Writing Sample

All legal employers expect superior written communication skills. To assess your strengths in this area, some employers may request a writing sample.

The following tips can help you choose and present a strong one:

• Use a cover sheet. Prepare a cover sheet with your personal resume heading (name and contact information) and the heading “Writing Sample.”

• Provide context. Preface the writing sample with a short paragraph explaining what you are submitting and, if necessary, some procedural background or other context to ensure the reader’s understanding.

• Submit only your highest quality legal writing. Ideally, you will be able to match the style and content of your sample to the type of writing required by the position. Most employers are looking for substantive work with strong legal analysis, not merely a recitation of the law.

• Use work that is entirely yours. If you do not have a document that is wholly or largely yours, try to dissect and/or highlight your contributions. If you have any questions about what is “your” work product versus the collaborative result of others, speak with your counselor.

• Use an appropriate length. Most writing samples are 8-10 pages. If you have a longer piece, consider submitting just a portion (e.g., the Argument section of brief or memorandum). If you do include an excerpt, be sure to note that, and include sufficient context in your cover sheet.

• Be mindful of confidentiality. Redact anything that is not in the public record. Delete references that are not appropriate to release, and leave brackets “[ ]” to mark where the deletions have occurred.

• Make sure your sample is current. Go back and edit your sample so that it reflects your highest quality legal writing as of today. Be sure to proofread and check all citations for current Bluebook format.