If you are a first-year student selecting your first legal writing sample, the OCP has important advice to share.
Some first-year students may have completed an initial writing assignment that reflects a “closed-universe” of research. This means that the research was provided to you by the professor and you did not conduct independent research to complete the project.
When legal employers request a writing sample, they might assume they can use it to assess your writing skills and your research skills. It is our strong recommendation that, when providing a writing sample, you use the writing sample that demonstrates both your own research and your own writing.
Should you choose to use the sample from the closed universe of research, we suggest that you disclose that information in your writing sample cover page.
Questions? Contact the Office of Career Planning!
