Introduction
A recommendation letter for law school is a critical component of your application, offering admissions committees a personalized perspective on your abilities, character, and potential to succeed in a legal education. These letters, typically written by professors, employers, or mentors who know you well, provide context and endorsement that can significantly strengthen your candidacy. A well-crafted recommendation letter can highlight your analytical skills, work ethic, and dedication to the field of law.
In this article, we’ll explore how to approach recommendation letters for law school applications. We’ll discuss key principles to keep in mind, common pitfalls to avoid, and provide actionable examples to guide you through the process. Whether you’re asking for a letter or writing one yourself, understanding what makes a recommendation letter effective is essential for making a strong impression on admissions committees.
Key Principles: Do’s and Don’ts
Do’s
- Choose recommenders who know you well and can speak specifically about your qualifications.
- Provide ample context about your relationship with the recommender.
- Include specific examples or anecdotes that highlight your skills and character.
- Encourage enthusiasm and confidence in the recommender’s tone.
- Proofread the letter for grammar, clarity, and professionalism.
Don’ts
- Don’t ask someone who doesn’t know you well to write the letter.
- Don’t submit generic or overly vague letters lacking specific details.
- Don’t wait until the last minute to request or submit the letter.
- Don’t write the letter yourself unless absolutely necessary.
- Don’t include irrelevant information or overly casual language.
10 Actionable Examples of Recommendation Letter Law School Application Examples
Example 1: Professor Recommends High-Achieving Student for Law School
This letter is written by a professor who taught the applicant in a constitutional law class. The applicant excelled in the class and demonstrated a strong passion for legal studies. The professor highlights the student’s analytical skills, writing abilities, and personal qualities that make them an ideal candidate for law school.
Department of Legal Studies
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
Admissions Committee
Harvard Law School
1563 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,
I am delighted to recommend Ms. Alexis R. Thompson for admission to Harvard Law School. I had the pleasure of teaching Alexis in my Constitutional Law seminar during her junior year at the University of Michigan, where she consistently demonstrated intellectual curiosity, exceptional analytical skills, and a deep passion for legal studies.
Alexis was one of the top performers in a class of 40 students, earning an A+ on her final research paper and actively participating in class discussions. Her paper on “First Amendment Implications in Modern Digital Communication” was meticulous in its research and innovative in its argumentation. Alexis’s ability to synthesize complex legal concepts and present them with clarity and precision was truly impressive.
What sets Alexis apart is her unique combination of academic excellence and personal qualities. She is an outstanding writer and thinker, but she is also deeply committed to understanding the real-world implications of legal principles. Her maturity, work ethic, and genuine enthusiasm for learning make her an exceptional candidate for law school.
I have no doubt that Alexis will excel in law school and make valuable contributions to your academic community. Please feel free to contact me at (734) 763-4567 or ecarter@umich.edu if you have any further questions.
Sincerely,
Professor Emily J. Carter
Key Takeaways from This Letter:
- Highlights specific academic achievements and qualities relevant to law school
- Provides concrete examples of the applicant’s skills and accomplishments
- Conveys enthusiasm and confidence in the applicant’s potential
Example 2: Recommendation for a Research Assistant Applying to Law School
This letter is written by a professor who supervised the applicant in a research assistant role, highlighting their analytical skills, work ethic, and passion for legal issues.
Admissions Committee
Harvard Law School
1563 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,
I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation for Ms. Sarah L. Thompson, who has served as my research assistant for the past two academic years. In this capacity, Sarah has demonstrated exceptional analytical skills, a keen understanding of legal concepts, and an unwavering dedication to academic excellence.
During her time with me, Sarah was instrumental in assisting with my research project on constitutional law and civil rights. Her ability to synthesize complex legal theories and present them in a clear, concise manner was remarkable. She consistently produced high-quality work, often exceeding my expectations, and demonstrated a natural aptitude for legal analysis that will serve her well in law school.
