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How to write a personal statement for your Legal CV

  • CV & Career Advice

CV

If written, structured and formatted correctly, your CV can be your ticket to interview. As a potential candidate for legal jobs, it is your most valuable asset.

Unfortunately, due to high numbers of qualified applicants, recruiters and hiring managers often spend very little time reading each CV they receive. To avoid having yours end up in the ‘no’ pile, the first half page of your CV must convince them that you are a promising applicant.

One of the most successful and efficient ways of getting – and keeping – the attention of a recruiter is by writing an impactful and persuasive personal statement tailored to the job at hand.

What is a personal statement?

Also known as a professional summary, the personal statement on your CV is a short, sharp paragraph no longer than 5 lines which encapsulates who you are, your work history, your significant achievements and why you are the right person for the role.

3 things to include in your personal statement

  • A job title which reflects that of the job you have applied for

Label yourself with a relevant and universal title that reflects the title of the job you are applying for in order to show recruiters immediately that you have the background they are looking for.

If you have applied for a ‘Residential Property Solicitor’ role, present yourself as such rather than a ‘Property Solicitor’, ‘Real Estate Solicitor’ or simply a ‘Solicitor’. Equally, avoid any internal company jargon or abbreviations that recruiters may not know or understand.

  • Your PQE level and relevant experiences

Clearly state how many years of experience or PQE you have gained so that recruiters can quickly determine whether you are likely to be a viable candidate. If the job you’ve applied for has any direct reports, highlight the management level responsibilities of your current role.

The job advert you applied to likely stipulated a set of experiences and expertise required to be considered for the job. If you do not show the recruiter that you tick these boxes, you are unlikely to pass on to the interview stage.

Use the job ad to your advantage, picking out some of the key role requirements and responding to them. For example, if the employer requests experience in commercial contracts, you might write “4 years of experience drafting, reviewing and negotiating a range of data protection and technology focused commercial contracts”.

  • A demonstration of your value as an employee

In the personal statement on your law CV, you should give one or two examples from your career to date that demonstrate the value you will add if successful in your application.

As a Practice Lawyer, this might be the business development skills you used to onboard new clients or the fees you have generated for your current firm. Alternatively, an In-House Counsel may demonstrate value through their identification of commercial opportunities while a Litigator could discuss the results of a high-profile dispute they have successful settled.

Ensure that whatever you decide to include is relevant to what the employer is looking for and that you back up your claims with figures or evidence.

As with the rest of your CV, your personal statement should be concise, truthful and tailored specifically to each job you apply for. In essence, your personal statement should act as a response to the job advert and everything you include should relate to the responsibilities and requirements of the role at hand. By the time recruiters and hiring managers have read your personal statement, they should suspect you to be a viable candidate and be inclined to spend more time considering your CV.

If you have followed our personal statement optimisation tips and are ready to start applying, check out the latest jobs on TotallyLegal and upload your CV to get headhunted. Alternatively, if your CV still needs some work, browse the rest of our articles and advice .

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11 Paralegal Resume Examples That Work in 2024

Stephen Greet

Best for senior and mid-level candidates

There’s plenty of room in our elegant resume template to add your professional experience while impressing recruiters with a sleek design.

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Like this template? Customize this resume and make it your own with the help of our Al-powered suggestions, accent colors, and modern fonts.

Paralegal Resume

  • Paralegal Resumes by Experience
  • Paralegal Resumes by Role

Aria had used her strategic mindset and analytical thought processes from past legal projects to make sure all details were covered while she worked as a barista. But, while she couldn’t imagine turning down a good latte, she could definitely see herself saying “Yes!” to a new job as a paralegal . . . She’d just have to build a resume first.

As she researched paralegal resume examples, Aria set down her cup of coffee, dreaming of how it would feel to set it down on an office desk. She lit up once she found a host of professional resume templates and other resources—there was even advice on how to power-boost her resume with a cover letter generator ! Within weeks, she got that life-changing email.

Keep on reading for time-tested advice and resume samples that will help you succeed like Aria!

or download as PDF

Paralegal resume example with 10+ years of experience

Why this resume works

  • We recommend that you customize your summary for each job you apply to and that you mention the company name and job title.
  • It’s important to show the hiring manager that you understand what’s required and that you’ve done,  and will do , exceptional work—a great thing to expound on further in your paralegal cover letter .
  • Be confident in your value, skills, and competencies. Employers are much more likely to interview and employ applicants they deem confident.
  • Incorporate specific software knowledge into your paralegal resume. These hard skills can be taught, but hiring managers appreciate a paralegal who can jump in and get started researching and drafting casework right away.

Paralegal Student Resume

Paralegal student resume example with legal projects' experience

  • Begin the objective by stating that you’re aiming to get some practical experience. You can further improve your paralegal student resume by listing down all the relevant law skills that you’ve used in the past along with a few collaborative software.

Entry-Level Paralegal Resume

Entry-level paralegal resume example with 0 years of experience

  • Highlight expertise relevant to the job you’re applying for, even if it comes from an unexpected place. Include relevant projects, volunteer experience, and internships.
  • A worthwhile objective should be customized to the specific job you’re applying for (mention the company by name) and be a power-packed snapshot of your most relevant experience or skills.
  • Your entry-level paralegal resume will be on the right track when you incorporate skills into your work experience. Use bullet points to demonstrate abilities like time management, communication, and organization within your work history.

Senior Paralegal Resume

Senior paralegal resume example with 6 years of paralegal experience

  • Achievements such as cases won, costs saved, improved process efficiency, and regulatory compliance should give your senior paralegal resume the much-needed boost to get noticed.

Family Law Paralegal Resume

Family Law paralegal resume example with 7 years of experience

  • Include any nation-wide recognized certificates like “National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)” to show that your skills and knowledge have been tested by industry professionals and convey that you possess techniques to not just document cases but also influence favorable negotiations in disputes.

Real Estate Paralegal Resume

Real Estate paralegal resume example with 10 years of paralegal experience

  • Your real estate paralegal resume must highlight your understanding of property law, research skills to expedite processes, and the number of project deals completed on time with minimized cost.

Litigation Paralegal Resume

Litigation paralegal resume example with 13 years of experience

  • Highlight areas such as file management, working with the attorney, problem-solving, legal knowledge, software expertise, and how you boosted efficiency.
  • However, you can use any paralegal experience to hone in on relevant skills.
  • Highlight the skills and experience you have that correlate with the job you’re applying to, so the employer knows you can meet the nuanced needs of the job.

Immigration Paralegal Resume

Immigration paralegal resume example with 8 years of experience

  • For example, perhaps you’re bilingual, so you’d want to include that in your list of skills on your immigration paralegal resume . Showing specializations can put you above other candidates and land you an interview.
  • Citing an understanding of immigration petition forms and demonstrating a high regard for client satisfaction will also make your application more competitive. 
  • List your work experience in a reverse-chronological format to emphasize job growth and development, with your most recent at the top of the page. 

Personal Injury Paralegal Resume

Personal injury paralegal resume example with 13 years of experience

  • This means including software specific to the type of law, if applicable, unique forms and documents, the number of clients you worked with (this will vary drastically based on case sizes, case difficulty, and firm type), and specific tasks significant in your field. 
  • Check your resume for passive word choice; make sure your work experience starts with strong action words, avoids filler word fluff, and uses the past tense consistently.

Senior Corporate Paralegal Resume

Senior corporate paralegal resume example with 10 years of experience

  • For instance, you can discuss the number of legal software systems you have command of, the number of attorneys you work with, the types of legal documents you’ve written, the amount of time you’ve saved lawyers on research, etc. Metrics demonstrate your performance as a paralegal, and any employer will recognize that value. 
  • Remove skills that are irrelevant or vague. Seriously, in this day and age, most of us humans know how to email and use Microsoft and Google suite software. Focus on the more niche software, like LexisNexis, instead.

Legal Assistant Paralegal Resume

Legal assistant paralegal resume example with 3 years of experience

  • In the role you want, it’s expected that you’ll provide documents in an easy-to-understand, streamlined, logical format. Use your resume as an opportunity to demonstrate your skills!
  • Stray away from words like “assisted” and “helped.” Instead, focus on tasks you owned. Words like “collaborated” and “coordinated” help you say that you worked with others while still not shrinking the impact of your responsibilities.

Related resume guides

  • Legal Assistant

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1 Paralegal CV Example [+ Template]

Paralegals are the backbone of any legal team, meticulously organizing, researching, and preparing legal documents to ensure a smooth legal process. Similarly, a well-structured CV should mirror a paralegal's methodical nature, showcasing your ability to handle complex information, communicate effectively, and maintain a high level of organization. In this guide, we'll delve into compelling paralegal CV examples that highlight your legal acumen and organizational prowess, positioning you as an indispensable asset to any legal team.

paralegal cv

CV Examples

Cv guidance.

  • Essential Sections

Optional Sections

  • Getting the CV Structure Right
  • Formatting Your CV
  • Personal Statements for Paralegal
  • CV Experience
  • CV Skills & Proficiencies
  • How to Tailor Your CV to a Job
  • FAQs about CVs
  • Related CVs

CV Writing for Paralegals

  • Highlight Your Legal Knowledge and Certifications : Specify any paralegal certifications you hold and emphasize your understanding of the legal field you specialize in, such as corporate, criminal, or family law.
  • Showcase Your Research and Analytical Skills : Provide examples of complex legal research you've conducted and how your findings contributed to case outcomes.
  • Align Your CV with the Job Description : Tailor your CV to the specific role, emphasizing relevant experiences and skills. If the job requires experience in litigation support, highlight your relevant accomplishments.
  • Detail Your Proficiency in Legal Software : Mention your experience with legal research tools like Westlaw or LexisNexis, and case management software such as Clio or MyCase.
  • Emphasize Communication and Organizational Skills : Highlight your ability to effectively communicate with attorneys, clients, and court personnel, and your knack for organizing and managing large volumes of documents and data.

The Smarter, Faster Way to Write Your CV

personal statement for paralegal job

Paralegal CV Example

  • Managed a team of junior paralegals, improving case preparation efficiency by 30% through the implementation of a new case management system.
  • Conducted comprehensive legal research for over 50 cases, contributing to a 90% success rate in court proceedings.
  • Streamlined the document review process, reducing errors by 25% and increasing the speed of discovery by 20%.
  • Coordinated with attorneys to prepare for over 100 trials, contributing to a 95% win rate for the firm.
  • Implemented a new legal database system, improving data retrieval time by 40% and enhancing the accuracy of legal research.
  • Developed and maintained a comprehensive filing system, reducing document retrieval time by 30% and improving overall office efficiency.
  • Assisted in the preparation of over 200 legal documents, contributing to a 20% increase in case efficiency.
  • Conducted thorough client interviews, resulting in a 15% increase in client satisfaction ratings.
  • Collaborated with the IT department to develop a custom legal dashboard, providing real-time case metrics that supported strategic decision-making.
  • Team Management and Leadership
  • Legal Research Expertise
  • Efficient Case Preparation
  • Document Review and Management
  • Coordination with Legal Professionals
  • Legal Database System Implementation
  • Office Efficiency and Organization
  • Legal Document Preparation
  • Client Interviewing and Relationship Management
  • IT Collaboration and Legal Dashboard Development

CV Structure & Format for Paralegals

Essential cv sections for paralegals, getting your cv structure right.

