The Questions You Should Prepare For in Your Legal Interviews

One of the most common questions I get from students gearing up for interviews is: “What kind of questions should I expect?” It’s a valid concern. Whether you're preparing for on-campus interviews, in-firm meetings, or networking events, knowing what might come your way is crucial.

To help you feel confident, here are some key questions you should be ready to answer. I’ve also got a larger repository of questions on my LinkedIn profile, so don’t forget to add me there for more resources.

Tell Me Something About Yourself That's Not on Your Resume

This question gives you the chance to reveal a new layer of who you are beyond your professional achievements. Resist the temptation to summarize your resume—your interviewer already has that. Instead, share something personal that reflects your interests, values, or experiences. Maybe you’re an avid rock climber who values resilience, or perhaps you’ve spent the last year volunteering at a community legal clinic, sparking your passion for access to justice. Use this opportunity to highlight your humanity and individuality, and to make a connection with your interviewer.

Choose a Difficult Concept and Explain It to Me Like I'm a Layperson

This is about communication. How well can you distill complex legal ideas into something easily digestible? In practice, you’ll frequently need to explain legal concepts to clients, senior partners, and stakeholders who may not have a legal background. This question tests your ability to simplify the technical without losing accuracy. When you tackle this, think of a legal or non-legal concept you're passionate about, break it down, and deliver it in clear, simple terms. Clarity is key here, not legal jargon.

What Motivates You?

Why are you here? What gets you up in the morning? Firms want to understand what drives you because motivation directly ties into how you will perform in a high-pressure environment. Avoid the clichés (e.g., "I'm motivated by success"). Instead, offer something authentic and personal. Maybe it's the intellectual challenge of solving a legal problem, or the opportunity to make a difference in someone's life through pro bono work. Whatever it is, show them that your motivation aligns with what the firm values.

What Role Do You Play on a Team?

Collaboration is central to law firm culture, so firms want to know how you fit into a team dynamic. Think about past experiences where you contributed to group projects, be it in law school, an internship, or extracurricular activities. Were you the organizer who kept everything on track, the researcher who deep-dived into the details, or the negotiator who helped resolve conflict? Highlight your strengths, but also show that you're adaptable and willing to play different roles depending on the team’s needs.

If You Weren’t Going to Be a Lawyer, What Would You Be Doing?

This one is more personal, giving the interviewer insight into your other passions and interests. It’s also an opportunity to show that you're a well-rounded individual. Whether you'd be a chef, a writer, or a social worker, be honest and authentic. Let them see the version of you that exists outside of law, because firms are looking for individuals who are not only great lawyers but also great people with diverse interests.

What Weaknesses Are You Currently Working On?

This is a tricky one, but it’s important. The goal is not to hide your weaknesses but to frame them as areas of growth. You’re not expected to be perfect; in fact, pretending to be flawless can hurt you (as I discussed in my "Too Polished, Too Perfect" workshop). Be candid about a weakness you're working on, but also focus on the steps you're actively taking to improve. Maybe you're working on developing your public speaking skills or finding better work-life balance. Just make sure you emphasize your self-awareness and commitment to improvement.

In the end, your interviews are as much about who you are as they are about what you know. The questions you’ll face give you the chance to showcase not only your legal knowledge but also your unique personality, values, and approach to growth. As you prepare, think about how your answers can reflect authenticity, thoughtfulness, and self-awareness. Firms are looking for more than just sharp legal minds—they want to hire individuals they can see thriving in their culture and contributing to their team.

By practicing these questions, you'll walk into your interviews confident, prepared, and ready to build strong, genuine connections. Remember, the best answers come from a place of truth. Be yourself, trust in your abilities, and let your passion for law and growth guide the conversation.

Good luck, and I look forward to hearing about your success!