transactional law cover letter

Resume Worded   |  Career Strategy

14 transactional attorney cover letters.

Approved by real hiring managers, these Transactional Attorney cover letters have been proven to get people hired in 2024. A hiring manager explains why.

Table of contents

• Transactional Attorney
• Senior Transactional Attorney
• Corporate Transactional Attorney
• Corporate Attorney
• M&A Attorney
• Corporate Counsel
• Alternative introductions for your cover letter
• Transactional Attorney resume examples

Transactional Attorney Cover Letter Example

Why this cover letter works in 2024, highlighting relevant experience.

This sentence showcases the candidate's relevant experience in the legal field, specifically focusing on commercial contracts and regulatory matters, which are crucial skills for a Transactional Attorney role.

Quantifying Achievements

By mentioning a specific accomplishment and providing a numerical value (20% increase in revenue), the candidate demonstrates their impact in their previous role, making their application more compelling.

Demonstrate a Track Record

See how this person brings their past firm into the picture? It gives a sense of their professional background and experiences. It's not about name-dropping, but about showing that your experience is relevant, and you've dealt with similar tasks before. It adds a level of credibility to your application.

Demonstrating Exceptional Accomplishments

The ability to showcase your past achievements using hard numbers is a powerful way to illustrate your value to a potential employer. In this sentence, you highlight your role in closing deals worth over $500M. That's not a small feat, and it immediately shows me - a recruiter - that you've got great negotiation skills and have handled high-stakes transactions.

Showcasing Innovation

Talking about how you reduced drafting time by 40% shows you're not just about doing the job, but improving it. This is a clear demonstration of your innovative spirit and process improvement skills, both of which are invaluable in the fast-paced world of transactional law.

Showing Alignment with Company Values

By expressing your excitement about the chance to work in a firm that values innovation and global collaboration, you're showing me that you've done your homework about the company and that your values align with ours. This excites me as a recruiter because cultural fit is just as important as skills and experience.

A Clear Offer

You're not just applying for a job, you're offering your proven track record of successful transactions and process improvements. This straightforward statement tells me exactly what you're bringing to the table, making it easier for me to picture you in the role.

Ending With a Call to Action

Ending your cover letter with a look forward to discussing how you can contribute to the team is a great move. It's direct, enthusiastic, and shows your eagerness for the next step - the interview.

Show interest in the firm's work

When you express excitement about the firm and its work, it shows you have done your research and are genuinely interested in being part of their team.

Demonstrate your experience

Detailing your skills in handling legal processes not only shows your capability but also your hands-on experience in the field, which is valuable for the role.

Highlight risk management skills

Mentioning your ability to identify and mitigate risks showcases a critical skill for transactional attorneys, making you a reassuring choice for complex cases.

Align with the firm's values

Showing that you share the firm's commitment to innovation and teamwork suggests that you will fit in well with their culture and contribute positively.

Express eagerness to contribute

Closing your letter with a forward-looking statement demonstrates your enthusiasm to bring your skills to their team, making you an engaging candidate.

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Reflect on relevant experience with the firm

Sharing your positive internship experience with the firm personalizes your cover letter and demonstrates a pre-existing commitment to their work culture and success.

Detail your skills and notable achievements

Discussing specific accomplishments, like closing a $50 million acquisition, showcases your practical skills and direct contributions to previous roles, which are attractive to potential employers.

Showcase your drive for improvement

Emphasizing your efforts to enhance efficiency in processes shows you’re not just a participant but an innovator, which is a highly sought-after trait in a transactional attorney.

Highlight attraction to the firm’s reputation

Expressing admiration for the firm’s work and your desire to be a part of it indicates that your values align with theirs, making you a potentially good fit for their culture.

Convey appreciation and openness to discuss

Thanking the hiring manager for their consideration and expressing willingness to discuss your application further shows politeness and openness, qualities important in any professional setting.

Show your excitement for the transactional attorney role

Explaining why you're drawn to the company and the role shows you've done your homework and are genuinely interested. It's a great way to start your cover letter.

Detail your transactional attorney skills

Listing specific skills and experiences related to the job helps me understand your expertise. It's important to show, not just tell, how you've applied these skills successfully.

Highlight strategic thinking in corporate law

Emphasizing your ability to think strategically and build client relationships signals that you're not just skilled but also a team player who values collaboration.

