by Beverly Aarons
10. June 2009 09:20
One of the most important aspects of writing a cover letter for a judicial clerkship is that the cover letter should be very specific. If the cover letter is written it such a way that it could be sent to any judge then it is not specific enough. Let's take a look at some tips on writing a cover letter for a judicial clerk position.
1. Cover letters should never exceed one page in length.
2. Cover letters should indicate specifically the hiring cycle the applicant is interested in, the month and year the applicant can begin working and when the applicant is available to interview.
3. Cover letters should also include very specific examples of academic success that will highlight the applicant's ability to write and research.
4. Applicants should express why they are interested in this particular judge, court, geographic area and area of law.
5. When addressing the judge in the address area of your cover letter (and on the envelope) place "The Honorable" before their name.
6. When addressing judge's who preside over any court with the word "Supreme" in its name, you should address them as "Justice" instead of "Judge." For example: Dear Justice Williams.
7. Always close your letter with "Respectfully" instead of "Sincerely."
A final word on being specific in your cover letter:
When discussing your accomplishments make sure you express as precisely as possible what the problem was that you solved, how you solved it and how the solution benefited your supervisor/professor/company etc. Also, try to avoid talking about how the clerkship will benefit you as the applicant and focus on how your presence will benefit the judge and his court.