Sarah’s work ethic and intellectual curiosity are qualities that truly set her apart. She approached every task with enthusiasm and a genuine passion for learning. Her ability to think critically and engage in meaningful discussions about legal issues was evident in our regular meetings and in her written work. She also demonstrated excellent communication skills, both in her writing and in her interactions with colleagues and peers.
Sarah’s dedication to public service further underscores her suitability for a career in law. She volunteered at a local legal aid clinic, where she assisted with case research and document preparation, gaining valuable hands-on experience in the legal field. Her commitment to social justice and her desire to make a positive impact in her community are qualities that align perfectly with the values of your institution.
I have no doubt that Sarah will excel in law school and make significant contributions to the legal profession. She possesses the intellectual talent, personal integrity, and passion for justice that will enable her to succeed in even the most challenging academic and professional environments. I strongly recommend her for admission to Harvard Law School without reservation.
Please feel free to contact me at (555) 123-4567 or ewilson@berkeley.edu if you require any additional information.
Sincerely,
Professor Emily J. Wilson
Key Takeaways from This Recommendation Letter:
- Specific Examples of Qualifications: The letter provides concrete examples of the applicant’s skills and accomplishments, such as their role in a research project and volunteer work at a legal aid clinic.
- Personal Anecdotes and Insights: The professor shares personal observations about the applicant’s work ethic, intellectual curiosity, and passion for legal issues, adding depth and credibility to the recommendation.
- Strong Closing Endorsement: The letter concludes with an unequivocal recommendation, emphasizing the applicant’s potential to excel in law school and the legal profession.
Example 3: Recommendation Letter for a Research Assistant
This letter is written by a professor recommending a student who served as a research assistant, highlighting their analytical skills and work ethic. The applicant is applying to law school after completing an undergraduate degree in Political Science.
Dr. Margaret T. Reynolds
Professor of Political Science
University of Michigan
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
October 12, 2023
Admissions Committee
Harvard Law School
Cambridge, MA 02138
Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,
I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation for Ms. Emily J. Miller, who has served as my research assistant for the past two academic years. In this capacity, Emily has demonstrated exceptional analytical skills, a keen understanding of legal concepts, and a remarkable work ethic that makes her an outstanding candidate for law school.
During her time as my research assistant, Emily was instrumental in helping me organize and analyze materials for my book on comparative constitutional law. Her ability to synthesize complex legal theories and present them in a clear, concise manner was invaluable. She also took the initiative to suggest additional research directions that significantly enriched the final product.
One of Emily’s most impressive qualities is her critical thinking ability. When assigned to analyze a series of legal cases, she not only identified key themes but also proposed innovative solutions to unresolved legal issues. Her work was consistently thorough and demonstrated a deep understanding of both the theoretical and practical aspects of law.
Emily’s interpersonal skills are equally noteworthy. She worked collaboratively with faculty members and other students, often taking the lead in group projects and fostering a productive environment. Her ability to communicate complex ideas clearly and respectfully made her a valued member of our academic community.
I have no doubt that Emily will excel in law school and make significant contributions to the legal field. Her intellectual curiosity, passion for justice, and dedication to excellence make her an exceptional candidate. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
Dr. Margaret T. Reynolds
Key Takeaways from This Letter
- Specific Examples of Achievement: The letter highlights specific tasks and projects Emily undertook, such as analyzing legal cases and contributing to a book, which demonstrate her capabilities and preparation for law school.
- Interpersonal and Leadership Skills: By emphasizing Emily’s ability to work collaboratively and lead group projects, the letter showcases qualities that are crucial for success in law school and the legal profession.
- Passion for the Legal Field: The letter connects Emily’s academic work to her broader passion for justice, showing admissions committees that she is motivated by more than just academic achievement.
Example 4: Recommendation Letter for a Student with Strong Community Service Background
This letter is written by a professor who has known the applicant in both academic and extracurricular capacities. The applicant has demonstrated strong leadership skills and a deep commitment to public service, making them an ideal candidate for law school.
