Legal·Entry Level

Entry Level Paralegal cover letter

Write an entry-level Paralegal cover letter with no experience. Get tips for recent graduates, examples, and templates to land your first Paralegal job.

Breaking into a Paralegal role without extensive experience requires highlighting your potential. This guide shows you how to write an entry-level Paralegal cover letter that emphasizes your Legal research foundation, Document drafting knowledge, and eagerness to grow.

Entry Level focus areas

Emphasize potential over experience. Focus on academic achievements, internships, volunteer work, and transferable skills that demonstrate your readiness for the role.

educationinternshipstransferable skillsenthusiasmeagerness to learn

What to highlight at entry level

  • 1Academic projects and coursework
  • 2Internships and part-time work
  • 3Volunteer experience
  • 4Practice areas worked
  • 5Research and writing samples
  • 6Case management experience

Key skills to mention

Legal researchDocument draftingCase managementFilingClient communicationE-discovery

Example opening for entry level

As a recent graduate eager to launch my career in this field, I'm excited to apply for the Paralegal position at [Company]. While I may be early in my career, my academic projects and internship experience have given me a strong foundation in Legal research and Document drafting.

Mistakes to avoid

  • Not specifying practice areas
  • Ignoring software experience
  • Being vague about responsibilities
  • Not mentioning certification

Frequently asked questions

How do I write a cover letter with no experience?

Focus on transferable skills, academic projects, internships, and volunteer work. Show enthusiasm for the role and company, and demonstrate how your education has prepared you for this position.

Should I mention my GPA in an entry-level cover letter?

Only mention your GPA if it's strong (3.5+) and you're a recent graduate. After a year or two of work experience, focus on professional achievements instead.

How do I stand out with no work experience?

Highlight relevant coursework, personal projects, volunteer work, and any leadership roles. Show you understand the industry and have done your research on the company.

Is paralegal certification required?

Not always legally required, but strongly preferred. ABA-approved programs are valued.

Should I specialize in a practice area?

Specialization can help. Litigation, corporate, IP, and family law have different skills.

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