Crafting a strong cover letter is crucial for securing a coveted 2L summer internship. As a second-year law student, you’ve gained valuable legal experience through coursework, moot court, and potentially even a 1L summer position. Your cover letter should showcase these accomplishments and highlight your passion for the specific legal area and the firm or organization you’re applying to. This isn’t just a formality; it’s your chance to make a strong first impression and demonstrate why you’re the ideal candidate.
The key to a successful 2L cover letter lies in tailoring it to each individual application. Avoid generic templates and instead, research the firm or organization thoroughly. Understand their values, recent cases, and the specific responsibilities of the internship. Demonstrate how your skills and experiences align with their needs and show genuine enthusiasm for their work. Highlight any relevant coursework, legal research abilities, and writing skills that make you a good fit.
Remember to quantify your achievements whenever possible. Instead of saying “I improved research efficiency,” state “I improved research efficiency by 15% during my summer internship.” This provides concrete evidence of your abilities. Proofread carefully for any grammatical errors or typos, and consider having a career services advisor or professor review your cover letter before submitting it. A polished, well-written cover letter can significantly increase your chances of landing an interview.
2L Sample Cover Letters
Here are several sample cover letters tailored to different 2L experiences and target areas. Remember to customize them extensively!
Sample 1: General Litigation
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Partner Name]
[Law Firm Name]
[Law Firm Address]
Dear [Hiring Partner Name],
I am writing to express my strong interest in the Summer Associate position at [Law Firm Name], as advertised on [Platform where you saw the advertisement]. As a second-year law student at [Law School Name], I have developed a strong foundation in legal research, writing, and analysis, and I am eager to apply these skills in a dynamic litigation setting.
During my first year, I excelled in courses such as Civil Procedure and Contracts, achieving top marks in both. Furthermore, I participated in Moot Court, where I honed my oral advocacy skills and gained valuable experience in legal argumentation. This past summer, I worked as a legal intern at [Previous Internship], where I assisted with case preparation, drafted legal memoranda, and conducted extensive research on [Specific Legal Area]. I improved research efficiency by 15% by implementing [Specific Method Used].
I am particularly drawn to [Law Firm Name] because of its reputation for excellence in [Specific Legal Area of the Firm] and its commitment to [Firm Value, e.g., pro bono work, community involvement]. My experience in [Relevant Experience] aligns perfectly with your firm’s focus on [Firm Focus]. I am confident that my strong work ethic, analytical abilities, and passion for litigation would make me a valuable asset to your team.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review and welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further in an interview.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 2: Corporate Law
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Partner Name]
[Law Firm Name]
[Law Firm Address]
Dear [Hiring Partner Name],
I am writing to express my keen interest in the Summer Associate position at [Law Firm Name], as advertised on [Platform]. As a second-year law student at [Law School], I have cultivated a solid understanding of corporate law principles and am eager to contribute to your esteemed firm.
My coursework in Business Associations and Securities Regulation has provided me with a strong foundation in corporate governance and regulatory compliance. I also actively participate in the Business Law Society at my school. This past summer, I interned at [Company Name] in their legal department. I assisted with drafting contracts and conducting legal research related to M&A transactions. I also streamlined the contract review process, reducing turnaround time by 10%.
I am particularly impressed by [Law Firm Name]‘s work in [Specific Area of Corporate Law] and its commitment to innovation in the legal field. My skills in legal analysis and contract drafting align perfectly with your firm’s needs. I am eager to learn from experienced attorneys and contribute to the success of your team.
Thank you for your time and consideration. My resume is attached for your review. I welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 3: Public Interest Law
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Manager Name]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Hiring Manager Name],
I am writing to express my strong interest in the Summer Legal Intern position at [Organization Name], as advertised on [Platform]. As a second-year law student at [Law School] with a deep commitment to social justice, I am eager to contribute to your organization’s important work.
My coursework in Constitutional Law and Criminal Procedure has provided me with a strong understanding of individual rights and liberties. I am also actively involved in the Public Interest Law Student Association at my school, where I volunteer at a local legal aid clinic. This past summer, I interned at [Organization], focusing on [Specific Area]. I assisted with client intake, legal research, and drafting legal documents.
I am particularly drawn to [Organization Name] because of its dedication to serving underserved communities and its commitment to advocating for social change. I believe my legal research skills, writing abilities, and dedication to public interest law would make me a valuable asset to your team.
Thank you for considering my application. I have attached my resume for your review. I welcome the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 4: Environmental Law
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Partner Name]
[Organization Name]
[Organization Address]
Dear [Hiring Partner Name],
I am writing to express my strong interest in the Summer Associate position at [Organization Name], as advertised on [Platform]. As a second-year law student at [Law School], with a fervent dedication to environmental protection and conservation, I am eager to contribute to your organization’s critical work.
During my first year, I enrolled in Environmental Law and Administrative Law. My experience includes participating on moot court, where I enhanced my abilities on legal argumentation. This summer, I interned at [Environmental Organization], concentrating on issues related to clean water and air protection. I supported case preparations, drafted legal documents, and researched specific areas related to water contamination.