Connect personal passion with the firm's focus

Mentioning your passion for areas the firm specializes in makes your application stand out. It shows you're a good fit not just skill-wise but also in terms of interests.

Express enthusiasm to contribute to the firm

Ending your letter by reiterating your interest and how you can contribute demonstrates eagerness and a forward-thinking mindset.

Senior Transactional Attorney Cover Letter Example

Showcase relevant experience.

This candidate uses their experience at a past firm to highlight their accomplishments. Demonstrating that you've handled similar responsibilities in the past not only shows that you're qualified for the role, but also gives the hiring manager a clear picture of what you're capable of. This is a great way to make a case for yourself.

Highlighting Strategic Skills

When you refer to a major win as a testament to your strategic foresight and negotiation prowess, you're not simply bragging about a past achievement. You're giving me a glimpse into how you operate - strategically and with a keen eye for negotiation. This strengthens your case, as these are critical skills for a Senior Transactional Attorney.

Providing a Reason for Interest

By stating what draws you to Deloitte, you're showing that you are not just interested in the job, but in the company as well. This tells me that you're not just looking for any job, but a place where you can contribute and grow, which is a great sign of a potential long-term hire.

Connecting Experience and Excitement

When you tie your decade of experience in tech and finance transactions to your excitement about the prospect of contributing to the team, it shows your enthusiasm for the role and makes your experience relevant to us. That's exactly what we want to see in a potential candidate - experience, coupled with eagerness.

Expressing Interest in Growth

By expressing excitement about the chance to grow in a culture that values continuous learning and thought leadership, you're showing me that you're keen on self-improvement and learning, which is always appealing in a candidate.

Inviting Further Discussion

Expressing your desire to explore how your background, skills, and passions align with our work signals your readiness for the next step in the hiring process. This proactive approach leaves a positive impression and shows your eagerness to move forward.

Connect your passion with the firm's success

Linking your interest in complex transactions, especially in a specific sector, with the firm's achievements in those areas, makes your application more relevant and compelling.

Showcase your leadership in deals

Illustrating your role in leading significant transactions proves your capability to handle high-stakes situations, a critical asset for a senior position.

Present innovation in processes

Sharing how you improved due diligence processes not only highlights your initiative but also your impact on efficiency and risk management, key qualities for a senior role.

Emphasize teamwork and communication

Stressing the importance of collaboration and trust in your work illustrates your understanding of the foundational aspects of a successful legal team.

Invite further discussion

Ending with an invitation to discuss your application further is a proactive step, showing your eagerness to engage with the firm and contribute to its success.

Show your senior transactional attorney experience clearly

Start your cover letter by directly stating your interest and highlighting your years of experience. This shows you understand the role and are confident in your abilities.

Demonstrate your ability to lead complex deals

Talking about a specific, high-value deal where you led the team shows your capability to handle important tasks. It tells me you're not just any attorney, but one who has been trusted with significant responsibilities.

Match your experience with the firm's focus

Expressing your admiration for the firm's work and connecting it to your own experience in a similar field makes your application more relevant. It shows you've done your homework and see yourself as a good fit.

Highlight creative problem-solving skills

Stating that you are a creative problem-solver indicates you're not just about the law, but also about finding innovative solutions. This is a valuable trait in any legal role, especially in transactional work where flexibility can be crucial.

Emphasize your client-centric approach

Mentioning your focus on understanding client needs and achieving their goals reinforces your role as a partner to your clients, not just a service provider. It's a strong selling point for any senior transactional attorney looking to make a difference at a new firm.

Corporate Transactional Attorney Cover Letter Example

Show your enthusiasm for the corporate transactional attorney role.

Mentioning your strong interest and your past success in a related field shows you are not just looking for any job but are passionate about this specific area of law.

Highlight significant achievements in transactional law

Talking about leading a big transaction not only shows your ability to handle responsibility but also your experience with high-value deals, which is critical for a corporate transactional attorney.

Demonstrate industry-specific knowledge

Understanding the unique aspects of an industry, like the renewable energy sector, makes you a more valuable candidate as it shows you bring added expertise to the table.

Illustrate problem-solving skills

Describing how you found a creative solution to a difficult issue highlights your ability to think outside the box, a key quality for a corporate transactional attorney.

Ending with a statement about how you can add value emphasizes your commitment and eagerness to be a part of the team, not just a desire for employment.

Corporate Attorney Cover Letter Example

Show your passion for corporate law challenges.

