Paralegal Cover Letter Examples

How to Write a Paralegal Cover Letter Step by Step

Having reviewed some of our paralegal cover letter examples, you should now have a better understanding of the key elements that make up a strong and effective cover letter.

In this section, we’ll walk you through the process of writing a standout cover letter for a paralegal position, covering everything from an engaging introduction to a memorable conclusion. Our step-by-step guidance will help you present your qualifications in the best light, while ensuring you meet the expectations of hiring managers in the legal industry.

With our expert advice, you can create a professional cover letter that highlights your skills and sets your application apart. This will bring you one step closer to securing your ideal role as a paralegal.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you write an effective paralegal cover letter:

Step 1: Review the paralegal job requirements

Before you begin drafting your cover letter, take the time to thoroughly review the job description for the paralegal position. Familiarising yourself with the specific responsibilities and qualifications will help you tailor your application to meet the employer’s needs. Pay close attention to the key skills they mention, such as legal research, document preparation, case management, and client communication.

Additionally, take a moment to research the law firm or company’s mission, values, and reputation within the legal industry. By aligning your skills with their needs and incorporating relevant keywords from the job description, you can strengthen your cover letter and improve your chances of passing through applicant tracking systems (ATS). This approach not only shows that you meet their requirements but also demonstrates your understanding of their objectives and your enthusiasm to contribute to their success.

Step 2: Add a contact section to your cover letter

Start your cover letter by including your contact details at the top. Write your full name, address, phone number, and email address, ensuring this section matches the contact information on your CV. Next, include the date of writing. In a new paragraph, list the recipient’s details. If possible, address the letter to a specific person—using their name adds a personal touch and demonstrates your attention to detail and research. This thoughtful approach helps your cover letter stand out and sets a professional tone right from the start.

Step 3: Address the recipient of your paralegal cover letter

Personalise your cover letter by selecting an appropriate greeting that matches the recipient’s details from the contact section. If you know the person’s name, use it in the greeting, as this demonstrates that you’ve taken the time to research the company and the role.
If you’re unable to determine the recipient’s name, it’s perfectly acceptable to use a general greeting. However, avoid using “To Whom It May Concern,” as this can come across as impersonal and outdated. A more modern alternative, such as “Dear Hiring Manager,” can be a professional choice when the recipient’s name is unknown.

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Step 4: Start strong with your paralegal cover letter introduction

Your cover letter introduction should immediately capture the reader’s attention and set a professional tone for the rest of your letter. In just two or three sentences, clearly state the paralegal position you are applying for and highlight your most relevant qualifications.

Express your enthusiasm for the role and demonstrate how your background aligns with the firm’s objectives. If you have limited professional experience in law, emphasise any internships, work placements, or relevant coursework that directly connects to the position. Whether it’s your experience with legal research, document drafting, or specific legal modules you studied, showcase your passion for the legal field and explain why you’re a strong fit for the job. A compelling introduction will engage the reader and motivate them to continue reviewing your cover letter and CV for further details.

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Step 5: Emphasise your paralegal skills and experience

Following your introduction, use the next paragraph or two to clearly demonstrate why you are the ideal candidate for the paralegal position. Highlight the skills and experiences that set you apart, providing specific examples that complement your CV without simply repeating its content.

Start by aligning your skills and experience directly with the job description to demonstrate that you’re a strong match for the paralegal position. Carefully review the requirements listed in the role and highlight how your background meets those specific needs. For example, if the job emphasises legal research, case management, or document preparation, be sure to mention your relevant experience in those areas.

Common paralegal skills that employers often seek include proficiency in legal research, familiarity with legal databases like LexisNexis, case preparation, drafting legal documents, and strong organisational abilities. Where possible, incorporate metrics to demonstrate your impact. For instance, you could mention how you helped reduce case preparation time by a certain percentage or contributed to the successful resolution of a case. Using concrete examples and numbers helps make your application more compelling and shows you can deliver results in a real-world legal setting.

If your professional experience is limited, focus on your education and any relevant training. Highlight coursework in areas like contract law, civil procedure, or legal writing, which provided you with the analytical and critical thinking skills necessary for a paralegal role. You can also mention any relevant projects, internships, or volunteer work.

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Step 6: Conclude your paralegal cover letter

End your cover letter with a concise and polite conclusion. Thank the recruiter for considering your application and express your enthusiasm about the opportunity to join their team. Briefly highlight how your skills and experience make you an ideal candidate for the paralegal position. Mention that your CV is attached for further information and express your eagerness to discuss in more detail how you can contribute to the firm’s success.

Choose a closing phrase that fits the tone of the company: use “Sincerely” when addressing a specific person, “Yours faithfully” for a general greeting, or “Kind regards” for a more informal yet professional sign-off. Finally, include your full name to complete the letter.

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Step 7: Edit and format your paralegal cover letter

Once your paralegal cover letter is complete, take the time to review it carefully for any grammatical errors or typos. Attention to detail is crucial in the legal profession, and a polished cover letter reflects your professionalism. You can use online spell check tools or ask a colleague, friend, or family member to help you proofread your application.

Check your cover letter is well-organised and visually appealing. Pay close attention to the layout, such as the margins and font. For a clean, professional look, use recommended fonts like Arial, Tahoma, or Times New Roman, as these are widely regarded as both elegant and easy to read. A well-formatted cover letter not only showcases your attention to detail but also helps make a strong first impression.