October 15, 2023
Admissions Committee
Harvard Law School
1350 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Ms. Elena Marquez for admission to Harvard Law School. I have had the pleasure of knowing Elena as both her professor in the “Constitutional Law” course and as the faculty advisor to the university’s Legal Aid Society, where she served as President during her senior year.
Elena is one of the most exceptional students I have encountered in my 15 years of teaching. Her intellectual curiosity, combined with her unwavering commitment to public service, makes her uniquely qualified to excel in law school and beyond. In my class, Elena consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of complex legal concepts and a remarkable ability to articulate her thoughts with clarity and precision. Her contributions to class discussions were always thoughtful and insightful, often prompting deeper exploration of the material by the entire class.
What truly sets Elena apart, however, is her dedication to using her talents for the greater good. As President of the Legal Aid Society, she spearheaded a program that provided free legal workshops to underserved communities in our city. Under her leadership, the organization doubled its volunteer base and significantly expanded its reach. Her ability to inspire and motivate others, combined with her exceptional organizational skills, resulted in the program receiving a national award for community service.
Elena’s passion for justice and her natural leadership abilities make her an outstanding candidate for law school. I have no doubt that she will make valuable contributions to your institution and go on to have a distinguished legal career. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
Dr. Michael Carter
Professor of Law
University of California, Berkeley
Key Takeaways from This Letter:
- Provides specific examples of the applicant’s academic and extracurricular achievements.
- Highlights the applicant’s leadership skills and commitment to public service.
- Includes personal insights that demonstrate the applicant’s character and potential for success in law school.
Example 5: Recommendation for a Student with Relevant Work Experience
This letter is written for a student who has worked in a law-related field before applying to law school, demonstrating their commitment and practical understanding of legal concepts.
March 15, 2023
Admissions Committee
University of Michigan Law School
625 South State Street
Ann Arbor, MI 48109
Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Ms. Sarah Thompson for admission to the University of Michigan Law School. I have had the pleasure of working with Sarah in her capacity as a legal assistant at Smith & Associates Law Firm, where I serve as a senior partner. Over the past three years, I have witnessed Sarah’s exceptional analytical skills, her deep commitment to justice, and her remarkable ability to connect with clients from all walks of life.
Sarah joined our firm immediately after graduating magna cum laude from the University of Wisconsin with a degree in Political Science. From day one, she demonstrated a natural aptitude for legal work. She quickly became an indispensable member of our team, assisting in complex cases ranging from civil rights litigation to corporate law matters. Her ability to distill complex legal concepts into clear, actionable strategies was remarkable.
One particular instance that stands out was her work on a pro bono case involving housing discrimination. Sarah took the lead in researching relevant precedents, drafting motions, and preparing client affidavits. Her meticulous attention to detail and her ability to empathize with the clients’ situation were instrumental in securing a favorable settlement. This experience not only highlighted her legal acumen but also her dedication to social justice.
Sarah’s leadership skills are equally impressive. She volunteered to mentor high school students interested in legal careers through our firm’s outreach program. Her ability to inspire and guide these students, many of whom were from underrepresented backgrounds, speaks volumes about her character and commitment to giving back to the community.
I have no doubt that Sarah will excel in law school and beyond. Her intellectual curiosity, combined with her passion for justice, makes her an ideal candidate for your program. She possesses the rare combination of academic talent, practical experience, and personal integrity that will enable her to make a meaningful impact in the legal profession.
Please feel free to contact me at (555) 123-4567 or at john.smith@smithlaw.com if you have any further questions. I would be delighted to provide any additional information about Sarah’s qualifications.
Sincerely,
John Smith
Senior Partner
Smith & Associates Law Firm
Key Takeaways from This Letter:
- Specific Personal Anecdotes: The letter includes detailed examples of the applicant’s work, such as the pro bono housing discrimination case, which provide concrete evidence of her skills and character.
