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6 Legal Assistant Resume Examples...

6 Legal Assistant Resume Examples & Guide for 2025

Legal assistants handle various duties such as managing case files, conducting legal research, and drafting documents for attorneys. When crafting your resume, highlight your experience with case management software, familiarity with legal terminology, and any relevant certifications. It's important to emphasize your attention to detail, strong organizational abilities, and effective communication skills. Including examples of successful case support and your ability to meet tight deadlines will demonstrate the impact you can have in a legal setting.

All resume examples in this guide

Legal assistants, also called paralegals, now handle more tasks traditionally done by lawyers, such as conducting legal research, drafting documents, and preparing cases. This shift, driven by law firms aiming to boost efficiency and cut costs, results in legal assistants having a more demanding role. The projected 10% job growth from 2022 to 2032 reflects the increasing reliance on paralegals, making their role both challenging and crucial in the evolving legal industry​. Time to perfect your legal assistant resume? Try our thorough guide to navigate through the essential steps. We’ll cover:

  • How to format your resume like a pro
  • Examples of experience sections tailored to a specific job posting
  • Creative ways to include tangible results on your resume
  • Nailing the skill section with a good balance of hard and soft skills
  • Tips on what a good education section should feature
  • The best certifications for a legal assistant
  • Polishing your resume summary or objective–and more info on the difference between the two
  • Ideas for additional sections that will make you shine

If the legal assistant resume isn't the right one for you, take a look at other related guides we have:

Wondering what a well-written legal assistant’s resume looks like? Check out the one below, or create your own with our Enhancv resume builder. It only takes minutes.

Leah Garner
legal assistant
leah.garner@legalservices.com | @LinkedIn | Springfield, IL


Summary

Highly organized and dedicated legal assistant with over 5 years of experience supporting attorneys in various legal practices. Seeking to join the diligent and dynamic team at Law & Associates to utilize my expertise in legal research, document preparation, and client interaction.


Experience

Senior legal assistant
Law & Associates, Springfield, IL
June 2019 – Present

  • Assisted attorneys in preparing for trials, hearings, and closings by creating and maintaining comprehensive case files.
  • Conducted legal research and drafted pleadings, motions, and appellate documents.
  • Managed client communication, including scheduling appointments, follow-ups, and providing case updates.
  • Trained and mentored new legal assistants, contributing to a more efficient and knowledgeable support team.
  • Recognized for maintaining an organized filing system and ensuring compliance with legal protocols, resulting in a 20% increase in case management efficiency.

Legal assistant
Smith & Johnson Law Firm, Chicago, IL
March 2015 – May 2019

  • Prepared and filed various legal documents, including contracts, wills, and deeds.
  • Assisted in the discovery process, including managing and organizing large volumes of documents.
  • Coordinated with clients, witnesses, and court officials to facilitate smooth legal proceedings.
  • Developed and implemented a new case tracking system that improved document retrieval times by 25%.

Education

Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies
Springfield University, Springfield, IL
Graduated: June 2014

  • Member of the Pre-Law Society. Recognized for outstanding academic performance and research skills.

Certifications & Training Programs

  • Certified Paralegal (CP)
  • Legal Research & Writing Certification
  • Notary Public
  • Advanced Microsoft Office Suite Certification
  • E-Filing System Certification

Skills

  • Legal research and writing
  • Document management and preparation
  • Client communication and scheduling
  • Case management and organization
  • Knowledge of legal procedures and protocols
  • Proficient in E-Filing systems and legal software

Professional Affiliations

  • National Association of legal assistants (NALA)

Languages

  • English - native
  • French - proficient

Formatting your resume for a legal assistant role is the first keystone to getting noticed. Choose a clean, easy-to-follow format that focuses on your qualifications. The layout for your experience and skills should reflect your seriousness and professionalism—to emphasize your fit for the role.

Resume formats

Depending on your profile and the job posting you’re applying to, choose between the three most common formats for your legal assistant resume. These are:

  • Reverse-chronological resume: That’s the classic approach—and the truth is, it’s so popular because it works really well. By listing your experience from most recent to oldest positions, you present a clear outline of your career so far. If every work experience entry represents a certain stage in our lives, starting with the most recent one can give a snapshot of where you are right now. Very useful for recruiters!
  • Functional resume: This format puts the focus on your skills and accomplishments rather than your experience, which means it’s great for recent graduates or those switching careers. Emphasizing what you can do rather than what you have done is a helpful tool to work around any gaps or shortages in your expertise.
  • Combination resume: This hybrid format is ideal if you feel strongly about both your skills and experience. Remember: your focus should be on skills and experience relevant to the role. Don’t fill your resume with fluff.