When you express a keen interest in the complex challenges of corporate law, it signals your enthusiasm and readiness to tackle significant legal issues.

Highlight your role in significant transactions

Detailing your involvement in major deals, like cross-border acquisitions, showcases your direct experience and success in high-stakes environments.

Emphasize adaptability and client focus

Stressing the importance of being proactive and adaptable, while keeping client objectives in mind, demonstrates your comprehensive approach to legal problem-solving.

Express eagerness to contribute to the firm

Showing excitement about bringing your skills to the firm highlights your commitment to adding value and aiding in its success.

Close with gratitude and openness for discussion

Thanking the reader and welcoming an opportunity for discussion conveys politeness and readiness to engage further.

M&A Attorney Cover Letter Example

Admire the firm's m&a achievements.

Sharing admiration for the firm's role in groundbreaking deals indicates respect and a genuine interest in being part of their innovative work.

Showcase a broad M&A transaction experience

Discussing your involvement in a diverse range of M&A transactions, from small acquisitions to large mergers, underscores your versatility and broad expertise.

Underline your business-driven legal advice

Highlighting your focus on delivering pragmatic, business-oriented advice shows your understanding of the critical balance between legal and commercial interests.

Value mentorship for professional growth

Expressing your interest in mentorship and learning opportunities reflects your commitment to continual development and excellence in the M&A field.

Express honor and enthusiasm for a discussion

Conveying honor and eagerness for a potential conversation with the firm demonstrates your humility and sincere interest in contributing to their success.

Corporate Counsel Cover Letter Example

Show genuine interest in the corporate counsel role.

Sharing your admiration for the company's products and values adds a personal touch and shows you're already invested in their success.

Illustrate your experience as a corporate counsel

Describing your role in key transactions gives a clear picture of your capabilities and the tangible value you've brought to previous positions.

Convey enthusiasm for supporting company growth

Expressing excitement about the role and its contribution to the company's success makes your application memorable and shows you're a team player.

Emphasize your potential impact as a corporate counsel

Stating your belief in your ability to make an immediate impact highlights your confidence and readiness to hit the ground running.

Show eagerness to join the legal team

Closing with a strong statement of interest and a forward-looking perspective invites further conversation and demonstrates your commitment to the role.

Alternative Introductions

If you're struggling to start your cover letter, here are 6 different variations that have worked for others, along with why they worked. Use them as inspiration for your introductory paragraph.

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Thank you for the checklist! I realized I was making so many mistakes on my resume that I've now fixed. I'm much more confident in my resume now.

Cover Letters

E. common cover letter mistakes.

• Vide o and Slides from the CDO program “ Cover Letters That Do The Job” and handouts: Job Postings & Tips and Sample PIPS Cover Letters .

Your cover letter is as important as your resume because it is often read first and plays a vital role in your quest for an interview. A cover letter is not a transmittal letter, and you may be surprised at how time-consuming it is to craft a good one. A cover letter has a purpose, which is to let an employer know why they should bother reading your resume and why they should meet you. It also serves as an example of your written work product; thus it should be clear, brief, and written in a business letter style, without any typographical errors.

1. Cover letters for unsolicited applications come in three main types:

• Personal Letter. These are the most effective cover letters and are sent to people you have met or with whom you have a mutual acquaintance. These letters should all start with the sentence: “_______ recommended that I contact you.” As this type of letter is most likely to get a response, if you have any possibility of establishing this sort of connection to a prospective employer in advance of sending your letter, you should try your best to do so.
• Targeted Letters. Next best thing. Targeted letters are based on research of the employer, and are individually tailored. Your letter should incorporate the information learned through your research to show the employer that you have skills they will be able to put to use.
• Mass Mailers. Least desirable. These are generic except for the name and address of the employer, and have a very low success rate of getting interviews.

2. When you respond to a job listing, you will usually be requested to submit a cover letter as part of your application. In this case, use the job description and requested qualifications as a guide. While not simply imitating the language of the listing, your letter should demonstrate that you have what the employer is looking for.

3. A few employers at OCI request that students bring a cover letter to the initial interview. This is essentially to require students to think about why they want to work for this employer, but it makes for a letter which deviates from the usual “please consider me for an interview” approach. See below for suggestions on OCI cover letters.