  • Logical Flow : Begin with a compelling personal statement, then proceed to your professional experience, ensuring a logical progression through the sections of your CV.
  • Highlight Key Achievements Early : Make significant accomplishments stand out by placing them prominently within each section, especially in your career experience.
  • Use Reverse Chronological Order : List your roles starting with the most recent to immediately show employers your current level of responsibility and expertise.
  • Keep It Professional and Precise : Opt for a straightforward, professional layout and concise language that reflects the precision the legal field demands.

Formatting Your Paralegal CV for Success

Formatting keys to success, clarity and consistency, highlighting legal expertise, optimal cv length, personal statements for paralegals, paralegal personal statement examples, how to write a statement that stands out, cv career history / work experience, paralegal career experience examples, how to make your career experience stand out, cv skills & proficiencies for paralegal cvs, cv skill examples for paralegals.

Technical Expertise

  • Legal Research & Analysis : Proficiency in conducting comprehensive legal research and analysis, utilizing a variety of resources to support case preparation.
  • Document Drafting & Review : Expertise in drafting and reviewing legal documents, including contracts, pleadings, and affidavits, ensuring accuracy and compliance with legal standards.
  • Case Management : Ability to manage multiple cases simultaneously, maintaining organization and meeting critical deadlines.
  • Legal Software Proficiency : Skilled in using legal software (e.g., Westlaw, LexisNexis, Clio) to streamline legal processes and improve efficiency.

Interpersonal & Collaboration Skills

  • Effective Communication : Ability to communicate complex legal concepts clearly and effectively to clients, attorneys, and other stakeholders.
  • Teamwork & Collaboration : Proven success in working within diverse legal teams, fostering collaboration and contributing to case success.
  • Problem-Solving : Innovative approach to resolving legal challenges and improving case management workflows.
  • Adaptability : Flexibility in adapting to new legal regulations, technologies, and changes in case dynamics.

Creating a Compelling Skills Section on Your CV

How to tailor your paralegal cv to a specific job.

Tailoring your CV to the target job opportunity should be your single most important focus when creating a CV.

Tailor Your CV to a Job Description

personal statement for paralegal job

Emphasize Relevant Legal Experiences

Utilize industry-related keywords, showcase your technical skills, highlight your soft skills, align your professional summary with the role, cv faqs for paralegals, how long should paralegals make a cv, what's the best format for an paralegal cv, how does a paralegal cv differ from a resume, related cvs for paralegals.

Legal Assistant CV

personal statement for paralegal job

Attorney CV

Compliance Officer CV

personal statement for paralegal job

Contract Manager CV

personal statement for paralegal job

Policy Analyst CV

Paralegal CV

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Rolf Bax

Paralegal resume examples & templates

Paralegal resume examples & templates

Getting past the Applicant Tracking System

A paralegal should be highly organized and able to work with firm deadlines. They should have excellent time management and research skills. Due to the serious nature of legal work, it's essential that a paralegal be trustworthy and possess excellent judgment. 

Entry-level Paralegal Resume Example

How do you show that off in your resume?

Great question! Resume.io has the tools you need to make your case. Our guide plus the resume examples included with it will help you:

  • Present yourself professionally with a clean, creative design
  • Choose the best resume format for a paralegal
  • Teach how to write a paralegal resume that resonates with hiring managers
  • Get past Applicant Tracking Systems and into the hands of a person
  • Elevate your employment history beyond the routine.

What does a paralegal do?

In your paralegal position, you may work for an attorney in corporations, government agencies, or nonprofits. In those environments, you may offer legal services limited by the laws in the state in which you work. Your job duties may also differ depending upon your place of work. 

The American Bar Association lists the following tasks as typical of paralegal responsibilities:

  • Keeping client files
  • Drafting correspondence
  • Conducting research
  • Tracking deadlines
  • Writing, investigating, and analyzing legal documents
  • Gathering and managing data and documents
  • Acting as a client contact.

The nature of work involved can vary depending on the specialty of the law firm. Paralegals perform substantive legal work and must possess considerable knowledge of the law in order to perform legal work. 

Specialization

Just as lawyers may specialize in one field of law, paralegals may also do so . 

Areas of concentration include litigation, estate planning and probate, corporate law, employment and labor law, real estate and government. 

Since most states do not have requirements for becoming a paralegal, you will either learn on the job or take courses that will qualify you in the eyes of your prospective employer. Our resume examples will show you how to best highlight your specialization.

Paralegal jobs outlook

You picked a growth career when you decided to become a paralegal! Your profession is expected to grow 14 percent in the decade from 2021-2031, U.S. labor statistics predict . That’s well higher than average. 

Paralegals are in demand because they offer legal services at a much lower rate than attorneys, so many companies find them cost-effective. Anywhere the law is involved, paralegals are needed. 

Of course, law offices employ many paralegals, but they are not the only places for you to work although the bulk of paralegals do work in the legal services industry. Some paralegals work in justice, public order, or safety. Most of the remainder work for insurance firms, administration of human resources programs, or in executive or legislative government offices. 

The highest paid paralegals work in pharmacies and drugstores. The lowest paid, working in the administration of human resource programs, according to DataUSA .

How to write a paralegal resume

Your paralegal resume should follow a standard structure with the following sections:

  • The resume header (the attention-grabbing design element)
  • The resume summary (aka profile or personal statement)
  • The employment history section
  • The resume skills section
  • The education section

Your job is to convince hiring managers that you are the right person for the job. Not only is your knowledge of the law in your field deep, but you have excellent people skills to work with clients and you are highly organized. Using strong descriptive language, without crossing the line into bragging territory will make your paralegal resume a convincing one.

For more samples of writing and useful tips in the sphere of law, see more of our related legal resume samples:

  • Lawyer resume example
  • Attorney resume sample
  • Legal Assistant resume sample
  • Claims Adjuster resume example
  • Immigration Lawyer resume sample.

ATS software is used by most companies to sort and scan resumes. In addition to inputting your data into the human resources system, the ATS ranks your resume by scanning for keywords and phrases pegged to the job. 

There’s no absolute way to ensure you will rank high enough to beat the ATS, but you can increase your chances greatly by following a few simple steps.

First, analyze the job listing and note any skills and requirements. Second, cross-reference those words and phrases with our resume. Make sure any skills you have that are mentioned in the listing are also in your resume. Use the exact phrasing when possible. (Don’t force it. Recruiters can tell if you are trying to “stuff” your resume with keywords.) Third, use both acronyms and the full names of organization, certificates, etc., just to make sure the ATS catches them. 

A final word of advice: Don’t leave important information for your cover letter (but do check out our cover letter templates and examples here). The ATS may not scan it or rank it as highly.

Choosing the best resume format for your paralegal 

The legal profession is traditionally a conservative one and you want to choose a resume format to project that image. It would be a mistake to get flashy. Stick with classic fonts and try one of Resume.io’s professional templates.

Recruiters will scan for some key data first:

  • Your contact information (including your LinkedIn profile if it is up-to-date)
  • Your current job and title
  • Your previous job and title.

Make sure these items stand out in your resume format. Use standard headings so recruiters don’t have to guess what each section is and leave plenty of white space to keep it legible. 

In your precise profession, you can’t afford any formatting, spelling or grammatical errors, so have someone proofread your resume before you send it off. Alternatively, use a resume service that has a powerful spell-checker (and maybe even phrase/word suggestions based on analytics - they will help with the most appropriate and in-demand terms).

Resume summary example for a paralegal

Your profile gives you a chance to wow recruiters. Although it sits at the top of your resume, you can think of it as a summation: You are going to hit the highlights of your career and inject this mostly formatted document with a little personality that will leave the reader wanting more.

Gather your evidence and choose the work examples that are the best argument for why you are the person for the job. You have about four lines to convince a hiring manager. Add some personality by using strong descriptive language.

Tailor this paralegal resume sample text to your needs.

Experienced and dedicated paralegal, skilled in the organization and analysis of legal documentation. Adept in drafting documents, filing motions, interviewing clients, and preparing retainers. Able to effectively assist in preparations for trials, hearings, and closings. Bringing forth a hardworking attitude, eager to provide quality support in the next legal environment I join. 

Employment history sample

The key to a successful paralegal resume employment history section is in the language. Use strong verbs and the STAR method to explain the Situation, your Task, the Action you took, and your Results.

Descriptive, factual language:

Analyzed and fact-checked all legal documents for real-estate firm of 30 attorneys and noted any discrepancies or errors.

Too short and nondescript:

Took care of all paperwork.

Employ reverse chronological order to list your previous jobs. If you are just starting out as a paralegal, consider what transferable skills you used in any job you had. If you are entering the job market for the first time, consider any volunteer work or unpaid positions of responsibility you have held.

Here’s a paralegal employment history section resume sample.

Paralegal at Gulf Law Practice, Boca Raton August 2015 - Present

  • Report directly to three attorneys with large scale duties that encompassed complex preparations.
  • Prepare content specific files for pending cases in a timely manner.
  • Maintain communication with attorneys and clients, resulting in smooth business transactions and experiences.
  • Exercise utmost discretion when dealing with sensitive case topics.

Paralegal at Mason, Kohlnick, and Jans, Miami September 2013 - August 2015

  • Delivered exceptional administrative support to two attorneys on a daily basis.
  • Maintained calendars and confidential information.
  • Researched and analyzed law matters for specific cases to appear in court.
  • Provided accurate and punctual processing of all work requests while maintaining a professional and pleasant demeanor.

Paralegal resume education example

While there are no requirements for paralegal education that are set in stone, there are many different educational paths to take. Many community colleges have paralegal certificate programs. Increasingly, employers seek paralegals for a four-year degree and some schools are offering master’s degrees in paralegal studies.

Regardless of the level of your education or your field of study, you should list all degrees and certifications here. Any honors or distinctions should be noted here as well. 

Use the CV example text below to format your education section.

Bachelor of Communications, Rutgers University, New Brunswick August 2009 - May 2013

  • Vice president of the debate team.
  • Head writer and reporter at The Owl.

High School Diploma, Millbrook High School, Millbrook September 2005 - May 2009

Skills section example: bullet-point your best

Busy hiring managers don’t have a lot of time to read your resume, so they may skip straight to your skills section to see if you have what they are looking for. Make sure you do by matching the skills and attributes in the job listing to this section. Of course, you need to be honest and list only skills that you have, but make sure you don’t leave out anything that is important to your prospective employer.

