cover letter uga law

• Business Posts

How to Write a Legal Cover Letter for Law Firms (that Gets you Noticed)

Instantly download this blog article as a PDF

Set yourself up for success with our free Guide to Starting a Law Firm.

Download this article as a PDF Loading ...

Whether you’re just starting your legal journey or are an experienced legal professional seeking a new role, there’s no way around it: demand for legal positions is high, and the job outlook for lawyers in the US grows at a faster-than-average pace . Pair this industry growth with movement from lawyers already working in the industry (the 2022 Legal Trends Report found that in the 12 months before April 2022, nearly one in five lawyers left the law firm they were working for, and nine percent planned to leave their firm in the next six months), and it’s clear that many lawyers will find themselves needing to stand out in a competitive job market. 

However, despite the high demand for legal positions, people still need legal expertise—and law firms need capable legal professionals to fill open roles.

Whether you’re a law student, recent graduate, or experienced legal professional, this post will help you with your legal cover letter writing. We’ve started by providing sample cover letters for legal positions below and will then guide you through the essentials of writing a compelling cover letter for law firms. 

Legal cover letter examples

If you’re feeling overwhelmed when drafting a cover letter for law firms, don’t worry. Seeing a legal cover letter example can give you the confidence to write your own. Below, we’ve compiled some sample cover letters for legal positions, covering different backgrounds and levels of experience.

• Cover letter examples for summer associates and interns, Columbia Law School.  
• Cover letter examples for 1L – 3L students, Harvard Law School .
• Cover letter examples for 1L – 3L students, Yale Law School .
• Cover letter example for applying to an immigration law firm by a recent graduate with previous paralegal experience .
• Cover letter example for applying to a Big Law firm, Boston University. 
• Cover letter example for an IP lawyer with 11 years experience, Monster .
• Cover letter example for a litigation attorney with 12 years experience, My Perfect Resume .
• Cover letter examples for applying for private sector roles, Yale Law School .
• Cover letter example for seeking a summer judicial internship, University of Georgia School of Law .

Berkeley Law also provides an excellent guide for legal cover letters. 

You can start by using one of these examples as inspiration when structuring your cover letter and what you may want to highlight. You can also take insights from these sample cover letters for lawyers—insights you can apply to your own cover letter when following our tips below.

How to draft a cover letter for a law firm

It’s one thing to review examples of legal cover letters, but how to write one? By following the standard etiquette and structure—and then personalizing it—you can draft an effective cover letter. First, let’s review some legal cover letter best practices.

You may like these posts

How to practice law part-time (or with flexible hours), changing legal practice areas here is everything you need to know, finding an alternative career for lawyers, cover letter etiquette.

Even after reviewing some legal cover letter examples, the dos and don’ts of legal cover letter writing aren’t always easy to spot. You may ask yourself: what should a legal cover letter include for a law firm? While the content of your cover letter will differ between employers, these points of etiquette should not.

• Don’t skip it. The first—and potentially most important—element of legal cover letter etiquette is just writing one. While job sites and hiring portals may state “Cover Letter Optional,” disregard this, it is always best to send a cover letter.
• Be concise. The hiring manager is likely receiving dozens, or maybe even hundreds, of cover letters a day. Respect an employer’s time by getting straight to the point. Long legal cover letters may also indicate an inability to achieve quick and succinct results.
• Match their tone. Write as if you’ve already been hired for the role. It’s subtle, but an employer will appreciate this personal touch.
• Prioritize the employer. Don’t include unnecessary details about your life that won’t impact how you’ll perform the job.
• Don’t recycle legal cover letters. Be original. It’s time-consuming work, but it’ll show your potential employer your dedication.
• Triple-check it. Spelling and grammatical errors should be avoided at all costs. Given the highly competitive nature of the legal job market, you don’t want to be passed up over a simple error.

Addressing cover letters for lawyers

To whom it may concern: Always take the time to find the correct contact. When writing cover letters for law firms, it’s a common misstep to dedicate so much time and attention to the body of the letter that you overlook the basics—like who and how you’re addressing the letter. 

Here are some best practices for addressing your legal cover letter:

• Know who you’re speaking to. Do your research and be specific. Address your cover letter to the person responsible for hiring at the firm you’re contacting, like the senior partner or hiring manager. If you don’t have this information, the law firm’s website might come in handy, or you can contact the law firm’s human resources department for guidance. 
• Be careful with salutations. The salutation is a place to convey respect and showcase that you’ve taken the time to personalize the letter. Mistakes in the salutation are a sign that you’ll miss details, which won’t bode well for your chances of impressing your potential employer. If you’re certain of the recipient’s preferred gender-identifying language, you can write the salutation as “Dear Ms.” or “Dear Mr.”; however, if you aren’t certain (and don’t make assumptions) or you don’t want to use gender-identifying language, drop the “Ms.” or “Mr.” and write out the person’s full first and last name.
• Double-check your spelling. People will always notice if you spell their name wrong, and there are multiple ways to spell even common names. Ensure you start on the right foot by getting the basics right.

Introductory paragraph

In your cover letter’s opening paragraph, you have two main goals:

• Introduce who you are.
• Explain why you’d be a good fit for this particular firm. 

In the first paragraph, include details about:

• Who you are. Are you currently a law student? Are you an associate at a law firm?
• Who you know. Mention any referrals or mutual acquaintances right away.
• Why you’d be a great fit for the firm. Include specific reasons—you’re looking for a way to create connections with the senior partner or hiring manager.

Main cover letter body

The body section of your cover letter is your chance to shine—and to concisely summarize exactly how you meet the requirements in the job description. 

In one or two paragraphs, give a high-level overview of your legal education and experience to show:

• Why you want to work for this firm. Elaborate on what makes you genuinely excited about the firm—whether it is an area of interest you’ve specialized in, the firm’s reputation or mission, or past experiences that will make you a uniquely good fit.
• Why this firm should hire you. Make clear connections between your qualifications and aspects of the role you’re applying for. If there is a job posting, look closely for key attributes that the firm is looking for, and then detail how you meet those expectations. 

Highlighting your qualifications

Above all else, ensure your legal cover letter highlights your skills. Relevant qualifications for a law firm cover letter include: 

• Past legal work experience or positions.
• Community service roles.
• Academic or research specializations.
• Publications.
• Relevant awards you’ve received.
• Your personal background.

For example, consider a job posting that describes their ideal candidate as someone with personal injury litigation experience, excellent communication skills, and who works well both independently and as a part of a team in a fast-paced office environment.

If you were applying for this role, your cover letter’s body paragraphs might detail your past personal injury litigation experience and specific examples of how you’ve successfully communicated within a team and in a fast-paced environment.

Remember: Be specific, but keep in mind that this is not the place to restate your resume —if you can grab the hiring manager’s attention here, they will read your resume for those details. Your cover letter is where you can entice the reader to move on to your resume by providing context and highlighting how your experience lines up with what’s needed for the role.

For tips on writing a standout lawyer resume, read our blog post here.

Concluding paragraph

Finally, your concluding paragraph is where you’ll succinctly wrap the cover letter up, close the loop, and leave a positive impression. In your closing paragraph, be sure to:

• Say thank you. Gratitude can make a difference, so always thank the reader for their consideration.
• Assert your next steps. It’s fine to clearly outline how and when you will follow up on your application, rather than waiting indefinitely for an answer. And, if you say that you’ll follow up at a specific time, be sure to do it—and hold yourself to your word.
• Provide relevant contact details. Let the reader know how to reach you by phone or email, if these details are not already outlined in your letter’s header.

