A Practical Guide to Finding Entry Level Legal Jobs

Decide Whether You're Ready for a Career in Law

If you’re considering a change to the legal profession, make sure you’re ready to commit. A career in law requires immense dedication and an unwavering commitment to staying on top of changing legal trends and regulations. You'll also need to be comfortable in a fast-paced environment, have an eye for detail along with strong communication, research and problem solving skills.

Make sure you’re aware of the various roles you can pursue in the legal field and the amount of time you are willing to commit, as well as dedication and preparation you’ll need to make a successful transition.

Gain the Necessary Experience & Qualifications

In order to successfully transition into a legal career, you’ll need to get the necessary qualifications, training and experience. Depending on the type of law you want to pursue, such as corporate law or dispute resolution, you may need to complete a law degree or graduate program.

In addition to formal education, you should also consider gaining experience through research, an internship or a legal clerkship. These experiences can provide you with valuable insight into the legal job market, while also giving you the exposure and network you’ll need to land your next opportunity.

Put Together an Impressive Resume & Cover Letter

Your resume and cover letter can often be the deciding factor when it comes to being hired. Make sure you are taking the time to craft an impressive resume and cover letter that accurately showcase your skills, experience and education. Be sure to include any relevant education, research and volunteer experience as well as any legal publications and awards you may have received.

Your cover letter should provide a brief summary of your skills and a brief description of why you are the perfect candidate for the position.

Find the Right Opportunities

Using a combination of job-boards, your network and legal recruiters, you’ll need to start your search for the right legal job. Set up job alerts on relevant job boards, such as LawCrossing, and stay abreast of any law firms or companies that are hiring.

Be sure to approach your job search with a tailored approach to ensure you’re applying for the right positions. You should also consider reaching out to alumni, professors and other contacts within the legal profession to increase your chances of hearing about positions or referrals.

Conquer the Interview Process

Finally, you’ll need to make sure that you’re prepared to represent yourself well during the interview process. It’s essential that you demonstrate your skills and qualifications, as well as your interest in the job. It’s also important to provide concrete examples of your experience and any relevant accomplishments.

It’s a smart idea to prepare a list of questions that you can ask to show your enthusiasm. This will show that you’ve done your research and are genuinely interested in the role.

Actionable Steps to Make This Transition Happen

• Revise your resume to highlight any relevant experience and skills
• Research various positions in the legal field
• Craft a tailored cover letter that showcases why you are the perfect candidate
• Create job alerts on job boards and websites related to legal jobs
• Find ways to network and connect with those in the legal field
• Practice common interview questions and be prepared to answer them
• Research potential employers and the roles you may be applying for

Conclusion

Finding an entry-level legal job can be a daunting process, but if done correctly it can be a great way to start a successful career. You’ll need to start by assessing your skills and experience, while also determining whether this is the right career path for you. From there, make sure you have the right qualifications, resume and cover letter before starting your job search. Finally, ensure you’re prepared for the interview process to make the best impression possible to secure the job.