Consider both hard skills, or the knowledge you have of the law in your field, and soft skills, or the organizational and communication abilities that make you a great employee.

Check out the paralegal resume sample text below to guide you.

  • Interpersonal Communication
  • Superior Organization
  • Advanced Knowledge of Legal Terminology
  • Excellent Work Ethic and Personal Integrity
  • Time Management

Key takeaways

  • Paralegals are in demand, so take advantage!
  • Use keywords and phrases strategically to beat the ATS
  • Make your case with a strong profile
  • Align your skills section with the job listing
  • To get your job hunt going faster, take advantage of templates and our online resume builder.

Beautiful ready-to-use resume templates

  • • Analysed and reviewed over 600 legal documents annually, including MSAs and Supplier contracts, reducing potential legal risks by 25%
  • • Led a team of 5 in conducting comprehensive new client onboarding, ensuring compliance with UK company law
  • • Implemented a new data protection strategy that streamlined subprocessor tracking, resulting in a 30% increase in data handling efficiency
  • • Facilitated 50+ investor consent processes and prepared drafts, which accelerated fund acquisition by 20%
  • • Developed and maintained collaborative communication with multiple departments to enhance organisational coherence
  • • Managed and reviewed 400+ commercial agreements and NDAs within a year, expediting deal closures by 15%
  • • Authored a handbook on contract standards that improved the legal department's efficiency by 10%
  • • Played a critical role in developing and executing contract negotiation strategies for major industry clients
  • • Assisted with the training of new paralegals, enhancing the team's capability to handle complex contracts
  • • Improved inter-departmental communications, resulting in more timely and accurate contract executions
  • • Supported 10+ attorneys in preparing document drafts, research, and case management, increasing overall productivity by 20%
  • • Assisted in drafting 200+ employment contracts and contractor agreements
  • • Contributed to a major overhaul of the firm's privacy policies in line with GDPR
  • • Optimised document handling processes, reducing retrieval times by 35%

Paralegal CV Examples & Guide for 2024

In crafting your paralegal CV, it's crucial to highlight your legal knowledge and relevant experience. Showcase your understanding of legal terminology, research skills, and proficiency in drafting documents. Additionally, on your paralegal CV, ensure that you emphasize your organizational skills and attention to detail. Demonstrate your ability to manage complex tasks and communicate effectively with attorneys and clients.

All CV examples in this guide.

personal statement for paralegal job

Traditional

personal statement for paralegal job

Resume Guide

CV Format Tips

Summary or Objective?

Experience on Your CV

No Experience?

Top CV Skills

Education & Certifications

Key Takeaways

Paralegal resume example

Tailoring your CV to highlight your expertise in various legal systems and terminologies can be a daunting challenge for a paralegal seeking new opportunities. Our comprehensive guide provides step-by-step advice to help you accentuate your skills and experience, ensuring your CV stands out to potential employers.

  • Answer job requirements with your paralegal CV and experience;
  • Curate your academic background and certificates, following industry-leading CV examples;
  • Select from +10 niche skills to match the ideal candidate profile
  • Write a more succinct experience section that consists of all the right details.

Do you need more specific insights into writing your paralegal CV? Our guides focus on unique insights for each individual role:

  • Solicitor CV Example
  • Lawyer CV Example
  • Legal CV Example
  • Legal Assistant CV Example

How to ensure your profile stands out with your paralegal CV format

  • list your experience in the reverse chronological order - starting with your latest roles;
  • include a header with your professional contact information and - optionally - your photograph;
  • organise vital and relevant CV sections - e.g. your experience, skills, summary/ objective, education - closer to the top;
  • use no more than two pages to illustrate your professional expertise;
  • format your information using plenty of white space and standard (2.54 cm) margins , with colours to accent key information.

Once you've completed your information, export your paralegal CV in PDF, as this format is more likely to stay intact when read by the Applicant Tracker System or the ATS . A few words of advice about the ATS - or the software used to assess your profile:

  • Generic fonts, e.g. Arial and Times New Roman, are ATS-compliant, yet many candidates stick with these safe choices. Ensure your CV stands out by using a more modern, and simple, fonts like Lato, Exo 2, Volkhov;
  • All serif and sans-serif fonts are ATS-friendly. Avoid the likes of fancy decorative or script typography, as this may render your information to be illegible;
  • Both single- and double-column formatted CVs could be assessed by the ATS ;
  • Integrating simple infographics, icons, and charts across your CV won't hurt your chances during the ATS assessment.

Use font size and style strategically to create a visual hierarchy, drawing the reader's eye to the most important information first (like your name and most recent job title).

The top sections on a paralegal CV

  • Education history shows formal training. It is vital to establish your academic background, detailing institutions and qualifications relevant to a paralegal career.
  • Legal experience highlights specific roles. Recruiters look for direct legal work experience, including internships, to gauge practical skills.
  • Key skills demonstrate legal competencies. A section on specialised skills such as legal research, documentation drafting, and case management is essential.
  • Professional certifications prove expertise. Including certifications like CP or RP credentials showcases your dedication to the paralegal profession.
  • References validate your professional claims. Mentioning professional references allows potential employers to verify your work ethic and capabilities.

What recruiters value on your CV:

  • Highlight your understanding of legal terminologies, procedures, and documentation by detailing your experience with drafting pleadings, briefs, and other legal documents, ensuring to mention any specific areas of law you have worked in.
  • Demonstrate your organisational skills by listing your experience managing case files, coordinating appointments, and handling correspondence, as these are crucial for maintaining efficiency in legal settings.
  • Showcase your research abilities by mentioning your proficiency in legal research platforms and databases, and give examples of complex legal issues you've successfully navigated.
  • Include any experience with case management software and legal technologies, as paralegals need to be adept with tools that aid in streamlining legal processes and improving client communication.
  • Provide evidence of your ability to maintain confidentiality and your understanding of ethical considerations when working on sensitive cases, as these are fundamental qualities of a trustworthy paralegal.

Recommended reads:

  • CV Structure: Most Common Formats and Attention-Keeping Sections
  • CV Length: How Long Should Your CV Be in 2024?

Tips and tricks on writing a job-winning paralegal CV header

The CV header is the space which most recruiters would be referring most often to, in the beginning and end of your application. That is as the CV header includes your contact details, but also a headline and a professional photo. When writing your CV header:

  • Double-check your contact details for spelling errors or if you've missed any digits. Also, ensure you've provided your personal details , and not your current work email or telephone number;
  • Include your location in the form of the city and country you live in. If you want to be more detailed, you can list your full address to show proximity to your potential work place;
  • Don't include your CV photo , if you're applying for roles in the UK or US, as this may bias initial recruiters' assessments;
  • Write a professional headline that either integrates the job title, some relevant industry keywords, or your most noteworthy achievement.

In the next part of our guide, we'll provide you with professional CVs that showcase some of the best practices when it comes to writing your headline.

Examples of good CV headlines for paralegal:

  • Legal Assistant | Property Law Specialist | LLB (Hons) | 2+ Years of Conveyancing Experience
  • Senior Paralegal | Commercial Litigation Expert | LPC Graduate | Managing Complex Cases | 10 Years' Practice
  • Paralegal | Family Law Advocate | Certificate in Legal Practice | Mediation & Negotiation Skills | 5 Years
  • Junior Paralegal | Criminal Defence Focus | GDL Holder | Case Preparation and Research | 1 Year Experience
  • Paralegal Officer | Intellectual Property Enthusiast | CILEx Level 6 | Trademarks & Patents | 4 Years
  • Certified Paralegal | Employment Law Specialist | HR and Legal Compliance | 7+ Years in Tribunal Support

Opting between a paralegal CV summary or objective

Within the top one third of your paralegal CV, you have the opportunity to briefly summarise your best achievements or present your professional goals and dreams. Those two functions are met by either the CV summary or the objective.

  • The summary is three-to-five sentences long and should narrate your best successes, while answering key requirements for the role . Select up to three skills which you can feature in your summary. Always aim to present what the actual outcomes were of using your particular skill set. The summary is an excellent choice for more experienced professionals.
  • The objective is more focused on showcasing your unique value as a candidate and defining your dreams and ambitions . Think about highlighting how this current opportunity would answer your career vision. Also, about how you could help your potential employers grow. The objective matches the needs of less experienced candidates, who need to prove their skill set and, in particular, their soft skills.

Still not sure about how to write your CV opening statement ? Use some best industry examples as inspiration:

CV summaries for a paralegal job:

  • With a robust 8-year background in family law at a leading London firm, I bring an extensive understanding of legal procedures, thorough research capabilities, and a proven track record in managing complex cases, which led to a 95% success rate in child custody disputes.
  • Detail-oriented paralegal with 5 years of experience specializing in commercial law and intellectual property rights at a boutique Manchester firm; successfully supported litigation for over 50 cases and regularly managed patent filings, showcasing expertise in legal documentation and case preparation.
  • Former HR manager with 10 years of experience, now transitioned to paralegal studies, eager to apply my outstanding negotiation and employee relations skills to the legal sector, with a focus on employment law and a personal commitment to advocating for fair workplace practices.
  • A recent business administration graduate shifting to a legal career, I bring an analytical mindset, exemplary organizational skills, and a dedication to mastering the complexities of corporate law. My internship at a top-tier accounting firm equipped me with a solid foundation in regulatory compliance.
  • Aspiring to develop my career in a legal support role, I am committed to learning and contributing to client satisfaction through meticulous research, document management, and developing a comprehensive understanding of legal frameworks within a fast-paced environment.
  • Eager to embark on a paralegal career path, my objective is to leverage my strong analytical background from a recent Master's degree in Political Science and intern experience in legislative research to deliver high-quality legal assistance and support case management with accuracy and efficiency.

How to meet job requirements with your paralegal CV experience

We've now reached the essence of your actual CV - your experience section. This is the space where you can list your career roles and on-the-job successes. Many candidates tend to underestimate just how much time and effort they should put into writing this CV section. Your experience shouldn't be a random list of your responsibilities, but instead:

  • Match the job description with your skills, values, and accomplishments;
  • Start each bullet with a strong action verb, followed up with one key skill and your outcome of applying this skill;
  • Spotlight parts of your career history that are relevant to the job you're applying for .

Before we move on, make sure to check out some professional CV experience sections.