- Relevant Work Experience: The recommendation highlights the applicant’s hands-on experience in a legal setting, demonstrating her practical understanding of the law and her readiness for advanced study.
- Strong, Specific Language: The letter avoids generalities by using descriptive language like “exceptional analytical skills” and “natural aptitude for legal work,” which create a compelling portrait of the applicant.
Example 6: Recommendation Letter for a Candidate with Extensive Research Experience
This letter is written by a professor who supervised a candidate in a significant research project related to constitutional law. The candidate demonstrated exceptional analytical skills and a deep understanding of legal principles during their collaboration.
Professor Emily J. Wilson
Harvard Law School
Cambridge, MA 02138
October 15, 2023
Admissions Committee
Stanford Law School
559 Nathan Abbott Way
Stanford, CA 94305
Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,
I am delighted to write this letter of recommendation for Alexandra “Alex” Thompson, who has worked under my supervision as a research assistant for the past two academic years. In this capacity, Alex has demonstrated exceptional intellectual rigor, a keen understanding of legal theory, and a remarkable ability to apply complex concepts to real-world scenarios.
During her time at Harvard Law School, Alex assisted me in a comprehensive research project examining the evolution of First Amendment jurisprudence. Her responsibilities included conducting in-depth legal research, drafting portions of the final manuscript, and presenting findings at academic seminars. Alex’s work was consistently outstanding, showcasing her ability to synthesize vast amounts of information into coherent and insightful analysis.
One of Alex’s most impressive qualities is her ability to think critically and approach legal questions from multiple perspectives. For instance, during our research on a particularly contentious Supreme Court decision, Alex identified a novel angle that had not been previously considered in academic literature. Her innovative thinking not only enriched our project but also demonstrated her potential to contribute meaningfully to the legal academy.
Additionally, Alex exhibited remarkable leadership skills when she organized a student-led symposium on emerging issues in constitutional law. She coordinated with faculty members, managed logistics, and moderated panel discussions with grace and professionalism. This experience highlighted her exceptional organizational abilities and her capacity to collaborate effectively with others.
In my 15 years of teaching and mentoring law students, few have impressed me as deeply as Alex. Her intellectual curiosity, work ethic, and passion for the law are exemplary. I have no doubt that she will excel in your rigorous program and make valuable contributions to the Stanford Law School community.
Please feel free to contact me at (617) 495-3100 or ewilson@law.harvard.edu if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
Professor Emily J. Wilson
Key Takeaways from This Letter
- Specific Examples: The letter provides concrete examples of the candidate’s skills and accomplishments, such as her innovative approach to legal research and her leadership in organizing a symposium.
- Intellectual Rigor: The professor highlights the candidate’s analytical abilities and her capacity to contribute meaningfully to legal scholarship.
- Personal Qualities: The letter emphasizes the candidate’s work ethic, leadership skills, and passion for the law, making her a well-rounded applicant.
Example 7: Recommendation for a Student with Strong Research and Academic Credentials
This letter is written by a professor who has known the applicant through several advanced coursework and research projects. The applicant is applying to law school after completing an undergraduate degree in Political Science with a focus on constitutional law.
Admissions Committee
Harvard Law School
1563 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Ms. Olivia Thompson for admission to Harvard Law School. I have had the pleasure of knowing Olivia through her outstanding academic work and her contributions to my Constitutional Law seminar and Advanced Legal Research course.
Olivia consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of complex legal concepts and a remarkable ability to analyze and interpret case law. Her final paper in my seminar, which focused on the evolution of First Amendment protections, was one of the most insightful and well-researched papers I have encountered in my years of teaching. Her ability to synthesize historical legal precedents with contemporary issues was truly impressive.
What sets Olivia apart is her exceptional critical thinking skills and her passion for the study of law. She actively participated in class discussions, often offering unique perspectives that enriched the learning experience for her peers. Her dedication to academic excellence is evident in her near-perfect grade record and her role as a research assistant for our department’s Law and Policy Initiative.