Cover letters should follow standard business letter format, as to spacing, salutation, etc. If you are not sure of the fine points, consult a business correspondence reference source. Avoid abbreviations, contractions and shortcuts (such as a slash instead of “or”), although if there is an accepted short form of the name of the organization you are writing to (e.g., ACLU or Coblentz) it is acceptable to use it in the text of your letter. Your telephone number and email address should appear somewhere in the letter, either at the top with your address, or in the closing paragraph, when you ask them to contact you. Note that your resume is “enclosed,” not “attached” (which means clipped or stapled).

If you are not sure to whom you should send your letter, it is always acceptable to write to the executive director of a nonprofit, or the hiring partner or head of recruiting at a firm; they can forward your application to the appropriate person within the organization. If at all possible, write to an individual by name, not to “Director” or “Recruiting Coordinator.” Firm and organization web sites are very useful in finding this information (and for confirming correct spellings and the like); it may be more difficult to find the name of an individual addressee for government job opportunities. If you do not have the name of an individual, the salutation should be “Dear Sir or Madam” (not “To Whom It May Concern”). Of course if you are responding to a job posting, address your letter exactly as instructed.

As for the appropriate salutation, traditionally, it is “Dear [Mr./Ms.] [Last Name].  However, we understand that this prevailing business norm may not be inclusive of individuals who do not use either of those titles (for example, because they identify as gender nonconforming). One alternative, “Dear [First Name] [Last Name]”, avoids presuming how the recipient may identify, but it is not without some risk.  

If you use this approach, a recipient less attuned to thinking about gender inclusivity (and accustomed to seeing only “Dear [Mr./Ms] [Last Name]”) may wrongly conclude that you were unfamiliar with professional etiquette or that you used a mail merge template and did not bother to customize it.  While awareness around these issues is increasing, we believe that, unfortunately, it is still not a small number of recruiting representatives and attorneys who might draw the wrong conclusion.

One way to navigate this tricky situation might be to see if the recipient has an online presence (e.g., on the firm website or LinkedIn) that might give you a strong clue as to how they would like to be addressed.  Otherwise, you will need to make your own judgment as to whether recipients are more likely to recognize your inclusivity or to view the greeting as awkward or erroneous.

In our office, we are also working to help employers become familiar with gender-inclusive approaches like “Dear [First Name] [Last Name],” but like any process of education, this will take time. In the meantime, our primary goal is to make sure that all Berkeley Law students are fully informed as you navigate legal job markets. We are always available to discuss individually what approach would be the best fit for you.

First Paragraph. Begin your letter with a statement of who you are and why you are writing. Introduce yourself as a law student (including the year you are in) or a graduate of Berkeley Law and specify what it is you are seeking: a summer job, an associate position, a clerkship, part-time work during the school year, etc.

The goal of this paragraph is to give the reader a reason to want to finish reading the letter. If you don’t have a personal connection to cite, try to establish a nexus between yourself and the employer, such as knowledge of their practice, an established commitment to or interest in their work, a connection to their city, or something else which conveys that you are not just writing to them as part of a mass mailing for any job in any location. (If that in fact is what you are doing, try not to be too obvious about it. An employer wants to think that you sought him or her out purposely rather than randomly.)

Body Paragraph(s). This is the section in which you “sell” your experience and qualifications to the employer. Your goal here is to answer the question, “Why should the employer meet you?”

Call attention to something which substantiates your interest in this particular employer. It could be coursework in their specialty, the recommendation of a professor in their area of practice, undergraduate residency in their city, or any other indication of your interest. Try also to show how your experiences will translate into skills which will be useful to this particular employer. Highlight relevant qualifications which are not on your resume, such as coursework, research, or a prior connection to the organization or the issues they work on. If you have general legal skills such as negotiation, litigation, client counseling, interviewing, mock trials, etc., you may want to include them. As much as possible, try to convey understanding of, and enthusiasm for, the aims of the organization.

Employers do not expect first-year students to have highly-developed legal skills to offer. Therefore, for first-year students writing to private firms, this section can be a single, short paragraph, unless you have a strong background in a relevant area. However, even inexperienced first-year students writing to public interest/sector organizations should make an effort to describe skills and interests that are relevant to the employer.

It is appropriate and not uncommon for a public interest cover letter to be somewhat more detailed or personal than a private sector cover letter. Of course, it is still very important to be concise, but it is acceptable for the letter to be a full page if your experience dictates. In a public interest cover letter, it is important both to highlight your demonstrated commitment to the mission/work/client base of the organization through your own relevant work or life experience, and to illustrate your relevant skills. Take another look at your resume for items that show your interest, commitment and skills. Even if you do not have experience in the specific area in which an organization works, it is still important to emphasize your demonstrated commitment to the public interest, and to draw connections between that general commitment and the specific work of the organization. As it is important not to merely regurgitate your resume, consider including a story that illustrates you are interested or qualified in the position.

