What should I use for a writing sample for a legal secretary job interview?
Asked by Ewelina S
I have a job interview to be a secretary at a law firm. It's a great opportunity, because the vast majority of them want previous experience; this one doesn't require it. Because I don't have previous law secretary experience, I really want to impress them. Someone suggested to submit a writing sample, even though the firm didn't tell me to bring one. It's an excellent idea, but I don't know what kind of sample I should bring! Can you help me by giving me some ideas?

Best Answer:
Go in with a one page resume and a one page cover letter. Have a sheet with hand written references listed to offer at the end of the interview if you think you'll like the job. A good resume should show some of your ability to organize a document, the cover letter (addressed to the person doing the interview, using their title if they have one) should demonstrate grammer and writing skills and your written reference list will show your handwriting skills. NO SPELLING MISTAKES!!! Express your eagerness to learn and develop a career in the legal field. Leave personal baggage at home, have a smile and present a good attitude toward work. Prepare some questions about the firm and the types of law they practice. Relax, enjoy the experience and soak up the legal atmosphere. Best of luck to you in your interview and your career.
Personal experience - 23 years in the same law practice as bookkeeper, office manager, controller.
Answered by Simon & Shaker's mom

they would want to see your ability to interpret and translate a statute or a case. alot of people use something they have drafted before, but I am assuming you may not have anything like that to give them. Maybe you could read up on a current event or a new statute and right a statutory analysis for them. You would need to include the purpous of the statute, like what activity it regulates and the type of people it protects. And then maybe give an example of how it would be applied. Like if you wanted to do one on non-compete clauses in employment contracts, you could write up an example of an overly broad and burdensome non-compete contract that the court would find violates the statute agaist overly restrictive non-compete clauses.
Answered by tortfeasor21913

The following is a typical job description of a junior level Legal Secretary. What samples can you can you bring (from school or actual job) with you based on this job description? Prepares and types legal and administrative correspondence and documents, maintains legal files, prepares timesheets, communicates with clients, opposing counsel, courts, agencies and the general public. Works under close supervision with limited latitude for the use of initiative and independent judgment. Peace and blessings!
Answered by Abel