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Lawyer Resume Examples: 5 Best Samples & Why They Work

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Are you ready to craft an outstanding lawyer resume that will grab the attention of hiring managers? Don’t worry! We can help.

As the legal field becomes increasingly competitive, it’s becoming harder to stand out as a job candidate. Whether you want to work as a legal researcher or corporate lawyer, it’s crucial to showcase your skills, experience, and achievements in a way that sets you apart.

In this article, we present the five best lawyer resume examples and dive into why they work.

Lawyer Resume Examples

These carefully curated samples will inspire you to create a compelling resume that highlights your unique strengths and lands you that dream job as a lawyer. Keep reading to set yourself up for success in job hunting!

Entry-Level Lawyer Resume Example

As a fresh law school graduate, you may be unsure how to write a resume to land your first post-graduate job. However, you shouldn’t be. You can craft a great resume even as a new graduate.

Focus on your volunteer experience and highlight your work and achievements using compelling action verbs.

This resume example should help you craft a powerful resume to land the job of your dreams.

Entry-Level Lawyer Resume Example

Why We Suggest This Resume

This entry-level lawyer resume effectively highlights the candidate’s current qualifications and potential for growth. From the objective statement, a hiring manager can see the candidate’s motivation and dedication to contributing to a reputable law firm.

  • Type of Resume: Entry-Level Lawyer Resume Example
  • Best For: Lawyers applying for the entry-level jobs
An image of Entry-Level Lawyer Resume Example

Objective:

Highly motivated and dedicated law graduate seeking a position in a reputable law firm. Committed to utilizing legal knowledge, exceptional research skills, and attention to detail to contribute to the firm’s success and provide outstanding legal services to clients.

Work Experience:

Legal Intern, Barris, Fields & Dutchell, New York City, New York (2022 – 2023)

  • Conducted thorough legal research on various case laws, statutes, and regulations to support attorneys preparing for trials and hearings.
  • Assisted in drafting legal documents, including pleadings, motions, and contracts, ensuring accuracy and adherence to legal requirements.
  • Attended client meetings and gained valuable insights into client communication, case management, and the development of effective legal strategies.
  • Conducted comprehensive document reviews and analysis, organizing and summarizing key information for legal proceedings.
  • Collaborated with attorneys and staff to prepare trial exhibits and assist during courtroom proceedings.

Legal Research Assistant, Institute for International Law and Justice, NYU, New York City, New York (2018 – 2021)

  • Assisted in conducting in-depth legal research on emerging legal issues and drafted memoranda to inform attorneys and policymakers.
  • Contributed to the development of legal publications and articles, ensuring accuracy and adherence to legal principles.
  • Conducted extensive citation checks and proofreading to ensure the quality and consistency of written materials.
  • Assisted in organizing and coordinating legal conferences and seminars, including preparing materials and managing event logistics.
  • Maintained and updated legal databases, ensuring easy access to relevant legal resources for the research team.

Project Experience:

Pro Bono Immigration Clinic, Legal Aid Society

  • Assisted in providing legal advice and representation to low-income individuals seeking asylum or immigration relief.
  • Conducted client interviews, prepared immigration forms, and drafted supporting documents for immigration proceedings.
  • Participated in community workshops and provided information on immigration rights and available legal resources.

Skills:

  • Strong legal research and analysis
  • Excellent written and verbal communication
  • Attention to detail and accuracy
  • Case management and organization
  • Legal document drafting and review

Education:

Juris Doctor (J.D.), NYU School of Law, New York

Relevant Coursework: Constitutional Law, Contracts, Civil Procedure, Criminal Law

Licenses & Accreditations:

  •  New York State Bar Association License
  • Certified Mediator, New York State Dispute Resolution Association

Why This Resume Works:

This entry-level lawyer resume effectively highlights the candidate’s current qualifications and potential for growth. From the objective statement, a hiring manager can see the candidate’s motivation and dedication to contributing to a reputable law firm.

Their work experience section highlights skills a law firm would find valuable in their associate lawyers. These include conducting thorough legal research, drafting legal documents, and working effectively within a team.

The project experience section further demonstrates the candidate’s practical application of legal skills and commitment to pro bono work. The complimentary mediation certification sets them apart from other candidates.

