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How to Write a Legal Covering Letter in the UK

A man sitting at a desk holding a letter

In the competitive UK legal job market, a well-crafted covering letter is essential for standing out when applying for roles such as training contracts, vacation schemes, paralegal positions, or qualified solicitor jobs. Unlike a CV, which lists your qualifications and experience, the covering letter allows you to demonstrate your enthusiasm, research, and fit for the specific firm or organization. It serves as your personal pitch, explaining why you're applying and what makes you the ideal candidate. According to industry insights, law firms receive hundreds of applications, so tailoring your letter can significantly increase your chances of progressing to interviews.


This guide provides a step-by-step approach to writing an effective legal covering letter, drawing on best practices from leading UK legal resources. We'll cover structure, key content, tips for success, common pitfalls, and a sample template to get you started.


Why a Strong Covering Letter Matters in the UK Legal Sector

Covering letters are crucial because they provide context to your CV and show your communication skills, a core competency for solicitors. In the UK, where the legal profession is regulated by bodies like the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), demonstrating professionalism from the outset is key.


Recruiters at firms like Slaughter and May or Cleary Gottlieb emphasize that a generic letter can lead to immediate rejection, while a personalized one highlights your commercial awareness and alignment with the firm's values. With high turnover in mid-sized firms, as noted in recent legal trends reports, standing out is more important than ever.


Essential Structure for Your Legal Covering Letter

Keep your covering letter to one A4 page, using a professional font like Arial or Calibri in size 11 or 12, matching your CV for consistency. Structure it like a formal business letter, with clear paragraphs for readability. Here's the recommended format:


  1. Your Contact Details and Date: Place your address, phone number, and email at the top right. Below, add the date.

  2. Recipient's Details: Include the hiring manager's name, job title, firm name, and address on the left. Research the name via the firm's website or LinkedIn, if unknown, use "Dear Sir/Madam."

  3. Salutation: Use "Dear [Mr/Ms Last Name]," for a named person (followed by "Yours sincerely" at the end), or "Dear Sir/Madam" (followed by "Yours faithfully"). Avoid outdated terms like "Dear Sirs."

  4. Introduction (1-2 Paragraphs): State the position you're applying for, how you found it, and a brief overview of your qualifications. Mention your current stage (e.g., final-year law student at [University] or qualified solicitor with [X] years' experience).

  5. Body (2-3 Paragraphs):

    • Why the Firm?: Explain your interest in the organization. Reference specific aspects like their practice areas (e.g., commercial law or pro bono work), recent cases, or training structure (e.g., flexible seats). Show you've researched them, mention a vacation scheme or insight day if relevant.

    • Why You?: Highlight your skills and experiences that align with the role. Use examples: "During my internship at [Firm], I assisted in [specific task], developing strong research skills that would benefit your team's focus on [area]." Link to competencies like attention to detail or teamwork, avoiding generic claims—back them with evidence.


  6. Conclusion (1 Paragraph): Reiterate your enthusiasm, refer to your attached CV, and express availability for an interview. Thank the reader and provide contact details.

  7. Sign-Off: End with "Yours sincerely" or "Yours faithfully," followed by your full name. If emailing, attach as a PDF or Word document.


Key Tips for Writing a Standout Legal Covering Letter

To make your letter compelling, follow these best practices:


  • Tailor It Extensively: Customize for each application. If the firm's name could be swapped with a competitor's, it's not specific enough. Research the firm's website, recent news, or values to demonstrate genuine interest.

  • Show, Don't Tell: Use concrete examples to illustrate skills. Instead of "I have strong communication skills," say "As editor of my university's law journal, I coordinated a team of 10 to publish quarterly issues, honing my ability to convey complex legal concepts clearly."

  • Proofread Rigorously: Errors can disqualify you—use UK English settings, read aloud, and get a second opinion. Avoid relying solely on spellcheck.

  • Be Concise and Professional: Aim for 3-5 paragraphs. Use formal language: "I completed my LPC" instead of "I did my LPC." Avoid clichés like "highly motivated" or personal pronouns for firms.

  • Highlight Relevant Experience: Include academic achievements (e.g., law degree, LPC, SQE), work experience (e.g., mini-pupillages, paralegal roles), and extracurriculars (e.g., mooting competitions or Law Society membership).

  • Address Gaps or Mitigating Circumstances: Briefly explain any CV gaps or lower grades without excuses.


Dos & Don'ts


● Do research the firm thoroughly and reference specifics. Don't send a generic letter, recruiters can spot them easily.

● Do use examples to back up claims about your skills. Don't repeat information from your CV or application form.

● Do keep it to one page with clear formatting. Don't use jargon, American spellings, or informal tone.

● Do proofread multiple times and use UK English. Don't include salary expectations unless requested.

● Do end with a call to action, like availability for interview. Don't Overuse bold or italics for emphasis, let content shine.


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Lack of Personalization: Failing to address why this firm appeals to you.

  • Overly Long or Vague Content: Waffling reduces impact—be direct.

  • False Claims: Honesty is paramount; exaggerations can backfire in interviews.

  • Poor Formatting: Inconsistent fonts or attachments can appear unprofessional.

  • Ignoring Word Counts: If specified, adhere strictly.


Sample Legal Covering Letter Template


[Your Address]

[Your Phone]

[Your Email]


[Date]

[Recipient's Name]


[Job Title]

[Firm Name]

[Firm Address]


Dear [Mr/Ms Last Name],

I am writing to apply for the [Position, e.g., Training Contract] at [Firm Name], as advertised on [Source]. As a final-year law student at [University] with a predicted 2:1 degree and completed LPC, I am eager to contribute my skills to your renowned commercial law practice.

Your firm's commitment to [specific aspect, e.g., innovative client solutions in mergers and acquisitions] particularly appeals to me, as evidenced by your recent handling of [case or deal]. During my vacation scheme at [Another Firm], I gained hands-on experience in due diligence, which solidified my interest in [area] and aligns with [Firm Name]'s expertise.


In addition to my academic achievements, including a distinction in contract law, I served as president of the university Law Society, organizing events that enhanced my leadership and negotiation skills. These experiences have prepared me to add value to your team from day one. I have attached my CV for your review.


I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background can support [Firm Name]'s goals. Thank you for considering my application. I am available for an interview at your convenience and can be reached at [Phone] or [Email].


Yours sincerely,

[Your Full Name]


Adapt this template with your details for authenticity.


Final Thoughts and Resources

A great covering letter combines research, clarity, and passion to showcase your potential as a legal professional. For further guidance, consult these authoritative sources:


By following this comprehensive approach, your covering letter will not only meet but exceed recruiter expectations, helping you secure that coveted legal role in the UK.

 
 
 

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