25 Lawyer Interview Questions

How do you approach a matter where the law is unsettled or ambiguous?

Describe the most complex negotiation you've led — what was your strategy?

How do you manage a client who wants to pursue a strategy you believe is unwise?

What's your approach to legal research when you're unfamiliar with an area of law?

Describe your experience drafting contracts — what do you always pay attention to?

How do you manage multiple high-priority matters simultaneously?

What's your approach to billing and managing client expectations on fees?

Describe a time you had to deliver unfavorable advice to a client.

How do you prepare for a deposition or hearing?

What's your experience with cross-border or multi-jurisdictional matters?

How do you approach due diligence in a transaction?

Describe your experience with regulatory investigations or government inquiries.

How do you stay current in your practice area given the pace of legal change?

What's your approach to mentoring junior associates?

Describe a time a deal or case didn't go as planned — what happened and what did you learn?

How do you handle conflicting obligations to different clients?

What's your experience with alternative dispute resolution — mediation, arbitration?

How do you communicate complex legal issues to non-lawyer executives?

Describe your approach to risk assessment in an advisory context.

How do you build long-term client relationships?

What's your experience with employment law — disputes, compliance, investigations?

How do you approach privilege and confidentiality in a corporate context?

Describe your most challenging opposing counsel experience.

How do you approach pro bono work?

What makes a great lawyer, in your view?