Tips for using your legal cover letter to stand out

The legal industry is rapidly evolving, and job hunters need to set themselves apart to get hired (unless, of course, you decide to start your own law firm ). 

If you’re applying for a job as a lawyer, whether it’s a traditional position or a legal work-from-home job , here are five tips to make sure your cover letter lands at the top of the pile.

1. Make it personal

Perhaps the most important tip for writing cover letters for lawyers is to make it personal. 

Many of your competitors have similar education and professional experience, so being generic is a fast track to being forgotten. 

Use a personalized cover letter to showcase the unique reasons why you’re the best candidate. Show that you know the person you’re writing to, and highlight any connections. If that isn’t possible, you can always write about the firm to show that you’ve done your research. 

2. Prioritize the positive 

When writing a lawyer cover letter, focus on what you have to offer. Regardless of why you’re looking for a new job, you bring a unique mix of attributes to the table. Highlight these attributes, whether they’re your: 

• Other legal careers
• Relevant work experience 

If you’re a law student or recent graduate, you may not have a long legal career to highlight. However, you can still note strengths like technology skills that make you an asset.

To a hiring law firm, being tech-competent and familiar with certain cloud-based tools like Clio could be an advantage that sets you apart from other candidates.

For example, more and more law firms are adopting artificial intelligence (AI) tools to help them run their practices more efficiently, with the 2023 Legal Trends Report finding that nearly one in five legal professionals are using some form of AI in their practices already. With this in mind, lawyers up-to-date with AI technology may stand out for hiring law firms.  

3. Get to the point

Legal cover letters are not the place to be long-winded, and droning on will almost certainly have the opposite effect of what you’re going for. Keep cover letters for attorneys short, to the point, and persuasive—the trick is to be memorable and limit yourself to one page. Because you want to make a lasting impression on a single page, it’s also a good idea to check your cover letter’s sentence structure. Do you start all of your sentences the same way? Are they all the same length? Ensure there’s some variety so your reader stays engaged.

4. Set the right tone

Tone matters. While what you say in a cover letter for lawyers is obviously important, it also matters how you say it. 

No matter what type of legal job you’re applying for, you always want to convey a professional tone. However, depending on the law firm you’re applying to, using a personal tone may work to your advantage. Tailor your tone to match the law firm you’re applying to. 

If you’re writing a Big Law cover letter, for example, you’ll want to err on the side of being more formal. For a smaller local law firm? Check their website and match the tone to demonstrate your familiarity with their firm. 

5. Proofread

There is zero room for typos or grammatical errors in cover letters for lawyers. With so much competition for legal jobs, don’t give hiring managers a reason to eliminate you. Take the time to carefully proofread your cover letter yourself, and consider enlisting someone else to proofread your cover letters as well.

Final thoughts on how to write a legal cover letter for a law firm

In a crowded legal job market, there’s no better way to outshine the competition than an excellent legal cover letter. Ensure you’re putting your best foot forward with your future employer by: 

• Making it personal. At every step, customize your cover letter to the firm you’re applying to—from the tone to the specific skills you detail.
• Keeping it brief. Cover letters for lawyers are a one-page summary to let the hiring manager know that you’re a candidate they should talk to further. You want to give them enough information to draw them in, but not overwhelm them and risk losing interest.
• Showcasing your strengths. Focus on the positives, and don’t be afraid to highlight how your past experiences make you uniquely qualified.

While finding a new legal job in a competitive market isn’t exactly easy, staying resilient and adaptive will lead you to success. By crafting a great cover letter, you’re more likely to be noticed in this—and any—job market. 

And, no matter what job you’re applying for, knowing technology can help set you apart—both when job hunting and once you’re working at your new firm. If you’re a law student and want a head start, you may be able to get free Clio access via Clio’s Academic Access Program (CAAP) at your law school. Learn more about CAAP here .

Do law firms read cover letters?

In a competitive job market, hiring managers at law firms read cover letters to help determine which candidates may be the best fit. A well-written legal cover letter can entice the reader to review your resume—and, hopefully, invite you for an interview—by showcasing how your experience and skills align with the role. 

We published this blog post in June 2020. Last updated: June 13, 2024 .

Categorized in: Business

You might also like

Related articles on how to run a more efficient, profitable law firm.

Subscribe to the blog

A part time law practice may be the solution if you need to work reduced or flexible hours when working…

Thinking of changing legal practice areas or adding a new practice area to your firm? This guide has everything you…

If you’re a lawyer or recent law graduate thinking of switching to an alternative career, we’ve created a guide with…

What's Clio?

We're the world's leading provider of cloud-based legal software. With Clio's low-barrier and affordable solutions, lawyers can manage and grow their firms more effectively, more profitably, and with better client experiences. We're redefining how lawyers manage their firms by equipping them with essential tools to run their firms securely from any device, anywhere.

• Graduate Programs
• Prospective Students
• Current Students
• Faculty & Staff
• Academic & Professional Development >
• Professional Resources >
• Resumes/CVs & Cover Letter Resources

This page contains a list of resources for graduate students who are preparing applications for roles outside of academia. Master’s students may benefit most from utilizing the resources provided by the UGA Career Center. Doctoral students may consider using UGA Career Center resources as well as other sample resumes provided in the list below. Individual resume feedback can be obtained by contacting the  UGA Career Center  and scheduling an appointment with your career consultant.

UGA Career Center Resume Resources

• General Resume Examples
• Graduate Student Career Guide

Examples from Other Organizations

• UC-Davis Industry Resume Examples
•  UCSF Industry Resume Examples
• UVA Sample Resumes/CVs
•  UCLA Resume Example (STEM PhD)
•  UCLA Resume Example (Humanities)
• MLA Resume Writing for Humanities PhDs

Summary of Qualifications

Doctoral students and advanced master’s students should consider utilizing a “summary of qualifications” at the top of their resume to highlight key skills and experiences they wish to emphasize to the reader. Please review our  Summary of Qualifications  info sheet to learn more.

• Academic & Professional Development
• UGA Mentor Programs
• Dissertation Writing Retreat
• Campus Resources
• UGA StudyAway
• Mentoring Resources for Faculty
• Mentoring Resources for Graduate Students
• Graduate School Awards
• GradSlate Enrolled Student Progress Portal
• Responsible Conduct of Research
• Research with Human Participants
• Selecting Software
• Creating Single or Multiple Files
• Front Matter Templates
• Converting to PDF
• Creating PDF Files with Adobe Acrobat

Unlocking potential. Building futures.

Apply Today

The Graduate School Brooks Hall 310 Herty Drive Athens, GA 30602 706.542.1739

• Administration
• Graduate Bulletin
• Strategic Plan
• Virtual Tour
• Submit a Complaint
• Request Information
• Requirements
• Application Fee
• Check Status
• UGA Main Campus
• UGA Gwinnett
• UGA Griffin
• UGA Atlanta-Buckhead

Sign up to our Newsletter

Law student cover letter: what you need to know + samples.

Reviewed by:

David Merson

Former Head of Pre-Law Office, Northeastern University, & Admissions Officer, Brown University

Reviewed: 4/12/24

Need to write a law student cover letter? We’ve got you covered! Below, we discuss the dos and don’ts of writing a cover letter for law school. 

A cover letter is often an overlooked aspect of any application, but it is the first thing potential employers read. If your cover letter doesn’t impress the reader, your entire application risks being passed over. 

If you are unsure of how to write a strong cover letter, look no further. We’ll outline key tips, review examples of cover letters, and answer some frequently asked questions. Let’s get started!

