How to Write an Impressive Cover Letter for a Law Internship: Template and Samples

The legal job market is fiercely competitive, particularly for aspiring law professionals seeking internships. With a limited number of openings and stringent qualifications, applicants must find innovative ways to stand out. One of the most effective methods to showcase your abilities and secure an interview is by crafting a well-written cover letter for a law internship . Whether you're aiming for your first internship or looking to gain experience at a prestigious firm, a professional cover letter can significantly improve your chances of being hired. This article will guide you through the crucial details to include in your cover letter, offer tips for creating an impressive application, and provide sample cover letters to help you get started.

What Should Be Included in a Law Internship Cover Letter?

When writing a cover letter for a law internship, it's important to include specific components that will highlight your qualifications and enthusiasm for the role:

Introduction

Start with a strong introduction that mentions the specific law internship you are applying for and where you found the job posting. Briefly introduce yourself, including your current academic status and your interest in the legal field.

Interest in the Law Internship

Explain why you are passionate about this particular law internship and how it aligns with your career goals. Highlight any specific aspects of the firm or organization that appeal to you and demonstrate that you have done your research.

Relevant Experience and Skills

Provide an overview of your relevant legal experience, including coursework, internships, and any other legal roles. Emphasize specific skills and achievements, such as legal research, writing, or moot court participation, that make you a strong candidate.

Enthusiasm for the Legal Field and the Firm

Express your enthusiasm for the legal field and your dedication to pursuing a career in law. Mention any specific programs, values, or initiatives of the firm that resonate with you and align with your professional aspirations.

Conclusion and Interview Availability

Conclude with a compelling closing paragraph that thanks the hiring manager for considering your application. Express your eagerness to discuss the internship further and provide your contact information and availability for an interview.

Tips to Write a Perfect Law Internship Cover Letter

Research the Firm

Understand the firm's values, culture, and recent achievements. Tailor your cover letter to reflect how your skills and experiences align with the firm's needs.

Customize Each Application

Personalize your cover letter for each law internship you apply for. Avoid generic statements and instead use specific examples that demonstrate your suitability for the role.

Maintain a Professional and Respectful Tone

Use a professional and respectful tone throughout your cover letter. Ensure that your writing is clear, concise, and free of any grammatical or spelling errors.

Highlight Specific Achievements

Include specific examples of your achievements in previous legal roles or academic settings. Use data and concrete details to demonstrate your impact and capabilities.

Keep It Concise and Focused

Keep your cover letter to one page. Focus on the most relevant information and make every sentence count.

Law Internship Cover Letter Template

Below is a template you can use as a guide when you write your cover letter for a law internship:

[First Name] [Last Name]
[Phone Number] | [Email Address]
[City], [State] [Zip Code]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager's Name]
[Law Firm Name]
[Law Firm Address]
[City], [State] [Zip Code]

Dear [Hiring Manager's Name],

I am writing to express my interest in the [Law Internship Position] at [Law Firm Name] as advertised on [where you found the job posting]. I am currently a [Your Year] law student at [Your Law School], and I am eager to gain practical experience in the legal field through an internship at your esteemed firm. The opportunity to work at [Law Firm Name] is particularly exciting to me because [specific reason related to the firm].

During my studies, I have developed strong [relevant skills or experiences], particularly through [relevant coursework, legal clinics, or extracurricular activities]. For example, [provide a specific example that demonstrates your skills]. I am confident that my [specific skills or knowledge] will enable me to contribute effectively to your team and support [Law Firm Name]'s goals.

I am particularly impressed with [mention something specific about the firm's work or values], and I am eager to bring my skills and enthusiasm to your team. I believe this internship will provide me with the opportunity to learn and grow in [specific field or area of law], and I am excited about the possibility of contributing to [Law Firm Name].

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and interests align with the [Law Internship Position] at [Law Firm Name]. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at [your phone number] or [your email address].

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]

3 Best Cover Letter Samples for Law Internships

Cover Letter for Law Internship Sample 1

Jane Doe
555-123-4567 | [email protected]
Boston, MA 02118
June 1, 2024
Mr. John Smith
Smith & Associates Law Firm
123 Legal Ave.
Boston, MA 02116

Dear Mr. Smith,

I am writing to express my interest in the Summer Law Internship position at Smith & Associates Law Firm as advertised on your website. I am currently a second-year law student at Boston University School of Law, and I am eager to gain practical experience in corporate law through an internship at your esteemed firm. The opportunity to work at Smith & Associates is particularly exciting to me because of your firm's reputation for excellence and commitment to client advocacy.

During my studies, I have developed strong legal research and writing skills, particularly through my coursework in corporate law and participation in the moot court competition. For example, I recently completed a research project on corporate governance that was well-received by my professors. I am confident that my analytical skills and attention to detail will enable me to contribute effectively to your team and support Smith & Associates' goals.

I am particularly impressed with Smith & Associates' dedication to pro bono work and community service, and I am eager to bring my skills and enthusiasm to your team. I believe this internship will provide me with the opportunity to learn and grow in corporate law, and I am excited about the possibility of contributing to Smith & Associates.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and interests align with the Summer Law Internship position at Smith & Associates Law Firm. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at 555-123-4567 or [email protected].

Sincerely,
Jane Doe

Cover Letter for Law Internship Sample 2

Michael Brown
444-678-1234 | [email protected]
New York, NY 10001
July 10, 2024
Ms. Sarah Johnson
Johnson & Partners
456 Legal Blvd.
New York, NY 10002

Dear Ms. Johnson,

I am writing to apply for the Legal Intern position at Johnson & Partners, as advertised on LinkedIn. I am currently a first-year law student at New York University School of Law, and I am excited about the opportunity to gain hands-on experience in litigation at your esteemed firm.

My academic background and involvement in the law school's moot court program have provided me with a solid foundation in legal analysis and advocacy. During my internship at the New York Civil Liberties Union, I assisted with legal research and case preparation, which enhanced my understanding of civil rights litigation. I am confident that my research skills and passion for justice will make a significant contribution to your litigation team.

Johnson & Partners' commitment to social justice and its impressive track record in high-profile cases align perfectly with my career goals. I am eager to join your team and support your efforts to provide top-notch legal services to your clients.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and interests align with the Legal Intern position at Johnson & Partners. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at 444-678-1234 or [email protected].

Sincerely,
Michael Brown

Cover Letter for Law Internship Sample 3

Emily Clark
333-789-4560 | [email protected]
Los Angeles, CA 90001
August 5, 2024
Dr. William Green
Green & Associates
789 Justice St.
Los Angeles, CA 90002

Dear Dr. Green,

I am writing to express my interest in the Environmental Law Internship position at Green & Associates as advertised on your firm's website. I am currently a second-year law student at the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) School of Law, and I am passionate about pursuing a career in environmental law.

During my studies, I have focused on environmental law and policy, and I have gained practical experience through my involvement in the Environmental Law Society. Last summer, I interned at the Natural Resources Defense Council, where I conducted legal research and assisted with case preparation related to environmental protection. I believe my strong research skills and dedication to environmental advocacy will enable me to contribute effectively to your team.

Green & Associates' commitment to sustainability and its innovative approach to environmental litigation are particularly inspiring to me. I am excited about the possibility of contributing to your firm's efforts to protect the environment and promote sustainable practices.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my background, skills, and interests align with the Environmental Law Internship position at Green & Associates. I am available for an interview at your earliest convenience and can be reached at 333-789-4560 or [email protected].

Sincerely,
Emily Clark