Knowing what legal work experience you have is only half the battle. Knowing how to structure it effectively in applications, CVs, and interviews is what often makes the difference.
Many aspiring solicitors have relevant experience but struggle to present it clearly or confidently. This guide sets out a simple, UK-focused structure you can use to explain legal work experience in a way law firms actually value.
Why Structure Matters
Recruiters review hundreds of applications. A clear structure helps them quickly understand:
- What you did
- What skills you developed
- Why the experience is relevant to the role
Without structure, even strong experience can sound vague or unimpressive.
What Law Firms Are Really Looking For
When firms read about your legal work experience, they are usually assessing:
- Exposure to legal work or legal environments
- Transferable skills (analysis, communication, organisation)
- Professional awareness and reflection
- Motivation for a career in law
The structure you use should help highlight these points naturally.
The STAR+L Structure (Recommended)
A reliable way to structure legal work experience is the STAR+L method:
- Situation – Where was the experience and what was the context?
- Task – What were you responsible for?
- Action – What did you actually do?
- Result – What was the outcome?
- Learning – What did you learn and why does it matter?
Adding the Learning element is particularly important for legal applications.
Example: Law Firm Work Experience
Situation:
I completed a one-week placement at a high street law firm specialising in family and property law.
Task:
I was asked to assist the solicitors with case preparation and client correspondence.
Action:
I reviewed case files, drafted attendance notes, observed client meetings, and assisted with basic legal research under supervision.
Result:
My work supported the solicitors in preparing matters efficiently and improved my understanding of client confidentiality and professional standards.
Learning:
This experience confirmed my interest in client-facing legal work and highlighted the importance of clear communication and attention to detail in practice.
Example: Non-Legal Role Used as Legal Experience
Situation:
I worked in a customer service role within a regulated financial services environment.
Task:
I was responsible for handling sensitive client information and resolving complaints.
Action:
I communicated with clients professionally, documented issues accurately, and followed internal compliance procedures.
Result:
I developed strong organisational and communication skills while working within strict regulatory guidelines.
Learning:
This role strengthened my understanding of confidentiality, risk management, and professional conduct — all of which are directly relevant to legal practice.
How to Structure Legal Work Experience on a CV
For CVs, keep your structure concise:
Role | Organisation | Dates
- Brief description of the organisation
- 2–3 bullet points focusing on actions and skills
- Avoid long task lists
Example:
- Assisted with legal research and case preparation
- Drafted basic correspondence and attendance notes
- Observed client meetings and court proceedings
How to Structure Legal Work Experience in Application Forms
When answering competency or experience questions:
- Choose one strong example
- Apply the STAR+L structure
- Link your learning back to the firm or role
Avoid listing multiple experiences without explanation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Describing tasks without reflection
- Using vague phrases like “I gained exposure”
- Overloading answers with too many examples
- Undervaluing informal or non-legal experience
Clarity and reflection matter more than prestige.
Final Thoughts
Strong legal work experience answers are not about having the perfect role — they are about explaining your experience clearly and thoughtfully.
If you can show what you did, what you learned, and why it matters, you are already demonstrating the skills law firms look for in future solicitors.
For more UK-focused guidance on legal careers, applications, and work experience, explore TheLawyerFiles podcast and written resources.