I am drawn to [Organization Name], due to the excellence in environmental protection and conservation. My skills are aligned with your goals. I am enthusiastic in the opportunity of working and collaborating in the firm.
Thank you for considering my application. My resume has been attached and I look forward to hearing from you.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 5: Intellectual Property Law
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Partner Name]
[Law Firm Name]
[Law Firm Address]
Dear [Hiring Partner Name],
I am writing to express my interest in the Summer Associate position at [Law Firm Name], as advertised on [Platform]. I am a second-year law student at [Law School]. I am ready to apply my skills in IP Law.
I enrolled and succeeded in Business Association and intellectual property law classes during my first year. This past summer, I interned at [Technology Company]. I assisted in legal research, and IP related issues. I hope to contribute to your firm
I am passionate about the firm’s focus on IP law, and I am drawn to [Law Firm Name] and its commitment to innovating in IP law. My skills align with your firm’s mission.
Thank you for your time and consideration. My resume is attached for your review.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 6: Healthcare Law
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Partner Name]
[Law Firm Name]
[Law Firm Address]
Dear [Hiring Partner Name],
I am writing to show interest in the Summer Associate position at [Law Firm Name], as advertised on [Platform]. I am a second-year law student at [Law School], I am excited to contribute to your firm.
My focus on healthcare law and regulation is shown through coursework in administrative law, and healthcare compliance. During the summer I supported legal teams with research and compliance. I supported analysis and documentation review.
I am impressed by [Law Firm Name] in the healthcare legal landscape and its emphasis on legal services. My expertise aligns with your firm’s vision.
Thank you for considering my application. Attached is my resume.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 7: Criminal Law
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Partner Name]
[Law Firm Name]
[Law Firm Address]
Dear [Hiring Partner Name],
I want to express my interest in the Summer Associate position at [Law Firm Name], as I saw advertised on [Platform]. I am a second-year law student at [Law School], I am eager to dive into criminal law.
My coursework in criminal procedure, and constitutional law has helped me build my foundation. I participate in moot court, where I build my abilities in legal argumentation. My past summer I assisted with drafting legal documents.
I like the dedication shown by [Law Firm Name] to defending justice and upholding constitutional rights. My skills in legal research align with the needs of your firm.
Thank you for your time. My resume is attached.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 8: Family Law
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Partner Name]
[Law Firm Name]
[Law Firm Address]
Dear [Hiring Partner Name],
I would like to express my strong interest in the Summer Associate position at [Law Firm Name], after seeing it advertised on [Platform]. I am a second-year law student at [Law School], and I am deeply committed to assisting families through life’s challenges.
My family law and mediation coursework, my understanding is built in the legal issues. I volunteered at a legal clinic providing resources to families and children. I gained experience drafting and researching legal documents.
The commitment of [Law Firm Name] to providing compassionate legal services is compelling. My legal research skills align with the requirements of the firm.
Thank you for your consideration. My resume is attached for your viewing.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 9: Immigration Law
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Partner Name]
[Law Firm Name]
[Law Firm Address]
Dear [Hiring Partner Name],
I would like to express my strong interest in the Summer Associate position at [Law Firm Name]. I am a second-year law student at [Law School]. My passion is to advocate for immigrant rights and justice.
I have focused in immigration law, and human rights during coursework. I worked in asylum cases and assisted refugees. I drafted legal documents.
I would like to work at [Law Firm Name]. It’s dedication and commitment to justice is compelling. My legal research skills are a great fit with the firm.
I am thankful for your time, and I have included my resume.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 10: Bankruptcy Law
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Partner Name]
[Law Firm Name]
[Law Firm Address]
Dear [Hiring Partner Name],
I would like to apply for the Summer Associate position at [Law Firm Name]. As a second-year law student at [Law School], I want to help people in financial distress.
I focused in bankruptcy law during my courses. I supported clients going through financial hardship and assisted in legal research and documentation review.
I admire the dedication of [Law Firm Name] to its clientele. I look forward to assisting.
Thank you for your time and consideration. My resume is included.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
Sample 11: International Law
[Your Name]
[Your Address]
[Your Phone Number]
[Your Email Address]
[Date]
[Hiring Partner Name]
[Law Firm Name]
[Law Firm Address]
Dear [Hiring Partner Name],
I wish to express my interest in the Summer Associate position at [Law Firm Name]. As a second-year law student at [Law School], I have a great passion for international affairs.
I focused in international law and trade during courses. I participated in mock trials and international law competitions. I researched cases.
The focus of [Law Firm Name] aligns with my passions. I believe I am a great fit.
Thank you for your consideration. My resume is included.
Sincerely,
[Your Name]
In conclusion, crafting a compelling 2L cover letter requires careful attention to detail and a personalized approach. Use these samples as a starting point, but always tailor your letter to the specific requirements of each position and firm. Emphasize your relevant skills, quantify your achievements, and demonstrate your passion for the law. Good luck with your internship search!
