lblair resume guide

8/10/2019 Lblair Resume Guide

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Naked Resumesand Cover Letters

Services la population tudiant

Student Service

Common La

Services la population tudianteStudent Services

Fauteux pice / Room 233 (613) 562-5800 ext. 2514 [email protected]


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Naked Resumes and Cover Letters Page 1 of 36

2005 Career Development Resource Centre University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, Common Law Section

Table of Contents

Table of Contents......................................................................................................................................1

Welcome toNaked Resumes and Cover Letters....................................................................................2

How is a Legal Resume Different?......................................................................................................3

The Short List Dos and Donts..........................................................................................................3

A Note on Transferable Skills .............................................................................................................. 4Sample Resumes:First Career Resumes................................................................................................5

Jackie Academic.................................................................................................................................................5Tara Extracurricular..........................................................................................................................................7Carl Criminal Focus ..........................................................................................................................................9Ava General .....................................................................................................................................................11

Janice A. American-Firm................................................................................................................................13Lynda Baystreet...............................................................................................................................................14Amy A. Academic...........................................................................................................................................16

Patrick Secondcareer.......................................................................................................................................18Natalia National Accreditation .....................................................................................................................20Ryan B. American-Firm..................................................................................................................................22Clerkship ..........................................................................................................................................................24Specific City Firm (note that special care must be taken to identify a specific tie to the city ofapplication if other than Toronto i.e. Vancouver in this case.) .................................................................25Large Firm (note that no specific city tie is given, this is appropriate for Toronto)...............................26Large Firm (note specific city tie to Ottawa) ...............................................................................................27Medium Sized Firm ........................................................................................................................................28Variations on a Theme....................................................................................................................................29

Re: Application for Summer 2004 Employment ......................................................................................29

Small Boutique Firm Application .................................................................................................................30

Re: Application for Articling for 2005-2006 ..............................................................................................30 Summer Application (Cold Call) ..................................................................................................................31Summer Application (Previous Contact).....................................................................................................32Specific Practice Area (Administrative Law) ..............................................................................................33U.S. Firm...........................................................................................................................................................34U.S. Firm...........................................................................................................................................................35


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Welcome to

Naked Resumes and Cover Letters

Why naked, you ask? Because were based on CBC Radio One Ottawas hit Naked Radio, inwhich journalists are sent out into the community without any previous research no news

conferences, no media releases and told not to come back until theyve got a story. Theyrenaked, so to speak, because theyre without any of their traditional support networks.

We thought this might be a good analogy for you as you approach your first legal resume andcover letter. Understandably, you might feel as if youve just been tossed out into a strangetown and told to do something youre not used to doing. This book is intended to help youthrough that.

Please keep in mind that your resume and cover letter are incredibly personal documents.Everything in this book is a suggestionand not a requirement. There are some acceptedformats and standards to which mostresumes and cover letters tendto conform, but youshouldnt feel absolutely compelled to abide by them. Above all, what you develop shouldbe something that youre comfortable with.

Whatever you do, DONT just copy the language in these examples word for word youmust make your resume and cover letter your own and copying these examples will surelycome back to haunt you in the job market!

Feel free to browse this book at your convenience and use it as a guide to your own legalresume and cover letter. When youve gotten a good start, make an appointment with theCareer Development Resource Centre (CDRC) for a resume and cover letter review. Well sitdown with you for about 30 minutes and give you tips on making your resume and cover lettermore appealing to employers.

If you have any questions whatsoever, if you want to make an appointment for resume or coverletter review, or if you just want to stop by and chat, come visit us in Fauteux 233D. Weve alsogot tons of information and reference material on firms, government jobs, and social justiceopportunities. You can also reach us at 613.562.5800 x3292 or [email protected].

Best of luck!

CDRC StaffCommon Law SectionUniversity of Ottawa, Faculty of Law


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A Note on Transferable Skills

At this point in your legal career, you may feel that you dont have any useful legal skills toinclude on your resume. Dont worry! Tons of the experience that you already haveis important

to legal employers: theyre interested in skills that you can transfer to a legal position. It is allabout how you present your past work experience and your ability to make it relevant to anemployer by a cleverly drafted resume and cover letter.

Think about experience youve had where youve developed skills such as:

Advocating Documenting Managing PlanningAdvising Drafting Marketing Problem-solvingAnalysing Editing Mediating Public SpeakingAssessing Evaluating Negotiating ResearchingCoordinating Influencing Networking Summarising

Counselling Interviewing Observing SupervisingCommunicating Interpreting Organising TranslatingDelegating Investigating Persuading Troubleshooting

* List adapted from the U of T 2003 Articling Handbook

Putting these verbs into bulleted phrases is an excellent method of integrating them into yourresume. In your cover letter you want to use these words when describing previous workexperience. Always remember in a cover letter you should not only describe a past experiencebut also highlight what skills you developed from the experience.

Say what you did, then say what learned from it!


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Sample Resumes:

First Career Resumes

Jackie Academic

242 Rideau StreetOttawa, OntarioK1N 4B7

Telephone: (613) 567-5420, Email:[email protected]

Education

2000-2003 Bachelor of Laws,University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law Major Research Project Defamation in Canadian

Cyberspace

Ranked 4th

out of 160 students

Winter 2001 Intensive Alternative Dispute Resolution Program, Universityof Ottawa, Faculty of Law

1997-2000 Bachelor of Arts, Honours, University of Toronto Major Criminology, Minor Sociology, History

1996-1997 Certificate in Criminology, Kwantlen University College,Surrey, BC

Academic Awards and Achievements

Graduated summa cum laude (2003) Maintained Deans List Standing (2000-2003) Achieved Faculty Scholar Awards (2001-2003) Achieved Woodsworth College Students Association Scholarship (1999)

Law-Related Experience

2002-2003 Research AssistantProfessor Common University of Ottawa, Faculty ofLaw

Researched, edited, and summarized case law,legislation and articles for Prof. Austins CanadianIntelligence Law

Designed and programmed the law schools website


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2002-2003 Fundraiser/Internet Co-ordinatorUniversity of Ottawa, Community Legal Clinic

Managed for fundraising and disbursement

Instructed Caseworkers on use of the Network andHTML programming

2002-2003 Third Year Extracurricular RepresentativeCommon Law Students Society

Organized Graduation Pictures and Graduation Ball

2001-2002 CaseworkerUniversity of Ottawa Community Legal Clinic

Landlord/Tenant Division

Represented clients successfully before Ontario RentalHousing Tribunal

Acted as Duty Counsel before Ontario Rental HousingTribunal

Prepared Statements of Defence for Small ClaimsCourt

Mediated before Landlord Tenant Mediation Services

Personal Interests

Music

Years of musical training in both voice and piano Lead role in high school musical Anything Goes

Travel

Week-long conference in the Dominican Republic onAboriginal and Developing World Issues

Jackie AcademicTelephone: (613) 567-5420, Email:[email protected]


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Tara Extracurricular

7 Lombardo DrOttawa, Ontario

K2L 6C9(613) 727-6589, [email protected]

Education

2001-Present English Common Law Section(LL.B.)University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law (to be conferred: May 2004) Ranked 14thin first-year class of 118. Awarded Carswell Book Prizefor highest standing in Torts.