If your application raises questions that are readily answered, such as availability after the Bar exam, judicial clerkship plans, etc., the letter can address those; other issues may be better deferred to the interview stage. Consult a CDO attorney-counselor if you’re not sure whether to include something in your cover letter.

Final Paragraph. In your last paragraph, thank them for their consideration, and say you hope to hear from them soon. For out-of-town employers, indicate when you plan to be in their geographic area and state your availability for an interview. Be sure to include your phone number and email in this paragraph unless you use a letterhead style that includes them at the top of the page. If you state that you will call the employer to follow up on your application, be sure you do so.

If you are bringing a cover letter to an on-campus interview (which you should do only if the employer requests you to), the content will be a bit different. You don’t need to introduce yourself, as you will be there in person, and you won’t request an interview at the closing. But you can thank the employer for interviewing you and say that you welcome the opportunity to learn more about the employer and to discuss the possibility of working for them. The important thing is to show why you are interested in this particular employer, and how you think your background makes you a good match for them.

The mistakes most commonly found in student cover letters are:

• Restating your resume. “ I graduated from the University of Oregon in 2005, with a B.A., cum laude, in Political Science, then worked as a substitute teacher in an urban high school before starting law school in the fall of 2008 .” Don’t waste space with facts that are readily gleaned from your resume! Instead, you could say (briefly) how your work experience led you to pursue a legal career in an area practiced by the employer.
• Focusing on what you stand to gain from the job . “ I am particularly interested in your firm’s excellent training program for summer associates, and in gaining exposure to a variety of different practice areas.” Remember, employers only grant interviews to candidates who offer something of potential use to the employer. Try to say how your skills and enthusiasm will help the employer serve its clients, or otherwise further its aims.
• Being too informal or familiar. “I’m thrilled by the possibility of working with you this summer, and would love to meet with you in person/by phone to chat about what the options might be.” Enthusiasm is good, but it must be presented professionally.

Other cover letter mistakes include: being defensive or apologetic; appearing arrogant or entitled, and being too long and wordy. Unsupported statements of your qualities (“I am highly motivated and a quick study”) do not help your case. Generic reasons for your interest in the employer (e.g., its “excellent reputation”) tend to demonstrate your lack of specific knowledge. Of course typos and inaccuracies, such as misspelled names, or (please!) stating an interest in a practice area that the firm doesn’t have, are automatic application-killers.

Our cover letter template  provides suggestions only; please do not feel excessively constrained by its approach. Your letter should, of course, be original work that reflects your unique background and the job you are aiming at.

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So, You’re Thinking of Becoming a Transactional Lawyer

Published: Aug 13, 2021

Milbank boasts one of the most dynamic and prestigious corporate practice groups in the country. The group includes more than 445 attorneys with a wide range of educational backgrounds and work experiences. Rod Miller, a partner in the firm’s New York office and a member of the Capital Markets Group, recently answered some of the most frequently asked questions he hears from law students and associates about pursuing a career in transactional law.

Does a liberal arts degree hinder or limit someone’s ability to become a transactional lawyer?

Not at all. No one should be intimidated from pursuing transactional law just because they chose to study the liberal arts instead of business or accounting. But you should have a desire to understand commercial transactions and understand why people in business are pursuing these transactions and endeavors—so, a curiosity is a prerequisite, not experience or education.

Which law school courses give you a good idea of what it means to be a transactional lawyer?

Historically, few, if any, did. For example, many law students think of their 1L Contracts course as a barometer of what transaction law is like, but in reality, like all other 1L courses, it is really just providing the legal foundation and principles for what it takes to create an enforceable contract.  Often, what you learn in Torts and Civil Procedure is every bit as important when structuring a transaction.  Similarly, courses on secured transactions or securities law are offered, but any substantive course like these is going to be only so helpful in helping you decide whether you will like transactional law or not.

A favorable trend has developed, however, and law schools have started to offer a number of practical courses that cover specific areas like negotiations in M&A transactions and “Deals” seminars, which I think do a much better job of exposing law students to the actual practice of transactional and business law. Law schools are also allowing students to take classes at different schools, like the business school. I had a Capital Markets class taught at the Business School, which did not in any way make me an expert in finance or capital markets, but it did open my eyes to something that I had never before had an opportunity to explore or understand.

