
Mastering the legal writing sample
Your 1L writing sample is more than a mere formality. In addition to good grades, you will need a superior writing sample if you intend to compete in the job market.
But which legal writing sample should I submit? That is usually the first question that we are asked. Select an assignment that was graded highly and is the most relevant to the law firms/legal organizations that you are applying to. Most importantly, choose a piece that is well-written. One of the biggest problems for law students is focusing on the practical application of legal principles, something an employer will be looking for. When we help our clients rework their legal writing samples, we will provide the guidance necessary to produce a focused, substantive piece.
Even more importantly, your writing sample should have no grammatical or citation errors. This may seem obvious, but it is often overlooked. Don’t make that mistake—one misplaced semi-colon or misspelled word can mean the difference between a job offer and rejection. We will catch fundamental grammatical errors that you are not even aware you are making, and ensure that your legal citation form meets Bluebook protocol. Sometimes mistakes occur because of the simple fact that it is very difficult to proofread one's own work. Whatever you missed the first time around, you are likely to miss the second.
Remember: you have more control over your writing sample than you have over your grades! Isn’t it important enough to have a second set of eyes to double check your work? We can provide that help.
Your 1L writing sample is more than a mere formality. In addition to good grades, you will need a superior writing sample if you intend to compete in the job market.
But which legal writing sample should I submit? That is usually the first question that we are asked. Select an assignment that was graded highly and is the most relevant to the law firms/legal organizations that you are applying to. Most importantly, choose a piece that is well-written. One of the biggest problems for law students is focusing on the practical application of legal principles, something an employer will be looking for. When we help our clients rework their legal writing samples, we will provide the guidance necessary to produce a focused, substantive piece.
Even more importantly, your writing sample should have no grammatical or citation errors. This may seem obvious, but it is often overlooked. Don’t make that mistake—one misplaced semi-colon or misspelled word can mean the difference between a job offer and rejection. We will catch fundamental grammatical errors that you are not even aware you are making, and ensure that your legal citation form meets Bluebook protocol. Sometimes mistakes occur because of the simple fact that it is very difficult to proofread one's own work. Whatever you missed the first time around, you are likely to miss the second.
Remember: you have more control over your writing sample than you have over your grades! Isn’t it important enough to have a second set of eyes to double check your work? We can provide that help.