1998-2001 Honours in Business Administration (H.B.A)Richard Ivey School of BusinessUniversity of Western Ontario (London, Ontario)

Academic Projects

2002-2003 Advanced Debt Financing and RestructuringA descriptive paper on the available defences to the presumptionof Fraudulent Preferences during a bankruptcy situation.

2001-2002 Civil LibertiesThe diminution of constitutional protection for commercialexpression, including a prescriptive test to contextualizeCharter scrutiny.


2002-2003 2002 Canadian Corporate/Securities Law Moot Competition Represented the University of Ottawa as one of four members

of the 2002 Corporate/Securities Law Moot team. Placed 4thoverall in a field of 20 competitors.

2001-2002 First-Year Contract Law Tutorial Instructor Conducted bi-weekly lectures covering full-year curriculum

to 20 students. Met with students on a one to one basis. Administered practice exams.

2000-2001 First-Year Assistant, Civil Division, University of OttawaCommunity Legal Clinic Assisted upper-year worker in case preparation.


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Other Work Experience

Summer 2003 Digital Heat Solutions (North York, ON)Partner Founded a 3-person computer consulting company with

experience in Internet Consulting and Database Management. Managed a budget of $175,000. Supervised two people of a five-person staff team.

Summer 2002 The ARA Consulting Group Inc. (Toronto, ON)Research Assistant Updated data analysis and electronic database of 2001

construction industry statistics.

Community Involvement and Extra Curricular Activities

2002-2003 Business Law Student SocietyFounding Member and Director of Networking (elected Co-Chairfor upcoming 2003-2004 year)

2001-2002 Inter Pares (Faculty of Law Student Newsletter)Publication Co-Editor

2000-2001 H.B.A. Student Council ExecutiveYearbook Editor

2000-2001 Western Business SchoolPrivate Tutor, Undergraduate Business Course (Business 257)

1998-2000 Volunteer Western Tutor ProgramProgram Commissioner and Volunteer Tutor

Activities and Interests

Travel Highlights

Spent three weeks backpacking through 7 European cities Worked for a summer at management services firm in Hong Kong

Tara Extracurricular, (613) 727-6589, [email protected]


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Carl Criminal Focus

224 Laurier Avenue

Ottawa, OntarioK3L 4B8(613) 797-4425, [email protected]

Education

2001-Present Baccalaureate of Laws (LL.B.)University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario To be conferred: May 2004

1998-2001 Bachelor of Business AdministrationBishops University, Lennoxville, Quebec


Sep. 2002- Faculty of Law, University of OttawaMay 2003 Articling & Career Development Assistant

Assisted law students regarding resumes and job searchtechniques

Assisted in the delivery of career services programming

Sept. 2001- Criminal Law Tutorial InstructorApril 2002 University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law

Conducted bi-weekly lectures covering full first yearcurriculum course work in Criminal Law & Procedure

Prepared model case briefs, memoranda and practiceexam answers

Summer 2001 Teacher Enrichment ProgramCriminal Law: The Basics

Taught a University mini-course on the fundamentalprincipals of criminal law, procedure & sentencing

April 2001 Guest LecturerEarl of March Secondary School, Kanata, Ontario

Provided a seminar on the defence of mental disorderand recent developments in this area of law


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March 2001 Legal Research Assistant

R.C.M.P. Commission of Inquiry

Conducted research for Professor Article regarding

protests during the 1997 APEC Conference inVancouver, B.C. Provided case law for a background paper on police

power of assault, excessive force, detention and falseimprisonment

Directed Research Papers & Projects

Jan-May 2003 Issues of Race & Racism in Judicial Decision-MakingProcessBackground paper for the National Judicial Institute(Ottawa, Ontario)

Sep-Nov 2002 Charter Arguments at Preliminary Inquiries: The Law &RationaleCourse work research undertaken for Professor Internship

Jan-May 2001 Assessing the Appropriateness of Mandatory MinimumSentencesDirected research supervised by Professor Article

Community Activities & Interests

2002-2003 Editor of Inter Pares NewspaperA news and opinion newspaper forum for law students

1999 PoetPublished in RE/VISION 1999 (George Brown Coll. Press,Toronto)

Carl Criminal Focus(613) 797-4425, [email protected]


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1

Ava General

101 St-Laurent BoulevardOttawa, Ontario

K2L 5J9Tel: (613) 324-4675

Email: [email protected]

Education

2002-Present Baccalaureate of Laws (LL.B.), University of Ottawa Commencing 2ndyear in Fall 2003

Summer 2003 Seton Hall Law School Summer Law Program in the Middle East at the

American University in Cairo, Egypt

1999-2002 Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), University of Alberta Major: Political Science, Minor: History

Awards and Accomplishments

2002 Trekked alone through the Annapurna Range of theHimalayas

2000-2002 Deans Honour List, three years in a row, University ofAlberta

1999 Hunter-Cumming University Entrance Scholarship


2002-2003 Volunteer, University of Ottawa Community Legal Clinic

Trained in procedures and assisted upper year studentswith cases

Winter 2003 Research Assistant, University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law

Researched and organized a Clinical Legal EducationConference


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3

Janice A. American-Firm

230-190 Lees Avenue

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K2N 5T6613.565.2838 [email protected]

EDUCATION

University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, Ottawa, Ontario, CanadaCandidate for Baccalaureate of Laws (LL.B.), expected May 2004 Second Year: Ranked 3/180 (GPA 9/10 = A) First Year: Ranked 121/180 Articles editor for the Ottawa Law Review, 2002-2003

Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia, CanadaBachelor of Arts with Honours (B.A.H.), May 2001

Major: Political Science Graduated on the Deans List

LAW-RELATED EXPERIENCE

Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Adjudication Support Unit,Ottawa, Ontario,CanadaPara-Legal Specialist,May August 2003 Researched points of law relevant to pending disciplinary hearings Summarized decisions of both the Adjudications Discharge and Demotions

