Other than my resume and cover letter, what other documents do I need to provide for my application to law firms?

The resume and cover letter are usually the first documents that candidates think of when applying to a law firm.  But recruiters are likely to ask you to provide two other types of documents that are also frequently requested by law firms:  (1) transcripts for your law school, undergraduate school, and any other graduate study; and (2) a writing sample.  Sometimes firms will request additional documents that are unique to that firm.  The following is a discussion of these “other documents” that are used in law firm applications.  The discussion does not include documents or information that may be provided to firms later in the process.  All of the documents discussed herein should normally be provided in electronic form, attached to an email for easy access and reading.

Transcripts are normally essential.  Grades count, although less so as you become more senior and your experience takes on increasing importance.  You usually do not need official transcripts – copies will do.  You will typically need them for every school you attended after high school, although some firms will be satisfied with just the law school transcripts. The transcript also needs to be readable.  This is not always easy.  For some reason, certain universities do not make readability a priority when designing their transcripts.  One issue that often arises with transcripts is the candidate’s final GPA.  Sometimes the transcript makes this clear.  But other times the final GPA is difficult to find, or cannot be found at all as some schools either do not keep track of GPA or they do so with their own unique alien system.  There is little you can do about this, of course.  But to the extent you can “translate” your GPA and/or class rank into English you should consider doing so on your resume, especially if your grades are good.  If they are not so good, then perhaps leaving them surrounded by a little mystery is the best policy.
 

• See 6 Things Attorneys and Law Students Need to Remove from Their Resumes ASAP If They Want to Get Jobs with the Most Prestigious Law Firms for more information.

Writing samples can vary by practice area.  For litigators, it is usually a brief.  For judicial clerks, it is often a judicial opinion.  For IP candidates, it may be a patent application or technical article.  Whatever it is, it needs to be written by the candidate with a minimum of editing by others.  It also needs to be:  (1) fairly brief; (2) readable and understandable; (3)  relevant to the practice area in which you are seeking employment; (4) perfect in terms of spelling, grammar, etc.; and (5) the document that best demonstrates the high quality of your legal writing.


Lastly, individual firms will sometimes request additional documents that are unique to them.  This is more common for IP candidates.  For example, I have seen requests for IP candidates to answer technical questions (some of them are out there, like preparing a patent application for a crossbow or for a buggy to operate on Pluto), summaries of recent experiments and even answers to technical “tests.”  But occasionally, firms seek additional information from other types of candidates as well.

About Harrison Barnes

Harrison Barnes is a prominent figure in the legal placement industry, known for his expertise in attorney placements and his extensive knowledge of the legal profession.

With over 25 years of experience, he has established himself as a leading voice in the field and has helped thousands of lawyers and law students find their ideal career paths.

Barnes is a former federal law clerk and associate at Quinn Emanuel and a graduate of the University of Chicago College and the University of Virginia Law School. He was a Rhodes Scholar Finalist at the University of Chicago and a member of the University of Virginia Law Review. Early in his legal career, he enrolled in Stanford Business School but dropped out because he missed legal recruiting too much.

Barnes' approach to the legal industry is rooted in his commitment to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. He believes that the key to success in the legal profession is to be proactive, persistent, and disciplined in one's approach to work and life. He encourages lawyers to take ownership of their careers and to focus on developing their skills and expertise in a way that aligns with their passions and interests.

One of how Barnes provides support to lawyers is through his writing. On his blog, HarrisonBarnes.com, and BCGSearch.com, he regularly shares his insights and advice on a range of topics related to the legal profession. Through his writing, he aims to empower lawyers to control their careers and make informed decisions about their professional development.

One of Barnes's fundamental philosophies in his writing is the importance of networking. He believes that networking is a critical component of career success and that it is essential for lawyers to establish relationships with others in their field. He encourages lawyers to attend events, join organizations, and connect with others in the legal community to build their professional networks.

Another central theme in Barnes' writing is the importance of personal and professional development. He believes that lawyers should continuously strive to improve themselves and develop their skills to succeed in their careers. He encourages lawyers to pursue ongoing education and training actively, read widely, and seek new opportunities for growth and development.

In addition to his work in the legal industry, Barnes is also a fitness and lifestyle enthusiast. He sees fitness and wellness as integral to his personal and professional development and encourages others to adopt a similar mindset. He starts his day at 4:00 am and dedicates several daily hours to running, weightlifting, and pursuing spiritual disciplines.

Finally, Barnes is a strong advocate for community service and giving back. He volunteers for the University of Chicago, where he is the former area chair of Los Angeles for the University of Chicago Admissions Office. He also serves as the President of the Young Presidents Organization's Century City Los Angeles Chapter, where he works to support and connect young business leaders.

In conclusion, Harrison Barnes is a visionary legal industry leader committed to helping lawyers achieve their full potential. Through his work at BCG Attorney Search, writing, and community involvement, he empowers lawyers to take control of their careers, develop their skills continuously, and lead fulfilling and successful lives. His philosophy of being proactive, persistent, and disciplined, combined with his focus on personal and professional development, makes him a valuable resource for anyone looking to succeed in the legal profession.

About BCG Attorney Search

BCG Attorney Search matches attorneys and law firms with unparalleled expertise and drive, while achieving results. Known globally for its success in locating and placing attorneys in law firms of all sizes, BCG Attorney Search has placed thousands of attorneys in law firms in thousands of different law firms around the country. Unlike other legal placement firms, BCG Attorney Search brings massive resources of over 150 employees to its placement efforts locating positions and opportunities its competitors simply cannot. Every legal recruiter at BCG Attorney Search is a former successful attorney who attended a top law school, worked in top law firms and brought massive drive and commitment to their work. BCG Attorney Search legal recruiters take your legal career seriously and understand attorneys. For more information, please visit www.BCGSearch.com.