How to Craft a Standout Cover Letter for Am Law Firms
Learn how to write a compelling cover letter for Am Law firm applications. Get tips on structure, content, and tone to stand out in competitive legal hiring.
Applying to top-tier Am Law firms can feel daunting. With hundreds of highly qualified applicants vying for the same roles, your cover letter can make the difference between being noticed and being overlooked. While resumes showcase your experience, a cover letter allows you to convey your motivation.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to creating a cover letter that stands out in the competitive legal hiring market.
1. Start Strong with a Clear Opening
Your opening paragraph should immediately grab attention while clearly stating:
The position you’re applying for
How you learned about the opportunity (referral, posting, recruiter)
A brief, compelling reason why you’re interested
Example:
"I am excited to apply for the Associate position in the Corporate Practice Group at [Firm Name]. With five years of experience in mergers and acquisitions at top-tier law firms, I am drawn to [Firm Name]’s reputation for innovative client solutions and collaborative culture."
2. Tailor Your Letter to the Firm
Avoid generic letters. Highlight:
Relevant practice experience
Notable cases, transactions, or achievements
Why this firm is uniquely appealing
Tip: Research the firm’s website, recent deals, or publications to reference specific projects or initiatives.
3. Highlight Your Unique Value
Your cover letter should answer the question: “Why should we hire you?” Focus on:
Skills that match the job description
Demonstrated results or impact (quantifiable when possible)
Soft skills like teamwork, leadership, and client relationship management
Example:
"During my tenure at [Previous Firm], I led a cross-functional team on a $200M acquisition, negotiating key terms that resulted in a favorable outcome for our client. I thrive in high-pressure environments and enjoy collaborating across departments to achieve strategic goals."
4. Keep it Concise and Well-Structured
Aim for one page maximum
Use short paragraphs and bullet points for readability
Avoid jargon or overly formal language
Proofread for grammar, typos, and formatting
A clear, professional structure signals attention to detail.
5. End with a Strong Closing
Your closing should:
Reiterate enthusiasm for the role
Express interest in discussing your qualifications further
Thank the reader for their time
Example:
"I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my experience in corporate law and transactional work aligns with [Firm Name]’s practice. Thank you for your consideration, and I look forward to the possibility of contributing to your team."
Bonus Tips
Address the letter to a specific person whenever possible (Hiring Partner, Recruiting Coordinator).
Use action-oriented language (“led,” “negotiated,” “advised”) to convey impact.
Pair your cover letter with a strong, tailored resume highlighting relevant accomplishments.