Boards

National Association of Women and the Law, Ottawa, Ontario, CanadaPro Bono Students CanadaPlacement, September 2002 April 2003

Researched and wrote memoranda on womens legal issues on apro bonobasis Presented final report to the National Organizing Committee

Look It Up Research Ltd.,Ottawa, Ontario, CanadaResearch Analyst,September 2002 May 2003 Researched the impact of foreign trade agreements on developing countries

INTERESTS

Sailing, Golfing, Amateur Theatre


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4

Sample Resumes:Second Career Resumes

Lynda Baystreet

401-1407 March RoadKanata, Ontario, CanadaK1N 8J1

Phone: 613.270.8831 Email: [email protected]

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

2001 Present Baccalaureate of Laws (LL.B.) (First Class Honours)University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario

English Common Law Section

1990 1994 Bachelor of Social Sciences (B.S.S.) (Magna Cum Laude)University of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario

Majored in Political Science

ACADEMIC AWARDS

2003 Osler, Hoskin & Harcourt Scholarship, for academicexcellence and community involvement

2003 Association of Professors Scholarship,University ofOttawa

2002-2003 and 1991-1994 Deans Honour List,University of Ottawa

LAW-RELATED EXPERIENCE

2002-Present Hearing Officer, Trade-Marks Opposition BoardIndustry Canada, Hull, Quebec

Conduct oral hearings and write decisionsregarding expungement proceedings under Section45 of the Trade-marks Act

Work 30 hours a week while a full-time law student

2002-2003 President, Common Law Students SocietyUniversity of Ottawa, Ottawa, Ontario

Managed a 600-member student society Participated in the following committees:

Curriculum, Examinations, Faculty Council and

English Program Assembly


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5

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

1998-2001 Junior Vice-President, AccountingNortel Communications Inc., Ottawa, Ontario

Directed a budget for a multi-million dollartechnology company

Produced Nortels budget strategy for each quarter

1996-1998 Political Relations OfficerNortel Communications Inc., Ottawa, Ontario

Developed and managed and a the companysrelationship with federal, provincial, and municipalgovernments

Acted as senior Nortel representative at numerouscommittee and board hearings

1994-1996 Constituency Assistant, Joe Politics, MPHouse of Commons, Ottawa, Ontario

Researched and wrote a 451 page report on theimpact of the metric system in Canada, entitledCelsius or Fahrenheit? A Burning Vision for the Future

Managed a political office, including timetabling,communications, and correspondence for a busyMP

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE

2002-2003 Student Member (elected), Senate,University of Ottawa

2002-2003 Student Member (elected), Senate Committee for theEvaluation and Teaching of Courses,University of Ottawa

2002 Orientation Leader,Faculty of Law, University of Ottawa1994-1998 Big Sister,Big Sisters Ottawa

PERSONAL INTERESTS

Travel: canoed partway up the Amazon river, lived in a Buddhist temple for 3months, and swam with dolphins off the coast of New Zealand

Theatre: played Dorothy in the Ottawa Little Theatres production of The Wizard ofOzand sang Memory from Catson the NAC Southam Stage as part of a Big Sistersfundraiser

Fine Art:had a piece shown in MOMA, New York

Lynda Baystreet613.270.8831


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6

Amy A. Academic

769 Russell Avenue

Ottawa, ON K5G 1H7(613) 563-5499

[email protected]

EDUCATION

Baccalaureate of Laws, University of Ottawa2000-2003

Graduated withFirst Class Honours standing Participated in a 3-week intensive Alternative Dispute Resolution

training session in first year

Coordinator, Women in the Law, in first and second years

Masters in Legal Studies, Queens University1990-1993

Masters thesis entitledJudicial Activism in Sentencing: A CriticalAnalysis of (White) Feminist Law Reform Strategy

Thesis passed with distinction

Bachelor of Arts (Honours), University of Waterloo1986-1990

Majored in Law and Criminology

Honours thesis entitled Constructed Consent: Sexual Assault and theCourts

Executive Director, Criminology Students Association, in second andthird years

RECENT ACADEMIC PROJECTS

A Fiddle, A Faddle: The Provocation Defence in Sexual Assault Cases2003

Supervisor: Professor McLaw

Won the Law Union award for best academic paper

Equality? Yes, Sir! Gender Bias and the Court Martial Process2002

Supervisor: Professor Bar-Ads Interviewed 26 Canadian Forces personnel Presented the paper to the Women in the Law annual conference


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7

LAW RELATED EXPERIENCE

Tutorial Leader, University of Ottawa

2001-2003 Conducted a bi-weekly reviews of substantive first-year Contracts

material

Provided feedback individually and to the group

Legal Research Assistant, Correctional Services Canada2001-Present

Investigate human rights developments as they pertain to inmatesand employees of federal penitentiaries

Conduct legal research surrounding sexual harassment and assault inthe workplace

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Coordinator, Sexual Assault Services, Kitchener-Waterloo Mental Health Program1995-2000

Developed and implemented a program with regional police andCrown Attorneys to improve the response to sexual assault

Developed, organized and delivered sensitivity training for policeofficers

Researched and wrote funding proposals to government bodies Coordinated sexual assault awareness workshops

Public Education Supervisor, Sexual Assault Services, Middlesex County, Ontario1993-1995

Organized and delivered numerous public education events Researched and wrote the Public Education manual Trained Public Education volunteers Staffed the 24 hour crisis line

PERSONAL INTERESTS

Green belt in Goju Ru Karate

Certified diver with lots of practice Enjoy a fine opera: saw Figaro in Milan

Amy A. Academic: (613) 563-5499, [email protected]


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8

Patrick Secondcareer

401 King Edward, Apt. 11

Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 5G2(613) 239-2934, [email protected]

Education

2001-Present Baccalaureate of Laws (expected date of graduation May 2004)Faculty of Law, Common Law Section, University of Ottawa

Gowling Lafleur Henderson LLP entry scholarship - 2001

1986-1987 Bachelor of Education / Ontario Teaching CertificateFaculty of Education, University of Toronto

Honours Specialist, English and Music

1984-1985 Master of ArtsSchool of Graduate Studies, University of Ottawa

Master of Arts in English Literature

1980-1984 Bachelor of ArtsErindale College, University of Toronto

Bachelor of Arts in English and Philosophy


2002-2003 Competitive Moot Team,Frank M. Callaghan Memorial Moot

Faculty of Law, Common Law Section, University of Ottawa Criminal and Constitutional Law, Ontario Court of Appeal Placed 3rdoverall in a field of 25 teams

