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Using bench memos for writing samples
Posted: Mon Dec 23, 2013 11:02 am
by Anonymous User
I'm going to start applying to firms soon. I could use the writing sample that I used in law school to apply for the clerkship, but I think my writing has greatly improved since law school. So I'd like to use a bench memo.
My judge is ok with it, with the appropriate case and redactions. But what do you guys think about it? Did anyone use a bench memo as a writing sample?
Re: Using bench memos for writing samples
Posted: Tue Dec 24, 2013 1:12 am
by Anonymous User
Anonymous User wrote:I'm going to start applying to firms soon. I could use the writing sample that I used in law school to apply for the clerkship, but I think my writing has greatly improved since law school. So I'd like to use a bench memo.
My judge is ok with it, with the appropriate case and redactions. But what do you guys think about it? Did anyone use a bench memo as a writing sample?
From a current clerk --
If you have redacted and have your judge's permission (AND SAY SO IN YOUR COVER LETTER) I see no harm whatsoever if that is the best piece you have.
Re: Using bench memos for writing samples
Posted: Sun Aug 09, 2015 5:29 pm
by Anonymous User
What should we redact if the opinion has already been published?
Re: Using bench memos for writing samples
Posted: Sun Aug 09, 2015 6:52 pm
by rpupkin
Anonymous User wrote:What should we redact if the opinion has already been published?
Ask your judge. But I think most judges would at least want you to redact the party names even if the opinion was already published.
Re: Using bench memos for writing samples
Posted: Sun Aug 09, 2015 7:35 pm
by whats an updog
The judge I interned for said that he would allow me to use published orders as writing samples for clerkship positions, but not for applying to firms. You should definitely just ask your judge or the career clerk because it's likely that every judge will be different and you don't want to use something that they wouldn't approve of.