Now that you’ve chosen your resume structure, look at some more tips on formatting:

  • Clean design: Choose a 1-inch margin on each side of your application to ensure the resume doesn’t feel overwhelming. A modern sans-serif font such as Rubik, Lato, or Calibri will make reading easy and a splash of color here and there can make your resume really engaging. Stick to a subtle color scheme to keep it professional. Try dark blue, gray, or green. Another way to improve readability is using a resume template with lines in it to distinguish between sections. If you need to adjust margins without compromising on readability, use our resume builder.
  • Resume header: Positioned at the top of your paralegal resume, the header is your business card. As such, make sure it includes basic contact information, such as name, job title, and professional email address. Add a personal website, such as a portfolio of your projects, or a LinkedIn profile for a quick glance into your career path. Don’t hesitate to check your header info twice–you don’t want a perfectly crafted resume with a typo in your email or phone number!
  • Resume length: Usually, a 1-page resume is preferred for most positions. You can make it 2 pages, too, just make sure you only list experience that’s really relevant to the job you’re applying for.
  • PDF format: After you’ve spent some time on finetuning your resume layout, you’d want a format to keep all that information in its right place. So, choose a PDF format to ensure everything stays exactly where you want it to be. What’s even better, this format is readable by ATS (Applicant Tracking Systems), even if you’ve heard otherwise.

Consider your target market – resumes in Canada, for example, follow different layout conventions.

“Less is more” is a key principle for your legal secretary resume design. This can also apply to its content: add what’s important and skip what’s not. Always tailor your resume to the specific job you’re applying to.

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As unique as your legal assistant resume should be, there are still general sections every resume should have. Here are the ones you definitely need:

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The top sections on a resume for a legal assistant:

  • Objective statement: Start your resume by sharing your aspirations and why you consider yourself a potential candidate for the legal assistant position. This showcases your confidence and motivation.
  • Skills section: Incorporate this to emphasize your relevant skills such as proficiency in legal research, document preparation, and knowledge about legal terminology. These skills are crucial to stand out in a legal assistant role.
  • Work experience: Recruiters are interested in this segment as it outlines your past experiences and tasks you’ve undertaken in similar roles. It's essential to show you have practical application of the required skills.
  • Legal certifications: Feature any official legal certifications you’ve acquired. As a legal assistant, having additional certifications can accentuate your qualifications, making you more desirable for the role.
  • References: Adding this section exhibits credibility to your profile as your abilities and experiences are affirmed by individuals you've worked with in the past, providing a level of trust for the recruiter.

Most legal assistant resume bullet points should include the following:

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What recruiters want to see on your resume:

  • Work experience in a legal setting: Recruiters give priority to this as it shows you already understand the dynamics of the role and can effectively step into the job.
  • Proficiency in legal terminology: Having this knowledge signifies you can handle legal documents and communications effectively.
  • Strong organizational skills: legal assistants are often tasked with handling multiple assignments simultaneously, which requires excellent planning and coordination.
  • Proficient in document and file management: legal assistants are responsible for managing extensive documentation. That’s why recruiters look for this capability for smooth operations.
  • Knowledge of legal software: Familiarity with specific tools like case management software and e-filing systems is something recruiters look for as these are essential for the role.

Your experience shows what you’ve done so far. Let’s see how to write this section.

When detailing the experience section of a resume, it’s best you provide specific examples of your legal assistant duties and achievements. Mention tasks like drafting pleadings, managing case files, and conducting thorough legal research. Include specific accomplishments. Maybe you’ve streamlined document processing by 30%? Successfully coordinating over 200 case files? Awesome features for your resume! Mention proficiency with legal software like LexisNexis and Westlaw, and demonstrate organizational and communication skills through examples. Tailor the content to the job description by incorporating relevant keywords and using clear, precise language. This approach will demonstrate your expertise and ability to support a legal team effectively.

Take a look at this real-life job legal assistant job description:

resume Summary Formula icon
Legal assistant

Company introduction:

XYZ Law Firm is an incredibly fast-moving, innovative law firm that delivers the best client experience and legal representation to each client while impacting our communities. We're all about working hard and staying humble.  

