Avoid These Application Pitfalls: Lessons from Barristers, Solicitors & Chambers

As we approach the end of 2025, many people will adopt the mindset of “new year, new me” and look to change roles at the start of 2026.  

From 2024 to 2025, legal vacancies grew by 14.2% across England and Wales, and we know that for many industry experts, workloads are projected to increase into 2026. This means that we’re likely to see a further increase in legal vacancies in the new year.

Whether you’re a legal expert with years of experience under your belt or a recent graduate looking to take that first step onto the career ladder, getting your application right is crucial to your success within the job market.

This article covers the main mistakes legal sector applicants make and how to avoid them, so that you can ensure you put your best foot forward with every application that you make.

After all, your application is the first interaction that hiring managers have with you; you’ve got to make it count.

Generic or untailored applications

One of the most common pitfalls across applications is when they lack specific detail and relevance to the role (and firm) in question.

In this age of AI, you may be tempted to create a generic application with a push of a button and then apply to multiple vacancies, but this will likely do more harm than good.

Sending applications without tailoring them to each firm’s specific practice areas, culture or values, demonstrates that you may not have done sufficient research into the role or the firm itself.

 Ultimately, treat each application like a personalised letter to the firm, whereby you want to introduce yourself in the best possible light and as the perfect fit for the role.

Make that first impression count.

Sloppy presentation

Simple errors such as spelling the firm’s name wrong, failing to follow formatting guidelines (e.g. required file format), and poor punctuation/grammar are surprisingly common but often instantly disqualifying.

We all make mistakes, but spending time double (and sometimes triple) checking your applications can help mitigate any errors.

 Firms often interpret sloppy presentation as a lack of attention to detail and professionalism.

Don’t rush, take your time, and re-read to make these applications count.

Insufficient evidence of skills or fit

 You may be highly qualified for a role and possess all the necessary skills and attributes, but if you haven’t disclosed them effectively in your application, you may be overlooked.

 Failing to link past experiences to relevant skills is a common pitfall in legal applications.

Recruiters often look for transferable skills, such as analytical thinking, teamwork, communication, and resilience.

 It’s important to mention any ‘soft skills’ that you possess in conjunction with the work-based experience that you have, as it gives hiring managers a more well-rounded view of your capabilities.

Discounting the strategic process

Rushed, high-volume applications often equal low-quality outcomes.

Looking for a new role can be a stressful time, so it’s understandable to want to get applications out as soon as possible and get things moving.

However, having a strategy for your applications (i.e. creating a ‘target list’ of firms and roles, identifying your priorities for a new position, etc.) will ultimately save you time in the long run.

Creating a clear plan to navigate an overwhelming job market is crucial to not only being a more successful applicant but also keeping you organised and stress-free.

Learn from these mistakes

The road to securing your next legal role can feel daunting, but improving your applications shouldn’t require a dramatic change.

By slowing down, tailoring your approach and showcasing the experience and qualities you already have, you put yourself in a far stronger position in an increasingly competitive market.

As we move into 2026, take these lessons forward and give each application the care it deserves.

Every role is a new opportunity, and every application is a chance to show why you’re the right fit.

Find out what firms are currently hiring on our careers page.