How To Write A Law School Letter of Recommendation: A Guide to Success
So, you’ve been asked to write a law school letter of recommendation. That’s a significant request, and it’s a testament to your relationship with the applicant. It means they value your opinion, and they believe you can provide valuable insights into their suitability for law school. But where do you even begin? Don’t worry; this comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, ensuring you craft a compelling and effective letter that helps the applicant stand out.
Understanding the Purpose: Why Letters of Recommendation Matter
Before you put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), it’s crucial to understand the purpose of a law school letter of recommendation. Admissions committees are looking for more than just a list of accomplishments; they want a holistic view of the candidate. They’re seeking information that complements the applicant’s academic record and personal statement. Your letter provides an independent assessment, offering a different perspective on the applicant’s skills, character, and potential for success in law school and beyond.
Gathering the Essentials: Information You’ll Need
You can’t write a stellar letter without the right information. The more you know, the better. Don’t be shy about asking the applicant for the following:
- Their Resume/CV: This provides a quick overview of their academic and professional experiences.
- Their Personal Statement: This gives you insight into their goals and motivations for pursuing law.
- A List of Law Schools They’re Applying To: Each school might have specific requirements or areas of focus.
- Any Specific Instructions or Prompts: Some schools provide specific questions they want recommenders to address.
- A Waiver of Right to See the Letter: This is a common practice and will help you feel more comfortable writing the letter.
- Why they chose you: This will help you understand what they specifically want you to focus on.
Structuring Your Letter: A Clear and Concise Format
A well-structured letter is easy to read and conveys your points effectively. Here’s a suggested format:
Opening Paragraph: Establishing Your Connection
Start by introducing yourself and your relationship with the applicant. How do you know them? How long have you known them? Be specific and provide context. For example, “I have known [Applicant’s Name] for the past three years as their professor in my [Course Name] class at [Institution].”
Body Paragraph 1: Highlighting Key Qualities and Skills
This is where you highlight the applicant’s strengths. Focus on qualities that are relevant to law school success, such as analytical skills, critical thinking, communication abilities, and work ethic. Provide specific examples to support your claims. Don’t just say they’re “a good writer”; instead, describe a specific project or assignment where their writing skills shone.
Body Paragraph 2: Demonstrating Their Suitability for Law School
This is the core of your letter. Connect the applicant’s qualities to the demands of law school. Explain why you believe they would excel in a rigorous academic environment. Consider their ability to handle pressure, work collaboratively, and think critically. Are they a quick learner? Do they possess strong research skills?
Body Paragraph 3: Addressing Potential Weaknesses (If Any)
This section is optional but can be very beneficial. If the applicant has any apparent weaknesses, you can address them constructively. For example, if they struggled with a particular skill, you can discuss how they overcame that challenge or how they’ve developed in that area. This demonstrates your honesty and provides a more nuanced perspective. Don’t dwell on weaknesses; instead, focus on their growth and potential.
Concluding Paragraph: Offering a Strong Recommendation
Conclude your letter with a clear and enthusiastic recommendation. Reiterate your belief in the applicant’s potential. Express your confidence that they will succeed in law school and contribute positively to the legal profession. Provide a strong statement of support, such as, “I wholeheartedly recommend [Applicant’s Name] for admission to your law school. I am confident that they will be a valuable asset to your community.” Include your contact information in case the admissions committee has any further questions.
Crafting Compelling Content: Using Specific Examples
Specificity is key. Avoid vague generalizations. Instead of saying, “They are a hard worker,” provide a concrete example. For example:
- “During the [Project Name] project, [Applicant’s Name] consistently went above and beyond, staying late to ensure the project was completed to the highest standards. They demonstrated a remarkable commitment to detail and a willingness to learn from their mistakes.”
Use anecdotes to illustrate your points. Tell a brief story that showcases the applicant’s qualities. This makes your letter more engaging and memorable.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls: What to Avoid in Your Letter
There are several things you should avoid when writing a letter of recommendation:
- Generic Language: Avoid using clichés or generic phrases that could apply to anyone.
- Negative Comments: Focus on the applicant’s strengths. Don’t dwell on weaknesses unless you can address them constructively.
- Exaggeration: Be honest and authentic. Don’t overstate the applicant’s abilities.
- Lack of Specificity: As mentioned above, provide concrete examples to support your claims.
- Poor Grammar and Spelling: Proofread your letter carefully. Errors can undermine your credibility.
The Importance of Tone and Style: Conveying Authenticity
Your tone should be professional but also authentic. Let your personality shine through. Show your genuine enthusiasm for the applicant. Your letter should sound like it’s written by a real person, not a robot.
Proofreading and Editing: Ensuring a Polished Letter
Before submitting your letter, proofread it carefully. Check for any grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, or typos. Ask a colleague or friend to read it over as well. A fresh pair of eyes can often catch errors you might have missed.
Submitting Your Letter: Adhering to Instructions
Follow the law schools’ instructions precisely. Pay close attention to the submission deadline and the preferred method of delivery (e.g., online portal, email). Ensure your letter is formatted correctly and meets any specific requirements.
Common Questions About Law School Letters of Recommendation
Here are some frequently asked questions to provide additional clarity:
Can I Refuse to Write a Letter?
Yes, you absolutely can. If you don’t feel you know the applicant well enough or don’t believe you can write a strong recommendation, it’s perfectly acceptable to decline the request. It’s better to decline than to submit a lukewarm letter.
How Long Should the Letter Be?
There’s no strict length requirement, but a letter typically ranges from one to two pages. Focus on quality over quantity.
What if I Don’t Remember the Applicant Well?
If you don’t have a strong memory of the applicant, it might be challenging to write a compelling letter. In this case, it may be best to politely decline the request.
What Should I Do if the Applicant Provides Me With a Draft?
While it’s common for applicants to provide you with information, you should avoid simply copying their draft. Use it as a starting point, but write the letter in your own words and from your perspective.
How Much Time Should I Allow Myself to Write the Letter?
Give yourself ample time to write the letter. Don’t wait until the last minute. Start early, gather the necessary information, and allow time for revisions and proofreading.
FAQs: More Insights for Recommendation Writers
Here are some additional FAQs to enhance your understanding of the process:
What if I haven’t taught the applicant recently; can I still write a letter?
Absolutely. If you have a strong understanding of the applicant’s skills, even from prior experiences, you can still write a compelling letter. Focus on the relevant qualities and provide supporting evidence.
Can I mention my personal relationship with the applicant in the letter?
Yes, to a certain extent. If your relationship provides relevant context (e.g., you mentored the applicant), you can briefly mention it. However, the focus should remain on their abilities and suitability for law school.
Is it okay to be honest about the applicant’s weaknesses?
Yes, but approach it constructively. Frame any weaknesses as challenges they have overcome or areas where they are working to improve. Focus on their potential for growth.
How do I ensure the letter is tailored to each law school?
Review each school’s mission statement and values. Tailor your letter to highlight the applicant’s qualities that align with those values. If the school emphasizes a specific area of law, mention the applicant’s interest in that area.
What if I’m not a lawyer? Can I still write a helpful letter?
Yes, definitely. Your perspective as a professor, employer, mentor, or supervisor can be highly valuable. Focus on the applicant’s skills and character, and how they would be successful in law school.
Conclusion: Writing a Letter That Makes a Difference
Writing a law school letter of recommendation is a significant responsibility, but it’s also an opportunity to make a real difference in an applicant’s future. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can craft a compelling and effective letter that highlights the applicant’s strengths, demonstrates their suitability for law school, and helps them stand out from the competition. Remember to be specific, authentic, and enthusiastic in your writing. Good luck!