What Is a Law Student Cover Letter? 

A law student cover letter is a document a law student submits with their resume to potential employers for internships or employment opportunities within their field of study.

It serves as a personalized introduction and persuasive pitch to potential employers. This letter connects the applicant's qualifications and experiences listed in their resume to the specific position they're applying for, highlighting their suitability for the role. 

It concludes with a call to action, expressing interest in an interview. Moreover, a cover letter is a tool for law students to demonstrate their qualifications and enthusiasm, aiming to secure an interview and the desired role.

Why Do You Need a Cover Letter as a Law Student?

Cover letters are a key part of any job application, whether you are in law school or not. It is important to include a cover letter unless specified otherwise, especially if you’re applying to multiple law schools . They allow you to demonstrate professionalism and show off your communication and writing skills. 

Cover letters are important for law students; they allow you to discuss important qualifications and experiences that aren’t always included within your resume, such as extracurricular activities . Here’s the information you should include in your cover letter: 

• Research experience and activities 
• Coursework 
• Other valuable skills 

A cover letter for law students is a great opportunity to share your accomplishments and skills outside of your work experience. 

What to Include in Your Law Student Cover Letter

Your cover letter is the first thing an employer will read, so be positive and enthusiastic! While your resume outlines your relevant work experience and education, it doesn’t show off your personality. 

A cover letter can be a great opportunity to humanize yourself to the employer and make them want you to be a part of their team. 

Berkeley Law outlines the precise content you should include in your cover letter : 

• First Paragraph : Introduce yourself and why you are interested in applying for the position. 
• Body Paragraphs : This is where you show off all your work experience, research, achievements, qualifications, and other skills that are related to the position you are applying to. Be persuasive but not too showy. Remember to be honest and genuine. 
• Final Paragraph : To conclude, thank the employer for taking the time to read and consider your application, and leave contact information for a prospective interview. Remain positive and confident that you will get an interview!

While these are just suggestions to help you get started and structure your cover letter, you should try to follow this format as closely as you can. 

What NOT to Include in Your Law Student Cover Letter

It is tempting to highlight all of your experiences, but that is not the purpose of a cover letter. Cover letters should be concise and to the point. You should only mention experiences that are relevant to the position you are applying for. 

When deciding which experiences to include, focus on those that you have completed recently. You only have a few short paragraphs to sell yourself to employers, so be sure to avoid accomplishments from over three years ago. 

You also want to avoid being negative, doubtful, or coming across as insecure in your cover letter. 

Formatting Tips for Law Students Cover Letter

Understanding the structure of a cover letter for a law student is essential to creating an impressive and effective application for legal internships or job opportunities. Here are some easy to follow tips to help you format your cover letter. 

1. Include a Header

Prior to writing the main sections of your cover letter, review and update your personal information. Make it easily accessible by positioning your contact details in the header section at the top of the letter. 

This includes your full name, email address, phone number, city, state, and date. This ensures the hiring manager can quickly locate your information for interview scheduling.

2. Address the Hiring Manager

Begin your letter with a professional and personalized greeting by addressing the hiring manager by name, incorporating their appropriate title (e.g., Mr. or Ms.). If you don't have their name, conduct online research, as law firms often provide employee information on their websites. 

In cases where you can't find a name, you can use the standard "Dear Hiring Manager" as your greeting.

3. Page Format and Length

When crafting your cover letter, remember to keep it concise, fitting all content onto a single page. Structure it with an introductory paragraph, followed by one to three skill-highlighting paragraphs, and wrap it up with a concluding paragraph. This format ensures that your message is clear and impactful while respecting the reader's time.

4. Margins and Alignment 

Ensure you follow the standard margins , typically one inch on all sides. If you opt for smaller margins, such as around 0.7 inches, make sure to maintain consistency across all sides of the page. 

Additionally, align all paragraphs to the left for a clean and conventional presentation, although some choose to use an indentation for the first line of each paragraph, although this is less common in modern formatting.

5. Use a Suitable Sign-Off

Conclude your cover letter with a professional and balanced tone. It shows your professionalism, which law firms often value in candidates. Consider sign-offs like "Regards," "Sincerely," or "Best Regards." Allow some space after this closing for your name.

Law Student Cover Letter Example

We have some sample legal cover letters from law students below to give you an idea of tone, style, and length. 

Here is an example of a strong cover letter for a first-year law student at Yale University: 

Dear [Employer’s Name]: 

I am a first-year student at Yale Law School seeking a position with Curtis, Mallet-Prevost, Colt & Mosle for Summer 20XX. I am a native New Yorker and hope to work in New York City this coming summer. 

I am interested in your firm because of its international law practice generally and, more particularly, because of your firm’s presence in France and numerous French clients. Your Paris office’s focus in the areas of international commercial arbitration, as well as corporate, banking, and finance work, aligns with my long-term interests in a practice serving international corporations. Having lived and studied in Paris for one year during college and having served as a teaching assistant for French language and literature courses, I am fluent in French and knowledgeable about French culture. My undergraduate majors in International Relations and in Economics provided me with an understanding of many of the complex issues facing businesses with the increase in globalization. I plan to further my understanding of these issues as a member of the Yale Journal of International Law. 

To your firm I will bring proven legal research, writing, and analytical skills that will support your firm and its clients. During my undergraduate education, I served as a member of the University Judiciary Committee, and as a student judge I heard cases, interpreted university codes, and wrote rulings summarizing the Committee’s conclusions. I also drafted a thesis in which I drew from archived primary sources and first-person interviews to write a fifty-page document over the course of a year. Here at Yale, through our first-year writing course this fall, I have streamlined my skills and adapted them to the legal environment. Next semester, I will enroll in YLS’s Advanced Legal Writing course to deepen my understanding and experience. 

Attached please find my resume. If you would like me to provide you with additional materials, I would be more than happy to do so. I am confident that my background and skills will enable me to make a positive contribution to your clients. Thank you for considering my candidacy. I look forward to hearing from you soon. 

Sincerely, [Your Name]

This is a successful cover letter because the individual outlines specific academic skills and experience that make them a qualified candidate. Remember, being specific is key to writing a strong cover letter. 

Employers want to read about a couple of examples rather than a general (and usually vague) overview of all your qualifications and experiences. 

For first year law students, you can highlight where you completed your undergrad and your major, as you will have most likely just completed this degree. You can also include why you are interested in pursuing a law career. 

For those who are in their second year of law school, here is another excellent sample legal cover letter :

I am a second-year student at Yale Law School seeking employment with the Food Research and Action Center for the summer. If funding is not available for summer interns, Yale could fund my summer employment. 

FRAC’s mandate to eradicate poverty-related hunger and undernutrition in the United States is compelling to me. I understand that through a combination of research, advocacy, program monitoring, training, collaboration, and public-information campaigns you seek to address the root causes of hunger. As a former nurse who has worked on issues of nutrition and health policy, I am very interested in the work of the Center in the areas of health law and nutrition in maternal and child health. I would greatly value the opportunity to work with and learn from your attorneys, policy analysts, and advocates. 

I have practical work experience in these fields that would be of service to you and your clients. My work as an assistant ombudsperson at a major hospital helped me to understand the importance of nutrition for health and the need for advocacy on behalf of those who cannot effectively advocate for themselves. My experience with the National Health Law program exposed me to the legislative and policy side of health law and the value of legal training in public service. After my first year of law school, I was able to combine my nursing degree and health care experience with my new legal research and writing skills at the Center for Reproductive Law and Policy. This experience has strengthened my interest in grassroots organizing and advocacy of nutrition issues for low income Americans.

