How Do You Format A Law School Personal Statement?

by | Last updated on January 24, 2024

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Tell an interesting, informative story and personal story about yourself in 700-1400 words (double- spaced). Check the school's requirements for the exact word count or page limit. Share aspects of your life that are not apparent from your transcript(s), , or letters of recommendation.

Do you put your name on law school personal statement?

Your personal statement should contain your full legal name in the top-right-hand corner of each page. We suggest using the Last Name, First Name format, as it can make candidate identification easier when being reviewed by Law School Admission Committee Members.

How do you tailor a personal statement for law school?

  • Do not play a role, especially that of a lawyer or judge. …
  • Do not tell your life story in chronological order or merely re-state your resume. …
  • Do not become a cliché. …
  • Do not use a personal statement to explain discrepancies in your application. …
  • Do not offend your reader.

How do you format a personal statement?

A general rule of thumb you might follow is to submit a 2-3 page statement,

double-spaced, with 1-inch margins, in 12-pt. Times New Roman font

. While there are no set rules about length or format, this is typically considered appropriate and sufficient.

How do you structure a personal statement for law school?

Tell an interesting, informative story and personal story about yourself in

700-1400 words

(double- spaced). Check the school's requirements for the exact word count or page limit. Share aspects of your life that are not apparent from your transcript(s), resume, or letters of recommendation.

What should you not do in a law school personal statement?

  • Do not play a role, especially that of a lawyer or judge. …
  • Do not tell your life story in chronological order or merely re-state your resume. …
  • Do not become a cliché. …
  • Do not use a personal statement to explain discrepancies in your application. …
  • Do not offend your reader.

How do you write a good personal statement for law?

  1. Be straightforward. Do not make it more complex than it is. …
  2. Proofread, proofread, proofread. …
  3. Be concise and organize your thoughts. …
  4. Make sure your personal statement is about you. …
  5. Be yourself. …
  6. Write in your own voice. …
  7. Make it personal.

How long is the personal statement for law school?

Depending on the law school, your personal statement will range in length from

300 to 1000 words

. Most law schools require personal statements that are two to two-and-a-half pages, double-spaced, with one-inch margins and 12 point font.

Should you name drop in a personal statement?


People won't recognize

the names you're dropping, and it'll backfire on you. Leave them out.

How do you end a personal statement for law school?

Conclude your personal statement for law school with a passionate vision for your career. Ultimately, the admissions officers are looking for an answer to the question, ‘Why do you want to become a lawyer? ‘ Every paragraph of the essay should imply this, but we recommend stating this directly in the

conclusion

.

What should you say in a personal statement?

Your personal statement should include

a brief overview of who you are

, your strengths and any work experience and/or education you've got. Be sure to include skills you've gained, such as time management, customer service, teamwork, computer skills etc.

How do you write a short personal statement?

  1. Hook the reader's attention by adopting a polite, professional and positive tone.
  2. Keep it short, precise and within the recommended length. …
  3. Include a brief overview of your career history. …
  4. Highlight key areas of expertise. …
  5. Include key skills. …
  6. Indicate the type of role you are seeking.

How many paragraphs is a personal statement?

Personal statements are typically

three to four paragraphs in length

. But each university may have their own requirements. They may also provide a specific topic to address.

What qualities makes a good lawyer?

  • Passion for the Job. …
  • Compassion for Clients. …
  • Great Communication Skills. …
  • Willingness to Listen. …
  • Knowledge of the Law. …
  • Strong Writing Ability. …
  • Creativity. …
  • Good Judgment.

How do you not start a personal statement?

  1. Avoid overused opening sentences. …
  2. Steer clear of clichéd openings and childhood anecdotes. …
  3. Be wary of opening your personal statement with a joke. …
  4. Begin your personal statement with your own voice, not a quote from a famous person.
Juan Martinez
Author
Juan Martinez
Juan Martinez is a journalism professor and experienced writer. With a passion for communication and education, Juan has taught students from all over the world. He is an expert in language and writing, and has written for various blogs and magazines.