If you're looking for a boring and easy job, you won't find that here. We put 110% into everything we do. Greatness is achieved through hard, but smart work, and discipline; we're determined to be great.

We're not crazy; we just believe in what we do.

If you'd like to be part of a growing, well-respected, collaborative, and awesome team, we can't wait to hear from you.

Job description:

Do you love helping people and serving those who need it? Do you enjoy working in an upbeat, energetic law office? Are you one of those people who always have the job done before anyone even asks you to do it? Do you have mad organizational skills and love creating order?

Joubert Law Firm is looking for a motivated, self-starter for our Baton Rouge office to take the role of Paralegal. This position handles first-party property damage claims from inception to resolution.

Responsibilities:

Key responsibilities Include:

· Opening new client files;

· Sending letters of representation;

· Frequently communicating with clients;

· Drafting settlement demands;

Maintaining and updating our case management software, and

Assisting attorneys with pleadings, correspondence, and scheduling.

Our legal assistants establish caring relationships with our clients and collaborative partnerships with our attorneys and support team. They have extensive contact with insurance adjusters and other parties involved in our cases.

Our paralegal position is for someone seeking a long-term commitment with growth opportunities.

At XYZ Law Firm, our approach to clients is of service, compassion, and respect. We aim to do everything we reasonably can to help our clients recover physically, emotionally, and financially.

We are looking for people who are:

  • Kind;
  • Happy;
  • Compassionate;
  • Service-oriented;
  • Respectful;
  • Collaborative;
  • Resourceful;
  • Ethical;
  • Responsible and trustworthy;
  • Self-motivated;
  • Accountable for results;
  • Meticulous attention to accuracy, detail, and organization;
  • Excellent verbal and written communication skills;
  • Proficient in all Microsoft Office 365-based computer programs;
  • Proficient in case management software;
  • Proficient in LexisNexis;
  • Able to multi-task and function positively in a fast-paced environment; and
  • Able to make timely decisions in the face of obstacles, difficulties, and challenges.

Experience is desired but not required.

Location: Baton Rouge, LA

And look at a bad experience section for that same role:

Experience
Administrative Assistant
Generic Office Solutions
Baton Rouge, LA
Provided administrative support to the office team.
  • Answered phone calls and directed them to appropriate staff
  • Scheduled meetings and appointments
  • Maintained office supplies inventory
  • Prepared and distributed office correspondence
WRONG

Why this one doesn’t work:

  • Lacks legal specificity: The experience listed is generic administrative work and does not show any legal-specific tasks, which is crucial for a paralegal position.
  • No client interaction: There is no mention of interacting with clients, which is a key part of the job description.
  • Limited responsibilities: The responsibilities listed are very basic and do not demonstrate the advanced organizational or multitasking skills required for the role.

Instead, try to mimic this one:

Experience
Paralegal
ABC Legal Group
Baton Rouge, LA
Provided comprehensive paralegal support in a busy law office, specializing in first-party property damage claims.
  • Opened and managed over 150 new client files efficiently, reducing intake processing time by 30%
  • Drafted and sent over 200 letters of representation to clients, ensuring timely communication
  • Communicated regularly with over 100 clients to provide case updates, improving client satisfaction scores by 20%
  • Drafted detailed settlement demands and other legal documents, contributing to a 25% increase in successful settlements
  • Maintained and updated case management software with 99% accuracy, ensuring seamless case tracking and reporting
  • Assisted attorneys with pleadings, correspondence, and scheduling, supporting the successful resolution of over 180 cases
  • Collaborated with insurance adjusters and other parties involved in cases, achieving a 15% increase in favorable outcomes
RIGHT

This legal assistant experience sample is much better because it includes:

  • Relevant experience: The position listed is directly related to the job applied for, showing relevant experience in a paralegal role.
  • Detailed responsibilities: The bullets detail specific legal assistant duties that align perfectly with the job description, demonstrating suitability for the role.
  • Client and case management: Highlights experience with client communication and case management, which are critical components of the job at XYZ Law Firm.

Describing what you’ve done is a given, but illustrating your legal assistant achievements with concrete data is what makes your resume stand out.

How to quantify impact on your resume

Measurable impact is something recruiters can easily relate to and remember. Think of what specific examples of your work you can enhance your application with.

