How to Write a Letter of Recommendation for a Lawyer

A strong letter of recommendation may help an attorney secure a job.

The practice of law is a notoriously competitive profession. Lawyers often jockey for top-notch positions at the best law firms in cities nationwide. When comparing two equally talented candidates for hire, employers may make a decision based on something as simple as a glowing letter of recommendation. When you want to put in your two cents about the stellar performance of an attorney you know, write a letter that leaves no doubt as to the lawyer's abilities.

Instructions

1. Date your letter and address it to the correct individual. Spell his name correctly and include his proper title, company name and address. Include your contact information as well by using your own letterhead and enclosing your business card.

2. State how you know the individual and how long you have been acquainted. If you worked with the attorney, include the firm you worked for and what your working relationship was. Were you the senior partner overseeing the cases the lawyer handled? Were you a co-worker who worked on cases with the individual? Were you the law professor in a class he took and excelled in while in law school?

3. State the career strengths she possesses -- particularly those you have witnessed firsthand. Give specific examples of how she has exercised these qualities in the practice of law. Mention qualities like her ability to relate to a jury in a positive manner, her reliability when it comes to court dates and her record of wins versus losses.

4. Mention personal qualities he possesses that you admire. His ability to maintain confidential client information, honesty and integrity in large and small situations and his abilities as a team player are all qualities that may make him stand out among the competition.

5. Outline her membership and participation in legal organizations. If she's served on the board of the local bar association, mention how well she devoted herself to the position. If she's had several pieces published in legal journals, say how you admire her work. If she performs pro bono services -- free legal work -- for the needy and underprivileged, put that in the letter.

6. Finish the letter with a paragraph stating that you are confident he would be an asset to the organization. Tie together all of your thoughts regarding the candidate in a concise manner and sign off.

Tips & Warnings

• Invite the recipient of the letter to call you with any further questions.

References

• Best Resume Cover Letters: Cover Letter for Recommendation - Legal Jobs
• Letters of Recommendation: What To Include In An Employment Reference Letter