I would welcome the opportunity to speak with you or someone in your office about a position as a summer intern at the Center. I will call your office in the next few weeks to see whether it might be possible to arrange an interview and look forward to speaking with you then. 

I have enclosed my resume, law school transcript, a writing sample, and a reference list. Should you require additional application materials, please let me know, and I will forward them to you immediately. 

Thank you for your consideration. 

Like the first example, this cover letter works so well because it clearly outlines and describes the specific experience of the candidate. 

As a second year law student, the individual speaks about how their experience relates to the areas of law the student is interested in pursuing, demonstrating that the position the candidate is applying for will help them achieve their career goals.    

These examples are a good starting point to structure your own letter off of, but remember to make your cover letter your own.

Cover Letter Template for a Law Student 

Here is a cover letter template for law students provided by the University of Notre Dame. 

Your City, State Zip

Your Phone Number 

Your Email Address

Name of Contact Person 

Title of Contact Person 

Employer Name 

Address City, State Zip     

Dear Mr. (Ms.) last name of contact person:   

First Paragraph: Tell why you are writing – name the position for which you are applying. If you have a personal referral or connection, mention it here. Identify your career goals and indicate why you are interested in working for this employer. If you have ties to or have lived in the area, mention it. Specify your interests in the type of work the employer does. Describe what is particularly appealing to you about the employer.    

Second Paragraph: Show how your background qualifies you for the position. Point out the experience and coursework you have that relate to the employer's field or type of work. Focus on what skills or experiences you would bring to the employer. Emphasize pertinent items on your resume and supplement it with other details. Tie experience to tangible, transferable skills. Convince the employer that you would be an asset.   

Third Paragraph: Restate your interest in working for the employer. Have an appropriate closing to pave the way for an interview. Indicate your willingness to interview personally by stating when you will be in the area or by offering to make yourself available at the employer's convenience. Thank the employer for his/her consideration.   

Sincerely,    

(leave 4 blank lines for signature)     

Your full typed name 

There are many law school application mistakes to avoid . If you’re having trouble writing your cover letter, this help template will aid you in writing a stellar one! 

FAQs: Law Student Cover Letter

Still have questions about writing a cover letter for law school? We answer some of your frequently asked questions below. 

1. How Do I Write a Cover Letter for a Law Student?

Before you begin writing any cover letter, familiarize yourself with the job posting, the company/organization you are applying to, and use words and phrases found in the job posting. 

This will demonstrate that you are genuinely interested in the specific job, and will also show off your attention to detail (a skill employers always look for). After you have written the cover letter, proofread and edit for grammar and spelling errors before you submit your application. 

2. What Should Be Included in a Cover Letter for Law?

Your cover letter should include: 

• Your Address and Contact Information 
• Your Full Name and Location 
• The Date of Your Application 
• A Brief Introduction to Yourself 
• Concise Outline of Professional and Academic Experience 
• Highlights of Why You Are Qualified for the Position 
• A Professional and Polite Closing 

Highlight the school you’re attending, as law firms may prefer students from certain colleges. 

Take your time when writing your cover letter; it takes quite a bit of work to craft an impactful one. However, a strong cover letter will maximize your chances of getting the job or internship you want, so it will be well worth it. 

3. How Long Should a Law School Cover Letter Be?

A cover letter should only be one page long and broken up into a few short paragraphs for ease of reading. Make sure that you follow typical business correspondence formatting. 

4. How Do You Address a Law School Cover Letter?

Normally, people have addressed cover letters with Mr. or Mrs. [Last name] . However, this may not always be appropriate because you do not know how the individual would like to be addressed. 

Nowadays, people typically address employers with a simple Dear [First and last name] . This is still a personal and respectful way to address someone, and avoids assuming someone’s gender identity and offending them. 

Yale Law School suggests addressing your cover letter to a specific individual rather than a vague ‘Sir’ or ‘Madam.’

5. ​​Can I Use The Same Cover Letter For Multiple Law Schools?

Yes, you can use the same cover letter for multiple law schools . However, you may only reuse parts of it. It’s important that you personalize every cover letter you write and tailor it to the school you’re sending it to. 

6. Do I Need Multiple Cover Letters?

Yes, you need multiple cover letters. You’ll need to personalize each cover letter you write. However, you can reuse parts of your cover letter that are generic. 

Final Thoughts

Writing a cover letter is not as easy as many people may think. You need to pay close attention to detail, flex your communication and writing skills, and professionally brag about your accomplishments and capabilities in a way that compliments your resume. 

If you would like help with your resume, we also have tips on building a great resume to go along with your cover letter. Good luck!

Schedule A Free Consultation

You may also like.

Top Law Schools in Nevada

Law School Tiers - All You Need to Know

Cover Letter Advice

Cover letter tips.

Like your resume, a cover letter is a sample of your written work and should be brief (preferably one page), persuasive, well-reasoned, and grammatically perfect. Before crafting your cover letters, review the following tips and consult the sample cover letters .

A good cover letter

• Tells the employer who you are and what you are seeking;
• Shows that you know about the particular employer and the kind of work the employer does (i.e., civil or criminal work, direct client service, “impact” cases, antitrust litigation);
• Demonstrates your writing skills;
• Demonstrates your commitment to the work of that particular employer;
• Conveys that you have something to contribute to the employer;
• Shows that you and that employer are a good “fit;” and
• Tells the employer how to get in touch with you by email, telephone, and mail.

Hiring attorneys and recruiting administrators use cover letters to

• Eliminate applicants whose letters contain misspellings (especially of the employer name and the name of the contact person) or other errors;
• Eliminate applicants whose letters show a lack of research, knowledge about, or interest in the employer’s work;
• Eliminate applicants who are unable to exhibit the value they will bring to the employer; and
• See if there are geographic ties or other information to explain the applicant’s interest in that city or employer.

Cover Letter Format

Your current address should be aligned with the center of the page or the left margin. Under your address you should include a telephone number where you can most easily be reached (i.e., your cell phone) and email address. The date is included under that contact information.

Determine to whom you should address the cover letter. If you are applying to law firms, address your letter to the recruiting director, unless you have reason to do otherwise—for example, if you have been instructed to address the letter to a particular attorney at the firm. For NALP member firms, use www.nalpdirectory.com to obtain that contact information. For other firms and public interest employers, you can refer to their websites, or contact the office to determine to whom your materials should be directed. The name of the person to whom the letter is addressed, his or her title, the employer’s name, and address follow the date and are aligned with the left margin. If writing to an attorney, include Esq. after the person’s name. The greeting appears two lines below the employer’s address and should be “Dear Mr.,” “Dear Ms.,” “Dear Mx.,” “Dear [First Name] [LastName],” or “Dear Judge.” When possible, avoid addressing your letter generally, such as Dear Sir or Madam, or “To Whom It May Concern”; instead take the time to find the contact person and address the letter to that individual.

The body of the cover letter ought to be single-spaced with a line between each paragraph. The closing of the letter (“Sincerely” and your signature) should be two lines below the last line of the letter and either in the center of the page or aligned with the left margin, consistent with how you set up the top of your letter.

Cover Letter Body

Although there are many ways to write a cover letter, the following general format has worked well for candidates in the past.