I have no doubt that Olivia will excel in the rigorous academic environment of Harvard Law School. Her intellectual curiosity, analytical abilities, and passion for justice make her an ideal candidate for your program. She is among the most talented and dedicated students I have had the privilege to mentor.
Please feel free to contact me at (734) 763-4567 or emily.carter@umich.edu if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
Professor Emily Carter
Key Takeaways from this Recommendation Letter:
- Specific Examples of Excellence: The letter highlights specific academic achievements and projects, such as the First Amendment paper, to demonstrate the applicant’s capabilities.
- Personal Anecdotes: The professor shares personal insights about the applicant’s contributions to class discussions and research initiatives, adding depth to the recommendation.
- Strong Closing Statement: The letter concludes with a confident assertion of the applicant’s suitability for law school, reinforcing the recommendation’s credibility.
Example 8: Law School Recommendation from a Professor – Community Leadership
This letter is written by a professor who supervised a student in a community service project that demonstrated the applicant’s leadership and commitment to social justice. The professor highlights the student’s ability to organize and lead a legal rights workshop for underprivileged community members.
NYU School of Law
40 Washington Square South
New York, NY 10012
October 15, 2023
Admissions Committee
Harvard Law School
1563 Massachusetts Avenue
Cambridge, MA 02138
Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,
I am writing to wholeheartedly recommend Ms. Olivia Bennett for admission to Harvard Law School. I have had the pleasure of knowing Olivia during her time at New York University, where she excelled in my “Public Interest Law” course and later worked under my supervision on a community legal education project.
Olivia demonstrated extraordinary leadership when she spearheaded a legal rights workshop series at the Brooklyn Community Center. She single-handedly organized the entire program, which served over 200 community members. Her ability to break down complex legal concepts into accessible language was remarkable, and her passion for social justice shone through in every session.
What struck me most about Olivia was her unique combination of intellectual curiosity and practical skills. She not only researched and designed the workshop materials but also collaborated with local organizations to ensure the program’s success. Her dedication to empowering marginalized communities aligns perfectly with the values of Harvard Law School.
Olivia possesses the intellectual rigor, emotional intelligence, and unwavering commitment to public service that will make her an outstanding contributor to your law school community. I have no doubt she will excel in your program and make a meaningful impact in the legal profession.
Please feel free to contact me at (555) 123-4567 or ecarter@nyu.edu if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
Professor Emily Carter
Key Takeaways from This Letter:
- Personal anecdotes: The letter includes specific examples of the applicant’s work, such as organizing the legal rights workshop, which demonstrates her capabilities and character.
- Demonstrated commitment to public service: The professor emphasizes Olivia’s passion for social justice and her ability to empower marginalized communities.
- Specific skills highlighted: The letter points out Olivia’s leadership, intellectual curiosity, and ability to collaborate with others.
Example 9: Recommendation for a Student with Exceptional Leadership in Community Service
This letter highlights a candidate who demonstrated remarkable leadership skills through organizing and managing a high-impact community service project. The recommender emphasizes the candidate’s ability to inspire others, manage complex logistics, and maintain a strong commitment to social justice.
Dr. Emily Carter
Associate Professor of Sociology
University of Springfield
123 Academic Lane
Springfield, IL 62704
October 15, 2023
Admissions Committee
Springfield Law School
456 Justice Way
Springfield, IL 62701
Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,
It is with great enthusiasm that I write this recommendation for Ms. Olivia Bennett, who has been an outstanding student in my Sociology of Law and Justice course. I have had the pleasure of observing Olivia’s growth over the past three years, particularly through her exceptional leadership in our university’s Legal Aid Outreach Program.
Olivia took the initiative to revitalize our Legal Aid Program, which had seen declining participation in recent years. She single-handedly organized a team of 25 students, coordinated with local law firms, and developed a comprehensive plan to provide free legal consultations to underserved communities. Her ability to inspire and motivate others was remarkable, as she transformed a struggling program into a thriving initiative that served over 200 individuals in its first year.