2002-2003 Tutor, Academic Support ProgramFaculty of Law, Common Law Section, University of Ottawa

Provided academic assistance to first-year Aboriginalstudents on legal writing, research, and exam preparation

2002-2003 Pro Bono Students Canada, Office of the Childrens LawyerMinistry of the Attorney General, Ontario

Researched custody and child protection law

Reviewed files, wrote case briefs and updated internaldatabase

Assisted with facta and appeal preparation Observed and assisted counsel during trials


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9

Law-Related Experience Continued

Summer 2002 Legal Research AssistantMs. Exam, Ontario

Researched municipal and regional by-laws Wrote memoranda regarding minor variances and non-

conforming land uses severance of landProfessional Experience

1987-2001 Secondary School Teacher / Consultant English, Math andMusicPeel District Board of Education, Mississauga, Ontario

Promoted toAssistant Head of Englishand Chair of SummerSchool

Supervised all aspects of daily operations, including policyimplementation, teacher hiring, professional development,

curricula, examinations, inventory and budgets Conducted in-service training sessions on writing and

evaluations for 30+ principals and senior administrators,and 500+ teachers

Presented seminars at provincial teacher trainingconferences

Seconded to the Ontario Ministry of Educationto evaluate aprovince-wide standardized test of high school readingskills

Served as Branch Executive Officer, Ontario Secondary SchoolTeachers Federation (Vice-President, 1998-2000; ProfessionalDevelopment Representative, 1996-1998; and Excellence in

Education Representative, 1994-1996) Sponsored numerous student extracurricular activities,

including dramatic and musical productions, field hockeyand volleyball teams, yearbook and student council

Activities and Interests

Performer, Opera Mississauga, City Centre Repertory Opera,Credit Valley Players, Toronto Gilbert & Sullivan Society,Abbey Players

Mystery dinner theatre Crosswords

Golf

Patrick Secondcareer(613) 239-2934, [email protected]

*Much thanks to the University of Toronto Handbook, whose sample resume provided most of the content for this resume.


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0

Natalia National Accreditation

171 Lees Avenue, Apartment #307

Ottawa, Ontario, Canada K2P 1J8(613) 863-1120 or (613) [email protected]

EDUCATION

2002-Present National Accreditation StudentUniversity of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, Common Law

Presently in year one of a two year program

2001 H&R Block Tax Preparation Certificate

Scarborough, Ontario

1996-1997 Certificate in AccountingAssociation of Accounting Technicians, London, UK

Completed courses in the following subject areas:Financial Accounting, Cost Accounting & Budgeting,Analysis & Design of Information Systems,Organization & Financial Control, and Economics

1994 Diploma in Journalism (English)Aquinas College of Higher Studies, Colombo, Sri Lanka

1989-1992 Attorney-at-LawSupreme Court of Sri Lanka

Graduate of the Sri Lanka Law College, Colombo, SriLanka

Awarded second-place prize in the Ex-Tempo speechcontest

LEGAL EXPERIENCE

2002-Present First-Year Volunteer

University of Ottawa Community Legal Clinic Assist student caseworker with client interviews Attend court with caseworker


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1

LEGAL EXPERIENCE (continued)

2000-2002 Legal Secretary/Assistant

Mr. Legal, Barrister & Solicitor, Scarborough, Ontario Drafted legal documents Conducted legal research and pre-trial preparation Prepared records and court exhibits Liaised with external agencies, lawyers, courts and

tribunals

1997-1999 LawyerSole Practitioner, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Appeared before all levels of court and tribunals Provided legal advice and opinions

Drafted pleading, facta, court documents andcontracts

1993-1997 Associate LawyerSivanantham & Associates, Attorneys-at-Law, Colombo, SriLanka

Handled both criminal and civil matters Referred clients to senior counsel, provided case briefs

and participated in consultation and trial processes Attended pre-trial negotiations and fixed cases for trial

INTERESTS

Travelling Swimming Surfing the Internet

Natalia National Accreditation(613) 863-1120 or (613) 564-3948


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2

Ryan B. American-Firm

206-2293 Range RoadOttawa, Ontario, Canada K2A 1Y7

(613) 203-7770, [email protected]

Education

University of Ottawa,Faculty of Law, Ottawa, CanadaCandidate for LL.B.,Expected May 2004

Awarded Faculty of Law Entrance Scholarship

Queens University,Kingston, Ontario, CanadaM.Sc. Computer Science,May 1995

Thesis entitled: IBM versus Apple: Fusion or Confusion? Awarded the Wheelock Academic Scholarship, September 1993 and 1994

Acadia University,Wolfville, Nova Scotia, CanadaB.Sc. Computer Science,May 1993 Graduated on the Deans List Awarded the B.J. Demmings Memorial Scholarship, September 1989


Trade-Marks Opposition Board,Ottawa, Ontario, CanadaHearing Officer,Summer 2003

Conducted oral hearings and assessed summary expungement proceedings

University of Ottawa Community Legal Clinic,Ottawa, Ontario, CanadaCaseworker,September 2002 April 2003

Represented low-income clients in civil matters

Pre-Law Experience

CompuTec Corporation, Toronto, Ontario, CanadaProject Manager,May 1998 August 2001

Managed project development for large-scale Customer Relationship Management (CRM)software

StartUP.com,Toronto, Ontario, CanadaTechnical Support Agent,May 1995 January 1998

Provided first-level technical support to corporate clients Installed and repaired web services at client sites

Interests

Cooking, Yoga, Gardening


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3

Sample Cover Letters:Department of Justice

Marc International

57 Louis Pasteur Street, Ottawa, ON, K1N 6N5 (613) 111-2222 [email protected]

19 April 2003

Mr. Moot CourtNational Coordinator of the Legal Excellence ProgramDepartment of JusticeUrbandale Building, 100 Metcalfe StreetOttawa, Ontario K1A 0H8

Dear Mr. Court:

Re: 2004-2005 Articling Position with the Department of Justice

Please accept my application for employment as an articling student for the 2004-2005 term. I am asecond year student at the University of Ottawa in the English Common Law program and am eager to

build a career with the Department of Justice.

The variety of opportunities afforded to articling students greatly appeals to me as I seek a well-balanced articling experience with rotations in Legal Services, Law and Policy, Civil Litigation andAdvisory Services. More specifically, I am interested in the Human Rights, Indian and NorthernAffairs and Family, Children and Youth sections. I believe that my work and volunteer experience willallow me to make a significant and meaningful contribution to the Department of Justice.