• In the first paragraph of your cover letter, explain why you are sending your application to the employer: “I am an experienced attorney admitted in New York and am seeking a position with the Trusts and Estates practice group at your organization.” Mention your education background very briefly. In addition, if you have been referred by a mutual contact, you should mention that contact in the first paragraph.
• Use the second paragraph to explain your interest in the employer, including your interest in the employer’s geographic location, reputation, specialty area, or public service.
• In the third paragraph, stress why this employer should hire you. Try not to reiterate what is already included on your resume. Elaborate on the qualifications and experience you have that make you an exceptional attorney. As a lateral candidate it is particularly important to show the value you will bring to the organization.
• The final paragraph should thank the employer for taking the time to review your application and inform the employer of how you can be reached to set up an interview. You may wish to state that you will contact the employer in a couple of weeks to follow up and then actually do so. This is especially true with public interest employers who are often understaffed and will appreciate your extra effort.

For additional general cover letter advice from CDO, consult this page . You are welcome to schedule an appointment with a  CDO counselor to review and discuss your cover letter draft.

Section Menu

Cover Letters

E. common cover letter mistakes.

• Vide o and Slides from the CDO program “ Cover Letters That Do The Job” and handouts: Job Postings & Tips and Sample PIPS Cover Letters .

Your cover letter is as important as your resume because it is often read first and plays a vital role in your quest for an interview. A cover letter is not a transmittal letter, and you may be surprised at how time-consuming it is to craft a good one. A cover letter has a purpose, which is to let an employer know why they should bother reading your resume and why they should meet you. It also serves as an example of your written work product; thus it should be clear, brief, and written in a business letter style, without any typographical errors.

1. Cover letters for unsolicited applications come in three main types:

• Personal Letter. These are the most effective cover letters and are sent to people you have met or with whom you have a mutual acquaintance. These letters should all start with the sentence: “_______ recommended that I contact you.” As this type of letter is most likely to get a response, if you have any possibility of establishing this sort of connection to a prospective employer in advance of sending your letter, you should try your best to do so.
• Targeted Letters. Next best thing. Targeted letters are based on research of the employer, and are individually tailored. Your letter should incorporate the information learned through your research to show the employer that you have skills they will be able to put to use.
• Mass Mailers. Least desirable. These are generic except for the name and address of the employer, and have a very low success rate of getting interviews.

2. When you respond to a job listing, you will usually be requested to submit a cover letter as part of your application. In this case, use the job description and requested qualifications as a guide. While not simply imitating the language of the listing, your letter should demonstrate that you have what the employer is looking for.

3. A few employers at OCI request that students bring a cover letter to the initial interview. This is essentially to require students to think about why they want to work for this employer, but it makes for a letter which deviates from the usual “please consider me for an interview” approach. See below for suggestions on OCI cover letters.

Cover letters should follow standard business letter format, as to spacing, salutation, etc. If you are not sure of the fine points, consult a business correspondence reference source. Avoid abbreviations, contractions and shortcuts (such as a slash instead of “or”), although if there is an accepted short form of the name of the organization you are writing to (e.g., ACLU or Coblentz) it is acceptable to use it in the text of your letter. Your telephone number and email address should appear somewhere in the letter, either at the top with your address, or in the closing paragraph, when you ask them to contact you. Note that your resume is “enclosed,” not “attached” (which means clipped or stapled).

If you are not sure to whom you should send your letter, it is always acceptable to write to the executive director of a nonprofit, or the hiring partner or head of recruiting at a firm; they can forward your application to the appropriate person within the organization. If at all possible, write to an individual by name, not to “Director” or “Recruiting Coordinator.” Firm and organization web sites are very useful in finding this information (and for confirming correct spellings and the like); it may be more difficult to find the name of an individual addressee for government job opportunities. If you do not have the name of an individual, the salutation should be “Dear Sir or Madam” (not “To Whom It May Concern”). Of course if you are responding to a job posting, address your letter exactly as instructed.

As for the appropriate salutation, traditionally, it is “Dear [Mr./Ms.] [Last Name].  However, we understand that this prevailing business norm may not be inclusive of individuals who do not use either of those titles (for example, because they identify as gender nonconforming). One alternative, “Dear [First Name] [Last Name]”, avoids presuming how the recipient may identify, but it is not without some risk.  

If you use this approach, a recipient less attuned to thinking about gender inclusivity (and accustomed to seeing only “Dear [Mr./Ms] [Last Name]”) may wrongly conclude that you were unfamiliar with professional etiquette or that you used a mail merge template and did not bother to customize it.  While awareness around these issues is increasing, we believe that, unfortunately, it is still not a small number of recruiting representatives and attorneys who might draw the wrong conclusion.

One way to navigate this tricky situation might be to see if the recipient has an online presence (e.g., on the firm website or LinkedIn) that might give you a strong clue as to how they would like to be addressed.  Otherwise, you will need to make your own judgment as to whether recipients are more likely to recognize your inclusivity or to view the greeting as awkward or erroneous.

In our office, we are also working to help employers become familiar with gender-inclusive approaches like “Dear [First Name] [Last Name],” but like any process of education, this will take time. In the meantime, our primary goal is to make sure that all Berkeley Law students are fully informed as you navigate legal job markets. We are always available to discuss individually what approach would be the best fit for you.

First Paragraph. Begin your letter with a statement of who you are and why you are writing. Introduce yourself as a law student (including the year you are in) or a graduate of Berkeley Law and specify what it is you are seeking: a summer job, an associate position, a clerkship, part-time work during the school year, etc.

The goal of this paragraph is to give the reader a reason to want to finish reading the letter. If you don’t have a personal connection to cite, try to establish a nexus between yourself and the employer, such as knowledge of their practice, an established commitment to or interest in their work, a connection to their city, or something else which conveys that you are not just writing to them as part of a mass mailing for any job in any location. (If that in fact is what you are doing, try not to be too obvious about it. An employer wants to think that you sought him or her out purposely rather than randomly.)

Body Paragraph(s). This is the section in which you “sell” your experience and qualifications to the employer. Your goal here is to answer the question, “Why should the employer meet you?”

Call attention to something which substantiates your interest in this particular employer. It could be coursework in their specialty, the recommendation of a professor in their area of practice, undergraduate residency in their city, or any other indication of your interest. Try also to show how your experiences will translate into skills which will be useful to this particular employer. Highlight relevant qualifications which are not on your resume, such as coursework, research, or a prior connection to the organization or the issues they work on. If you have general legal skills such as negotiation, litigation, client counseling, interviewing, mock trials, etc., you may want to include them. As much as possible, try to convey understanding of, and enthusiasm for, the aims of the organization.

Employers do not expect first-year students to have highly-developed legal skills to offer. Therefore, for first-year students writing to private firms, this section can be a single, short paragraph, unless you have a strong background in a relevant area. However, even inexperienced first-year students writing to public interest/sector organizations should make an effort to describe skills and interests that are relevant to the employer.

It is appropriate and not uncommon for a public interest cover letter to be somewhat more detailed or personal than a private sector cover letter. Of course, it is still very important to be concise, but it is acceptable for the letter to be a full page if your experience dictates. In a public interest cover letter, it is important both to highlight your demonstrated commitment to the mission/work/client base of the organization through your own relevant work or life experience, and to illustrate your relevant skills. Take another look at your resume for items that show your interest, commitment and skills. Even if you do not have experience in the specific area in which an organization works, it is still important to emphasize your demonstrated commitment to the public interest, and to draw connections between that general commitment and the specific work of the organization. As it is important not to merely regurgitate your resume, consider including a story that illustrates you are interested or qualified in the position.

