How long should writing samples be law?

Asked by: Anastacio O'Keefe DDS  |  Last update: September 22, 2023
Score: 4.9/5 (30 votes)

The legal writing sample is an integral part of the hiring process for lawyers. Here are tips for preparing the best sample of your legal writing skills. The writing sample should be five to ten pages in length, unless otherwise indicated by a particular employer.

What qualifies as a legal writing sample?

Share your best legal writing.

Examples could include: moot court brief; upper year seminar paper or research project; memo, letter, administrative comments, or advocacy piece from an internship or externship; clinic work sample; or journal note. o Remember that your sample should (usually!) be only 5-10 pages.

How long should a writing sample be for a paralegal job?

Length—Unless employers indicate otherwise, writing samples generally should be 7-10 pages (some employers may request 5, in rare instances 12). You may excerpt if necessary, but remember to describe the nature of the larger document and context of the analysis in your cover sheet.

How long is the writing sample for judicial clerkship?

Length
  • Follow the employer's directions.
  • Default length: 5-10 pages (10-15 for clerkship applications)
  • Single or double spaced equally acceptable.
  • Select a section of a longer document, if needed, to remain within range.

How long should a writing sample be for grad school?

Most Writing Samples should be 20–25 pages ( 5000–6000 words).

Writing Samples

40 related questions found

How long is too long for a writing sample?

How long should a writing sample be? Samples should be concise and succinct: one to four pages are usually sufficient. In many cases, reviewers are primarily interested in how well you convey your ideas (structure and grammatical accuracy) as opposed to content.

How many pages is a writing sample for PhD?

The writing sample should be 20 to 30 pages for PhD programs, or 15 to 20 pages for MA programs, excluding bibliography or appendices.

How long is the average LSAT writing sample?

How Long Should My LSAT Writing Sample Be? While there is no word limit on your writing sample, you should aim to be as clear and concise as possible. Most LSAT writing samples are between two and four paragraphs long.

How long is the LSAT writing sample?

The LSAT Writing Sample is a 35-minute ungraded essay with an assigned topic. That's right—the essay section has absolutely no effect on your overall LSAT score.

Do law schools read the writing sample?

Although LSAT Writing samples don't receive a score, they are considered by law school admission committees when reviewing individuals' applications. Each law school uses LSAT Writing in its own way. However, most law schools view LSAT Writing samples as an integral part of their admission decisions.

What is a good WPM for a paralegal?

Good typing speeds are relative to job descriptions. For example, data entry positions usually require 60-80 words per minute. Medical transcriptionists, paralegals and executive secretaries should be able to type 70-100 wpm.

Can you use a brief as a writing sample?

A memo or brief you prepared for lawyering seminar can work well as a writing sample. Employers are looking for clear, effective legal writing and analysis. An objective interoffice memo or a persuasive brief are both acceptable vehicles for demonstrating your writing and analysis abilities.

Do writing samples need citations?

You want to make sure that you are giving employers a recent example of the quality of your work. Submit only your own work. If you incorporate others' work, cite your sources.

What are the 4 C's of legal writing?

So four Cs: concision, clarity, coherence, completeness… cogent, it should be cogent, as well.”

What should I submit as a writing sample for a paralegal job?

Provide persuasive writing of your own work (exclude parts written by others) ◆ Provide something recent that reflects your current legal abilities ◆ Provide about 5 – 10 pages of an easy to understand topic ◆ Change or redact confidential/sensitive information ◆ Avoid lurid or hot-button subjects, such as sex, ...

Are writing samples single or double spaced?

Writing samples should be double-spaced and can be a combination of one or more writing samples. Be sure to proofread and revise to make sure there are no spelling or grammatical errors in your writing. Also, do not forget to add your name to the document.

What is a good word count for LSAT writing?

There is no word or space limit for LSAT Writing. You are advised not to worry about the length of your writing sample, but instead to concentrate on crafting a response to the prompt that is well-written, cogent, and well-argued.

Can I use Grammarly for LSAT writing?

If you haven't heard, the LSAT is going digital and with it comes the new LSAT Writing section. You'll now be able to write the essay at home on your computer after you complete the test. You can start improving your writing skills now with a free Grammarly account.

Can you retake LSAT writing?

If you have already completed an LSAT writing sample, you do not need to complete LSAT Writing again. However, if you would like to retake LSAT Writing as well, please contact LSAC's Candidate Services team at LSACinfo@LSAC.org or 1.800. 336.3982.

How long does the average person study for the LSAT?

Determining how many hours you need for LSAT prep

We recommend that most students look to spend 150–300 hours on LSAT prep; that's a healthy range over a two or three-month period at around 20–25 hours per week, which is a standard amount for most students.

How long is LSAT without writing?

How long is the LSAT? The LSAT is composed of four 35-minute test sections. There is a 10-minute intermission between the second and third sections. The test takes approximately 3 hours for standard test takers.

What is a brief writing sample?

A writing sample provides an employer with an example of how you organize and express your thoughts. The purpose is to convince an employer you can create the kind of written materials and handle the type of work expected of an employee in the position.

Can thesis be a writing sample?

Most students submit a term paper or thesis written in their prior degree as a writing sample. A library research based paper or thesis generally makes the best kind of writing sample.

How do you put together a writing sample?

How to Create the Perfect Writing Sample
  1. Step 1: Read the Job Posting.
  2. Step 2: Research the Company.
  3. Step 3: Brainstorm Ideas.
  4. Step 4: Choose Your Best Idea.
  5. Step 5: Write.
  6. Step 6: Edit, Edit, Edit.
  7. Company-Wide Communications & Emails Writing Samples.
  8. Internal News Article Writing Samples.