I value and share the Departments commitment to people, integrity and public service and amconfident that my previous experience reflects this commitment. This summer, I will remain at theUniversity of Ottawa Community Legal Clinic in the HIV/AIDS division, where I have been acaseworker for the past year. This position has developed my legal research, writing and advocacyskills and afforded me practical experience in various areas including drafting legal memorandum andinterpreting employment and human rights legislation. Recently, I was elected to serve on the ClinicsSteering Committee. Members of the Steering Committee work as a team and are responsible fordetermining all policy and administrative matters concerning the Clinic.

In May 2001, I assumed the position of co-coordinator for Pro Bono Students Canadaat the University ofOttawa. Over the year, my primary responsibility was to develop projects for students wishing to dovolunteer legal work benefiting disadvantaged members of society. This has enhanced my leadership,communication and organizational capacities. These skills have been further strengthened through mywork with Amnesty International where I am active at the national level facilitating educationalworkshops in human rights issues.

I wish to thank you in advance for your consideration of my application. Please find enclosed myresume, university transcripts and two letters of reference. I look forward to discussing the ways inwhich I can contribute to the Department of Justice.

Yours truly,

Marc InternationalEnclosures


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4

Clerkship

July 29, 2003

Sally Student199 Lawyer Street

Ottawa, ON, K2R 7N5

Ms. Patricia RecruitmentChamber of the Chief Justice of CanadaSupreme Court of Canada, Supreme Court Building301 Wellington StreetOttawa, ON, K1L 0J1

Dear Ms. Recruitment:

Re: Clerkship Application-2003

I am writing to express my great interest in a clerkship position with the Supreme Court of Canada,commencing in 2004. Please find enclosed my curriculum vitae, official post secondary school transcripts andapplication form PSC-3391. My reference letters will follow shortly.

My legal education at the University of Ottawa has enabled me to pursue my interest in law and socialjustice, an interest that began at a young age as the child of recent immigrants. I have thoroughly enjoyed applyingmy legal skills for the benefit of financially underprivileged clients at the University of Ottawa Community LegalClinic. My experience in the Womens Division has exposed me to such areas as human rights and aboriginal law,and has taught me a great deal about advocacy, professional conduct, legal reasoning and the importance of clarityin writing. The prospect of furthering my legal education at the Supreme Court is exciting for me. I have a stronginterest in legal policy and administrative law. A clerkship position would be an invaluable opportunity toexperience firsthand the dynamics between judicial reasoning and legal advocacy.

My commitment to leading a well-balanced and fulfilling life has contributed to my academic success. Myexperience as a teaching assistant for first year property law has given me the opportunity to sharpen my criticaland analytical skills as well as to contribute to the community in which I live. As Academic Coordinator for ourstudent government I have kept abreast of significant issues and have acted as a liaison person between studentsand faculty. Writing a thesis for my MA at Queens University honed my research and writing skills and these skillshave been further developed this year in my position as a junior editor for the Ottawa Law Review.

An important complement to my academic pursuits has been my extra-curricular activities. Prior tostudying law, I worked as full-time professional dancer in various contemporary and classical dance companies inCanada and the U.K. I have continued to pursue my professional dance career on a part-time basis by teaching andperforming and this has been an invaluable opportunity to enhance my communicative abilities and remain intouch with an important aspect of my identity.

I am very interested in a clerkship position with the Supreme Court of Canada and I am confident that Iam well equipped to meet the needs of the judges at the Court. As a steering committee member of the studentchapter of CLAIHR (Canadian Lawyers Association for International Human Rights), I am self-directed, motivatedand committed to any project for which I am responsible.

Thank you for considering my application. I can be reached by phone at (613) 222-3333 or by email [email protected]. I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Sally StudentEnclosures


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Specific City Firm (note that special care must be taken to identify a specific tie to the city ofapplication if other than Toronto i.e. Vancouver in this case.)

Paul Student111 Lees Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1S 5M1

(613) [email protected]

August 15, 2003

Ms. Christine AcademicsStudent Program Co-ordinatorNewman & CompanySuite 2800-666 Burrard StreetVancouver, BC V6C 2Z7

Dear Ms. Academics:

Please accept this letter and enclosures as my application for summer employment at Newman &Companys Vancouver office for 2004. As a second year student in the University of Ottawas CommonLaw program, I am most interested in the depth and scope of your Administrative Law and AlternateDispute Resolution practice. In particular, I am intrigued by the work of your Human Rights andLabour and Employment groups. I would welcome the opportunity to work in Vancouver as it is mygoal to join my family there and settle on the West Coast after graduation.

Working as a legal assistant at Michel Baldwins Ottawa office exposed me to the fields ofCorporate-Commercial law, as well as Administrative and Human Rights law. During that time, Ibecame increasingly fascinated by the fields of employment and human rights litigation. As I reviewedand organized a variety of files, researched and edited numerous documents and pleadings, I began tograsp the depth of opportunities that exist in these areas. I feel that my time working at the Universityof Ottawa as a Liaison Information Officer, and at the Human Resource Centre of Canada for Studentsfostered the strong organizational and interpersonal skills required in litigation practice.

I view law as essentially an exercise in problem-solving, with the people behind the problems (bethey individuals or corporations) forming the basis of my passion for the process. I offer this passion,along with my commitment to excellence in work and study to the practice at Newman & Company. Ibelieve that my experience working and communicating with people from all walks of life wouldadapt well to the diversity of your practice. I would relish being able to make a significant contributionthrough a broad range of projects and work.

I have enclosed my resume and a copy of my academic transcripts for your review. I would bepleased to meet with you to discuss any questions or interest you might have in my experience. I lookforward to hearing from you, and thank you for your consideration of my application for a summerposition at Newman & Company.

Yours truly,

Paul StudentEnclosures


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6

Large Firm (note that no specific city tie is given, this is appropriate for Toronto)

Mike Smart25 Laurier Avenue, Ottawa, Ontario, K1N 2J9

July 20, 2003

Mr. Joe CaseSpencer Spaulding40 King Street WestToronto, Ontario M2L 3C3

Dear Mr. Case:

Please accept this letter and enclosures as my application for summer employment for 2004at Spencer Spaulding. In speaking with Barbara Graduate (articling student 2002-2003), I

became interested in the challenges presented by your business law practice. I believe that asa second year law student with a strong business background I could contribute effectivelyto the work of your firm in the areas of corporate finance and taxation. I am particularlyattracted to Spencer Spaulding because as a large full-service firm, it offers the opportunityto be exposed to high caliber work in a wide range of practice areas.