  • Document processing speed: Indicate the average speed of processing legal documents. This shows efficiency and the ability to meet deadlines.
  • Accuracy rate: Showcase your accuracy rate in legal transcription or document preparation, highlighting precision and attention to detail to the recruiter.
  • Case loads handled: Specify the number of case loads you have managed simultaneously, demonstrating your capabilities in multitasking and management skills.
  • Training attendance figures: Mention the number of relevant legal training sessions or workshops attended to show commitment to professional development and continuous learning.
  • Compliance rate: Include the percentage of tasks or projects completed in accordance with legal compliance standards, signifying your in-depth understanding of lawful practices.
  • Client satisfaction levels: If available, incorporate client satisfaction rates or feedback scores. It demonstrates your skills in client interaction and service delivery.
  • Software proficiency levels: Cite specific competency levels in legal software use, which suggests your readiness to handle technological aspects of the role.
  • Cost-saving measures: Include instances where your actions resulted in costs savings for the company. This demonstrates your business acumen and your contribution to the organization's bottom line.

It’s easier to show what you’ve got than what you don’t. You can still turn heads even with little to no experience. Check out the next section to see how.

How do I write an entry-level legal assistant experience section

There’s no shame in being new to something or beginning again. On the contrary—it’s brave. Show you’re up for challenges by emphasizing your enthusiasm and contributing with the knowledge and skills you’ve already got.

Here are a few tips on writing your experience section if you’re an entry-level legal assistant:

  • Take the time to research the role you’re applying for. Building an in-depth understanding of the values of the company or the specific skillset needed for the job can help you feature key notions on your legal assistant resume.
  • The functional resume format is ideal for entry-level positions. It focuses on your skills rather than your experience.
  • Think of what transferrable skills you have that will translate well into the role you desire. These could include research or organizational skills, time management, client service, or problem-solving.
  • Opt for a strong resume objective that will convince hiring managers you’ve thought about how you can contribute to the team.
  • Display your alignment to the role with relevant certifications and education. Demonstrate foundational knowledge in the legal field, such as Legal Research and Writing, Contract Law, and Civil Procedure.
  • Include internships and volunteer work, like preparing legal documents, conducting client interviews, and supporting attorneys with research.
  • Mention extracurricular activities that developed relevant skills, such as participating in mock trials or organizing legal events.

pro tip icon
PRO TIP

When crafting your resume, think of the ideal candidate for the position. Then, consider how your qualifications align with that profile! It’s a great way to exercise your creative thinking abilities.

The more prominently you can demonstrate how you align with your desired job’s requirements, the more likely you'd be called in for an interview.

How to List Your Hard and Soft Skills on Your Resume

The skills section on your resume is a quick and efficient way for recruiters to see where your strengths lie. Your skillset should be a well-rounded combination of hard and soft skills.

Hard skills are usually industry-specific and can include any technology you’re adept at. That means you’d better leave out skills you’re not fully confident in. You’re supposed to show your best side, not your mediocre side, and it’s never a good idea to lie on your resume. Legal assistants need strong legal research and document drafting abilities, proficiency in legal and office software, and a solid understanding of legal procedures and terminology. These skills enable them to manage case files, schedule tasks, and assist in preparing legal documents and arguments accurately and efficiently.

Add some of your hard and soft skills across different resume sections (e.g. summary/objective, experience, etc.). For soft skills, include specific examples how your abilities helped the organization. For example, “Improved client satisfaction by 15% through effective communication and feedback responsiveness.” This is how recruiters see the real impact of your work.

pro tip icon
PRO TIP

To pass the initial screening process, match the wording of your skills to the way they’re listed in the job description. For example, if the job ad says, “project management,” don’t list it as “project managing”.

Your resume for a legal assistant can include some of these hard/soft skills:

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Best hard skills for your legal assistant resume

  • Legal research
  • Document management
  • Case management software
  • Legal transcription
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite
  • Legal citation rules
  • HIPAA compliance
  • E-filing systems
  • Legal documentation drafting
  • Time-keeping software
  • Litigation support
  • Database management
  • Westlaw proficiency
  • Adobe Acrobat
  • E-Discovery software
  • Specialized legal software knowledge (like Clio, MyCase)
  • Legal coding
  • Regulatory compliance
  • Notary public
  • Budgeting

Your soft, or interpersonal skills, show recruiters how you'd fit into the team and company culture. You could use the achievements section to tie in your greatest wins with relevant soft skills. This section could include things like effective communication, attention to detail, organization, and confidentiality are vital for legal assistants. you must work well in teams, think critically, and adapt to changes, ensuring smooth operations, client satisfaction, and adherence to ethical standards in the legal environment.