What sets Olivia apart is her unique combination of intellectual curiosity and practical skills. She consistently demonstrated a deep understanding of legal concepts in class and applied them creatively to real-world challenges. Her dedication to social justice is evident in everything she does, from her meticulous preparation for client consultations to her thoughtful contributions in class discussions.
I am confident that Olivia will bring the same level of passion, leadership, and intellectual rigor to your law school community. She has the potential to make a significant impact in the legal profession, and I strongly endorse her candidacy.
Sincerely,
Dr. Emily Carter
Key Takeaways from This Letter:
- The letter emphasizes the candidate’s leadership skills through specific examples of revitalizing a community service program.
- It highlights the candidate’s ability to connect academic concepts with real-world applications.
- The recommendation underscores the candidate’s commitment to social justice, aligning with the values of most law schools.
Example 10: Recommendation for a Student with Extensive Research Experience
Context: This letter is written by a professor who supervised a student in a legal research project focusing on constitutional law. The student demonstrated exceptional analytical skills and a deep understanding of complex legal concepts.
Professor Emily J. Carter
Constitutional Law Department
Harvard Law School
Cambridge, MA 02138
February 15, 2023
Admissions Committee
Yale Law School
New Haven, CT 06520
Dear Members of the Admissions Committee,
I am delighted to recommend Ms. Sarah L. Thompson for admission to Yale Law School. As her academic advisor and research supervisor, I have had the pleasure of witnessing her growth into an outstanding legal scholar with a passion for constitutional law.
Sarah excelled in my Advanced Constitutional Law seminar, where she authored a thesis on “The Evolution of Equal Protection Clause Jurisprudence.” Her work demonstrated meticulous research, nuanced analysis, and a profound understanding of legal theory and its practical applications. Her ability to synthesize complex cases and present well-reasoned arguments was exceptional.
One of Sarah’s most remarkable qualities is her ability to engage in rigorous intellectual discourse. During our weekly research meetings, she consistently challenged prevailing interpretations and offered innovative perspectives that enriched our discussions. Her dedication to understanding the intricacies of constitutional law is unparalleled among her peers.
Sarah’s academic excellence is matched by her personal qualities. She is a collaborative team member who generously shares her insights and supports her colleagues. Her commitment to justice and her desire to use law as a tool for societal improvement are evident in everything she undertakes.
I have no doubt that Sarah will make significant contributions to the legal academy and beyond. She possesses the intellectual curiosity, analytical rigor, and passion for justice that Yale Law School seeks in its students. Please feel free to contact me if you require any further information.
Sincerely,
Professor Emily J. Carter
Key Takeaways from This Letter
- Highlights specific academic achievements and skills relevant to legal studies
- Provides concrete examples of intellectual curiosity and analytical ability
- Connects the student’s passion for law to their potential for future impact
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Who should I ask to write my law school recommendation letter?
Choose professors, employers, or mentors who know you well and can speak to your academic abilities, work ethic, and personal qualities. Avoid distant acquaintances or those who cannot provide specific examples.
2. How far in advance should I ask for a recommendation letter?
Request your recommendation letters at least 2-3 months before your law school application deadline. This gives the writer ample time to craft a thoughtful and detailed letter.
3. What should I include in my request for a recommendation letter?
Provide your resume, a draft of your personal statement, and any relevant work samples. This helps the writer tailor the letter to your strengths and goals.
4. How should I format a recommendation letter for law school?
A recommendation letter should be on official letterhead if possible, signed by the writer, and include their contact information. It should be concise, typically 1-2 pages, and addressed to the admissions committee.
5. Should I waive my right to see the recommendation letter?
Yes, it is generally recommended to waive your right to see the letter. This assures the admissions committee that the recommendation is candid and unbiased.
Conclusion
A well-crafted recommendation letter can significantly strengthen your law school application. By choosing the right recommenders, providing ample notice, and ensuring the letter aligns with your personal statement, you can present a compelling case to the admissions committee.
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