Best practices for your CV's work experience section

  • Conducted comprehensive legal research using databases such as LexisNexis and Westlaw, ensuring accurate and current information for case preparation.
  • Assisted with the drafting and reviewing of legal documents including contracts, wills, and pleadings to ensure they meet statutory requirements.
  • Coordinated and maintained schedules and deadlines for court appearances and filings, demonstrating exceptional organisational skills and attention to detail.
  • Managed communication with clients, witnesses, and court officials, providing regular updates and ensuring clear and precise information exchange.
  • Implemented an efficient filing system for both paper and electronic documents that improved retrieval time by 20%.
  • Prepared trial bundles and evidence packs, meticulously ensuring that all critical information was readily accessible for barristers and solicitors.
  • Contributed to client meetings by taking detailed notes that were essential for case strategy formulation and follow-up actions.
  • Monitored changes in legislation and apprised the legal team, which proved essential in keeping practices current and avoiding compliance issues.
  • Utilised legal case management software effectively, thereby enhancing team collaboration and the tracking of case progress.
  • Streamlined the document management process utilizing advanced document management software, improving retrieval efficiency by 35% for critical legal files.
  • Functioned as the lead paralegal on over 50 family law cases, contributing to successful outcomes in 92% of these cases through meticulous research and documentation.
  • Facilitated the litigation process by preparing and filing over 100 legal documents monthly, ensuring compliance with court deadlines and protocol.
  • Managed due diligence for over 20 corporate transactions, resulting in the smooth execution of mergers and acquisitions valued at over $200 million.
  • Coordinated with a team of 5 paralegals to support litigation attorneys, providing comprehensive case preparation that led to a 20% increase in case efficiency.
  • Initiated a client data protection protocol enhancing privacy compliance, significantly reducing the risk of data breaches in client-sensitive information.
  • Developed and maintained a repository of legal research references and case files, improving the firm's response time for legal inquiries by 25%.
  • Assisted in drafting and reviewing over 500 legal contracts and agreements, streamlining the review process by implementing a clause library.
  • Played a pivotal role in preparing for trials by organizing evidence and creating a detailed database for easy access by litigation teams.
  • Designed and implemented an automated billing system for legal services reducing billing errors by 15% and saving approximately 10 hours of manual work per week.
  • Spearheaded the transition to electronic filing systems in compliance with federal court mandates, enhancing firm-wide operational efficiency.
  • Conducted comprehensive legal research that contributed to a favorable ruling in a high-profile intellectual property case.
  • Implemented a new tracking system for tort claims which increased the firm’s case-handling capacity by 20%.
  • Worked closely with attorneys in the preparation of trial binders for over 30 cases, directly contributing to organized and more effective courtroom presentations.
  • Negotiated with vendors for legal services, reducing annual costs by 10% without compromising on the quality of services.
  • Coordinated the pro bono program, matching attorneys to cases, which resulted in a 40% increase in community service engagement.
  • Efficiently oversaw a large-scale document review project for a class action lawsuit involving over 100,000 documents.
  • Assisted in managing the case load for several junior attorneys simultaneously, aiding in a 30% increase in productivity for the legal team.
  • Conducted extensive legal research using databases such as LexisNexis and Westlaw that provided crucial information for complex litigation cases.
  • Implemented a case management system that improved the tracking of over 200 ongoing cases, enhancing team coordination and case progression.
  • Contributed to a high-profile merger by preparing legal documents, conducting due diligence, and facilitating communication among various stakeholders.
  • Successfully managed the witness preparation for over 10 federal court cases, which played a key role in the firm’s high trial success rate.
  • Optimized legal research and streamlined case briefings for the attorneys, reducing preparation time by 15%.
  • Managed communication with clients by providing updates and explaining legal proceedings, resulting in a 25% improvement in client satisfaction.
  • Prepared and maintained trademark filings and registrations, overseeing a portfolio of over 500 trademarks.
  • Automated routine legal documentation using specialized software, reducing manual drafting time by up to 50%.
  • Co-authored an internal best practices handbook for the paralegal team, which became the standard reference for new employee training.
  • Enhanced inter-departmental communication by implementing a shared calendar system for legal deadlines, leading to zero missed filing dates.
  • Assisted with complex legal research for environmental law cases, contributing to several key wins in Federal and State courts.
  • Coordinated discovery processes and managed inventory of evidence, empowering the legal team with ready access to pertinent case materials.

Lacking professional expertise: how to write your CV to highlight your best talents

Don't count on your lucky stars when you're applying for a role, where you happen to have less (or almost none) professional experience. Recruiters sometimes do hire inexperienced candidates if they're able to present their unique value from the get-go. So, instead of opting for the traditional, CV experience section:

  • List any applicable expertise you happen to have - no matter if it's a part-time job , internship, or volunteer work. This would hint to recruiters that your profile is relevant;
  • Focus your CV on your transferrable skills or talents you've obtained thanks to your whole life and work experience. In effect, you'll be spotlighting your value as a candidate;
  • Separate more space for your applicable academic background and certificates to show you have the technical know-how;
  • Ensure that within your objective, you've defined why you'll like the job and how you'll be the perfect match for it. Always ensure you've tailored your CV to individual applications.

Looking for more good examples for your first job ? We'll show you how other candidates, with less professional experience, have created their job-winning CVs.

  • Promotions on CV: Where to Include Them?
  • How to List Qualifications on Your CV (Tips & Examples for 2023)

If you have experience in diverse fields, highlight how this has broadened your perspective and skill set, making you a more versatile candidate.

Mix and match hard and soft skills across your paralegal CV

Your skill set play an equally valid role as your experience to your application. That is because recruiters are looking for both:

  • hard skills or your aptitude in applying particular technologies
  • soft skills or your ability to work in a team using your personal skills , e.g. leadership, time management, etc.

Are you wondering how you should include both hard and soft skills across your paralegal CV? Use the:

  • skills section to list between ten and twelve technologies that are part of the job requirement (and that you're capable to use);
  • strengths and achievements section to detail how you've used particular hard and soft skills that led to great results for you at work;
  • summary or objective to spotlight up to three skills that are crucial for the role and how they've helped you optimise your work processes.

One final note - when writing about the skills you have, make sure to match them exactly as they are written in the job ad. Take this precautionary measure to ensure your CV passes the Applicant Tracker System (ATS) assessment.

Top skills for your paralegal CV:

Legal research

Document drafting

Litigation support

Case management

Regulatory compliance

Legal writing

Contract review

Intellectual property law

E-discovery

Legal software proficiency

Attention to detail

Communication

Time management

Analytical thinking

Problem-solving

Client confidentiality

Adaptability

Organisational

Stress management

Order your skills based on the relevance to the role you're applying for, ensuring the most pertinent skills catch the employer's attention first.

CV education and certificates: your academic background as proof of your skill set

A common misconception about your paralegal CV education is that you only need it, if you have less professional experience. That is completely false. The CV education section serves to back up your technical (and sometimes personal) capabilities, fill in gaps in your work history, and show you have the initial industry background and know-how. When creating your education section:

  • List your degrees in the reverse chronological order, starting with the most recent (and relevant) ones first;
  • Include your degree and university names, start and graduation dates. It's optional to also denote you received a "First-Class Honours" for diplomas that are more relevant to the role;
  • Curate your relevant university coursework, projects, or thesis work if you happen to have less professional expertise and need to integrate more job keywords and skills.

Your professional qualifications don't need to stop at your academic background. It's advisable to also select up to three of your most noteworthy (and relevant) industry certificates and feature them in a dedicated section . Once more, include the certificate name, the institution that issued it out, and the date you obtained it on. You could feature both hard skills and soft skills certificates, as in the examples below:

If you have received professional endorsements or recommendations for certain skills, especially on platforms like LinkedIn, mention these to add credibility.

  • CV Certifications - Tips, Examples & Template to Use in 2024
  • How to Include CV Coursework on Your CV

Key takeaways

Your successful job application depends on how you well you have aligned your paralegal CV to the job description and portrayed your best skills and traits. Make sure to:

  • Select your CV format, so that it ensures your experience is easy to read and understand;
  • Include your professional contact details and a link to your portfolio, so that recruiters can easily get in touch with you and preview your work;
  • Write a CV summary if you happen to have more relevant professional experience. Meanwhile, use the objective to showcase your career dreams and ambitions;
  • In your CV experience section bullets, back up your individual skills and responsibilities with tangible achievements;
  • Have a healthy balance between hard and soft skills to answer the job requirements and hint at your unique professional value.

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Top 17 Paralegal Resume Objective Examples

Photo of Brenna Goyette

Updated July 18, 2023 13 min read

A resume objective is a short statement that outlines the qualifications, skills, and experience you have that will make you successful in a paralegal position. It should be specific and concise, focusing on how your past accomplishments can help you succeed in the role. To write an effective resume objective for a paralegal position, focus on relevant qualities such as your research abilities, organizational skills, legal knowledge, and communication skills. For example: “Dedicated paralegal with 5+ years of experience conducting legal research, drafting documents, and providing administrative support to attorneys. Possess excellent organizational and communication skills to ensure efficient organization of case files and timely completion of tasks.” Additionally, it is important to use action-oriented language when crafting your resume objective for a paralegal position; for example “Seeking to leverage my legal expertise and professional writing abilities to provide exceptional legal assistance as a Paralegal at ABC Law Firm.”

Paralegal Resume Example

or download as PDF

Top 17 Paralegal Resume Objective Samples

  • To obtain a Paralegal position in a law firm where I can utilize my legal knowledge and experience to contribute to the organization’s success.
  • To work as a Paralegal in an environment that encourages growth, learning, and development.
  • Seeking a Paralegal role with an established law firm to use my organizational skills and attention to detail while providing excellent client services.
  • To secure a challenging position as a Paralegal in a dynamic legal environment where I can maximize my problem-solving skills.
  • To apply my extensive knowledge of legal processes and procedures as a Paralegal in an established law firm.
  • Looking for an opportunity to join a team of professionals as a Paralegal and contribute to the successful outcome of cases.
  • Seeking employment as a Paralegal in order to utilize my research, writing, and communication skills.
  • Desire to obtain the position of Paralegal utilizing strong organizational abilities, exceptional customer service skills, and extensive legal knowledge.
  • Searching for the role of Paralegal with an organization that values hard work and dedication while providing opportunities for professional growth.
  • Aiming to work as a Paralegal with an organization that is committed to excellence in order to provide quality services for clients.
  • Eager to join a reputable law firm as a Paralegal where I can leverage my excellent analytical skills and legal expertise.
  • Seeking the position of Paralegal at ABC Law Firm where I can use my knowledge of laws, regulations, court proceedings, and document preparation techniques effectively.
  • Aspiring for the role of paralegal with XYZ Law Firm where I can apply my understanding of legal principles and practices while delivering excellent client service.
  • To obtain employment as a paralegal utilizing excellent communication skills combined with strong research abilities and attention to detail.
  • To secure the position of paralegal at ABC Company which will enable me to utilize my education in criminal justice along with experience working in the legal field.
  • Looking forward to joining an esteemed law firm as paralegal where I can make use of my ability to efficiently manage multiple tasks simultaneously while providing superior client services.
  • Seeking the position of paralegal at XYZ Law Firm so that I may draw upon my knowledge base gained through coursework in business law combined with prior experience working within the industry

How to Write a Paralegal Resume Objective

A paralegal resume objective is an important tool for any paralegal seeking to stand out among the competition. It allows a potential employer to quickly and clearly understand what the job applicant brings to the table and why they would be a great fit for their organization. Crafting an effective resume objective that effectively communicates one's qualifications and experience can be a daunting task, but with these tips, it should be much easier.