How helpful are joint JD-MBA degrees?

I think they’re helpful, but I certainly don’t believe they’re a must. Getting some training in business is a fine idea. Our program, Milbank@Harvard, for example, has Harvard Business School professors teaching our mid-level associates finance, accounting, marketing, and management. I think it’s important to have that understanding, particularly for mid-level associates, but having formal business courses, let alone an MBA, is certainly not a requirement for a successful career in transactional law.

How important is it for associates to specialize in a particular kind of transactional law early in their career?

I believe the best transactional lawyers continue to be those who have some specialization (such as M&A or corporate finance), but are not limited by that area and not intimidated to venture into other areas when the need arises. One of my partners used to head up our leveraged finance practice, for example, but he is now a co-head of our project finance practice . Leveraged finance and project finance are very different in some ways, but similar in others. The ability to understand the fundamentals, but extrapolate into new areas, is what I believe makes a great transactional lawyer. Those who master the foundations of a particular practice area, but stay flexible about what they can and are willing to do, have the best chances at career longevity, fulfillment, and success.

Moreover, I am a firm believer that these days there is a premium on being able to master general transactional law because things are changing so quickly. If you understand the basics, you’ll be less intimidated by that change and capable of responding to, or even leading, the legal response to changes in the global economy and commercial landscape.

Is it a good idea for a transactional lawyer to get some litigation experience?

It can be, but is not necessary—again, we encourage associates to dabble in different areas of law, including litigation, in order to discover what area of the law most interests them. Like transactional law, there are many kinds of litigation, so it’s important to experiment. Some litigators gravitate to a practice that focusses on internal investigations and reporting to a company’s board of directors or a special committee. Other litigators love going to court and taking cases to trial. Still, others love the writing aspect of litigation, and so they lean toward appellate law. I actually practiced with a firm that focuses on litigation for a few years out of law school before turning to “Big Law” and the transactional world. 

I believe the legal skills and abilities of great lawyers are more similar across litigation and transactional practices than one might expect. While litigators focus much of their effort on fact-finding and legal analysis of historical events to resolve disputes that develop between parties, transactional lawyers engage in a similar effort to try to predict all of the things that could happen between transacting parties in the future and then find a mutually acceptable way to address those uncertainties.

What kind of skills will be important to transactional lawyers in the future?

The technology we have today places a major emphasis on turnaround time. Increasingly, the primary factor in measuring successful lawyering versus unsuccessful lawyering is how quickly the right answer can be attained or documents drafted. In a world of texts, email, and mobile devices, getting that right answer is expected in minutes or hours—certainly nothing like the days and weeks we used to have in the pre-digital age. The most successful attorneys are those who are both highly responsive to clients and comfortable with interweaving work and personal life. These days, we do a range of things that are personal in nature while at work (on-line shopping pops to mind), but also take work home with us and step out of personal events to take calls and return emails.

The thing that has never changed, and continues to be critical, is someone’s writing skills. If you’re going focus on anything before, during and after law school, you should focus on how to improve your writing. It’s absolutely critical. It means having a strong vocabulary, being able to write in different styles—for example, litigators have to write persuasively in briefs filed with a court, while transactional attorneys draft complex agreements, memos and presentations to a company’s board of directors or, particularly in the case of capital markets attorneys, prospectuses to be delivered to potential investors who are trying to understand a company and its business.

This is a sponsored blog post from Milbank LLP. You can view Milbank's Vault profile  here .

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5 Tips to transition from a litigator to a transactional attorney

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As a recruiter, I speak with tons of litigation attorneys who want to do transactional work. I had the same situation when I practiced law (a long time ago)!

So how do you transition from litigation to transactional work?

Here’s a few suggestions:

• Identify your interests

Determine what area of transactional law you want to do. Identify an area you have significant interest in and find practitioners in that area. Your passion and enthusiasm for the area can go a long ways! For example, if you are a pilot, focusing on aviation practices would be ideal!

• Take an inventory & chart a course of action

Write a list of all your skills, knowledge and experience as it relates to that type of work and write a resume that reflects this. Make a list of everyone you know in the field. Email them and ask them for a quick meeting to learn about their career and how they got there. Prepare questions ahead of time and send a thank you note at the end.

