crafting the perfect legal cv: do’s and don’ts for standing out
whether you're a seasoned solicitor or a recent law graduate, your cv is your personal marketing tool. it’s the first impression you make — and in the legal industry, where precision and presentation matter — it needs to be spot-on.
here’s our breakdown of the key do’s and don’ts for writing a legal cv that gets you noticed (for the right reasons).
✅ do: tailor your cv for each role
a one-size-fits-all cv won’t cut it in today’s legal job market. make sure you’re customising your cv for each application by highlighting relevant experience, key skills, and industry knowledge that align with the specific job description.
✅ do: keep it clear & concise
stick to a clean, structured format. use bullet points to break up information, avoid large blocks of text, and aim to keep your cv within two pages. recruiters often skim, so make every word count.
✅ do: showcase key achievements
rather than listing responsibilities, focus on results. use measurable outcomes to demonstrate the impact you’ve had — whether it's winning a high-value case, streamlining legal processes, or helping a client avoid litigation.
✅ do: emphasise legal skills & certifications
highlight your areas of legal expertise, any bar admissions, and relevant coursework or professional development. this instantly positions you as a qualified and credible candidate.
✅ do: use professional formatting
choose a consistent font, spacing, and layout throughout your cv. make sure it's easy to navigate, visually appealing, and accessible — no flashy fonts or overcomplicated designs.
✅ do: highlight commercial awareness
legal professionals need more than technical know-how. demonstrate your understanding of wider business impacts, industry trends, and commercial risks — this shows you’re thinking beyond the legal framework.