Junior Lawyer Resume Example

As someone looking for a new job as a junior/associate lawyer, your resume should highlight the benefits you bring to a law firm.

Unlike someone looking for a managing partner or senior associate job, you’re not bringing capital or high-ticket clients to a law firm. Your skills and experience are the keys to landing your dream job as a junior lawyer.

Here is an example of a resume that showcases this:

Junior Lawyer Resume Example

Why We Suggest This Resume

This junior lawyer’s resume effectively showcases the candidate’s qualifications and skills as a diligent junior associate. The objective statement clearly expresses the candidate’s career aspirations and commitment to delivering exceptional legal counsel.

  • Type of Resume: Junior Lawyer Resume Example
  • Best For: Lawyers applying for junior-level jobs
An image of Junior Lawyer Resume Example

Objective:

Results-oriented junior lawyer seeking an opportunity to leverage a solid legal foundation, excellent analytical skills, and passion for justice in a challenging legal environment.

Provided exceptional legal counsel. Aims to contribute to a reputable law firm’s success while continuing to grow and expand legal expertise.

Work Experience:

Junior Associate, Law Office of Smith & Associates, Chicago, Illinois (2021 – Current)

  • Conducted thorough legal research on various cases, statutes, and regulations, providing valuable insights to attorneys in trial preparation.
  • Drafted legal documents, including pleadings, motions, and briefs, ensuring accuracy and adherence to legal standards.
  • Managed case files, organized evidence, and coordinated with external parties to facilitate efficient litigation processes.
  • Attended court hearings and trials, assisting senior associates in courtroom procedures and client representation.
  • Conducted client interviews, assisted in case analysis, and prepared summaries for attorney review.

Legal Secretary, TLD Law Firm, Chicago, Illinois (2019 – 2021)

  • Managed attorney schedules, coordinated meetings, and maintained a well-organized and efficient office environment.
  • Prepared legal correspondence, including client communications, court filings, and deposition notices, ensuring accuracy and timeliness.
  • Assisted in drafting and proofreading legal documents, such as contracts, agreements, and settlement proposals.
  • Conducted legal research on relevant case law, statutes, and regulations, providing concise summaries to support attorneys’ arguments.
  • Coordinated and maintained client databases, ensuring accurate and up-to-date information for case management.

Project Experience:

Pro Bono Litigation Clinic, University of Illinois at Chicago (2018 – 2019)

  • Assisted in representing indigent defendants in misdemeanor cases, conducting legal research, and drafting motions.
  • Prepared clients for court appearances, guided legal procedures, and advocated for their rights during hearings.
  • Collaborated with a team of law students and supervising attorneys to develop case strategies and negotiate plea bargains.

Legal Aid Environmental Advocacy Project, Environmental Law Society (2017 – Current)

  • Conducted research on environmental regulations and drafted comments for proposed rulemaking processes.
  • Assisted in advocating for stronger environmental protections through public outreach, community education, and organizing events.
  • Prepared legal memoranda and position papers on emerging environmental issues, providing valuable insights to policymakers.

Skills:

  • Legal research and analysis
  • Written and verbal communication
  • Case management and organization
  • Client advocacy and representation
  • Attention to detail and accuracy

Education:

Juris Doctor (J.D.), University of Illinois at Chicago

Concentration: Environmental Law

Relevant Coursework: Constitutional Law, Contracts, Civil Procedure, Environmental Law & Policy

Licenses & Accreditations:

Illinois Bar Association License

Why This Resume Works:

This junior lawyer’s resume effectively showcases the candidate’s qualifications and skills as a diligent junior associate. The objective statement clearly expresses the candidate’s career aspirations and commitment to delivering exceptional legal counsel.

The work experience section highlights their familiarity with legal processes, document drafting, and client management, skills any junior associate should possess.

The project experience section further highlights the candidate’s practical application of legal skills, such as research, advocacy, and client representation.

The education section highlights the candidate’s concentration in environmental law. This is perfect for a junior lawyer position at an environmental law firm or a junior environmental lawyer position.

Adding this detail ensures their resume stands out from others with similar experience.