Through my work at William Jenkins this summer, I became increasingly fascinated by thefield of business transactions. As I reviewed and organized a variety of files, I began to graspthe depth of opportunities that exist in these areas. I feel that my time working at ExportDevelopment Canada as an Assessment Officer and at Nortel as a Business Analyst fosteredthe strong organizational and interpersonal skills required in corporate practice.

I view law as essentially an exercise in problem-solving, with the people behind theproblems (be they individuals or corporation) forming the basis of my passion for theprocess. I offer this passion, along with my commitment to excellence in work and study tothe practice at Spencer Spaulding. I look forward to working with a team of lawyers andtacking with great enthusiasm the kind of in-depth research that will present itself.

I have enclosed my resume and a copy of my academic transcripts for your review. I wouldbe pleased to meet with you to discuss any questions or interest you might have in myexperience. I look forward to hearing from you and thank you for your consideration of myapplication for a summer position at Spencer Spaulding.

Yours sincerely,

Mike SmartEnclosures


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7

Large Firm (note specific city tie to Ottawa)

July 10, 2003

Lily Legal

27 Lees Avenue NorthOttawa, ON, K1S 5M2

Marler & ParkerAttn: Bill Appeal45 OConner Street, 20thFloorOttawa, ON, K1P 1G8

Dear Mr. Appeal,

Re: Articles 2004-2005

Please accept this application as my formal request for an articling position at Marler & Parker in 2004-2005. I am interested in litigation, particularly in the areas of administrative law,

corporate/commercial, environmental and intellectual property. However, to ensure that I attain awell-rounded practical experience upon which to advance my career, I hope to be exposed to manyaspects of the legal practice during my articles. I am particularly interested in Marler & Parker becauseof your commitment to exposing students to a variety of practice areas during the articling experience.

Throughout my academic and employment experiences I have developed several key skills that willserve as foundation to a successful legal career. Working as a student advisor I developed myinterpersonal skills and learned how to listen to clients and help meet their concerns. As a manager ata McDonalds restaurant, I gained valuable human resources experience, developed strongorganizational and time management skills and fostered my ability to be both a leader and a teamplayer. I have extensive legal research and writing experience. As part of a field placement course, Iresearched and wrote policy recommendations for the Department of Justice on the implementation ofthe new Privacy Act. This past summer I completed a large research project for Professor Smalley onthe tort of invasion of privacy. This project culminated in my writing a one hundred page report of myfindings. I am continuing to develop my research and analytical skills this fall, as I am currentlyemployed as a research assistant for Professor Clerk, working in the area of Criminal law.

I believe that with my research and drafting skills and my ability to manage numerous files, that Iwould complement a large firm like Marler & Parker. I work competently as a part of a team and I lookforward to the varied experience only a firm of your size is able to provide. Ottawa is my home and Iam looking to forge a long-term commitment to a firm in this city.

Thank you for your consideration of my application. I can be reached at your convenience by phone at(613) 598-2658 or by email at [email protected]. I look forward to expanding on these matters in aninterview.

Sincerely,

Lily LegalEncl.


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8

Medium Sized Firm

June 29, 2003

Jack Application

2 Cumberland Avenue NorthOttawa, ON, K3Z 4B9

Bark, SimonAttn: Ms. Mindy Career20 Elgin Street, Suite 400Ottawa, ON, J3L 2B7

Dear Ms. Career,

Re: Articles 2004-2005

Please accept this application as my formal request for an articling position at Bark, Simon in 2004-2005. I am interested in litigation, particularly in the areas of administrative law,

corporate/commercial, environmental and intellectual property. However, to ensure that I attain awell-rounded practical experience upon which to advance my career, I hope to be exposed to manyaspects of the legal practice during my articles. I am particularly attracted to Bark, Simon as I am veryimpressed by the flexibility offered in your articling program.

My academic performance indicates an ability to grasp legal concepts in traditional black letter lawcourses, but does not illustrate the entire picture. I have excellent time management skills and am ableto successfully multi-task. While attending law school full-time, I participated in extra-curricularactivities and supported myself with a part-time job. In addition, during my time at law school I havebeen an editor with the Ottawa Law Review, a legal research assistant, a caseworker at the UniversityLegal Clinic, a peer tutor, and have actively participated on various committees. My activeparticipation in all aspects of life at the law school has honed by ability to work effectively andefficiently while successfully balancing academic and extra-curricular activities.

I believe that I would complement a medium-size firm like Bark, Simon because of my ability todevelop a rapport with, and attract prospective clients, while managing numerous files. I workcompetently as a part of a team and I look forward to the varied experience only a firm of your size isable to provide. Additionally, my office and computer skills will allow me to work individually andrequire little secretarial support.

Ottawa is my home and I am looking to forge a long-term commitment to a firm in this city.

Thank you for your consideration of my application. I can be reached at your convenience by phone at(613) 369-8521 or by email at [email protected]. I look forward to expanding on thesematters in an interview.

Sincerely,

Jack ApplicationEncl.


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9

Variations on a Theme

Below you will find some examples of a how a student has varied his/her cover letter depending on where orwhen applying. First you will see Paula Students application for summer employment, followed by herapplication for articles the next year. Next Paul Student sends a letter to a large firm seeking summer

employment where he has no prior connection to the firm essentially the cold call equivalent to a coverletter. This is followed by a similar type of cover letter (also to a large firm) but one in which the student hasmade a connection to the firm thus allowing him to rely on this prior networking to his advantage.

Summer Application

Paula Student57 Louis Pasteur StreetOttawa, ON, J6X 9H7

Ms. Jenny LawyerBorden Ladner Gervais LLPScotia Plaza, 40 King Street West

Toronto, Ontario M5H 3Y4

Dear Ms. Lawyer:

Re: Application for Summer 2004 Employment

Please accept this letter and enclosures as my application for summer employment for 2004 with Borden Ladner GervaisLLP. As a second year student at the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, Common Law Section, my law schoolexperience thus far has sparked an interest in several areas of law in which your firm excels. In particular, your labourand employment, matrimonial and entertainment law practices are of great interest to me. I welcome the opportunity tolearn more about these fields of law over the course of the summer of 2004.

In the summer of 2000, I prioritized my academics by enrolling in three courses and setting a personal goal of graduating

with honours in political science from McGill University. In achieving this goal, I developed strong research andpresentation skills, and a dedicated work ethic. I have carried these abilities over into my study of law, and am proud ofmy attainment of second-class honours in my first year courses.