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Best soft skills for your legal assistant resume

Your education section is a good way to show your marketable skills. Read on for tips on how to master it.

How to List Your Certifications and Education on Your Resume

As a legal assistant, your education section is fundamental to your success. Here are a few reasons why:

  • Established qualifications: The legal field can be competitive, and some employers have specific educational requirements. For example, many law firms require legal assistants to have at least an associate degree in paralegal studies. By listing your Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies on your resume, you directly show that you meet this requirement. Some positions might also prefer candidates with a bachelor’s degree. So, listing your Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies further qualifies you for roles with higher educational standards.
  • Demonstrates knowledge: A relevant degree or coursework shows that you have foundational knowledge in legal principles, terminology, and procedures, which is essential for a legal assistant role. Let’s say your BA in Legal Studies included coursework such as Legal Research and Writing, Civil Litigation, and Criminal Law. These courses provided you with critical skills in drafting legal documents, understanding litigation processes, and navigating criminal procedures, all of which are essential for a legal assistant. Including this coursework demonstrates to employers that you have the necessary knowledge and skills.
  • Builds credibility: Employers often use education as a benchmark to assess a candidate’s potential. A solid educational background can add credibility to your application. Relevant certifications, such as the Paralegal Certificate from a recognized online school, reinforce your credibility and assure employers of your competence and commitment to the profession.

Here’s an example of a well-written education section on your paralegal resume:

Education
Associate Degree in Paralegal Studies
New York University
New York, NY
GPA
3.8
/
4.0
  • Relevant coursework: Legal Research and Writing, Civil Litigation, Criminal Law.
  • Graduated with honors.
  • Completed a capstone project on improving legal research methodologies.
  • Active member of the NYU Paralegal Association.
  • Interned at a prestigious New York law firm, gaining practical experience in legal document preparation and case management.
RIGHT

This education section rocks because it includes:

  • Specific information: The section thoroughly details the degree obtained, institution attended, GPA achieved, and the timeframe of the studies, offering a complete and transparent educational background.
  • Key accomplishments: By highlighting honors graduation, a capstone project on legal research methodologies, and active membership in the NYU Paralegal Association, the section shows dedication, academic excellence, and leadership skills.
  • Practical experience: Including an internship at a notable New York law firm and listing relevant coursework like Legal Research and Writing, Civil Litigation, and Criminal Law emphasizes the candidate's hands-on experience and specialized knowledge. This makes their qualifications particularly compelling to potential employers.

It’s possible to work as a paralegal even if you’re still a student. Consider listing the institution you’re attending, relevant coursework, and expected graduation date.

Including a certification section is another great way to show your dedication to your profession. It shows commitment to development, and a readiness to stay in touch with news in your field. Let’s see what the most popular legal assistant certificates are.

Now that you’ve covered all the essential sections of your paralegal resume, it’s time to go back to the start. The personal statement you put on top of your resume is a recap of what you’ve done and can do. It takes little space, but it’s quite a big deal, so keep reading to find out how to perfect it.

Your exact career situation calls the shots in your choice of a resume summary or objective. It’s all about your level of experience and what you want to emphasize when contacting the potential employer. Ask yourself, “Can my previous experience contribute to the company’s goals, or is it rather the other way around–the company aligns well with my goals for future development?”. Depending on the answer to this question, you’ll know which one you need. If you feel the first part is where you’re at professionally, choose a resume summary. 

A resume summary is usually preferred by those already established in the field. It serves as a snapshot of your expertise as a legal assistant, demonstrates how your skills contributed to a previous company's success and is best for those with over 2 years of experience. Make it 3–5 sentences for a comprehensive overview.

A resume objective, on the other hand, is more suitable for those with less experience in the paralegal field, or those who are switching careers. It focuses on your future goals and your eagerness to achieve them.