Corporate Lawyer Resume Example

To land a job as a corporate lawyer, you must stand out from the thousands of other people looking for the same job. This starts with having a resume that bypasses ATS scanners and showcases high-level corporate lawyer skills.

To give you inspiration for crafting your resume, here’s an ideal corporate lawyer resume:

Corporate Lawyer Resume Example

Why We Suggest This Resume

This corporate lawyer resume effectively highlights the candidate’s expertise in corporate law and ability to provide comprehensive legal counsel to businesses. From the objective statement, a hiring manager can note the candidate’s career aspirations in corporate law and their key accomplishments.

  • Type of Resume: Corporate Lawyer Resume Example
  • Best For: Lawyers who want to work in the corporate industry
An image of Corporate Lawyer Resume Example

Objective:

Highly efficient corporate lawyer with a proven track record of providing comprehensive legal counsel to businesses. Seeking a position with a reputable corporate law firm to utilize expertise in corporate transactions, contract negotiation, and regulatory compliance. Committed to delivering exceptional legal solutions that drive business growth and protect clients’ interests.

Work Experience:

Corporate Associate, Hardy & Leeds, Miami, Florida (2018 – Current)

  • Advised clients on diverse corporate matters, including entity formation, corporate governance, and regulatory compliance.
  • Drafted and negotiated various corporate contracts, including mergers and acquisitions, joint ventures, and licensing agreements.
  • Conducted due diligence investigations and prepared legal opinions on corporate transactions to ensure legal and regulatory compliance.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams, including finance, tax, and compliance, to provide comprehensive legal support to clients.
  • Assisted in resolving corporate disputes through negotiation, mediation, and, when necessary, litigation.

Legal Counsel, Telcom, Miami, Florida (2012 – 2018)

  • Provided legal guidance and support to internal stakeholders on corporate governance, commercial contracts, and risk management.
  • Drafted, reviewed, and negotiated complex commercial agreements, including vendor contracts, licensing agreements, and non-disclosure agreements.
  • Assisted in the development of corporate policies and procedures to ensure legal compliance.
  • Conducted internal investigations on legal and compliance matters, providing recommendations for corrective action when necessary.
  • Collaborated with external counsel on litigation matters, including managing discovery, preparing witnesses, and drafting pleadings.

Project Experience:

Mergers and Acquisitions Deal, Hardy & Leeds

  • Assisted in conducting due diligence investigations on target companies and identifying potential legal risks and liabilities.
  • Drafted and negotiated transaction documents, including purchase agreements, shareholder agreements, and disclosure schedules.
  • Collaborated with a team of lawyers to coordinate complex deal structures and ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.

Initial Public Offering (IPO) Project, Telcom

  • Assisted in preparing the company for an IPO by conducting legal due diligence and ensuring compliance with securities regulations.
  • Drafted and reviewed the IPO prospectus, offering memoranda, and related disclosure documents.
  • Coordinated with external counsel and underwriters to facilitate the IPO process, including preparing for investor roadshows.

Skills:

  • Corporate law expertise
  • Contract negotiation and drafting
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Legal research and analysis
  • Strategic legal advice

Education:

Juris Doctor (J.D.), University of Florida Law School, Florida

Concentration: Corporate Law

Relevant Coursework: Business Law, Corporate Governance, Securities Regulation

Licenses & Accreditations:

Florida Bar Association License

Why This Resume Works:

This corporate lawyer resume effectively highlights the candidate’s expertise in corporate law and ability to provide comprehensive legal counsel to businesses.

From the objective statement, a hiring manager can note the candidate’s career aspirations in corporate law and their key accomplishments.

The work experience section highlights the candidate’s experience in corporate transactions, contract negotiation, and risk management. These skills are crucial to any corporate lawyer role.

The skills section shares relevant soft and hard skills, such as strategic legal advice, contract negotiation, and regulatory compliance, essential for a successful corporate lawyer.

Finally, the project and license sections support the work experience section. The resume presents this candidate as an expert corporate lawyer, able to navigate complex situations and ensure business legal compliance.

Real Estate Lawyer Resume Example

Real estate lawyers have the crucial role of bridging the gap in the real estate sector. Whether between seller and buyer, landlord and renter, or realtor and client.