If your application raises questions that are readily answered, such as availability after the Bar exam, judicial clerkship plans, etc., the letter can address those; other issues may be better deferred to the interview stage. Consult a CDO attorney-counselor if you’re not sure whether to include something in your cover letter.

Final Paragraph. In your last paragraph, thank them for their consideration, and say you hope to hear from them soon. For out-of-town employers, indicate when you plan to be in their geographic area and state your availability for an interview. Be sure to include your phone number and email in this paragraph unless you use a letterhead style that includes them at the top of the page. If you state that you will call the employer to follow up on your application, be sure you do so.

If you are bringing a cover letter to an on-campus interview (which you should do only if the employer requests you to), the content will be a bit different. You don’t need to introduce yourself, as you will be there in person, and you won’t request an interview at the closing. But you can thank the employer for interviewing you and say that you welcome the opportunity to learn more about the employer and to discuss the possibility of working for them. The important thing is to show why you are interested in this particular employer, and how you think your background makes you a good match for them.

The mistakes most commonly found in student cover letters are:

• Restating your resume. “ I graduated from the University of Oregon in 2005, with a B.A., cum laude, in Political Science, then worked as a substitute teacher in an urban high school before starting law school in the fall of 2008 .” Don’t waste space with facts that are readily gleaned from your resume! Instead, you could say (briefly) how your work experience led you to pursue a legal career in an area practiced by the employer.
• Focusing on what you stand to gain from the job . “ I am particularly interested in your firm’s excellent training program for summer associates, and in gaining exposure to a variety of different practice areas.” Remember, employers only grant interviews to candidates who offer something of potential use to the employer. Try to say how your skills and enthusiasm will help the employer serve its clients, or otherwise further its aims.
• Being too informal or familiar. “I’m thrilled by the possibility of working with you this summer, and would love to meet with you in person/by phone to chat about what the options might be.” Enthusiasm is good, but it must be presented professionally.

Other cover letter mistakes include: being defensive or apologetic; appearing arrogant or entitled, and being too long and wordy. Unsupported statements of your qualities (“I am highly motivated and a quick study”) do not help your case. Generic reasons for your interest in the employer (e.g., its “excellent reputation”) tend to demonstrate your lack of specific knowledge. Of course typos and inaccuracies, such as misspelled names, or (please!) stating an interest in a practice area that the firm doesn’t have, are automatic application-killers.

Our cover letter template  provides suggestions only; please do not feel excessively constrained by its approach. Your letter should, of course, be original work that reflects your unique background and the job you are aiming at.

Return to Contents

• View our Digital Viewbook
• Give to SLU Law
• Search & Directory

Resumes, Cover Letters and Other Job Search Documents

Resumes, cover letters and writing samples are the first, and sometimes only, opportunity to make a positive impression on an employer. They must be perfect. Your entire work history and educational career are summarized in a few pages and every detail is a reflection on you. Mastering these documents is crucial to obtaining an interview.

All students and graduates are welcome to meet with a member of the Office of Career Services to have their resumes, cover letters and other documents reviewed before sending them to an employer.

Always submit a cover letter with a resume unless the employer expressly says not to do so. Tailor your cover letter specifically to the position to which you are applying. Cover letters must have correct grammar, proper spelling, good sentence structure and must comply with standard business format. Your cover letter is the first sample of your writing skills. It is essential to proofread!

• Cover letter paper and resume paper should match exactly. Likewise, it is preferable that the heading/letterhead on your cover letter be the same as your resume. Regardless, include your return address, telephone number and e-mail address on the cover letter.
• Be sure to date the letter.
• Address the cover letter to a specific person using the individual's complete and correct name, title, firm/organization name, full street address, city, state and zip code. If you don't know to whom the letter should be addressed or if you have questions regarding the job title or the spelling of a name, call the employer and ask.
• Do not address the cover letter to "Dear Hiring Partner," "Dear Sir or Madam" or "To Whom It May Concern". This makes it appear to be a mass mailing rather than a targeted cover letter. If you exhaust all resources to identify to whom the cover letter should be addressed and are still are unable to identify the proper individual, you may use the terms as a course of last resort.
• When addressing a letter to an attorney, you may insert "Esq." after the attorney's name in the address block. For example: "Charles A. Abrams, Esq." When using the "Esq." designation in the address block, however, do not insert Mr. or Ms. before the attorney's name. Additionally, in the salutation, (i.e., Dear Mr. Abrams:), do not insert Esq. after the name. Also, use Mr. or Ms. in the salutation. Do not use Mrs. or Miss.
• Use a colon, not a comma, after the greeting for business letters.
• 1st Paragraph: Tell who you are and why you are writing.
• Use contact names and research findings about the firm as it relates to your interests.
• 2nd Paragraph: Tell what you will bring to the firm.
• Describe your skills; give examples of your achievements and accomplishments and how they will benefit the employer. The focus should be what you have to offer the employer, not how you will benefit from the job.
• 3rd Paragraph: Tell what will be your next step.
• If submitting for on-campus interviewing, express that you are appreciative of their time.
• For all other letters, ask for an interview and state that you will follow-up with a telephone call to confirm that the employer received your information and to inquire if the employer requires additional information. Include your telephone number and e-mail address if they are not included at the top of your letter.
• Thank the individual for his/her time and consideration and mention that you look forward to speaking with the individual soon.
• Close the letter with "Sincerely" or "Very truly yours"; leave space (usually 4 spaces) to sign your name.
• Remember to sign your letters. Blue ink is preferable so the reader knows it is not a copy, but black ink is acceptable. Do not sign in pencil or unusual color ink.
• If you are enclosing a single document (e.g., a resume,) include "Enclosure" two spaces under your name; if you are enclosing more than one document (e.g., writing sample, transcript, list of references, letters of recommendation) include "Enclosures" two spaces under your name.
• When submitting by regular mail, do not staple your cover letter to your resume or other documents. It is preferable to use large mailing envelopes, rather than folding the letter and resume.

Sample Cover Letters

Your resume must be perfect. No errors. Do not rely solely on spell check. Spell check does not always find all misspelled words. It is essential that you proofread repeatedly. Have several different people review your resume for errors.

• Use good resume paper. White, off-white or ivory paper is recommended.
• Resumes should be aesthetically pleasing to the eye with sufficient white space.
• Avoid unusual fonts and formats.
• Recommended font size is 11 or 12 as anything smaller is difficult to read.
• Your name, address, telephone number and e-mail address should appear at the top of page
• Typically, a resume should be one page. Someone with an extensive employment history or a professional career prior to law school may require a two pages resume. Contact the Office of Career Services if you have questions regarding the length of your resume. It is better to go with two pages than to crowd the information onto one page.
• Do not number the first page of your resume, but identify subsequent pages, by putting "Your Name" and "Page #" at the top right hand corner of each page, so that if the pages are separated the employer knows to whom the resume belongs.
• Use strong action words in the past tense to describe previous employment and strong action words in the present tense to describe current employment.
• Focus your descriptions on outcomes, results and accomplishments.
• Exclude all data on the resume such as social security number, religion, race, salary, age, weight, height, state of health, marital status, LSAT score, photographs and case citations
• Print each resume on a laser printer.

The Office of Career Services personnel are available to review your resume and there are two computers, a laser printer and a fax machine available in the Office of Career Services for career-related use. You must supply resume paper, resume envelopes and address labels.

