Your CV is often the first impression a law firm gets of you and in a competitive legal market, it needs to work hard on your behalf. Whether you’re a law graduate, legal secretary, paralegal, or solicitor, a well-written CV can be the key to securing an interview and progressing your legal career.
At Pathway, we specialise in legal recruitment, and we know what hiring partners look for. Here are our top tips for writing a clear, professional, and effective legal CV:
1. Start with a Strong Personal Profile
Open your CV with a short paragraph (3–4 lines) summarising who you are, what you do, and what you bring to the table. Tailor this to the role you’re applying for. Mention your area of legal expertise, key strengths, and what you’re seeking next.
Example:
A detail-oriented Legal Secretary with 5+ years’ experience supporting busy litigation teams. Highly organised, efficient, and client-focused, with a strong track record in diary management, document preparation, and case file organisation.
2. Structure is Key
A legal CV should be clean, clear, and easy to navigate. Use the following format:
- Personal Details: Name, phone number, email, LinkedIn (optional), location
- Profile: Your short summary, as above
- Key Skills: Bullet points listing relevant legal and administrative skills
- Education & Qualifications: Law degree, LPC, or other legal training
- Work Experience: Reverse chronological, with responsibilities and achievements
- IT Skills & Additional Training: e.g. LEAP, case management systems, typing speeds
- References: “Available on request” is fine — no need to list names
3. Tailor for Each Application
Avoid sending the same CV for every role. Carefully read the job spec and mirror the key language and priorities. For example, if the role highlights “client care” or “case management”, include examples that demonstrate your experience in those areas.
4. Be Clear and Concise
Aim for two pages max. Use bullet points and active verbs like drafted, negotiated, supported, managed, liaised. Focus on impact, not just tasks, highlight results where possible.
5. Showcase Business Development and Networking
For solicitors, especially at Associate or Partner level your ability to attract and retain clients is a major asset. Highlight:
- Involvement in client meetings or BD activity
- Attendance at legal events or networking functions
- Speaking or writing contributions to the legal community
- Growing a LinkedIn presence or professional following
Even junior candidates can show initiative here, firms appreciate a commercial mindset.
6. Keep the Presentation Professional
Use a modern, clean layout with consistent formatting. Avoid photos, graphics, or anything that might distract from the content. Simplicity and clarity always win in legal CVs.
Final Thought
Your CV doesn’t need to be flashy it needs to be focused, tailored, and aligned with what law firms are looking for. If you’re unsure where to start, or want help refining your CV, we’re here to support you.
At Pathway, we work closely with candidates at all levels to ensure their CV reflects their strengths and puts their best foot forward.