They must understand relevant laws and ensure that everyone involved complies. Landing a role as a real estate lawyer starts with having the right resume.

Here’s an example to help you get started:

Real Estate Lawyer Resume Example

Why We Suggest This Resume

This real estate lawyer resume effectively highlights the candidate’s expertise in real estate law and ability to provide comprehensive legal counsel in real estate transactions. From the objective statement conveying their goals to the detailed work experience section showcasing their skills, this resume ensures the candidate is hired for the job.

  • Type of Resume: Real Estate Lawyer Resume Example
  • Best For: Lawyers who want to work in the real estate
An image of Real Estate Lawyer Resume Example

Objective:

Highly accomplished real estate lawyer with extensive experience providing legal counsel and representation in complex real estate transactions.

Seeking a position to leverage expertise in real estate law, contract negotiation, and due diligence. Committed to delivering exceptional legal solutions that facilitate successful real estate ventures and protect clients’ interests.

Work Experience:

Real Estate Attorney, Brandon & Lacey Attorneys-At-Law, Los Angeles, California (2018 – Current)

  • Advised clients on various real estate matters, including property acquisitions, leasing agreements, and property development.
  • Drafted and negotiated commercial and residential real estate contracts, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.
  • Conducted due diligence investigations on real estate transactions, including title searches, zoning compliance, and environmental assessments.
  • Assisted clients in navigating complex regulatory frameworks, including land use regulations, zoning ordinances, and permitting requirements.
  • Represented clients in real estate disputes, including mediation, arbitration, and litigation, achieving favorable outcomes.

Associate Attorney, Selling Sunset, Los Angeles, California (2015 – 2018)

  • Assisted senior attorneys in conducting comprehensive legal research on real estate issues, providing valuable insights for case strategies.
  • Drafted legal documents, such as purchase, lease, and easement agreements, ensuring accuracy and legal compliance.
  • Reviewed and analyzed title reports, surveys, and other due diligence materials to identify potential risks and recommend mitigation strategies.
  • Participated in real estate closings, coordinating with clients, lenders, and title companies to facilitate smooth and timely transactions.
  • Conducted negotiations with opposing parties and their counsel to resolve real estate disputes and reach mutually beneficial agreements.

Project Experience:

Commercial Real Estate Development Project, Brandon & Lacey Attorney-At-Law

  • Provided legal counsel to a real estate developer on all aspects of a commercial development project, including land acquisition, zoning approvals, and financing.
  • Drafted and negotiated complex development agreements, construction contracts, and lease agreements with tenants.
  • Conducted due diligence on environmental and regulatory issues, ensuring compliance with applicable laws and regulations.

Skills:

  • Real estate law expertise
  • Contract negotiation and drafting
  • Due diligence and title review
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Litigation and dispute resolution

Education:

Juris Doctor (J.D.), Stanford Law School, City University

Concentration: Real Estate Law

Relevant Coursework: Property Law, Land Use Law, Real Estate Transactions

Licenses & Accreditations:

California Bar Association License

Why This Resume Works:

This real estate lawyer resume effectively highlights the candidate’s expertise in real estate law and ability to provide comprehensive legal counsel in real estate transactions.

From the objective statement conveying their goals to the detailed work experience section showcasing their skills, this resume ensures the candidate is hired for the job.

The project section further emphasizes the candidate’s practical application of legal skills in commercial and residential real estate projects.

Additionally, the skills section combines soft and hard skills, presenting the candidate as the ideal hire for this people-facing role.

Personal Injury Lawyer Resume Example

Personal injury law is a tricky branch requiring tact, guts, and exceptional people skills. If you want a job as a personal injury lawyer, your resume should highlight these skills. Here’s an example for inspiration:

Personal Injury Lawyer Resume Example

Why We Suggest This Resume

This personal injury lawyer resume showcases the candidate’s expertise in personal injury law and commitment to securing justice and fair compensation for injured individuals. The objective statement communicates the candidate’s passion for advocating for clients.