First, you will want to start by introducing yourself and your background. Give a brief overview of your educational background, professional experience, or other relevant accomplishments that make you stand out from other applicants. This is also a good place to include any specialized training or certifications related to the position being sought after.

Next, state why you are applying for this particular job. Explain how your skills and experience make you uniquely qualified for this position. Be sure to keep it concise yet informative; if possible, try not to exceed two sentences in length.

Finally, end your resume objective by expressing enthusiasm for the opportunity and commitment to excellence in the role. This will show employers that you have a genuine interest in joining their team and are prepared to put in the necessary effort required of the job.

By following these tips, you should have no problem writing an effective paralegal resume objective that stands out from the competition and helps land you an interview!

Related : What does a Paralegal do?

Key Skills to Highlight in Your Paralegal Resume Objective

In today's competitive job market, having a well-crafted resume is crucial. For aspiring paralegals, it's not just about listing your qualifications and experiences; it's also about highlighting key skills that make you stand out from the rest. Your resume objective is the perfect place to showcase these skills. The following section will delve into the essential skills you should emphasize in your paralegal resume objective to catch the attention of potential employers and increase your chances of landing that coveted paralegal position.

1. Legal Research

A paralegal's primary role is to assist attorneys in all aspects of legal work. Legal research is a fundamental skill for this position as it involves finding and analyzing laws, regulations, and court decisions relevant to a particular case. This skill is crucial in helping lawyers prepare their legal arguments, draft pleadings and motions to be filed with the court, and provide advice to clients. Therefore, showcasing legal research skills in a resume objective can demonstrate a candidate's ability to effectively support an attorney's work and contribute significantly to achieving positive outcomes for clients.

2. Document Drafting

A Paralegal must have the skill of document drafting as they are often responsible for preparing legal documents such as wills, contracts, and pleadings. This skill is crucial in ensuring that all documents are accurate, clear, and legally sound. Including this skill in a resume objective would highlight the candidate's ability to handle important paperwork and their attention to detail, which are key qualities needed for the role.

3. Case Management

Case management is a crucial skill for a paralegal as it involves organizing, coordinating, and tracking the progress of legal cases. This skill is necessary to ensure that all case-related documents are properly managed and easily accessible, deadlines are met, and communication between all parties involved is efficient. Demonstrating this skill in a resume objective shows potential employers that the candidate can effectively handle the administrative side of legal work, maintain order in complex situations, and contribute to the smooth running of legal operations.

4. Client Communication

A paralegal needs strong client communication skills to effectively interact with clients on a daily basis. This includes explaining complex legal terms in an understandable way, listening to and understanding the client's concerns and needs, and providing updates about their case. Good communication helps build trust, fosters good relationships, and ensures that the client is satisfied with the legal services provided. Including this skill in a resume objective shows potential employers that the candidate can handle these important interactions effectively.

5. Fact Investigation

A paralegal's role often requires conducting thorough fact investigations to gather all necessary information for a case. This includes researching public records, laws, and other relevant data. Having fact investigation as a skill demonstrates the ability to accurately and efficiently uncover and analyze information, which is crucial in assisting lawyers in preparation for trials or hearings. It shows potential employers that the candidate has strong research abilities, attention to detail, critical thinking skills, and can contribute significantly to building a strong case.

6. Citation Formatting

A paralegal often needs to prepare legal documents, conduct research and write reports. Citation formatting is crucial in these tasks to ensure all sources of information are correctly acknowledged and referenced. This demonstrates attention to detail and understanding of legal documentation, which are important qualities for a paralegal. Including this skill in a resume objective can highlight the candidate's ability to handle complex legal paperwork accurately and professionally.

7. Electronic Filing (e-filing)

A paralegal's resume objective should highlight the skill of electronic filing (e-filing) as it is a crucial part of modern legal work. This skill demonstrates the candidate's ability to manage and organize large volumes of documents digitally, ensuring efficient retrieval and submission of necessary paperwork. It also shows their familiarity with current technology and legal software, which can improve office productivity and accuracy in case management. Furthermore, e-filing is often required by courts, making this skill essential for meeting procedural requirements.

8. LexisNexis Proficiency

A Paralegal needs to have LexisNexis Proficiency as a skill in their resume objective because it demonstrates their ability to conduct comprehensive legal research. LexisNexis is a widely used database for legal and business-related research, containing an extensive range of legal resources and documents. A paralegal proficient in this tool can effectively support attorneys by finding relevant case laws, statutes, legal articles, and other necessary information quickly and accurately. This skill also shows that the candidate is familiar with modern technology used in the legal field, which can increase efficiency and productivity.

9. Westlaw Expertise

Westlaw is a comprehensive legal research tool widely used in the industry. Demonstrating expertise in Westlaw on a resume shows that the candidate has strong research skills and familiarity with legal databases, which are crucial for efficient and effective performance in a paralegal role. It also indicates that the candidate can quickly find and analyze relevant legal information, saving attorneys valuable time. This skill can help set the candidate apart from others who may not be as proficient in using this specific tool.

10. Trial Preparation

Trial Preparation is a crucial skill for a Paralegal as it involves organizing, planning, and coordinating all aspects of litigation before the trial. This includes gathering and reviewing evidence, preparing legal documents, assisting in strategy development, and liaising with clients and witnesses. Demonstrating this skill in a resume objective shows potential employers that the candidate can effectively contribute to the success of trial proceedings, thereby enhancing the efficiency and productivity of the legal team.

Top 10 Paralegal Skills to Add to Your Resume Objective

In conclusion, the objective section of your paralegal resume is a crucial area to spotlight your key skills. It provides an opportunity to showcase your abilities and strengths that make you an ideal candidate for the position. Remember, this section should not just list your skills but also demonstrate how they align with the job requirements. Your objective should be concise, compelling, and tailored to each specific role you apply for, effectively serving as a brief summary of why you are the best fit for the job.

Related : Paralegal Assistant Skills: Definition and Examples

Common Mistakes When Writing a Paralegal Resume Objective

When writing a paralegal resume objective, it is important to be aware of common mistakes that can be made. A resume objective is meant to give potential employers an overview of your skills and qualifications in order to demonstrate why you would be a great fit for the job. Unfortunately, many paralegals make mistakes when crafting their resume objectives that can hurt their chances at getting the job.

One of the most common mistakes made when writing a paralegal resume objective is making it too general. A successful resume objective should be tailored to the specific job you are applying for and highlight your specific skills and qualifications as they relate to that job. It should also include what makes you stand out from other applicants. If your resume objective is too generic, employers may feel like you do not have enough knowledge or experience to succeed in the role.

Another mistake often made when writing a paralegal resume objective is including irrelevant information. Your resume objective should focus on relevant information such as your qualifications, experience, and accomplishments related to the position you are applying for. It is not necessary to include personal interests or hobbies unless they are pertinent to the job you are seeking. Additionally, any unrelated achievements or employment history should not be included in your resume objective as this could cause confusion or lead employers away from focusing on what matters most – your qualifications for the job at hand.

Finally, another mistake commonly made when writing a paralegal resume objective is using jargon or industry buzzwords without context or explanation. Employers want to know why certain words were used in your resume objective and how they relate to the position being applied for. Without providing any background information about these terms, employers may assume that you lack knowledge on the subject matter or simply copied and pasted from another source without understanding its full meaning.

By avoiding these common mistakes when writing a paralegal resume objective, you can ensure that you present yourself as an ideal candidate for the position and increase your chances of success!

Related : Paralegal Resume Examples

Paralegal Resume Objective Example

The right resume objective for a paralegal should focus on the skills and qualifications required to be successful in the role, while the wrong resume objective may focus more on the personal accomplishments of the applicant rather than their fit for the job.

Editorial staff

Photo of Brenna Goyette, Editor

Brenna Goyette

Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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published December 12, 2016

published february 12, 2021

By Maria Laus , Author - LawCrossing

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Do you want a better legal career?

personal statement for paralegal job

In recent years, the job market in certain industries has become highly competitive. With hundreds of qualified people applying for the same jobs, job hunters need a way to stand out from the crowd. The solution? Personal branding.

A brand is a unique and memorable identity that is often the reason someone chooses one product over another. However, branding isn't only for businesses selling products. If you're currently hunting for a job, you can use the same strategies big brands use to “sell” yourself to prospective employers.

This guide provides personal branding tips and actionable steps for creating a strong personal brand. Investing time into professional brand development may open the door to exciting new career opportunities.

What Is a Personal Brand?

When you think of Coca-Cola, you might taste the soda, see the red logo, hear their jingle, and remember good times. That is the power of branding. A traditional brand in the business world is the image the company cultivates for itself. It goes beyond logos, colors, and artwork to encompass the business's mission, values, and personality. Creating a brand establishes a distinct identity for the company, helping to set it apart from competitors.

Similarly, a personal brand helps individuals differentiate themselves from other candidates in the job market. However, it's less about creating a logo for yourself and more about deciding what you value and how you want others to see you. With a personal brand, you can shape people's view of you through strategic efforts and communication. They'll have an easier time understanding who you are, what you're passionate about, and how you create value in the workforce.

The Benefits of Personal Branding for Career Success

personal statement for paralegal job

Personal branding is a powerful job search strategy that can increase your chance of landing a job offer. It is also a beneficial asset within the workplace that can result in new career opportunities and promotions. Additionally, a personal brand will help you:

  • Understand yourself:   By creating a personal brand, you'll uncover more about who you are and what's important to you. This knowledge will help you sell yourself better and determine a career path if you were unsure before.
  • Increase search visibility:  Optimizing your online profiles for search is part of creating a personal brand. Through optimization, your name may appear higher in search results for companies and recruiters looking for candidates.
  • Showcase your passion:   A personal brand requires energy and care to create. Employers who view your online profiles will see the hard work you've put in, showcasing your dedication and passion for what you do.
  • Boost confidence:   Creating a personal brand requires promoting your strengths and best attributes. Uncovering these positive qualities can remind you of your value, helping to increase your confidence and self-esteem.
  • Become a thought leader:   Most people start sharing more experiences and information across their online profiles as part of their personal brand strategy. Along the way, they develop an audience influenced and inspired by their ideas. Slowly, they become  thought leaders in their industry  who others respect and admire.

Key Characteristics of a Personal Brand

It may be tempting to overinflate your personal brand to make yourself look good, but powerful personal brands are honest and reliable. Yes, your brand should focus on your most valuable skills and strengths, but it should also portray who you really are, albeit with more clarity and intention.

