Whether you’re an experienced litigator or a fresh law graduate entering the field, crafting a compelling resume is your first step toward a successful legal career. A strong lawyer resume must reflect more than just your education — it should present your litigation experience, legal writing abilities, client representation skills, and any courtroom successes in a crisp and persuasive format.
Recruiters and law firm partners are looking for professionals who not only understand the law but also know how to communicate effectively, build trust with clients, and win cases. This guide offers a practical, real-world lawyer resume example along with tips tailored to help legal professionals stand out.
Let’s start with a complete, manually written resume sample you can model your own after.
MIRA SINGH
New York, NY | mirasingh@email.com | (555) 987-6543
PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Detail-oriented and client-focused litigation attorney with over 7 years of experience representing corporate and individual clients in civil and criminal court. Proven track record of favorable settlements, persuasive courtroom presentations, and effective legal strategy development. Licensed to practice in New York and New Jersey. Adept at handling high-stakes cases and negotiating under pressure.
CORE COMPETENCIES
Legal Research & Analysis
Civil & Criminal Litigation
Client Counseling & Advocacy
Trial Preparation & Case Management
Regulatory Compliance
Contract Negotiation
Legal Writing & Documentation
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Senior Associate Attorney
Keller & Matheson LLP, New York, NY
June 2019 – Present
Represented clients in over 100 civil litigation cases, achieving a 90% favorable outcome rate.
Drafted and argued motions, including summary judgments and motions to dismiss.
Collaborated with clients, experts, and investigators to build strong legal arguments.
Trained and supervised two junior associates and three paralegals.
Negotiated settlements totaling over $2.5 million in damages for plaintiffs.
Associate Attorney
Levin & Brooks Law, Jersey City, NJ
August 2016 – May 2019
Handled criminal defense cases, including DUI, theft, and white-collar crimes.
Achieved case dismissals or charge reductions in 70% of cases managed.
Drafted comprehensive legal briefs and appellate filings.
Conducted client intake interviews and built defense strategies.
EDUCATION
J.D., Columbia Law School, New York, NY – 2016
B.A. in Political Science, Rutgers University – 2013
CERTIFICATIONS & LICENSES
Licensed Attorney – New York State Bar
Licensed Attorney – New Jersey State Bar
Certified in Mediation & Dispute Resolution
PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS
Member, American Bar Association
Member, New York State Trial Lawyers Association
RESUME WRITING TIPS FOR LAWYERS
Be Specific About Case Results: Law is all about results. Where possible, quantify your impact using numbers — like case success rates or settlement amounts.
Highlight Legal Writing: Judges and hiring committees value strong writing. Showcase briefs, motions, or appellate documents you've written.
Tailor to the Practice Area: Whether it's family law, corporate law, or criminal defense, your resume should emphasize experience in your specific field.
Use Active Legal Language: Start bullet points with strong verbs like “argued,” “negotiated,” “defended,” “drafted,” or “represented.”
Keep It Professional and Formal: Avoid unnecessary flair. Stick to a clean structure and clear formatting that reflects the professionalism expected in law.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
1. What should I include in a lawyer resume if I have no courtroom experience yet?
Focus on internships, moot court participation, legal research, and writing projects. Emphasize any practical exposure to legal procedures.
2. How long should a lawyer resume be?
For junior to mid-level lawyers, a one-page resume is ideal. For senior attorneys or those with extensive experience, two pages are acceptable.
3. Should I include my bar license information on my resume?
Absolutely. Always list the states where you're licensed to practice, along with your license status.
4. Can I include non-legal experience on my lawyer resume?
Yes, especially if it showcases transferable skills like leadership, communication, or project management. Just keep it concise and relevant.
A great lawyer resume is more than a document — it’s your first argument in favor of your candidacy. Use this guide and resume example to present your qualifications with clarity and impact, and you’ll be one step closer to securing your next role in the legal field.
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