For Lawyers - CV Preparation

Layout

We are available to advise and assist you with regards CV content and layout and so if you have any questions, just pick up the phone and ask. We will always speak to you in any event about the CV you submit and how, in our opinion, this might be improved or tailored to a specific application.

Believe us, employers and recruiters alike do not like searching for basic details so stick to the following format:


Personal Details

  • Name
  • Home address
  • Email address
  • Home/work/mobile telephone numbers
  • Current salary package
  • Notice period/availability
  • Geographical location required, and stating reasons for any planned relocation
  • Date of Birth, Nationality, Marital Status, Driving Licence and health status are all optional.

Education/Professional

  • Secondary school & qualifications, include 'A' level grades (dates optional)
  • College/University & qualifications/grades (dates optional)
  • Professional qualifications
  • Memberships/Associations.

Personal Profile/Summary

  • No more than a couple of short paragraphs - include brief, precise and relevant achievements
  • This part of the CV can be specifically tailored to the position you are applying for
  • State if you have a personal following or a network of contacts.

Career History

  • Reverse chronological order starting with your latest position
  • Include name of organisation, job title and dates you were employed (including month)
  • For each position include your role and achievements describing the nature and variety of your caseload, giving examples of noteworthy instructions
  • Include a brief description of your department (size / structure), nature of clients etc
  • List any additional responsibilities eg Marketing, Training, Articles, Seminars, Networking & Business Development initiatives/successes etc
  • Keep it brief and relevant, use bullet points
  • Reason for leaving.

Training

  • List formal courses you have attended, including author, duration and date.

Other/Skills

  • IT skills
  • Experience of presentations
  • Foreign languages.

Pro Bono & Positions of Responsibility

  • Those that are relevant and impressive!

Leisure

  • At the end of the CV include your interests. Employers like people with outside interests, but don't put too many as you'll have no time left to work!

Covering Letter

  • This is important, don't underestimate its value, its often the first thing seen by a future employer/agency
  • This should include details of why you are suitable for the position, or if speculative, what type of role you are looking for.