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Sample Interview Questions: Law
Question: Why did you go to law school?
goals you state are not only compatible with, but
Answer: On the surface, this seems like an easy
directly related to, the role. Most interviewers
question, but can actually trip up a number of
are proud of their companies and are not
people. Answering with “To make a difference”
interested in hiring someone who sees a job as
may certainly be true, but your answer should
merely a stepping stone to where they really
mention something specific that motivated you
want to be.
to pursue a legal career. Give a detailed and
dynamic answer that is both truthful and sets
Question: Have you ever had a conflict with a
you apart from others. Perhaps there was a
co--worker? How did you solve it?
mentor who inspired you or a job that sparked
Answer: Conflicts arise in the workplace, and
your interest – you should feel comfortable
employers want to know that you will be able to
discussing why you decided to go to law school.
resolve them effectively. The best situations to
While it is important to include details, be
talk about in response to this question deal with
careful not to ramble; being articulate may
work--related (not personal) conflicts. Describe a
separate you from other candidates.
time where you and a colleague differed on your
approach to an assignment. Then, explain the
Question: Why did you apply to this firm?
steps you took to come to an agreement. The
Answer: Naturally, there may be some general
anecdote should not end with a description of
reasons you applied for a job at this firm, such as
who "won," but rather how you reached a
the type of practice, the reputation of the firm or
compromise with your colleague.
the firm’s location. While it is okay to briefly
touch on these points, make sure that your
Question: Do you have any questions for me?
answer focuses on an aspect that is unique to
Answer: Always be prepared with questions for
this particular firm. This, of course, is where all
the interviewer. There are some general ones
your thorough research comes into play. You can
that work, such as:
bring up one of the cases they have done,
What do you think are the most important
especially if it ties into your personal interests.
qualities to be an attorney here?
You can also discuss the positive things they
Can you tell me more about the specifics of
offer to their employees, such as in--house
the position?
training for specialized fields.
It is a good idea to ask the attorney that is
Question: Where do you see yourself in five
interviewing you about their job or their career
years?
path. One question to ask in interviews is “What
Answer: This question is especially tough if you
is one case that you found most interesting to
are at the beginning of your career, when your
work on in your career, one that has stuck with
path is less clear and you may be unsure where
you?” People always enjoy talking about
you are headed. What's most important is to
themselves, and if you are truly interested in
show that you have clear goals, and that the
their answer, they are likely to come away with a
position you are interviewing for makes sense as
more positive impression of you.
a part of your trajectory. Make sure that the
