same as if you had prior experience.
The real difference lies in knowing where to focus to boost your odds of success.
In this section, you’re going to learn:
- How to show contagious enthusiasm in your cover letter
- Which areas you should specialize in to make your application more appealing
3 Ways to Show Your Enthusiasm for the Legal Field in Your Cover Letter
Demonstrating your enthusiasm for the legal field is an essential aspect of crafting a persuasive Paralegal cover letter. By showing your passion and commitment, you can convey to potential employers that you are motivated to succeed and will be a valuable addition to their team.
Read the following advice carefully:
- Share your motivation: Discuss what initially sparked your interest in the legal field and how that passion has evolved. This might include personal experiences, influential mentors, or a specific area of law that you find particularly captivating.
Example:
My interest in the legal profession was ignited during a high school internship at a local law firm, where I witnessed firsthand the impact that skilled legal representation can have on people’s lives.
- Connect with the employer’s mission: Research the firm or organization you are applying to, and mention specific aspects of their work that resonate with your values and interests. This demonstrates that you have taken the time to understand their goals and are genuinely excited about the prospect of contributing to their team.
Example:
I am particularly drawn to [company name’s] dedication to advocating for environmental justice and promoting sustainable practices, values that closely align with my passion for environmental conservation.
- Explain your career goals: Clearly articulate your long-term career objectives within the legal profession, and explain how the position you are applying for aligns with those goals. This will demonstrate your commitment to the field and your desire to grow professionally.
Example:
My long-term career objective is to become an expert in employment law, helping to protect workers’ rights and ensure fair treatment in the workplace. This Paralegal position at your esteemed firm would be an invaluable opportunity to advance toward that goal.
Choose a Specialization area and Write an impressive Resume Objective
Embarking on a Paralegal career is an exciting journey, made even more thrilling by the opportunity to specialize in a particular and highly sought-after area of law.
The online resource for Paralegal professionals, Paralegal411, lists some of the most popular ones. We have compiled them below for you.
Combine them with a meaningful resume objective, and you’ll be sure to grab the attention of recruiters:
- Bankruptcy: These Paralegals usually focus on either individual or corporate bankruptcy law and spend much of their time on document preparation and gathering, including forensic research and accounting.
Example:
Enthusiastic and detail-oriented Paralegal specializing in bankruptcy law, seeking an entry-level position as a Bankruptcy Paralegal at a prestigious [law firm]. Adept at conducting thorough research and analyzing complex financial data.
- Corporate: They assist corporations with compliance, lawsuits, and mergers, and often work directly for corporations or as third-party counsel due to the complexity and constantly evolving nature of corporate law.
Example:
Proficient in conducting comprehensive legal research, drafting contracts, and supporting M&A transactions. Eager to contribute to the firm’s success by providing exceptional client service, while expanding my knowledge and skills in areas such as corporate governance, regulatory compliance, and business transactions.
- Criminal law: Specialized in criminal proceedings, these Paralegals can work for the court or lawyers on either side of the case, focusing on specific areas of the law, such as violent crimes, financial crimes, or drug crimes.
Example:
Diligent and dedicated individual with a strong interest in criminal law, seeking a position as a Criminal Law Paralegal at [law firm]. Possessing a solid foundation in legal research, case preparation, and client communication, I am eager to support attorneys in effectively representing clients facing criminal charges.
- Immigration: Professionals specialized in this area assist both individuals and the US government in navigating the various routes to legal immigration, visas, and citizenship while keeping up with fast-paced changes to the law at the state level.
Example:
Compassionate and motivated individual with a focus on immigration law, looking to secure an entry-level position as a Paralegal at [law firm]. Equipped with strong research abilities and a deep understanding of immigration policies, I am eager to assist clients in their pursuit of a better future.
How to Address Gaps in the Paralegal Field
Career gaps can be difficult to explain for Paralegals due to legal field expectations, skill development concerns, adaptability issues, competition, and perceptions of commitment.
To address these concerns, you should effectively showcase transferable skills, professional development efforts, and passion for the legal field in your cover letter.
The examples below address 2 common reasons why Paralegals may have gaps in their careers:
- Personal reasons.
Example:
During my two-year absence from the legal profession, I focused on personal growth and attended various continuing education courses, including a comprehensive legal research workshop and a seminar on intellectual property law. I am excited to bring this fresh perspective and commitment to lifelong learning to the Paralegal position at [Company Name].
- Raising a family
Example:
While taking a three-year hiatus to raise my family, I remained engaged with the legal community by attending the annual National Paralegal Association conference, participating in monthly webinars focused on family law, and networking with local legal professionals through my involvement in the City Paralegal Club. I am confident that my ability to balance multiple responsibilities and prioritize effectively will translate well to the Paralegal role at [Company Name].
Remember, your cover letter is an opportunity to demonstrate your resilience, adaptability, and passion for the profession, helping you stand out and succeed in your job search, even if you have gaps in your work history.
Paralegal Cover Letter Success: Vital Takeaways
Hold onto your hats, aspiring Paralegals! The U.S. Bureau of Statistics predicts an impressive 14% growth rate in the field between 2021 and 2031, which is well above the average growth rate for all occupations.
With this in mind, it’s crucial you keep in mind the advice discussed in this article to stand out from the competition:
- Emphasize your communication, organization, critical thinking, and research skills: Provide specific examples of your experience and knowledge.
- Begin with an impactful introduction: Start your cover letter with a captivating remark or story that illustrates your enthusiasm for the legal profession or your pertinent Paralegal experience.
- Display your knowledge of resources: As research is a critical aspect of a Paralegal’s role, be sure to reference at least one of the widely used databases in your cover letter.
- Leverage relevant keywords: Incorporate pertinent keywords found in the job advertisement in your cover letter to enhance your chances of advancing to the next stage.
- Demonstrate enthusiasm for the legal field: Share your motivation, connect with the employer’s mission and explain your long-term career goals.
- Highlight your specialization field: Showcase your expertise in your resume summary or objective in areas such as bankruptcy, corporate, criminal, or immigration law.
- Use career gaps to your advantage: Remember they can be an opportunity to show your determination, flexibility, and enthusiasm for the field if you can make the connection between any learned skills and the Paralegal world.
By using a Paralegal-specific template for your resume and cover letter, and incorporating our expert advice, you can elevate yourself above the competition.
These tools and tips will allow you to show your unique qualities and capabilities, demonstrating that you are fully equipped to excel in the position.
Best of luck on your journey in the Paralegal world!
Trouble getting your Cover Letter started?
Beat the blank page with expert help.
Related Cover Letters