While creating your brand, keep the following characteristics of successful personal brands in mind:

  • Authenticity:  Authentic personal branding truthfully represents one's personality, skills, and experience. A lack of sincerity can cause people to question your integrity and morals.
  • Purpose:  Personal brands are usually self-serving, but the best ones have a greater purpose. Whether yours is to help others, make a difference in your industry, or connect with peers, be generous and transparent about what drives you.
  • Creativity:  A fresh, creative brand is more memorable. Use unique, eye-catching visual elements to make your brand stand out and share personal insights and experiences with your network.
  • Approachability:   Positivity, passion, and warmth attract others. Your brand tone can also make others more comfortable with reaching out and engaging in conversation.

Steps to Create a Strong Personal Brand

Whether you realize it or not, you already have a personal brand. People form perceptions of who you are after hearing about or interacting with you. However, there are ways to shape people's ideas of you. This is particularly important when applying for a job, as you want potential employers to see that you're a good fit for the role and their company culture.

Follow the steps below to develop your brand identity and use it to further your career.

1. Gather Information

Starting with a brand audit will set you up for success later. When businesses audit their existing brand, they examine its current state and position within the market. They may conduct internal and external surveys and interviews, review their current marketing efforts, and research competitors.

You can do something similar for your brand by making a comprehensive list of your professional accomplishments, experiences, and relationships. You may already have this information from your resume. Next, consider the personal qualities you want others to know about. Be specific and descriptive so you can use this information to create your brand story later.

Now, scan your social profiles to pick out comments and endorsements from others. You can also contact people you trust in your professional network to ask for their constructive feedback. Compare how you view yourself to their perception to see if there are any differences. You'll use your branding efforts to either boost current perceptions or work to shift them.

2. Define Your Values

Once you have a more in-depth idea of who you are and how others see you, it can be helpful to dig deeper to understand what's important to you. Introspection is a vital part of building an authentic personal brand. When you have a clear idea of your values, you can align your decisions with them and project the desired image of yourself to others. Uncovering your values may help you meet your goals and create deeper, meaningful connections.

Understanding your values and beliefs requires reflection and honesty. Consider what personal attributes you admire about yourself. Think about what motivates you and who you aspire to be. What character traits and habits will help you attain and excel in your dream career? In your personal and professional life, what do you hope to achieve? If you're unsure of your own traits, think about the people you admire. While these are difficult questions, the answers will help you craft a sincere, truthful brand that may lead you to the right opportunities.

3. Outline Goals

personal statement for paralegal job

You can start setting goals once you clearly understand your values and purpose. Most people are familiar with the power of a goal—they provide a plan and benchmark for achieving a desired outcome. To create goals around your personal brand, consider what you hope to achieve. Why do you want to make a personal brand?

From there, you can write down a few specific goals. Some ideas can be to get more job offers, land your dream job, meet new people, grow your social following, or learn a new skill. Use these goals to guide every decision you make and measure your progress.

4. Determine Your Niche

The most successful brands know who they're trying to reach and what value they provide. You can apply this same strategy to your personal brand by choosing one particular niche to focus on. If you have a specific skill set or want to join a certain career path, pour all your energy into creating a brand and communication strategy around that topic. You'll have a higher chance of finding people who value the same things and can get you where you want to be.

5. Craft a Personal Brand Statement

One way to define your personal brand is to create a personal brand statement. For businesses and brands, this is usually called a positioning statement. A positioning statement is a few sentences that sum up what a business does, who its target market is, and what makes it different. They use this statement to align their marketing efforts with their values and goals. You can do the same thing for your brand.

Your personal brand statement should be short and sweet. It must define who you are, what you do, and what makes you unique. Keep it more descriptive and focus on the problems you solve. For example, a positioning statement for an accountant could focus on how they help businesses grow and succeed instead of just talking about finances. Remember to highlight why they should choose you.

6. Create a Story

Sharing stories about our lives and experiences is a powerful way to connect with others and help them understand us better. This is why your personal brand needs to have a singular theme and narrative. Consider this—would you be more invested if someone listed every one of their achievements or told you a story about how they got where they are today? Most people would find the story more engaging, and you can use this insight throughout your job hunting and branding journey.

Instead of explaining your resume in an interview, tell a story about your life or professional experience that highlights your qualities and values. Share the lessons you've learned with others online to educate and inspire. While networking, provide personal details and anecdotes to engage and connect. Stories humanize us and can lead to lasting, memorable impressions.

7. Choose Online Touchpoints

personal statement for paralegal job

By now, you should have a solid brand forming. The next step is to decide where and how to share it. If you're looking for a job, you should use platforms that will get you in front of employers and connect with other industry professionals. Do some research to find where your target audience is, and share your brand there.

You can use a mix of platforms, including websites, social media, blogs, newsletters, events, and more. If you're using social media like LinkedIn, include   keywords from job postings  in your profile to optimize it for search. The goal is to establish your online brand presence and center your communication efforts on the right people.

8. Use Cohesive Imagery

Building a personal brand online is an effective way to boost job-hunting efforts. However, profiles across the same social platform typically have identical designs and layouts. Visual branding on social media will help you stand out and capture attention, and it's as simple as personalizing your profiles with unique content.

You could add a professional headshot and use a pattern or a custom image as the background. Get creative and choose a specific font, color palette, and theme for your website and social media posts. No matter what, ensure your brand values shine through the images and designs you choose.

9. Communicate Your Brand

With most of the work done, all that's left to do is share your brand with the world. Many communication strategies are available, but your target audience should guide your choice.

Sharing valuable, original content on social media is one effective communication method, but you could also start a blog, attend professional events, or join an online community. If you don't have time to create original content, you could share other people's articles and posts along with your perspective or opinion.

Emphasize your unique contributions throughout all your messaging. If this is something you're not yet comfortable with, practice with friends and family as much as possible to build confidence. Let your personality shine through, stay positive, and focus on fostering connections to grow your brand.

10. Be Consistent

Arguably, the most essential part of branding is consistency. For your brand to be memorable and impactful, you must embody it in everything you do. Whether in an interview, talking to a colleague, or sharing a social media post, your brand should come across clearly. Through consistency, you will establish credibility and trust. Your audience and the people you interact with will start to associate you with the image you've carefully created.

Ultimately, personal brand management aims to build an identity over time that leaves a positive impression. You want people to see your value, remember you, and choose you over other candidates. You'll eventually reap the benefits of your hard work and dedication.

Start Your Career With Intuitive

If you value innovation, teamwork, and making a difference, apply for a position at Intuitive. Our team of talented professionals comes together every day to prove what's possible with minimally invasive care. We're tenacious, curious, and passionate about medical technology. When you work at Intuitive, you'll actively help doctors make a difference in the lives of patients across the globe.

We   have various open positions  you can apply for, whether you excel in administration, engineering, customer service, human resources, or marketing. Prioritizing  a welcoming company culture , Intuitive provides the benefits you need to   thrive and feel fulfilled  at work and in your personal life.

Apply online today or   sign up for our Talent Community  to receive alerts on new job openings. We look forward to receiving your application and learning more about you.

personal statement for paralegal job

Linked Sources:

  • https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbesagencycouncil/2023/04/19/what-it-really-means-and-takes-to-become-a-thought-leader/
  • https://hbr.org/tip/2024/05/optimize-your-social-media-presence-for-your-job-hunt
  • https://careers.intuitive.com/en/career-opportunities/
  • https://careers.intuitive.com/en/who-we-are/culture/
  • https://careers.intuitive.com/en/who-we-are/employee-benefits/
  • https://crm.findemtalent.com/community/signup/63f62f1f0a4d56196a290e4e

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Paralegal, Professional Certificate

Program overview, earn your paralegal certification in just 25 weeks.

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte’s paralegal certificate online program is for individuals pursuing a second career, recent college graduates and working professionals who want to enter the legal field. Working paralegals who want to obtain a North Carolina State Bar–qualified paralegal certificate from an accredited university are also good fits for our program.

Our paralegal certificate online program is topical, intensive, intellectually rigorous and fits the needs of the Charlotte legal and business communities. We designed it to equip you with the skills, knowledge and abilities needed to embark on your legal career with professionalism and acumen.

The online paralegal program is taught entirely in real time in a virtual environment via Zoom and takes approximately 25 weeks to complete. It combines 167 hours of real-time instruction with an additional 73 hours of structured instructional activities that are designed to be completed through other methods outside of class.

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  • Delivery Online
  • Duration 25 Weeks
  • Next Session Starts January 9, 2025

North Carolina State Bar

The North Carolina State Bar Board of Paralegal Certification has designated the UNC Charlotte online paralegal certificate program as a qualified paralegal studies program. Graduating from the paralegal certificate online program satisfies the educational requirements for certification as a paralegal by the Board; graduates will be eligible to sit for the exam to become certified paralegals.

For more information, visit the North Carolina State Bar Paralegal Certification and the North Carolina Paralegal Association websites.

“Having professors that were practicing attorneys, paralegals and judges really gave me a well-rounded paralegal education. I appreciate that the program was just six months long and provided material in many practice areas. The paralegal program challenged me to strive for excellence professionally and helped me think critically. I felt prepared to re-enter the law field after having been an independent contractor working from home for a New York law firm. Once I completed the UNC Charlotte paralegal program, I received an offer to join a law firm in a commercial real estate practice group in Charlotte.”

– Gail Nathan, ’17, Paralegal at Bray & Long

In the first part of the certificate, students will receive comprehensive training in Core Paralegal Skills: American Jurisprudence; Legal Research; Legal Writing; Legal Technology; Litigation; Legal Ethics; and The Paralegal Profession.

The last weeks of the certificate provide intensive, focused training in the General Practice,which will provide an overview of Criminal Law, Family Law, Wills, Trusts & Estates, Commercial Law, and Real Property.

This certificate is offered live online with a course schedule of Tuesday/Thursday from 6-9:30 p.m.

  • An associate’s degree or college degree is required for the program. You will need to upload an unofficial or official transcript. We will not be able to award your certificate until the transcript is received. An unofficial transcript is acceptable. For questions, please contact [email protected] .
  • Proficient in English. Students are required to be proficient in their oral and written use of the English language.
  • Basic computer/technology skills and access to a computer outside of the classroom. View hardware, software, and connectivity requirements .

What Can You Do With Paralegal Certification?

Paralegals are highly sought-after by law firms, corporate legal departments and government agencies. Generally, our alumni worklocally in the Charlotte region in careers such as:

  • Paralegal and legal assistants
  • Recruiters and human resources specialists
  • Secretaries and administrative assistants
  • Compliance officers
  • Project management and operations specialists
  • Detectives and criminal investigators

The UNC Charlotte Paralegal Certificate program has strong ties to the Charlotte legal community. Many of our graduates find jobs in Charlotte. Our instructors work in Charlotte and we are affiliated with Charlotte, state, and national organizations. Our paralegal certificate graduates go on to work for companies such as:

  • Alston & Bird
  • Bank of America
  • Parker Poe Adams & Bernstein
  • Wells Fargo
  • Womble Bond Dickinson

Job outlook and salaries for certified paralegals : According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, certified paralegals and legal assistants make $59,200 per year on average and careers are expected to grow through 2032. According to Lightcast, our graduates tend to make $66,700 annually.

