Functional
Legal Resume Template

Jordan Ellis

Seattle, WA | (123) 456-7891 | [email protected]

Objective:

Versatile and detail-oriented Paralegal, possessing a formidable arsenal of skills and qualifications focused on legal research, document review, and contract negotiation. Aiming to leverage my proficiencies to enhance a reputable law firm’s operational excellence, streamline processes, and elevate client satisfaction levels by providing exceptional legal support services.

Skills & Qualifications:

Expert in legal research and analysis, forming solid bases for case strategies.
Proficient in contract negotiation, securing favorable terms in over 100 cases.

Experience:

Senior Paralegal, XYZ Law Firm, 2021-Present

Specialized in managing intricate legal documents and ensuring their accuracy and compliance.

Legal Assistant, DEF Legal Services, 2017-2019

Orchestrated seamless client interactions, bolstering client satisfaction and retention.

Education:

Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies, University of Washington, 2015-2017

Certifications:

Certified Paralegal
Legal Studies Certification

Skills:

Legal Writing
Litigation
Intellectual Property Law
Corporate Law

Strategic Resume Building-Skills and Certifications

When building your legal resume, emphasize at least two core technical skills and enhance them with key soft skills. Don’t forget to include relevant certifications to strengthen your professional credibility.

Common Skills

Legal Research
Legal Writing
Litigation
Contract Negotiation
Legal Compliance
Client Relations
Document Review
Intellectual Property Law
Corporate Law
Criminal Law

Common Certifications

Certified Paralegal
Accredited Legal Professional (ALP) Certification
Legal Studies Certification
Professional Legal Secretary

Emphasize Your Legal Skills with a Functional Legal Resume

The functional legal resume template is designed for legal professionals who want to focus on their skills and achievements rather than their chronological work history. This format is ideal for those with diverse legal experiences, career changers, or individuals re-entering the workforce.

Why Choose a Functional Resume?

Skills-Focused: This template allows you to highlight your core competencies in legal research, litigation, client advising, and document drafting, which are crucial in legal roles.
Flexible Layout: It’s ideal for professionals with employment gaps or those transitioning into new legal roles, as it emphasizes your strengths over your work history.

Key Features:

Emphasizes key legal skills and accomplishments over job titles and dates.
Sections dedicated to competencies like contract negotiation, legal writing, and case analysis.
Provides a summary of professional experience to offer context to your skills.

This template is perfect if you want to highlight your legal abilities and downplay a non-linear work history in the legal sector.

Functional Legal Resume Template