Network with attorneys in your desired practice area. Attend legal conferences, CLEs, seminars, and bar association events to meet practitioners in the field. Offer to help them on the weekends or after-hours so you can get your foot in the door!

• Apply for positions yourself, without a recruiter

You are more likely to have success finding a transactional position if you apply directly to law firms, without using a recruiter. Law firms hire recruiters to find attorneys who already have specific skills and experience and won’t pay a recruiter for someone who is looking to transition from litigation.

• Identify Small, Boutique Firms

You will have more luck finding opportunities at smaller, boutique law firms that do some transactional work.

Should I pursue an LL.M.?

Sample Lateral Application Materials

Junior Level Lateral Resumes Corporate

Mid to Senior Level Lateral Resumes Corporate Litigation

Cover Letters

Junior Level Lateral Cover Letters Litigation Post Judicial Clerkship

Mid to Senior Level Lateral Cover Letters Corporate Corporate Post Judicial Clerkship Litigation Litigation

Deal Lists Corporate Litigation Corporate & Litigation

Representative Matters Corporate & Litigation

Transaction Manager Cover Letter Examples

Use these Transaction Manager cover letter examples to help you write a powerful cover letter that will separate you from the competition.

Transaction managers are responsible for the financial and administrative aspects of a business transaction. They work with clients, lawyers, and other professionals to make sure the deal goes smoothly.

In order to be successful in this role, you need to be able to handle a lot of responsibility and have a strong understanding of financial and legal procedures.

Use these examples to write a transaction manager cover letter that shows hiring managers that you’re the perfect candidate for the job.

Formal/Professional Writing Style Example

With a proven track record in managing financial transactions and a strong background in accounting, I am confident that my skills and experience make me an ideal candidate for this role.

I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Finance and have over six years of experience working in various financial roles, including my most recent position as a Senior Financial Analyst at ABC Corporation. In this role, I managed a team responsible for tracking and analyzing complex financial transactions, ensuring accuracy and compliance with company policies and external regulations. I also played a key role in optimizing financial processes and implementing new control systems, which resulted in improved efficiency and reduced errors by 20%.

My strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and ability to work effectively under pressure have been crucial to my success in these roles. I pride myself on my excellent communication skills, demonstrated through my ability to clearly present complex financial information to both technical and non-technical colleagues, as well as my ability to work collaboratively within cross-functional teams.

In addition to my technical skills, I bring a strong work ethic and a dedication to continuous improvement, always striving to identify new opportunities for growth and optimization. I am confident that my ability to manage financial transactions with excellence and precision, combined with my commitment to delivering exceptional results, would make me a valuable asset to your organization.

I am excited about the opportunity to join your team and contribute to the success of your company as a Transaction Manager. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the possibility of discussing my fit for this position and your organization further.

[Your Name]

Entry-Level Writing Style Example

As a recent graduate from the University of XYZ with a Bachelor of Business Administration, I believe that my education and diverse skillset make me an ideal candidate for this role.

During my time at the university, I had the opportunity to take courses such as Financial Management and Business Analytics, which have given me a strong understanding of transaction management and financial best practices. Furthermore, my participation in extracurricular activities such as the Finance Club allowed me to refine my teamwork and leadership skills, both of which I believe are crucial for success in this position.

Additionally, my past internship experience at ABC Corporation provided me with hands-on experience in managing financial transactions and working with various accounting tools. This experience has honed my ability to efficiently process and analyze large quantities of financial data, while also strengthening my attention to detail and accuracy.

I am particularly drawn to this position because of your company’s commitment to innovation and industry leadership. I am eager to bring my enthusiasm, adaptability, and passion for learning to your organization, and contribute to its continued success.

Thank you for considering my application for the Transaction Manager position. I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to your team and look forward to discussing my qualifications further during an interview. Please find my resume attached for your review.

Networking/Referral Writing Style Example

I was referred to this role by my former colleague and friend, John Smith, who has worked as a Senior Analyst in your company for the past five years. John and I have had the opportunity to collaborate on numerous successful projects in our previous roles, and he has always spoken highly of your organization’s culture and dedication to excellence. Knowing my background and skills, John felt that I would be a strong fit for this role and highly encouraged me to apply.

As a dedicated professional with over 7 years of experience working in the financial industry, I have successfully managed transactional processes, facilitated smooth communication between relevant parties, and ensured timely execution of contracts. I believe my diligence, strong analytical skills, and ability to work seamlessly with cross-functional teams align well with the expectations of this role.