Let’s look at two legal assistant resume summary examples. They’re both tailored to the job description above. Here’s the bad one:

Summary
As an experienced Legal Assistant, I am eager to find a new opportunity where I can use my skills in a legal setting. I have experience in various legal tasks such as document preparation and client communication, and I am familiar with office software. I am looking for a stable job where I can grow professionally and contribute to the team. I am detail-oriented and capable of managing multiple tasks, ensuring deadlines are met. I am ready to bring my experience to a supportive and productive work environment.
WRONG

Can you see what’s wrong with this one?

  • Vague and generic: The summary is too broad and does not specify experience related to the specific tasks or responsibilities mentioned in the job posting.
  • Lacks personality fit: Does not convey the personality traits or cultural fit that XYZ Law Firm values, such as being motivated, compassionate, and collaborative.
  • No mention of key skills: Fails to highlight proficiency in specific software (case management software, LexisNexis) and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, which are crucial for the role. The summary doesn’t mention specific legal assistant duties like drafting settlement demands or assisting with pleadings and scheduling.

And now a better example:

Summary
Highly motivated Legal Assistant with over 5 years of experience managing first-party property damage claims from inception to resolution. Skilled in organization, drafting settlement demands, and assisting with pleadings and scheduling. Known for fostering collaborative partnerships and delivering exceptional client service. Proficient in case management software and LexisNexis, with a strong commitment to accuracy. Seeking to bring my skills and dedication to a growing team at XYZ Law Firm.
RIGHT

This one is:

  • Tailored to job description: The summary highlights experience with first-party property damage claims, which is directly relevant to the job posting.
  • Demonstrating software proficiency: Mentions proficiency in case management software and LexisNexis, matching the job requirements.
  • Fit for the role: Emphasizes traits like motivation, compassion, and collaboration, aligning with the company's desired qualities. It also mentions specific tasks such as drafting settlement demands and assisting with pleadings and scheduling.

Finally, think about what else you can add to your paralegal resume. What makes you you? Take your pick from our suggestions for additional sections.

Sometimes we think of additional as good-to-have, but not necessarily a must-have. Well, in a competitive job market where thousands of uniform legal assistant resumes are submitted every day, it’s good to have something extra to stand out. We’ve made a list of the most useful additional sections for your paralegal resume:

  • Key achievements: Showcase specific accomplishments that demonstrate your expertise and impact in previous roles. For example, "Successfully managed a complex case documentation process for a high-profile litigation, resulting in a 20% reduction in preparation time and contributing to a favorable outcome for the client."
  • Professional affiliations: List memberships in professional organizations like the National Association of legal assistants (NALA) or local bar associations. For example, "Active member of the National Association of legal assistants (NALA) since 2018, participating in annual conferences and contributing to professional development initiatives."
  • Volunteer work and pro bono projects: Mention any volunteer work or pro bono projects related to the legal field. For example, "Volunteered with the Legal Aid Society, providing assistance in preparing legal documents and offering administrative support for low-income clients."
  • Language skills: If you are multilingual, list the languages you speak. For example, "Fluent in French and English, enabling effective communication with diverse clients and assisting in bilingual legal documentation and interpretation."
  • Publications and presentations: Include any articles, papers, or presentations you have authored or contributed to. For example, "Authored an article on 'The Role of legal assistants in Streamlining Case Management' published in the legal assistant Journal, demonstrating expertise and thought leadership in the field."
  • Testimonials and references: Add a section with quotes from former employers, colleagues, or clients who can vouch for your skills and work ethic. For example, "Jane Doe, Senior Attorney at XYZ Law Firm: 'Leah's exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail have been instrumental in our case preparations. He consistently goes above and beyond to support our team.'"

Lastly, here’s a specific example of an additional section.

How to put a continuing education section on a legal assistant resume

Imagine you want to list any ongoing education efforts, such as workshops, seminars, or online courses. For example, "Completed a Continuing Legal Education (CLE) course on Intellectual Property Law, enhancing my ability to assist in IP-related cases and stay current with legal developments.

Here’s an example of such a section:

Continuing Education
Continuing Legal Education (CLE) Course
American Bar Association
Online
  • Completed a CLE course on Intellectual Property Law, enhancing ability to assist in IP-related cases and stay current with legal developments.
Workshop on Legal Technology and Software
National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA)
New York, NY
  • Participated in a workshop focused on the latest legal technology and software, improving proficiency in Clio and LexisNexis for efficient case management.
RIGHT

A continuing education section is a great way to show future employers you’re on a path of constant improvement.