My work background is unique in its diversity. I have worked as a room attendant at a resort, as a clerk in a clothingwarehouse, and as a research assistant on Parliament Hill. These wide-ranging work experiences have taught me how towork in time-pressured environments, the importance of teamwork and the passion required for dedication to ones job.From these, I will bring an open-minded and collaborative effort to your firms environment, and enthusiasm to anyendeavour I undertake.

Additionally, I enjoy being actively involved in my community, which allows me to broaden my interpersonal, analytical,and problem-solving skills. During my first year, I wrote for Inter Pares, our law school newspaper, and this coming year Iwill be the editor in chief. This past summer I was the Orientation Week Coordinator for the Common Law StudentsSociety in which I fundraised and planned a week of events for 250 incoming students.

I have enclosed my resume and academic transcripts for your review. I would be pleased to meet with you to discuss anyquestions you may have in further detail. I can be reached at: (613) 321-1234 or by email at: [email protected] you for your consideration of my application, and I look forward to hearing from you.

Yours sincerely,

Paula StudentEnclosures


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0

Small Boutique Firm Application

Paula Student57 Louis Pasteur StreetOttawa, ON, J6X 9H7

June 15, 2004Lola LawShibley Righton LLP250 University AvenueToronto, ON M5H 3E5

Dear Ms. Law:

Re: Application for Articling for 2005-2006

Please accept this letter and enclosures as my application for a 2005-2006 articling position with ShibleyRighton LLP. As a third year student at the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, Common Law Section,I was extremely fortunate to have had the opportunity this past summer to explore my interest in labourand employment law at Mathews, Dinsdale and Clark LLP as a summer associate. During my summer Istrengthened my research and interpersonal skills through the preparation of legal memoranda and inassisting with grievance arbitrations and hearings at the Ontario Labour Relations Board. This invaluableexperience has reinforced a serious desire to become an advocate and I welcome the new legal challengesa firm like Shibley Righton will present for me. I especially look forward to bringing my experiences withlabour and employment law into such areas as municipal law, construction law and real estate; fields inwhich your firm excels. I welcome the opportunity to learn more about these fields during the course ofmy articling year.

During my two years at the University of Ottawa, I have developed essential skills that I believe will aidme greatly during my articling year. I was chosen to compete with a partner in the Mathews, Dinsdale andClark Labour Arbitration Moot Competition which reinforced my interest in advocacy and improved myresearch and presentation skills. I enjoy being actively involved in my community which allows me tobroaden my analytical and problem-solving skills. This past year I had the pleasure of serving as the editorin chief of Inter Pares, our law school newspaper for which I continue to write. Last summer I served asthe Orientation Week Coordinator for the Common Law Students Society in which I fundraised andplanned a week of events for 250 incoming students. I also anticipate running for an elected position onthe Common Law Students Society executive for the coming school year.

My work background is unique in its diversity. I have worked as a housekeeper at a resort, as a clerk in aclothing warehouse, and as a research assistant on Parliament Hill. These broad work experiences havetaught me how to work in time-pressured environments and the importance of teamwork. From these, Iwill bring an open-minded and collaborative effort to the Shibley Righton environment and enthusiasm toany endeavour I undertake.

I have enclosed my resume and academic transcripts for your review. I would be pleased to meet with youto discuss any questions you may have in further detail. I can be reached at: (613) 321-1234 or by email at:[email protected]. Thank you for your consideration of my application, and I look forward to hearing

from you.

Paula StudentEncl.


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1

Summer Application Cold Call)

Paul Student

#1 -22 Plover St., Ottawa, ON K1Y 3E3; (613) 222-3333; [email protected]

September 8, 2004

Ms. Patty AmendmentDirector of Professional RecruitmentBorden Ladner Gervais LLP1200 Waterfront Centre200 Burrard StreetVancouver, BC V7X 1T2

Re: Application for 2005 Summer Student Position

Dear Ms. Amendment,

Please accept this letter and enclosures as my application for a summer position with Borden Ladner Gervais LLP(BLG). The opportunity to gain valuable experience with a vigorous business law firm, such as yours, that takes acarefully crafted and strategic approach to professional development is truly exciting. As a second year student, Ishare the same values of commitment to professional excellence, innovative thinking and an atmosphere ofunfailing collegial respect and I am keen to explore my interests in global business, trade and energy law. I lookforward to establishing my legal career in my hometown of Vancouver and I believe that BLGs emphasis onpersonal integrity, quality of work and active involvement in the community would be a great fit for me.

I would bring to your firm a strong academic background combined with practical legal experience. Asdemonstrated by my academic success in first year, I am able to effectively balance my studies, professionaldevelopment and extra-curricular interests. Through my work as a research assistant with legal practitioners in theOttawa community and my volunteer placement with Pro Bono Students Canada, I was able to expand myunderstanding of legal concepts and enhance my research and analytical skills. Furthermore, my involvement instudent government and in founding the International Trade Law Students Associationdemonstrates my energy and mycapacity to be a leader amongst my peers. These experiences have been of great benefit to me in my currentposition as the facilitator of the Career Development Resource Centre, where I counsel my fellow students on theircareer choices while gaining a strong understanding of the diverse opportunities available in the legal profession.

Moreover, I feel my international experience and entrepreneurial background complement BLGs community ofmotivated and intellectually curious individuals who take initiative in business development and thrive in a collegialenvironment. My experiences in founding BombaMagazineand organizing tours from Japan to Romania wereinvaluable training for me. Similarly, my work overseas as a high school teacher and summer camp director taughtme to adapt quickly to different team dynamics. Along the way, I have developed excellent organisational abilitiesand the effective cross-cultural and interpersonal skills that are essential in a client-centered and time pressuredcorporate environment.

I am a dedicated and driven individual who seeks out new challenges and I work hard to obtain my goals. I believethat my enterprising spirit, versatility, and passion for business and the law, complemented by my academic andprofessional background, demonstrate the valuable contribution that I can make to your firm. Thank you forconsidering my application and I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,

Paul Student


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2

Summer Application Previous Contact)

Paul Student

#1 -22 Plover St., Ottawa, ON K1Y 3E3; (613) 222-3333; [email protected]

September 8, 2004

Ms. Laura ProfessionalDirector, Student ProgramsOgilvy RenaultSuite 3800, Royal Bank Plaza South Tower200 Bay street, P.O. Box 84Toronto, ON M5J 2J2

Re: Application for 2005 Summer Student PositionDear Ms. Professional,

Please accept this letter and enclosures as my application for a summer position with Ogilvy Renault. In speakingwith Samantha Litigation, an associate with your Ottawa office, I have learned about the opportunities presentedby your dynamic business-oriented law firm that aims to offer seamless international legal services and has earned areputation for its international trade law practice. As a second year student, I share the same values of professionalexcellence, creativity and personal initiative and I am keen to explore my specific interests in international business,trade and energy law. I believe that Ogilvys client-centred style of practice and commitment to long-term growth,coupled with its collegial atmosphere and a flexible approach to student professional development would be agreat fit for me.

