HOW TO FIND LEGAL WORK EXPERIENCE

Getting legal work experience can feel like a huge hurdle. But the good news? There are plenty of opportunities—you just need to know where (and how) to look.

This guide takes you through the full process: finding opportunities, applying with confidence, and nailing the interview.

Look Beyond Big Law

If your goal is a clerkship at a top-tier firm, that’s great! But it’s not the only way to gain valuable legal experience. Smaller firms, government agencies, and in-house legal teams can offer hands-on experience that will give you an edge.

Here’s why you should consider alternative options:

• More responsibility – Smaller teams often mean you’ll be trusted with real legal tasks earlier.
• Hands-on experience – You’re more likely to work directly with clients and get involved in legal matters beyond research and admin.
• Closer mentorship – You might work side-by-side with senior lawyers who can guide you.
• Better work-life balance – Some workplaces offer a more manageable workload than big firms.
• Exposure to different areas of law – You won’t be locked into a single practice area.

Other options to consider:

• Paralegal roles
• Volunteering at community legal centres
• Legal Aid placements
• In-house legal teams at corporations
• Government departments (policy, planning, regulatory work)
• Assisting barristers or tribunal members
• Judge’s associate or tipstaff roles

Tap Into the Hidden Job Market

If you’re not having much luck with major job sites like SEEK and Indeed, it’s time to go beyond the usual search.

Most legal jobs aren’t advertised publicly. Instead, they’re found through networking, referrals, and word of mouth. Here’s how to access them:

• Attend legal networking events, career fairs, and industry panels.
• Join law student societies, committees, and mentorship programs.
• Reach out for coffee chats—not to ask for a job, but to learn about their work and build genuine connections.

Be curious, ask thoughtful questions, and get to know people. When opportunities come up, they’ll think of you.

Apply More Than You Think You Need To

Think applying to three or four roles is enough? Think again. Legal work experience is competitive, and the more applications you send, the better your chances.

And then some more for good measure.

Craft a Standout Cover Letter

Your cover letter isn’t just a repeat of your resume. It’s your chance to tell a story and show why you’re a great fit. Here’s how:

• Start strong – Introduce yourself, the role you’re applying for, and why you’re excited about it.
• Show you’ve done your research – Mention something specific about the firm or employer that connects with your goals.
• Highlight your skills – Address the selection criteria and explain why your experience makes you a strong candidate.
• Be specific – Use examples to demonstrate your abilities.
• End on a confident note – Reinforce your enthusiasm and mention any attached documents (resume, transcript, references).

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Build a Strong Resume

Your resume should be clear, easy to read, and highlight your relevant experience. Keep it to two pages max and structure it like this:

• Contact details – Make sure they’re professional and up to date.
• Education – List your degree, university, and graduation year.
• Legal experience – Focus on tasks and achievements, not just job titles.
• Other work experience – Even non-legal jobs can showcase skills like problem-solving, customer service, and teamwork.
• Key skills – Highlight transferable skills relevant to legal work.

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Make Your Experience Work for You

If you don’t have legal experience yet, emphasize transferable skills from other jobs. Instead of just saying “Waiter at Café XYZ”, show what you learned:

• Time management – “Managed multiple tables while ensuring customer satisfaction.”
• Handling pressure – “Resolved customer complaints calmly and efficiently.”
• Attention to detail – “Handled transactions and reconciled daily takings with accuracy.”

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Prepare Beforehand

Confidence in an interview starts with preparation. Here’s what to do:

• Study the job description – Know exactly what they’re looking for.
• Research the firm – Check their website, LinkedIn, and any recent news.
• Prepare questions – Interviews go both ways! Ask about the role, team, or culture.

During the Interview

Even if you’re nervous, these small things can help:

• Be punctual and dress appropriately – First impressions count.
• Minimize distractions – Silence your phone, stay engaged.
• Show enthusiasm – Use positive body language and be engaged.
• Take your time – It’s okay to pause and think before answering.
• Build rapport – Treat it as a conversation, not an interrogation.

After the Interview

Your job isn’t over when you walk out the door. Follow these final steps:

• Send a thank-you email – Within 48 hours, thank the interviewer and reinforce your interest.
• Be patient – Employers take time to decide, so don’t panic if you don’t hear back immediately.
• Follow up if necessary – If the decision date passes, a polite check-in is fine.
• Keep applying – Until you’ve secured a role, don’t stop looking.

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Finding legal work experience takes effort, persistence, and strategy. The key is to explore all your options, apply widely, and prepare thoroughly. The more proactive you are, the better your chances of landing a role that kickstarts your legal career.