Why Earn Your Paralegal Certification at UNC Charlotte?

In our online paralegal program, you will learn about the legal system, legal research and writing, and a variety of legal specialties,such as civil litigation, family law and business law.

Other benefits of our program include:

  • Convenience : Our classes are offered live, 100% online, so you can learn around your busy schedule without worrying about commuting. These live lectures are recorded for later viewing, too.
  • Accreditation : The North Carolina State Bar Board of Paralegal Certification has designated UNC Charlotte’s paralegal certificate online program a qualified paralegal studies program. A paralegal studies program must be designated by the Board of Paralegal Certification as “qualified” to satisfy the educational requirements for certification.
  • Time to completion : It only takes six months of class time to complete your paralegal certification.
  • Value : Earning your paralegal certificate online is a more cost-effective way to advance your career than earning a full bachelor’s degree. We also offer payment plans to help you pay for your classes as you take them.
  • Legal writing instruction:  We believe excellent writing is an essential paralegal skill. Therefore, the UNC Charlotte paralegal certificate online program has made a commitment to its students by offering additional instruction with our legal writing instructors. In these labs, students will have the opportunity to receive candid feedback and helpful insight on ways to improve their writing.

The registration fee for the UNC Charlotte Paralegal Certificate program is $5,500 or a $1,500 deposit with 7 payments throughout the program.

The estimated cost of the textbooks is $1,000-$1,200 depending on where you purchase textbooks, rent textbooks or purchase used books. (Information on the required texts for the program will be provided to registered students. They are also located online at the UNC Charlotte Student Bookstore.)

The registration fee includes a personal LexisNexis account, an important resource that you will learn to use and will help you in your career as a legal professional.

Related Programs

personal statement for paralegal job

StandOut CV

Legal CV examples

Andrew Fennell photo

A well-crafted legal CV will help you to catch the attention of employers in this very competitive sector.

But writing an eye-catching CV isn’t always easy.

So, whether you are an experienced solicitor or a junior paralegal , this article will guide you through the process of creating a legal CV that will get you noticed

It also includes 5 legal CV examples for inspiration.

CV templates 

Lawyer CV-1

Paralegal CV

Paralegal CV-1

Solicitor CV

Solicitor CV-1

Legal assistant CV

Legal Assistant CV-1

Trainee solicitor CV

Trainee Solicitor CV-1

The CV examples above show exactly how a Legal professional should present their skills and experience, in a well structured 2 page document.

This should give you a good idea of how to format your own CV, and the type of information you should be highlighting to recruiters and employees, in order to land interviews.

Legal CV structure & format

Recruiters are busy, and if they can’t find the information they’re looking for in a flash, it could be game over for your application.

You need to format and structure your CV in a way which allows the reader to pick out your key information with ease, even if they’re strapped for time.

It should be clear, easily legible, well-organised and scannable – check out some simple tips and tricks below:

CV structure

Formatting Tips

  • Length: Whether you’ve got one year or three decades of experience, your CV should never be more than two sides of A4. Recruiters are busy people who’re often juggling numerous roles and tasks, so they don’t have time to read lengthy applications. If you’re a recent graduate or don’t have much industry experience, one side of A4 is fine.
  • Readability: Columns, lists, bullet points, bold text and subtle colour can all help to aid the readability of your CV. Your overarching goal should be to make the content as easy to read and navigate as possible, whilst also aiming to make your key skills and achievements stand out.
  • Design: While it’s okay to add your own spin to your CV, avoid overdoing the design. If you go for something elaborate, you might end up frustrating recruiters who, above anything, value simplicity and clarity.
  • Avoid photos: Don’t add photos, images or profile pictures to your CV. Not only do they take up much-needed CV space, but they’re actually completely unnecessary and won’t boost your CV at all.

CV builder

Build your CV now 

Structuring your CV

When writing your CV , break up the content into the following key sections, to ensure it can be easily digested by busy recruiters and hiring managers:

  • Contact details – Always list these at the very top of your CV – you don’t want them to be missed!
  • Profile – An introductory paragraph, intended to grab recruiters attention and summarise your offering.
  • Work experience / career history – Working from your current role and working backwards, list your relevant work experience.
  • Education – Create a snappy summary of your education and qualifications.
  • Interest and hobbies – An optional section to document any hobbies that demonstrate transferable skills.

Now I’ll guide you through exactly what you should include in each CV section.

CV Contact Details

Contact details

Tuck your contact details into the corner of your CV, so that they don’t take up too much space.

Stick to the basic details, such as:

  • Mobile number
  • Email address – It should sound professional, such as your full name.
  • Location -Just write your rough location, rather than your full address.
  • LinkedIn profile or portfolio URL – If you include these, ensure they’re sleek, professional and up-to-date.

Legal CV Profile

Your CV profile (or personal statement , if you’re an entry-level applicant) provides a brief overview of your skills, abilities and suitability for a position.

It’s ideal for busy recruiters and hiring managers, who don’t want to waste time reading unsuitable applications.

Think of it as your personal sales pitch. You’ve got just a few lines to sell yourself and prove you’re a great match for the job – make it count!

CV profile

Tips for creating an impactful CV profile:

  • Keep it brief: Aim for a short, snappy paragraph of 3-5 lines. This is just enough room to showcase why you’d make the perfect hire, without going into excessive detail and overwhelming busy recruiters.
  • Tailor it: The biggest CV mistake? A generic, mass-produced document which is sent out to tens of employers. If you want to land an interview, you need to tailor your CV profile (and your application as a whole) to the specific roles you’re applying for. So, before you start writing, remember to read over those job descriptions and make a list of the skills, knowledge and experience the employers are looking for.
  • Don’t add an objective: Want to talk about your career goals and objectives? While the profile may seem like a good space to do so, they’re actually much better suited to your cover letter .
  • Avoid cliches: Focus on fact, not fluff. Phrases like “Committed and enthusiastic thought-leader” and “Dynamic problem solver” might sound fancy, but they’ll do nothing for your application. Not only do they sound cheesy, but they have no substance – stick to real skills and facts

What to include in your Legal CV profile?

  • Summary of experience: Demonstrate your suitability for your target jobs by giving a high level summary of your previous work experience, including the industries you have worked in, types of employer, and the type of roles you have previous experience of.
  • Relevant skills: Highlight your skills which are most relevant to Legal jobs, to ensure that recruiters see your most in-demand skills as soon as they open your CV.
  • Essential qualifications: If you have any qualifications which are highly relevant to Legal jobs, then highlight them in your profile so that employers do not miss them.

Quick tip: Your CV is your first impression on recruiters, so it’s vital to avoid spelling and grammar mistakes if you want to appear professional. Use our quick-and-easy CV Builder to add pre-written content that has been crafted by recruitment experts.

Core skills section

Underneath your profile, create a core skills section to make your most relevant skills jump off the page at readers.

It should be made up of 2-3 columns of bullet points of your relevant skills.

Before you do this, look over the job description and make a list of any specific skills, specialisms or knowledge required.

Then, make sure to use your findings in your list. This will paint you as the perfect match for the role.

CV core skills

Work experience/Career history

Now it’s time to get stuck into your work experience, which should make up the bulk of your CV.

Begin with your current (or most recent) job, and work your way backwards.

If you’ve got too much experience to fit onto two pages, prioritise space for your most recent and relevant roles.

Work experience

Structuring your roles

Recruiters will be keen to gain a better idea of where you’ve worked and how you apply your skill-set in the workplace.

However, if they’re faced with huge, hard-to-read paragraphs, they may just gloss over it and move onto the next application.

To avoid this, use the simple 3-step role structure, as shown below:

Role descriptions

Begin with a summary of your role, detailing what the purpose of your job was, who you reported to and what size of team you were part of (or led).

“Providing legal, trial and administrative support for team of 9 attorneys and 2 senior partners within a busy family law practice; reporting to the Lead Attorney.”

Key responsibilities

Next, write up a punchy list of your daily duties and responsibilities, using bullet points.

Wherever you can, point out how you put your hard skills and knowledge to use – especially skills which are applicable to your target role.

  • Reviewing all legal documents to ensure they are correct and contain all necessary paperwork prior to submission to court
  • Client management, maintaining key account relationships
  • Managing a small team of  paralegals  and monitoring progression

Key achievements

Lastly, add impact by highlight 1-3 key achievements  that you made within the role.

Struggling to think of an achievement? If it had a positive impact on your company, it counts.

For example, you might increased company profits, improved processes, or something simpler, such as going above and beyond to solve a customer’s problem.

  • Liaised with senior lawyers to implement new data procedures, reducing data process time by 50%.
  • Assisted the Compliance and Legal Affairs team with the implementation of a new complaint handling system which reduced departmental spend by 15% annually.

Next up, you should list your education and qualifications.

This can include your formal qualifications (a degree, A-Levels and GCSEs), as well as sector-specific Legal qualifications and/or training.

While school leavers and recent grads should include a lot of detail here to make up for the lack of work experience, experienced candidates may benefit from a shorter education section, as your work experience section will be more important to recruiters.

Interests and hobbies

Although this is an optional section, it can be useful if your hobbies and interests will add further depth to your CV.

Interests which are related to the sector you are applying to, or which show transferable skills like leadership or teamwork, can worth listing.

On the other hand, generic hobbies like “going out with friends” won’t add any value to your application, so are best left off your CV.

Essential skills for your Legal CV

Tailoring your CV to the roles you are applying for is key to success, so make sure to read through the job descriptions and tailor your skills accordingly.

However, commonly desired Legal skills include:

Legal Knowledge – The law serves many purposes and understanding how law works in different scenarios will help you do every job in hand.

Responsibility – Meeting clients from different backgrounds is an everyday responsibility for a lawyer and many other jobs in law. You will need to be able to write clearly, listen to your clients’ needs and negotiate settlements which are important to your law firm.

Critical Thinking – Reviewing important sources and case studies is part of the job. You need strong analytical skills and excellent attention to detail to understand what every document is really saying.

Calculating costs – You may need to read technical documents in order to prepare estimates and Identify factors that impact on costs.

Commercial Awareness – All law firms are businesses and you will need to understand how businesses generally work so that you can offer insight into profit, timesheets and much more.

Writing your Legal CV

When putting together your Legal CV, there are a few key points to remember.

Always tailor your CV to the target role, even if it means creating several versions for different roles.

Additionally, remember that the structure and format of your CV needs just as much attention as the content.

