by Andrew Gurman & Michael Lord

COMPILE CONFLICT INFORMATION — Many firms ask for a list of clients/representations so collect it before a firm requests it and update, as needed.

ORDER LAW SCHOOL TRANSCRIPT (and college transcripts for patent lawyers) — University registrars are moving slowly because of COVID. Order it now. After all, nothing on it is going to change!

UPDATE RESUME — Be sure to convey your experience in a clear, concise manner. Have a trusted advisor read it and give you feedback. Consider hiring a resume writer for help. For more tips on resume writing, see the following articles: Ten Suggestions to Improve Your Resume and Resumes – Not so Fast, Please.

LOCATE A WRITING SAMPLE(S) — Writing samples can make or break a candidacy. Select a sample(s) that will show your writing prowess and sound legal reasoning, and which is representative of your work (at least 90%). Make redactions unless the sample is a publicly filed document, which is preferred. For transactional lawyers, prepare a deal sheet.

DECIDE ON REFERENCES — Pick a reference(s) who can persuasively speak about your abilities. Call them before identifying them to any potential employer and provide them with context about your search. Tip: if possible choose a partner who supervised your work and who has left your current employer. Confidentiality concerns are thereby eliminated.