CV Template
Lawyer CV Template & Examples (ATS-Optimized)
A lawyer is assessed on practice-area depth, matter outcomes and the jurisdictions in which they are admitted, so hiring partners scan first for bar admission and the value or complexity of matters handled. ATS systems filter for litigation, transactional and regulatory keywords alongside named practice areas rather than generic 'detail-oriented' phrasing. This template helps you foreground admissions, specialisms and quantified results that signal you can carry real matters.
Written & reviewed by the CVWon Editorial Team · Updated June 2026
Build Your CV NowTo write a strong Lawyer CV, lead with Bar Admission & Qualifications, Practice Area Expertise and Notable Matters — each backed by specific, quantified results rather than generic duties. A strong lawyer CV leads with admission and practice area, then proves capability through the matters handled: deal values, case outcomes and the courts or tribunals appeared before.
ATS Optimisation
ATS Keywords
Include these keywords in your CV to pass applicant tracking systems.
A strong lawyer CV leads with admission and practice area, then proves capability through the matters handled: deal values, case outcomes and the courts or tribunals appeared before. Hiring partners want to see whether you ran matters or merely assisted, the complexity and quantum involved, and the clients or sectors served, not a recitation of generic legal duties. The best CVs distinguish contentious from non-contentious work, cite jurisdictions of qualification, and name research tools such as Westlaw and LexisNexis. They quantify where ethics allow, for example a settlement secured or a deal closed, and signal billable performance or supervision of juniors. Weak CVs list 'legal tasks'; strong ones show matters owned, results delivered and the value at stake.
Structure
What Sections Should a Lawyer CV Include?
Bar Admission & Qualifications
Admission and jurisdiction are the first thing a hiring partner checks for eligibility.
Example
Admitted to practise in England and Wales (2018) and DIFC Courts; LLB (Hons), Legal Practice Course distinction.
Practice Area Expertise
Recruiters match candidates to teams by specialism, so clarity here is decisive.
Example
Commercial litigation and arbitration, with a focus on construction and shareholder disputes.
Notable Matters
Matter outcomes and value prove you can carry real responsibility.
Example
Second-chaired a £24M breach-of-contract claim, drafting pleadings and securing a favourable settlement at mediation.
Legal Skills & Tools
ATS matches research platforms and drafting skills that signal day-one readiness.
Example
Advanced legal research in Westlaw and LexisNexis; drafting of contracts, witness statements and skeleton arguments.
Professional Development
Shows ongoing CPD and specialism relevant to the firm's practice.
Example
Completed CIArb accredited mediation training and annual SRA-compliant CPD in commercial dispute resolution.
Avoid These
What Are Common Lawyer CV Mistakes?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, admission and the jurisdictions you are qualified in determine eligibility, so place them prominently near the top. Include the year of admission and any additional courts, such as DIFC or ADGM, relevant to the role.
Describe the matter type, sector and value band rather than client names, for example 'a £20M+ construction arbitration'. This conveys scale and complexity while respecting privilege and confidentiality obligations.
Two pages is standard, with junior lawyers often fitting one page. Prioritise admission, practice area and notable matters on the first page, and keep academic detail concise for experienced candidates.
Yes, naming Westlaw, LexisNexis or Practical Law signals you can hit the ground running and helps with ATS matching. List them alongside drafting and advocacy skills rather than as a generic IT line.
Highlight increasing matter responsibility, such as moving from research support to drafting pleadings and running smaller matters. Demonstrating expanding autonomy reassures firms you are ready for the next level.
Salary
Salary by Experience Level
Typical salary ranges by seniority (EUR, gross).
| Level | Experience | Salary range |
|---|---|---|
| Entry Level | 0–2 years | €38K – €58K |
| Mid Level | 3–5 years | €58K – €88K |
| Senior Level | 6–10 years | €88K – €135K |
| Lead / Manager | 10+ years | €125K – €175K |
Present your admissions, practice areas and matter outcomes on an ATS-ready Lawyer CV built with cvwon.
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