As a barrister, you excel at presenting the facts in court, but did you know it’s just as important to write a compelling cover letter that makes the case for hiring you?
Writing a generic, vague cover letter won’t do you any favours. Instead, you need a persuasive document that will bring you from application to interview in no time.
Your cover letter will present the best argument to get you hired, and we’re here to tell you how.
Dear Mr. Jenkins,
I am writing to express my strong interest in the position of Barrister at Matrix Chambers. As a highly skilled and experienced legal professional with a passion for advocacy and a commitment to excellence, I am confident that my qualifications and expertise make me an ideal candidate for this role.
I hold a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of Oxford and have completed the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) with outstanding results. Throughout my legal career, I have developed a strong foundation in various areas of law, including human rights, public law, and criminal justice. My keen analytical skills, coupled with my ability to present complex legal arguments persuasively and coherently, have enabled me to consistently deliver positive outcomes for clients.
In my current role as a Pupil Barrister at Doughty Street Chambers, I have had the opportunity to work alongside some of the most respected barristers in the country. My work has involved conducting extensive legal research, drafting legal documents, and assisting in the preparation of high-profile cases. Through my dedication and hard work, I have gained valuable experience in a wide range of legal matters and have received positive feedback from my supervisors and colleagues.
One of my notable achievements was my involvement in a landmark human rights case, where I assisted in the successful appeal of a client who had been wrongfully convicted. Through meticulous research and the development of a compelling legal argument, I played a key role in securing the client's release and establishing an important legal precedent. This experience showcased my commitment to social justice and my ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
I am particularly drawn to Matrix Chambers' reputation for excellence in public law and human rights, as well as its commitment to diversity and inclusion. I believe that my skills, experience, and values align perfectly with the ethos of your chambers, and I am excited about the prospect of contributing to its continued success.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss further how my skills and experience can contribute to the important work undertaken by Matrix Chambers.
Sincerely,
Roy Taylor
Writing a cover letter for a barrister position is like creating a persuasive legal document or court presentation, but instead of defending a client or representing the law, you’re showing why you’re the ideal barrister candidate for the role.
The important sections to include are:
Your cover letter provides a cohesive narrative detailing your professional background and your passion for the law, so make it count.
Craft a concise, one-page cover letter that doesn’t just list your skills, but pulls them into a compelling narrative. Your cover letter is an opportunity for you to build a connection with the hiring manager and get to the bottom of what makes you the best fit.
Need more inspiration? View our related cover letter examples from the legal sector:
For a deeper dive into cover letters in general, check out our article about how to write a cover letter.
Once you’ve crafted your header and addressed the hiring manager directly, you’re ready to begin your introduction.
Start your cover letter by presenting a standout achievement. You can think of this as your opening argument, where you’ll capture attention and state the important facts.
Think of something you’re deeply proud of and that would excite a hiring manager looking for a top barrister. Maybe it’s a high-profile case you won or a client whose life you changed.
Dear Mr. Jenkins,
I am writing to express my strong interest in the position of Barrister at Matrix Chambers. As a highly skilled and experienced legal professional with a passion for advocacy and a commitment to excellence, I am confident that my qualifications and expertise make me an ideal candidate for this role.
Hi, I’m interested in the barrister position. I have three years of experience and am seeking my next opportunity.
Choose a vivid example that illustrates your skills in action, including concrete, quantifiable data if possible to add credibility. Any example that shows the real-world impact of your work will be your best option.
Do more than simply list qualifications; instead, showcase the way they align with what this organisation needs. Present the facts persuasively to the hiring manager so they’re compelled to consider your argument.
Dear Mr. Jenkins,
I am writing to express my strong interest in the position of Barrister at Matrix Chambers. As a highly skilled and experienced legal professional with a passion for advocacy and a commitment to excellence, I am confident that my qualifications and expertise make me an ideal candidate for this role.
The body of your cover letter should follow a clear template:
Start with a flourish by demonstrating your key skills and work history.
Pull your qualifications into a compelling and engaging narrative by displaying:
Tailor your cover letter to the mission of the organisation. This requires research and the ability to understand their needs, but it will pay off when you showcase how your values and history line up with the organisation.
For instance, key points from the organisational strategy of the Crown Prosecution Service include:
Incorporate details into your cover letter to explain how these statements appeal to you or align with your passion.
I hold a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) from the University of Oxford and have completed the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) with outstanding results. Throughout my legal career, I have developed a strong foundation in various areas of law, including human rights, public law, and criminal justice. My keen analytical skills, coupled with my ability to present complex legal arguments persuasively and coherently, have enabled me to consistently deliver positive outcomes for clients.
In my current role as a Pupil Barrister at Doughty Street Chambers, I have had the opportunity to work alongside some of the most respected barristers in the country. My work has involved conducting extensive legal research, drafting legal documents, and assisting in the preparation of high-profile cases. Through my dedication and hard work, I have gained valuable experience in a wide range of legal matters and have received positive feedback from my supervisors and colleagues.
One of my notable achievements was my involvement in a landmark human rights case, where I assisted in the successful appeal of a client who had been wrongfully convicted. Through meticulous research and the development of a compelling legal argument, I played a key role in securing the client's release and establishing an important legal precedent. This experience showcased my commitment to social justice and my ability to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
I am particularly drawn to Matrix Chambers' reputation for excellence in public law and human rights, as well as its commitment to diversity and inclusion. I believe that my skills, experience, and values align perfectly with the ethos of your chambers, and I am excited about the prospect of contributing to its continued success.
Sum everything up by reiterating your main points and your excitement. Include a call to action to inspire the hiring manager to reach out.
Thank the reader for reviewing and considering your application. Not only is this good manners, it also gives you a chance to reaffirm your interest.
Finally, close out this section with a clear invitation for further conversation.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss further how my skills and experience can contribute to the important work undertaken by Matrix Chambers.
Sincerely,
Roy Taylor
Sign off with your name. It’s conventional, but also provides a final touch that leaves a professional impression.
Consider ATS
The applicant tracking system (ATS) is an electronic system that organisations use to collect, manage, and communicate with job applicants.
Advanced ATS tools may utilise algorithms to help scan application materials for specific keywords that match the job posting.
Review the job listing and find frequently-used words or phrases to incorporate into your cover letter for maximum success.
Example:
A well-written barrister cover letter highlights your top skills, experience, and passion.
All the way through, from the introduction to the conclusion and sign-off, you’re showcasing your unique talents and expertise. Plus, a cover letter gives you the chance to show off your interest and excitement for the role in addition to your deep legal knowledge.
Try our cover letter builder for an easy way to create a professional, polished barrister cover letter that will persuade any hiring manager to set up an interview.