Key Takeaways

That’s all, folks! Now it’s your turn to make a brilliant legal assistant resume using our comprehensive tips. And just in case, here’s a quick recap:

  • Choose the right format for your resume depending on your focus: skills, experience, or both
  • Use lines and pops of color to focus attention on important info on your legal assistant resume
  • Your experience could help you either pinpoint your professional growth or focus on your niche expertise in the industry
  • List your key accomplishments as tangible results to best reflect you’re a top-notch candidate!
  • If you’re an entry-level legal assistant, just think about what transferable skills and abilities you can bring to the table
  • Back up your achievements with the hard and soft skills they've helped you build
  • Master your education section to show reliability and a serious approach
  • Personalized additional sections can be the gateway to that dream job

Legal Assistant resume examples

Explore additional legal assistant resume samples and guides and see what works for your level of experience or role.

By Experience

Senior Legal Assistant

Given that the Senior Legal Assistant position originated from the broader legal field, trends within law generally will influence the expectations and demands of this role.

Key pointers for job application success include showcasing experience with legal research, drafting, case management, and negotiation skills. For instance, if you can demonstrate an application of negotiation skills leading to the beneficial resolution of a case, it can indeed underline your proficiency. Remember that technological proficiency such as familiarity with legal software or e-discovery platforms can be a bonus. Beyond listing skills, elucidate how they assisted in case outcomes and efficiency enhancement, for example, 'Increased case processing speed by x% using...'. Stick to the fundamental formula of 'skill-action-results'.

Entry-Level Legal Assistant

As an Entry-Level Legal Assistant, it's crucial to have a basic understanding of legal areas like corporate law, civil law, and intellectual property law. This theoretical knowledge can improve your job application. Make sure to include relevant legal coursework or internships in your resume from the beginning to avoid being overlooked. Remember to emphasize courses or internships that have enhanced your understanding of real case outcomes and share your hands-on experiences. Avoid merely listing your coursework or internship experience; instead, demonstrate how they contributed to building a solid legal comprehension. Examples might include 'prepared legal documents in…' or 'assisted in legal research for…'. Stick to the “Skill-action-results” approach to create a more engaging, results-driven resume.

Mid-Level Legal Assistant

As a Mid-Level Legal Assistant, you are responsible for providing critical support to attorneys by managing case files, conducting legal research, and preparing necessary documents. On your resume, ensure you highlight your experience with legal drafting, your familiarity with case management software, and your ability to maintain client confidentiality. Consider adding skills like strong organizational abilities and proficiency in legal research tools to further enhance your resume. Demonstrate your value by detailing your ability to handle high-pressure situations and your track record of contributing to successful case outcomes.

By Role

Real Estate Legal Assistant

A Real Estate Legal Assistant position builds upon standard legal assisting while focusing more specifically on real estate law trends and practices.

In job applications, key highlights should include experience with real estate transactions, title searches, contract drafting, and closings. Demonstrating how you leveraged these skills to facilitate real estate deals effectively will definitely add value to your application. Familiarity with real estate-focused software is also valuable. Reflect on incidents where your skills led to more efficient transactions or fewer legal issues, such as 'Reduced title dispute issues by x% by ...' or 'Facilitated x number of smooth closings using...'. This 'skill-action-results' framework will make your resume more compelling.

Personal Injury Legal Assistant

The role of a Personal Injury Legal Assistant borrows heavily from general legal support trends, with a slant towards personal injury law practices.

Your application should focus on skills such as legal research, case management, drafting, and client account management. It's especially beneficial if you can share how you have handled sensitive client situations. IT proficiency in case management systems will be a plus. Demonstrate your unique contributions to case progress or client satisfaction instead of merely listing skills - for instance, 'Managed x number of personal injury cases, resulting in y favorable outcomes' or 'Improved client satisfaction score by x% by ...'. Stick with the 'skill-action-results' theme to make your resume stand out.

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Gabriela Manova
Gabi is a writer, editor, and translator with experience in the publishing industry and education. In 2020, she released her debut poetry collection. As a translator, she is deeply committed to popularizing Bulgarian culture by translating prominent Bulgarian works into English. With 40+ articles written for Enhancv, she combines her expertise in language and cultural nuances with her passion for educating a wider audience, ensuring that every piece is engaging and accessible.
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