  • Type of Resume: Personal Injury Lawyer Resume Example
  • Best For: Lawyers who want to work as personal injury lawyers
An image of Personal Injury Lawyer Resume Example

Objective:

Dedicated personal injury lawyer with a strong passion for advocating for injured individuals. Seeking a position in a reputable law firm to utilize expertise in personal injury law, litigation, and negotiation skills. Committed to securing justice and fair compensation for clients who have suffered harm due to negligence or wrongdoing.

Work Experience:

Associate Attorney, Benny, Benji, and Benson, New York City, New York (2021 – Current)

  • Represented clients in personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents, slip and falls, and medical malpractice claims.
  • Conducted thorough investigations to gather evidence, interview witnesses, and assess the viability of potential claims.
  • Drafted demand letters, pleadings, and motions, ensuring accuracy and compliance with legal standards.
  • Negotiated settlements with insurance companies and opposing counsel, advocating for fair compensation for clients.
  • Prepared and conducted depositions, interrogatories, and witness examinations to support litigation strategies.

Litigation Associate, Tristan’s Personal Injury Law Firm, Brooklyn, New York (2018 – 2021)

  • Assisted senior attorneys in all aspects of personal injury litigation, including case preparation, discovery, and trial support.
  • Conducted legal research on complex personal injury issues, providing valuable insights for legal arguments and strategies.
  • Drafted legal documents, such as complaints, answers, and discovery requests, with attention to detail and legal accuracy.
  • Prepared clients for depositions and court appearances, providing guidance and support throughout the litigation process.
  • Participated in settlement negotiations, mediations, and arbitrations to achieve favorable outcomes for clients.

Project Experience:

Medical Malpractice Case, Tristan’s Personal Injury Law Firm

  • Assisted in representing a client who suffered harm due to medical negligence, conducting extensive medical record reviews and expert consultations.
  • Drafted the complaint and managed the discovery process, including collecting and analyzing medical evidence.
  • Worked closely with medical experts to develop a compelling case theory and effectively communicate complex medical concepts to a jury.

Skills:

  • Personal injury law expertise
  • Litigation and trial advocacy
  • Negotiation and settlement
  • Legal research and analysis
  • Client advocacy and support

Education:

Juris Doctor (J.D.), Fordham University School of Law, New York

Relevant Coursework: Torts, Civil Procedure, Trial Advocacy, Medical Malpractice

Licenses & Accreditations:

New York Bar Association License

Why This Resume Works:

This personal injury lawyer resume showcases the candidate’s expertise in personal injury law and commitment to securing justice and fair compensation for injured individuals. The objective statement communicates the candidate’s passion for advocating for clients.

Likewise, the work experience section highlights their experience in representing clients in personal injury cases, conducting investigations, drafting legal documents, and negotiating settlements.

The project experience section further emphasizes the candidate’s practical application of legal skills in complex medical malpractice and motor vehicle accident cases.

Common Skills & Action Verbs To Include on a Lawyer Resume

Showcasing the right skills and using impactful action verbs is essential for a standout lawyer resume. Here, we’ll explore common skills lawyers should highlight and the dynamic action verbs to bring their experiences to life.

Common Skills for Lawyer Resumes

Showcasing the right skills is crucial to landing a job as a lawyer. You must demonstrate a unique combination of legal expertise, analytical thinking, and exceptional communication abilities.

Here are some common skills that every lawyer should consider highlighting in their resume:

  • Legal research and analysis
  • Communication
  • Legal writing
  • Advocacy
  • Problem-solving
  • Attention to detail
  • Time management
  • Client service
  • Negotiation
  • Ethical conduct
  • Leadership
  • Critical thinking
  • Ethics
  • Compliance
  • Conflict resolution

With relevant legal experience and a solid educational background, these skills will make your lawyer resume stand out from the competition and demonstrate your ability to excel in the legal profession.

Common Action Verbs for Lawyer Resumes

Action verbs effectively bring your resume to life and demonstrate your accomplishments in the legal field. By using impactful verbs, you can convey your skills, experiences, and achievements more vividly.

