WRITING SAMPLES
Legal employers will usually want to see an example of your legal research and writing skills
before making you an offer. Below are some guidelines to help you select an appropriate piece of
your work for this purpose.
Legal Reasoning—A writing sample must demonstrate your legal reasoning and analytical skills,
i.e., apply law to facts, and distinguish cases on their facts. Thus, an academic survey of case law
or a note that summarizes a recently published decision is not the best choice as it does not
include legal analysis. Possible writing samples include:
• A memorandum from your legal writing class.
• Your portion of your moot court brief. The best way to present an excerpt is to keep the
statement of facts, the table of contents, and your argument, or a section thereof. You should
indicate that sections have been redacted for length.
• A memorandum of law or brief that you created during an internship. Redact any information
such as the client’s name or identifying characteristics to protect privilege. You should always
ask for permission from your employer first before using your work product as a writing sample.
• A memorandum or draft opinion you wrote for a judge during an internship. Again, you must
ask for permission. Your writing sample should always be what you provided the judge, and not
the opinion itself.
Length—Unless employers indicate otherwise, writing samples generally should be 7-10 pages
(some employers may request 5, in rare instances 12). You may excerpt if necessary, but
remember to describe the nature of the larger document and context of the analysis in your cover
sheet. Re-read it to make sure the shorter version makes sense and flows well.
Recent—Writing samples should be current, and reflect your best possible effort.
Practical—Employers prefer to see work product from an internship or law clerk position.
Proofread—Typos, poor grammar, or incorrect citations will disqualify you for the job.
Blue Book—Cite legal authority accurately and in proper “Blue Book” format.
Confidentiality—As mentioned above, if you are using a sample from a job or internship be
sure to obtain permission for any documents not considered public record. In addition, take out
any confidential or privileged information. You should use fictitious names rather than blacking
out the information, but indicate you have done so in your cover sheet. For legal opinions, you
must obtain the express permission of your judge and only submit your draft of the opinion.
The Employer— Check whether the employer has specific writing sample guidelines, and
consider your audience when choosing a writing sample. If possible, choose a sample that
pertains to the employer’s practice.