In addition to my experience, I have a deep understanding of financial markets and the regulatory requirements for processing transactions, which I believe would be beneficial to the team. My ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment and adapt quickly to changes make me confident in my ability to excel in this position.

I am excited about the opportunity to contribute my expertise and grow professionally at your organization. I appreciate your consideration and look forward to discussing my qualifications further.

Enthusiastic/Passionate Writing Style Example

As a fervent admirer of your company’s commitment to innovation and customer satisfaction, I firmly believe that my dynamic skill set and unwavering dedication to excellence make me an ideal candidate for this role.

With over five years of experience in managing transactions and collaborations in the fast-paced financial services industry, I have honed my ability to efficiently execute tasks while maintaining keen attention to detail. My expertise in both negotiation and problem-solving has consistently driven successful outcomes, fostering enduring relationships with clients and colleagues alike.

My passion for continuous learning and personal growth, combined with my proactive nature, has led me to consistently exceed expectations and deliver remarkable results. This, in turn, has equipped me with the confidence and ability to adapt to new situations and industries with ease. I am excited about the prospect of using these skills to contribute meaningfully to your organization’s ongoing success and growth.

In addition to my professional experience, my approachability, strong work ethic, and ability to thrive under pressure allow me to seamlessly assimilate into any team environment. I am genuinely enthusiastic about the opportunity to bring my skills, experience, and passion for excellence to your esteemed company and work collaboratively to achieve mutual success.

I am eager to learn more about the Transaction Manager role and discuss how my background and unique skillset can contribute to the continued success and growth of your organization. Thank you for considering my application, and I hope to have the opportunity to speak with you further about how my passion for excellence can contribute to your company’s goals.

Problem-Solving Writing Style Example

Having researched your company extensively, I understand that managing complex transactions and ensuring continued client satisfaction are of the utmost importance to maintain your reputation in the industry. Based on my analysis, I have identified that improving the efficiency of transaction processing and enhancing your client relationships are key challenges currently faced by your organization. With my unique combination of skills and experiences, I am confident in my ability to make significant contributions that will help alleviate these issues.

In my previous role as a Senior Account Executive, I gained valuable experience in managing high-value transactions for clients from various sectors. A crucial part of my responsibilities involved optimizing transaction processing time while maintaining 100% accuracy. As a result, I was able to reduce transaction processing delays by 30%. Additionally, my expertise in project management allowed me to oversee multiple deals simultaneously, ensuring timely completion and exceptional client satisfaction.

Understanding the importance of strong communication skills, I have cultivated lasting partnerships with clients, internal teams, and external stakeholders. This has helped me navigate challenging situations effectively and enabled me to exceed the expectations of clients. By fostering these relationships, I have directly contributed to an increase in repeat business and loyal clientele.

I am eager to bring my strong work ethic, attention to detail, and passion for delivering exceptional client experiences to the Transaction Manager role at your organization. Together, we can enhance the efficiency of transaction processes and build stronger relationships with clients to foster long-term success.

Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss how my skills as a Transaction Manager can directly benefit your organization.

[Your name]

Storytelling/Narrative Writing Style Example

As I sat in my favorite coffee shop, sipping my morning latte, I couldn’t help but overhear a group of individuals discussing their frustrations with their recent real estate transactions. Having always been fascinated by the world of property management and priding myself on my ability to effectively manage complex transactions, I couldn’t resist joining the conversation.

As I shared my own experiences and offered advice on how they could have navigated the process more smoothly, I realized that my passion for transaction management was stronger than ever. This encounter inspired me to seek new opportunities in the field, which ultimately led me to discover the opening at your organization.

With over five years of experience in the transaction management field, I have developed a deep understanding of the intricacies involved in managing multifaceted transactions, including contract negotiation, property inspections, and closing processes. My analytical skills and keen eye for detail have consistently been instrumental in ensuring the successful completion of transactions, while my strong communication skills have allowed me to establish effective relationships with clients and colleagues alike.

In my previous role as a Transaction Coordinator, I was responsible for managing a portfolio of over 100 properties, consistently exceeding targets and contributing to a 20% increase in annual revenue. I believe that my experience, coupled with my passion for the industry, would make me a valuable asset to your team.

I am excited about the prospect of joining your organization and contributing to its continued success. Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to the opportunity to discuss my qualifications further.

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