Here are 15 action verbs to consider incorporating into your lawyer resume:

  • Advocated
  • Negotiated
  • Drafted
  • Researched
  • Analyzed
  • Litigated
  • Advised
  • Prepared
  • Counseled
  • Investigated
  • Mediated
  • Argued
  • Collaborated
  • Presented
  • Defended

By incorporating these action verbs into your resume, you can effectively convey your role in various legal activities, such as advocating for clients, negotiating settlements, drafting legal documents, conducting research and analysis, and defending cases in court.

Using dynamic verbs will help create a unique and engaging narrative, showcasing your skills and accomplishments in the legal profession.

When deciding between using action verbs in the past vs present tense, remember that we always describe past experiences in the past tense. For example, you are not “currently drafting a lease agreement for a client.”

Your resume should reflect the achievements you already have and the things you already did.  

Tips for Writing a Better Lawyer Resume

Your resume plays a crucial role in landing a job as a lawyer. It is your chance to impress potential employers and showcase your skills, experiences, and achievements in the legal field.

To create a compelling lawyer resume, consider the following four tips:

1. Craft a Strong Resume Headline

A well-crafted headline immediately grabs the attention of hiring managers and sets you apart from the rest. It should summarize your expertise and value as a lawyer.

Tailor your headline to the specific job you’re applying for, highlighting your key strengths and areas of specialization.

For example, “Experienced Corporate Lawyer Specializing in Mergers & Acquisitions” immediately conveys your expertise.

2. Highlight Relevant Skills and Accomplishments

Focus on highlighting the most job-relevant skills. Include a mix of hard and soft skills, such as legal research and analysis, negotiation, communication, and client advocacy.

Use the job description to note which skills are critical. Additionally, emphasize your accomplishments and highlight notable cases, successful negotiations, or awards you have received to showcase your track record of success.

3. Tailor Your Resume to the Job Description

Customize your resume to the specific job description. Not only will this help your resume bypass ATS scanners, but it will also ensure you stand out from other applicants.

Carefully read the job requirements and responsibilities, ensuring your resume reflects the skills, experiences, and qualifications employers seek.

Incorporate relevant keywords and phrases from the job description to demonstrate you are a strong fit for the role. This tailored approach shows your attention to detail and makes your resume more relevant and compelling.

4. Focus on Clear and Concise Language

As a lawyer, you must communicate effectively. Apply this principle to your resume as well. Use clear and concise language to convey your experiences and achievements.

Avoid jargon and excessive legal terminology that may not be universally understood.

Aim for clarity and readability. Use bullet points and short paragraphs to present information in a digestible format.

Proofread your resume carefully to eliminate any grammatical errors or typos that may undermine your professionalism.

Frequently Asked Questions

To help you in crafting your resume, we’ve answered some commonly asked questions from across the web:

What are 3 duties of a lawyer?

Three duties of a lawyer include providing legal advice and counsel to clients, representing clients in legal proceedings, such as court hearings and negotiations, and conducting legal research and analysis to build solid cases and support legal arguments.

What is a good example of a lawyer’s resume objective?

A great example of a lawyer’s resume objective is: “Dedicated and results-driven lawyer with a strong background in corporate law seeking a challenging position in a reputable law firm.

Committed to providing exceptional legal counsel, negotiating favorable outcomes, and delivering high-quality service to clients.”

Similar Resume Types to Reference

If you’re not a lawyer but work in the legal field, here are some resume examples you may find helpful:

  • Paralegal Resume: Whether you’re looking for your first job as a paralegal or a seasoned professional looking to change your employer, these examples will help you craft the ideal resume.
  • Research Assistant Resume: If you’re looking to work as a research assistant, use these resume examples for inspiration to write your ATS-friendly research assistant resume.
  • Notary Resume: Looking for a job as a notary? Use any of these resume examples to craft the ideal notary resume and land your dream job fast.

Wrapping Up

In the competitive world of law, a well-crafted resume can make all the difference. From entry-level to specialized practice areas, each of these lawyer resume samples highlights crucial elements such as relevant work experience, project involvement, essential skills, education, and licenses.

By examining these examples, you can gain valuable insights into creating an impressive resume that captures the attention of potential employers in the legal field.

Your valuable insights and opinions can enrich the conversation, so comment below to let us know your thoughts. And if you find the article interesting, we kindly ask you to share it with others who might enjoy it as well.

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