Sample Resume

• References should be provided in a separate document from your resume. Do not include a line stating "References Available Upon Request" on your resume.
• Obtain references from someone who is familiar with your work and, preferably, from someone who supervised your work. Former employers, professors from law school or professors from undergraduate school are good references.
• Contact the potential reference and be certain that the individual is comfortable being a reference for you and confirm that he or she will provide a positive reference.
• It is recommended to have 3-5 references. Provide full contact information of the reference including name, title and employer of the reference, mailing address, telephone number and e-mail address.
• Provide your references with a courtesy copy of your resume and notify them that you are seeking employment and will be using them as a reference. This ensures that your references will be prepared for a call from a potential employer and can quickly refer to your resume.
• The reference page header/letterhead should match the header/letterhead that you use on your resume and cover letter

Sample Reference List

Many prospective employers want to see a legal writing sample and will use the sample to evaluate your ability to effectively research and analyze a legal issue. When it comes to a writing sample, the overriding consideration is that it be your very best work and that it reveal your ability to clearly analyze case law or a statutory scheme in a clear, concise manner. Many employers consider a writing sample to be indicative of your potential as a lawyer.

• The writing sample should be error free. No spelling, grammar or punctuation errors. Proofread. You may lose a job due to a sloppy writing sample.
• The writing sample should be 5-10 pages in length. If the writing sample that you want to use is long, you may use an excerpt (e.g., one argument from a brief) and submit it with an explanatory note that outlines the facts so that the reader can immediately grasp the subject matter.
• The writing sample should be your own work, substantially unedited by anyone else. For example, employers know that law review articles are edited extensively, so avoid use of such documents.
• Any document that demonstrates your ability to analyze a legal issue is a good choice for a writing sample. Legal research and writing papers, legal briefs, legal memos, moot court briefs or seminar papers are all appropriate writing samples.
• A legal brief or memo prepared for an employer is also an excellent writing sample. You must, however, get your employer's permission to use the document and you must redact any confidential material. You may rename the party to protect confidentiality (e.g., "ABC Corporation" or "firm name" or "client name") and to maintain readability, but you should inform the reader of the change by providing a brief explanatory note.
• Create a cover sheet for the writing sample. It is recommended that you use the heading/letterhead that matches your resume and cover letter and center the title "Writing Sample" at the top of the document. Use the cover sheet to give necessary background information about the writing sample. For example, give the name of the class, a brief description of the assignment and if the assignment contained any forced limitations (e.g., the type of research allowed, the side of the argument you had to take). If you are excerpting from a longer document, add whatever background is necessary to make the excerpt understandable. Add a header or footer with your name to all pages of your writing sample.

Employers often request a transcript from a job candidate. Usually the job description will state whether the employer prefers an official or an unofficial transcript, and an unofficial transcript is usually acceptable. If there is any doubt as to which type of transcript is required, ask the potential employer. Always double-check to make sure that your name appears on the transcript.

Official Transcripts

• For current students, an official printed transcript may be requested in person through the Student Services office.
• All current students and alumni can also request an official transcript through the University's transcript request service.

Unofficial Transcripts

• Unofficial transcripts can be printed from Banner  directly or can be cut and pasted into a Word document and then printed. Your unofficial transcript does not need to be on resume paper.

Writing a thank you letter after an interview is a must. It establishes goodwill, expresses appreciation and can strengthen your candidacy for the job. Some employers think less of interviewees who fail to send a thank you note promptly.

• Send your thank you notes as soon as possible after your interview (within 24 hours). A typed or handwritten note is preferred. If you send a prompt thank you via e-mail, be sure to follow up with a written thank you via postal mail as well.
• If you have an extensive interview process with several people, sending a thank you note to each interviewer is recommended. In rare cases, a "group" thank you note may be appropriate (e.g. interviews were all substantially similar). In this case, send the thank you note to the person who arranged the interview and request that it be shared with the other interviewers.
• Remember to proofread: check for spelling, grammar and typographical errors. Contact the office for proper names, spelling or titles of your interviewers if you are uncertain of any of the information. A thank you note could actually hurt you if it contains any mistakes.

The Handwritten Thank You Note

• Plain white or cream color notes are preferred, without decorative lettering of "Thank You."
• Write the note on the inside lower half of the folded note card. Do not write on the top half of the card above the fold. Use a comma after the greeting.

The Typed Thank You Note

• The typed note will be longer.
• Use the same heading/letterhead on your thank you letter that you use on your resume and cover letter.
• 1st Paragraph: Thank the employer for meeting with you. Refresh his or her memory by stating when you interviewed and mention topics that were discussed.
• 2nd Paragraph: Reaffirm your interest in the firm/organization. This is an opportunity to mention information that was discussed in the interview. You can also restate why you want the job, your qualifications for the job and contributions you could make to the employer.
• 3rd Paragraph: Thank the employer for his/her time and his/her consideration. If the heading of the letter doesn't include it, enclose your phone number or e-mail address so that the employer can contact you with additional questions.

Sample Thank You Notes

After the employer makes an offer, you may want to ask the employer additional questions before accepting the offer. You may ask for more time to consider the offer and make your decision.

Some Additional Considerations Regarding Permanent Offers:

• Describe your compensation and benefits package.
• How are raises and bonuses determined?
• What is the percentage of the billing that associates retain for business that is brought in to the firm?
• What is the partnership track? What financial investments are necessary when making partner?

Some Additional Considerations Regarding Summer/Temporary Offers:

• How much will the position pay? Are additional benefits included (e.g., parking)?
• Will there be an opportunity to continue working during the school year?
• How many hours a week are required? Will weekend or evening hours be required?
• If you need to take time off during the summer, negotiate it at the time of acceptance. Most employers will be flexible if you are up-front about the needed time off.

Formal Acceptance of the Offer:

• An offer may be accepted by telephone, but also follow up with a letter formalizing the acceptance.
• Clarify the starting date for a full-time position or the starting and ending dates for a summer position as well as salary, benefits, etc.
• If you accept a position, terminate all other offers immediately by informing the potential employers of your acceptance of the position. This will help maintain a positive relationship with the other employers and will allow the opportunity to be offered to another student or attorney.
• Do not accept more than one offer. Once you have accepted a position, follow through with your decision. Accepting more than one offer is unprofessional and likely to cause problems in the future. If you are feeling pressure about making a decision, ask the employer for more time to decide.

Sample Letter of Acceptance

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to footer

7-DAY UNLIMITED ACCESS

Some House Republicans warn against climate law repeal

By Emma Dumain | 08/07/2024 06:19 AM EDT

Eighteen lawmakers told Speaker Mike Johnson that rolling back the Inflation Reduction Act would “undermine private investments.”

Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-N.Y.) and other Republicans say that rolling back the 2022 climate law would be the "worst-case scenario." Francis Chung/POLITICO

Eighteen House Republicans are telling their leadership not to gut the clean energy tax credits in the Inflation Reduction Act if the GOP wins a governing majority in Washington next year.

Their new letter to House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), shared first with POLITICO’s E&E News, is the latest example of a growing rift within the Republican Party. On one side are lawmakers who want a wholesale repeal of the climate and social spending law. On the other are those whose districts are seeing the tangible benefits of that law in the form of clean energy manufacturing investments.

It’s a split the party could have to contend with if former President Donald Trump, who has pledged to unravel the Inflation Reduction Act, returns to the White House and Republicans control both chambers of Congress.

“Prematurely repealing energy tax credits, particularly those which were used to justify investments that already broke ground, would undermine private investments and stop development that is already ongoing,” the House Republicans warn Johnson. “A full repeal would create a worst-case scenario where we would have spent billions of taxpayer dollars and received next to nothing in return.”

Their letter also comes just as members of Congress have returned home to their states and districts for an extended August recess — and to campaign for reelection.