Remember to triple-check for spelling and grammar errors before hitting send. If you’re unsure, try using our quick-and-easy CV Builder for a quick and easy approach.

Good luck with your job search!

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Cash App to award $15M to users in security breach settlement: How to file a claim

Cash app users have until nov. 18, 2024 to submit their claim for reimbursement for the data and security breach..

Cash App users could get some cash sent to their bank accounts soon.  

In a settlement, the mobile payment service was ordered to pay out $15 million in damages.  

According to a class-action lawsuit obtained by USA TODAY, plaintiffs sued Cash App Investing and Block Inc. for the companies' "failure to exercise reasonable care in securing and safeguarding consumer information."

The lawsuit said that the data breach in December 2021 resulted “in the unauthorized public release of the personally identifiable information of 8.2 million current and former Cash App Investing customers.” 

In addition, a former employee gained access to Cash App users’ personal information during their employment and downloaded the data without the users’ knowledge, the lawsuit said.  

If users had unauthorized or fraudulent withdrawals or transfers of funds from their Cash App account between Aug. 23, 2018, and before Aug. 20, 2024, they are eligible to submit a claim for up to $2,500, the Cash App website said.  

Here is what you need to know about the Cash App settlement.  

Meta settlement: Meta to pay Texas $1.4 billion in 'historic settlement' over biometric data allegations

Do I qualify to file a claim? 

Cash App users must have had an account on Aug. 23, 2018, and before Aug. 20, 2024 to be able to file a claim. Users who qualify must not have already been reimbursed by Block Inc., Cash App Investing or a third party, the mobile payment service said.  

What types of claims can Cash App users file?  

According to Cash App, a user can submit a claim for the following:  

  • Out-of-pocket losses: Users can submit a claim that shows their Cash App account was involved in the data breach. If a user is eligible for reimbursement after submitting the required documentation to the company, they could receive up to $2,500.  
  • Lost time: Cash App users who submit a claim may be eligible for reimbursement for lost time. Users can submit a claim for up to three hours at a rate of $25 an hour for time spent regarding the unauthorized users and data breach.  
  • Transaction losses: If a user experienced a monetary loss and has not been reimbursed, they will be able to submit such a claim.  

What if I have more than one Cash App account?

Users should submit only one claim form. But if you have multiple Cash App accounts for which you want to submit a claim, the mobile payment service recommends that users list all of their $(InsertYourCashTag) and information about their claims on a single claim form, Cash App said.  

How can I submit a claim?  

To file a claim, Cash App users can submit a completed claim form by Nov. 18. You can submit the form at https://cashappsecuritysettlement.com/submit-claim .  

Ahjané Forbes is a reporter on the National Trending Team at USA TODAY. Ahjané covers breaking news, car recalls, crime, health, lottery and public policy stories. Email her at  [email protected] . Follow her on  Instagram ,  Threads  and  X (Twitter) @forbesfineest.

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COMMENTS

  1. Paralegal CV example + how-to guide [Land your dream legal role]

    Contact details - At the very top of your CV, list your name, email and address and phone number. Profile - A punchy introductory summary which is packed with your most relevant paralegal skills and knowledge. Your profile should immediately suggest that you're an ideal match for the role and entice recruiters to read deeper into your CV.

  2. How to write a personal statement for your Legal CV

    3 things to include in your personal statement. Label yourself with a relevant and universal title that reflects the title of the job you are applying for in order to show recruiters immediately that you have the background they are looking for. If you have applied for a 'Residential Property Solicitor' role, present yourself as such rather ...

  3. CV Example for Paralegals (+ Free Template)

    A strong personal statement for a Paralegal CV seamlessly blends professional achievements with specific legal skills, clearly demonstrating the candidate's value through measurable outcomes. ... Tailor your CV to each job, reflecting the language used in the job description, to resonate with hiring managers and demonstrate your suitability for ...

  4. How To Create a Paralegal CV (With Template and Example)

    How to write a paralegal CV. Here are eight steps you can follow to create a professional paralegal CV: 1. List your contact information. Create a header at the top of your CV that includes your basic contact information. List your full name, phone number and professional email address.

  5. 11 Paralegal Resume Examples That Work in 2024

    Stray away from words like "assisted" and "helped.". Instead, focus on tasks you owned. Words like "collaborated" and "coordinated" help you say that you worked with others while still not shrinking the impact of your responsibilities. A paralegal is crucial in an attorney's office. Land your next paralegal job using our resume ...

  6. Paralegal CV

    To secure a job in this attractive field, you'll need a convincing paralegal CV. Use the following tips to get ahead of the competition: 1. Write a strong paralegal personal statement. Employers have a limited amount of time to spend on each CV, so it's important to make a lasting impression right from the start.

  7. 1 Paralegal CV Examples [+ Free Templates]

    Essential CV Sections for Paralegals. Every paralegal's CV should include these core sections to provide a clear, comprehensive snapshot of their professional journey and capabilities: 1. Personal Statement: A concise summary that captures your qualifications, legal expertise, and career goals. 2.

  8. Paralegal Resume Examples, Skills & Writing Tips [2024]

    Learn how to write a job-winning paralegal resume. Check out our paralegal resume examples that will show you how to create your perfect resume in no time! ... Personal Assistant. Tiffany Group Real Estate Advisors 2014 - 2016. New York City, New York. Maintained real estate files (1) and data; Prepared, coordinated, proofread, and organized ...

  9. Paralegal CV Example & How to Write One (+ Tips)

    A strong CV summary will convince the recruiter you're the perfect candidate. Save time and choose a ready-made personal statement written by career experts and adjust it to your needs in the LiveCareer CV builder. 2. Showcase your work history in your paralegal CV. The idea of a career in law is one thing.

  10. Paralegal Resume Examples & Templates (2024) · Resume.io

    Paralegal jobs outlook. You picked a growth career when you decided to become a paralegal! Your profession is expected to grow 14 percent in the decade from 2021-2031, ... The resume summary (aka profile or personal statement) The employment history section; The resume skills section;

  11. Paralegal CV examples, tips & templates

    Hold court with an impressive personal statement for your paralegal CV. Your personal statement, or personal summary, is one of the most important sections of your paralegal CV. This short paragraph sits at the top of your application, immediately underneath your contact details. ... Use keywords from the paralegal job description. As a ...

  12. 7 Paralegal Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

    Paralegal Cover Letter Guide. Litigation Paralegal Resume Guide. Immigration Paralegal Resume Guide. Personal Injury Paralegal Resume. Let's begin with your resume's skeleton, the bones of your application—your resume layout and its format. Paralegals are the backbone of the legal business. Charles E. Grassley.

  13. 3 Paralegal cover letter examples [Get noticed]

    Give us much detail as possible (team/department, role title etc.) and paste in the reference number if you have one. Here are some examples you can use. I am interested in applying for the role of Paralegal with your company. I would like to apply for the role of Sales assistant (Ref: 40f57393)

  14. Entry Level Paralegal CV example + guide [Land great jobs]

    Sample job description for Entry Level Paralegal CV. Outline. Completed a summer internship at international online banking firm Monzo, supporting the commercial law department as a junior paralegal and shadowing senior lawyers during high-profile contract deals. Key Responsibilities.

  15. 5 steps to write your paralegal resume

    5 steps to create your paralegal resume. Here are five steps to help you write a winning resume. 1. Choose your format. There are a couple of different ways you can format your paralegal resume. There's reverse-chronological, which is the most common resume format (and the one we recommend).

  16. How To Write an Effective Paralegal Resume Objective

    Follow these steps when writing your paralegal objective: 1. Read the job description. Analyze the job posting to find keywords related to the experience and skills the employer is expecting. Then use these details to demonstrate the relevant experience and skills you have that meet those expectations. To determine which keywords to include in ...

  17. Paralegal CV Examples & Guide for 2024

    Tips and tricks on writing a job-winning paralegal CV header. The CV header is the space which most recruiters would be referring most often to, in the beginning and end of your application. ... You should include your skills summary, personal statement, work experience, education, certifications, and professional memberships, along with any ...

  18. Top 17 Paralegal Resume Objective Examples

    Including this skill in a resume objective can highlight the candidate's ability to handle complex legal paperwork accurately and professionally. 7. Electronic Filing (e-filing) A paralegal's resume objective should highlight the skill of electronic filing (e-filing) as it is a crucial part of modern legal work.

  19. How to write an entry-level paralegal CV (with an example)

    Example of a CV for an entry-level paralegal job Follow this example to help you write your CV for an entry-level paralegal role: Regina Liz +44 555 555 555 | [email protected] | London Professional Summary An ambitious paralegal, trustworthy and enthusiastic about the profession. Strong research and writing abilities, knowledge of legal statutes, some administrative experience and a ...

  20. Law School Personal Statement: The Ultimate Guide (Examples Included)

    Part 6: Law school personal statement examples. Below are the law school personal statements produced by the students we've followed throughout this guide, all well another successful personal statement example, all based on the writing process we just walked through. Law school personal statement example 1

  21. Paralegal Objectives

    To determine which skills to include in your objective statement when you apply for a job as a paralegal, you should evaluate what the job posting asks for as well as your personal strengths. Make sure you include a blend of hard and softs skills in the objective statement and skills sections of your resume. Here are a few of the proficiencies ...

  22. How to Write a Cover Letter for Paralegal Jobs

    Focus on the specific achievements or skills you have developed in a recent job or situation (you may find these on your resume), and highlight them in your letter. 3. Emphasize the positive qualities and relevant experiences you bring to this job—not what you don't have. 4. Read the job ad very carefully.

  23. The Ultimate Guide to Building a Personal Brand

    5. Craft a Personal Brand Statement. One way to define your personal brand is to create a personal brand statement. For businesses and brands, this is usually called a positioning statement. A positioning statement is a few sentences that sum up what a business does, who its target market is, and what makes it different.

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  25. Paralegal, Professional Certificate

    Advance your career with our Paralegal Certificate. Learn from experienced professionals and gain practical skills for the legal field. ... Job outlook and salaries for certified paralegals: According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, certified paralegals and legal assistants make $59,200 per year on average and careers are expected to ...

  26. 5 Legal CV examples + guide [land a top legal job]

    Profile - An introductory paragraph, intended to grab recruiters attention and summarise your offering. Work experience / career history - Working from your current role and working backwards, list your relevant work experience. Education - Create a snappy summary of your education and qualifications.

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    Agent and Broker Overview, License Status. The Investigation Division investigates suspected fraud committed by insurance agents, brokers, public adjusters, bail agents, insurance companies and other individuals and entities transacting the business of insurance who perpetrate fraud against consumers.

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    Employee onboarding is a crucial part of the hiring process. The way a new hire is welcomed sets the stage for future performance, corporate integration, and job satisfaction. During the onboarding process, new hires learn about job responsibilities, corporate procedures, and administrative processes.

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