In a competitive legal job market, knowing how to write a legal cover letter can mean the difference between landing the interview and getting the "thanks, but no thanks" form letter. A legal cover letter may be even more important than cover letters people use to get jobs in other industries, because employers in the legal field expect you to be able to prove your case as an applicant. They want you to convince them that you are the right person for the job.

The first step to writing a legal cover letter is knowing who should receive it. You want to have the name of the person in the greeting line. Try to avoid the "To Whom It May Concern" line and obtain an actual name. When you make the extra effort to get a specific name, by calling the office or through another contact person in the loop, you are showing initiative and drive, which are important characteristics to people who are hiring.

Once you know the recipient of the legal cover letter, think of an opening that will grab this person's attention. You want them to be immediately interested in what you will say in your cover letter-beginning with the first line. Make the first sentence count by creating a catchy yet smart introduction. After all, they may know after reading the first paragraph if they believe you are a good fit for the position or not.

Because the field of law is built on a foundation of clear, concise communication, it is important as you learn how to write a legal cover letter that you use the same form of communication. Make each sentence count and leave out unnecessary words or phrases. Furthermore, make certain that your points are strong. Convince the reader you are right for the job by using solid, supportive evidence.

The tone of your legal cover letter is also important. While you want to convey a professional tone, it is also important to show excitement about the possibility of being hired for the job. Let them know why you want the position and why you enjoy the legal field. Candidates who communicate a passion for the job through their cover letter are more likely to become the top applicants for consideration. You definitely want to avoid sounding desperate for work or money. Employers from any field are turned off by this type of letter, so make sure you are focusing on the love of the job and your qualifications and not your need for income.

While you want to use good taste when writing positive comments about yourself, don't be afraid to sell yourself. This can be a difficult task for humble job-seekers. However, the objective of a good legal cover letter is to give yourself a proper introduction, so that the employer is compelled to bring you in for an interview or, even better, give you the job. Remember, as you decide how to write a legal cover letter, the reader will only know as much about you as you share through the letter. This is your chance to deliver a professional, passionate piece that will convince him or her that you are the one to fill the legal position.

Jason Kay recommends finding a variety of sample legal forms and documents at www.SampleLegal.com.