“Today, many U.S. companies are already using sector-wide energy tax credits — many of which have enjoyed bipartisan support historically — to make major investments in new U.S. energy infrastructure,” the letter reads. “We hear from industry and our constituents who fear the energy tax regime will once again be turned on its head due to Republican repeal efforts.”

The letter was spearheaded by Rep. Andrew Garbarino (R-N.Y.), the co-chair of the bipartisan House Climate Solutions Caucus. He has been vocal about his support for many of the energy tax credits contained in the Inflation Reduction Act, which passed the Senate two years ago Wednesday in the Democratic-controlled Congress.

In an interview with E&E News on Tuesday, Garbarino said while there was much that he, too, opposed in the massive Inflation Reduction Act, it was wrong to “throw the baby out with the bathwater.”

“Every industry has come into my office to talk about theirs concerns: The American Gas Association, the American Petroleum Institute, the Chamber of Commerce,” Garbarino said. “Nuclear energy, utility producers. So many people have come in. Industries that Republicans have always supported and they’re saying, ‘God, I hope we can talk about this before we pull it back.’”

API and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce have been leading the lobbying push to spare Inflation Reduction Act tax credits, specifically those relating to hydrogen and carbon capture. At the same time, House Republicans have voted more than 30 times to rescind parts of the law as the party’s hostility has only grown toward the electric vehicle industry, which benefits significantly.

Co-signers of the new letter include House Conservative Climate Caucus Chair Mariannette Miller-Meeks (R-Iowa) and three of her vice-chairs: Republican Reps. Lori Chavez-DeRemer of Oregon, Jen Kiggans of Virginia and Buddy Carter of Georgia.

Carter is also the chair of the House Energy and Commerce Subcommittee on the Environment, Manufacturing and Critical Minerals who has been very protective of a $7.6 billion vehicle and battery plant in his Georgia district.

The Hyundai facility that broke ground there as a direct result of Inflation Reduction Act incentives is one of more than 500 projects that have sprung up around the country in the aftermath of the climate law’s enactment, including in red districts , according to data compiled by the group Climate Power .

‘I want to talk about this’

Other members who signed the letter are Rep. John Curtis (R-Utah), who founded the Conservative Climate Caucus and is likely to win a Senate seat next year, as well as a handful of vulnerable incumbents like Republican Reps. David Valadao of California and Juan Ciscomani of Arizona.

Four New York Republicans who put their names to the missive are also fighting for their seats this fall: Reps. Mike Lawler, Marc Molinaro, Anthony D’Esposito and Nick LaLota.

Chavez-DeRemer, Kiggans and Miller-Meeks are facing uncertain electoral futures as well.

Yet when asked whether he believes these Republicans signed the letter because they saw a political advantage in doing so — namely to curry favor in more moderate districts where the parts of the Inflation Reduction Act might be popular — Garbarino disagreed.

“I’m not sure there is a political benefit to this; this goes against what a lot of Republicans are saying,” he said. “I think it actually takes political courage to sign this letter because it’s not the most popular thing in our party right now.”

As a testament to that, Garbarino said he circulated the letter quietly over the last few weeks, pitching it to allies who he knew might be interested in signing on and relying on certain trade groups to approach members who would be sympathetic to the cause.

He said he feared a leak could prompt political backlash from right-leaning groups that are determined to undercut the entire Inflation Reduction Act. He compared such a potential outcome to earlier reporting from E&E News that revealed the names of Republicans who were considering co-sponsoring a bill to study carbon emissions. Subsequent lobbying from activists and oil refiners peeled away several potential supporters before the legislation could be introduced in the House.

“There’s probably another dozen members who would have signed onto this letter but for the politics,” Garbarino predicted. “You have 18 members signing this letter publicly, and dozens more talking with the speaker privately … saying, ‘Hey, I want to talk about this.’”

‘Real jobs, real investments’

Despite their backing of the Inflation Reduction Act, the Republicans make clear in the letter that more domestic oil and gas production is necessary to achieve “American energy dominance [that] increases national security, creates American jobs, and ensures energy independence” — a sentiment rejected by many Democrats who see the Inflation Reduction Act as a blueprint for eventually phasing out fossil fuels.

“We know the U.S produces cleaner energy than anywhere else in the world and has a strong track record of emissions reductions, even before passage of the IRA,” the letter continues.

Ultimately, Garbarino explained, the letter comes as Republicans are actively discussing what Democratic-passed tax programs they could repeal in the early days of the next Congress, should the GOP fare well in November.

Johnson has directed committee chairs to begin making recommendations for what could be included in a bill to be advanced through budget reconciliation, a procedure that sidesteps the Senate filibuster and was employed to pass the the Inflation Reduction Act.

But even if Republicans keep their majority, Garbarino said it would probably be a “tight” majority, meaning Johnson should take the warnings from 18 Republicans seriously.

“We are trying to keep the politics out of this; we are solely focusing on policy,” he said. “But this discussion needs to happen. These are real jobs, real investments we’re seeing right now. Let’s take a look and see what can be and should be kept — what’s actually working.”

This story also appears in Energywire.

The transformation of the energy sector.

Policy. Science. Business.

Congress. Legislation. Politics.

The leader in energy and environment news.

Late-breaking news.

© POLITICO, LLC

Advertisement

Supported by

Fact-Checking Claims About Tim Walz’s Record

Republicans have leveled inaccurate or misleading attacks on Mr. Walz’s response to protests in the summer of 2020, his positions on immigration and his role in the redesign of Minnesota’s flag.

• Share full article

By Linda Qiu

Since Gov. Tim Walz of Minnesota was announced as the Democratic nominee for vice president, the Trump campaign and its allies have gone on the attack.

Mr. Walz, a former teacher and football coach from Nebraska who served in the National Guard, was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 2006 and then as Minnesota’s governor in 2018. His branding of former President Donald J. Trump as “weird” this year caught on among Democrats and helped catapult him into the national spotlight and to the top of Vice President Kamala Harris’s list of potential running mates.

The Republican accusations, which include questions over his military service , seem intended at undercutting a re-energized campaign after President Biden stepped aside and Ms. Harris emerged as his replacement at the top of the ticket. Mr. Trump and his allies have criticized, sometimes inaccurately, Mr. Walz’s handling of protests in his state, his immigration policies, his comments about a ladder factory and the redesign of his state’s flag.

Here’s a fact check of some claims.

What Was Said

“Because if we remember the rioting in the summer of 2020, Tim Walz was the guy who let rioters burn down Minneapolis.” — Senator JD Vance of Ohio, the Republican nominee for vice president, during a rally on Wednesday in Philadelphia

This is exaggerated. Mr. Walz has faced criticism for not quickly activating the National Guard to quell civil unrest in Minneapolis in the summer of 2020 after the murder of George Floyd by a police officer. But claims that he did not respond at all, or that the city burned down, are hyperbolic.

Mr. Floyd was murdered on May 25, 2020, and demonstrators took to the streets the next day . The protests intensified, with some vandalizing vehicles and setting fires. More than 700 state troopers and officers with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources’ mobile response team were deployed on May 26 to help the city’s police officers, according to a 2022 independent assessment by the state’s Department of Public Safety of the response to the unrest.

We are having trouble retrieving the article content.

Please enable JavaScript in your browser settings.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access. If you are in Reader mode please exit and  log into  your Times account, or  subscribe  for all of The Times.

Thank you for your patience while we verify access.

Already a subscriber?  Log in .

Want all of The Times?  Subscribe .