The legal industry can be a highly rewarding, but challenging profession. When attending an interview for a legal position, you will be competing against other highly qualified candidates. Therefore, it is crucial you make a great impression.
Above all else, preparation is key. Above all, preparation is key. Taking the time to consider potential legal interview questions can help you approach the interview with confidence and composure.
So, what are some common legal interview questions and how do you answer them?
Why do you want to practice law?
Interviewers want to see that you are passionate about the industry and meeting the needs of your clients. Here, you should talk about what attracted you to the legal profession.
What areas of law are you passionate about?
Employers are interested in your areas of expertise and whether they align with the firm’s specialisations. Tailor your answer by linking your skills and experiences to the firm’s primary focus areas.
What do you know about our company? What has attracted you to our firm?
This question gauges how much research you have done about the firm and whether your values align with theirs.
To answer this question, research the firm you are applying for as much as possible. Know the areas of law that it specialises in. What are its values? Are there any significant cases it recently worked on?
What are your strengths as a lawyer?
Employers want to find out your strengths to determine how you would fit with their current team.
How do you build trust with a client?
In law, your relationship with clients is everything. Interviewers want to see how you build and maintain relationships with your clients.
How do you manage difficult clients?
Problem-solving and conflict management are critical skills in law. Share an example of how you successfully managed a challenging client relationship while maintaining professionalism.
Can you describe a high-pressure situation and how you dealt with it?
Employers ask this question to assess how you deal with the significant challenges that can come with a legal role.
How do you stay up to date with changes in law?
Law is an industry that can change quickly. Employers want to assess your ability to keep up with relevant legislation. In your answer, provide examples of the methods you use to remain up to date. These could include seminars, journals, articles and training.
How do you manage your caseload?
Legal roles often come with a heavy workload. Employers want to see how you mitigate stress and manage competing priorities.
Describe a case that didn’t go your way. What did you learn from it?
Employers want to see you acknowledge your mistakes. They also want to see how you use them as a learning opportunity.
Describe an instance where you went above and beyond for a client
Employers want to know that you will prioritise the needs of clients. To answer this question, provide an example of a time when you exceeded the expectations of a client.
Describe your approach in the courtroom
Employers want to see detailed examples of how you perform in the courtroom as this can be a determining factor in winning a case. Answering this question provides an opportunity to showcase your preparation skills as well as your interpersonal skills.
Legal interviews can be challenging. However, with preparation and self-reflection, you can give yourself the best chance of success.
Are you looking for a career in law? Public Service Resumes can help. We offer various services including interview coaching for legal professionals.
Article References
Birt, J (10 August 2023) ‘33 Law Firm Interview Questions and How To Answer Them’, Indeed, accessed 28 January 2025.
Gatehouse Legal Recruitment (n.d) ‘Mastering Law Firm Interview Questions: A Comprehensive Guide’, Gatehouse Legal Recruitment, accessed 28 January 2025.
Legal People (10 August 2023) ‘17 Questions Lawyers are Likely to Be Asked in a Job Interview’, Legal People, accessed 28 January 2025.