I would bring to your firm a strong academic background combined with practical legal experience. Asdemonstrated by my academic success in first year, I am able to effectively balance my studies, professionaldevelopment and extra-curricular interests. Through my work as a research assistant with legal practitioners in the

Ottawa community and my volunteer placement with Pro Bono Students Canada, I was able to expand myunderstanding of legal concepts and enhance my research and analytical skills. Furthermore, my involvement instudent government and in founding the International Trade Law Students Associationdemonstrates my energy and mycapacity to be a leader amongst my peers. These experiences have been of great benefit to me in my currentposition as the facilitator of the Career Development Resource Centre, where I counsel my fellow students on theircareer choices while gaining a strong understanding of the diverse opportunities available in the legal profession.

Following my conversation with Ms. Litigation, I feel my international experience and entrepreneurial backgroundcomplement Ogilvys focus on versatile and intellectually curious individuals who take initiative in businessdevelopment and thrive in a team-work environment. My experiences in founding BombaMagazineand organizingtours from Japan to Romania were invaluable training for me. Similarly, my work overseas as a teacher and campdirector taught me to adapt quickly to different team dynamics. Along the way, I have developed excellentorganisational abilities and the effective cross-cultural and interpersonal skills that are essential in a client-centered

and time pressured corporate environment.

I am a dedicated and driven individual who seeks out new challenges and I work hard to obtain my goals.I believe that my enterprising spirit and passion for business and the law in an international context, complementedby my academic and professional background, demonstrate the valuable contribution thatI can make to your firm. Thank you for considering my application and I look forward to hearing from you.

Sincerely,Paul Student


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3

Specific Practice Area Administrative Law)

Joey Article644 Louis Pasteur StreetOttawa, Ontario

K1F S5X(613) 888-4545, [email protected]

June 20, 2003

Mr. Samuel LegalFraser & Roger26 King Edward AvenueOttawa, OntarioK7R 5E6

Dear Mr. Legal:

Re: Articling for 2004-2005

I am currently enrolled at the Common Law program at the University of Ottawa and am applying foran articling position with your firm for the 2004-2005 term. My interest in Fraser & Roger stems frommy strong desire to practice with a firm that specializes in civil litigation and administrative law.

Much of my interest in these areas of law is a result of my involvement with the Community and LegalAid Services Programme at the University of Ottawa. As the Administrative Law Division Leader atthe clinic in 2002-2003, I was responsible for all aspects of case management from initial intake torepresentation at adjudicative hearings. I appeared before various tribunals, including the SocialAssistance Review Board and the Health Professions Board and successfully mediated an employeessexual harassment claim at the Ontario Human Rights Commission.

I further developed my legal research, writing and advocacy skills as a member of the InnocenceProject, a Clinical Programme at the University of Ottawa that investigates cases of possible wrongfulconviction. Recently, the Innocence Project was granted intervener status in an appeal before theSupreme Court of Canada. As a summer research assistant for Professor Research, director of theProject, I co-drafted the notice of motion seeking leave to intervene before the Court as well as thesupporting affidavit. I was also primary researcher and author of two memoranda on the relevantissues, and am currently assisting in the drafting of the Factum.

I believe that these experiences have allowed me to develop advocacy skills that will enable me tocontribute to your firm as an articling student. I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you atan interview to further discuss my application. Thank you in advance for your time and consideration.

Sincerely,

Joey ArticleEncls.


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4

U.S. Firm

Otto W.A. River26 Fisher AvenueOttawa, Ontario K6Q J2P

Canada(613) [email protected]

July 29, 2003

Beverly HillsHiring AttorneySand & Stone35 Quarry St.New York, New York 10651United States of America

Dear Ms. Hills,

Barney Rubble of Flint, Stones & Associates described your firm to me as one of the largestAmerican firms devoted exclusively to employment and labor law. Last Octobers article inSome Journal, which recognized Sand & Stone as a leader in the field of labor andemployment law, further increased my interest in your firm. As a third year student at theUniversity of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, with a demonstrated interest in labor andemployment law, I would welcome the opportunity to work with you as a summerassociate.

In the course of researching your firm, I learned that you seek candidates with strongwritten, oral and communication skills, good academic credentials and a sincere desire topractice labor law exclusively. I believe my background demonstrates these qualities. Duringmy undergraduate years, I was actively involved in the debating team and placed second ina national competition. In addition, I have been selected to participate in the LaborArbitration Moot this upcoming academic year and received an A- in both Labor Law I & IIcourses. I am also the Articles Editor of the Ottawa Law Review.

I would welcome the opportunity to meet with you at your convenience. You may reach meat the address and telephone number listed above. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Otto W.A. RiverEnclosures


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U.S. Firm

Frank Common87 Slater StreetOttawa, Ontario K8X 9K8

Canada(613) 964-2589, [email protected]

August 15, 2003

Maurice AppealRecruitment AdministratorHappy & Lucky700 Dollars Ave.Boston, MA 02623

Dear Mr. Appeal,

I was very excited to hear about your firms formal commitment to pro bono work and wasfurther impressed by the 1997 ABA Pro Bono Award your firm received for its work in thecommunity. As a second year law student at the University of Ottawa, Faculty of Law, Ihave a strong, demonstrated interest in community service based law. I would welcome theopportunity to work with you as a summer associate, as part of your Community Servicesteam.

I understand that Happy & Luckys summer associate program is structured to provideexposure to as many practice areas as possible, as illustrated by the integral role the summerassociate division of the Community Services team played in recovering approximately$2,100,000 for the survivors of the descendants of the Rosewater massacre. I welcome thebroad range of experience your summer associate program offers, as in addition to my activeinvolvement in the law school legal clinic, I have a strong interest in business law. I scoredin the top 10% of my Contracts and Business Associations classes. Further research of yourfirm revealed your proposed formal professional relationships with law firms in SouthAmerica in 1999. Besides English, I also speak and write Spanish fluently.

If my experience and background meet your requirements for a summer associate, pleasecontact me at the address or telephone number listed above. I look forward to hearing fromyou.

Sincerely,

Frank CommonEnclosures

lblair resume guide

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