Can you describe a situation where you had to analyze a legal issue and present your findings to a non-legal audience?
Behavioral
Analytical Skills
Communication
Presentation Skills
This question is crucial for a Junior Counsel as it assesses your ability to communicate complex legal concepts in a way that is understandable to clients or colleagues without a legal background.
How to answer
- Choose a specific legal issue you encountered in your previous experience or during your studies.
- Outline the steps you took to analyze the issue, including any research or consultation with senior counsel.
- Explain how you tailored your presentation to suit the audience’s level of understanding.
- Discuss the feedback you received and the impact your findings had on decision-making.
- Highlight any follow-up actions or improvements that arose from your presentation.
What not to say
- Avoid using excessive legal jargon that could confuse the audience.
- Don’t focus solely on the legal complexities without addressing the communication aspect.
- Refrain from discussing hypothetical scenarios that lack real-world application.
- Steer clear of claiming credit for team efforts without acknowledging collaboration.
Sample answer
“During my internship at Allen & Gledhill, I analyzed a contract dispute involving a client’s supplier. I simplified the legal terms and presented my findings to the sales team using a visual chart. They appreciated the clarity, which helped them negotiate a resolution with the supplier effectively. This experience taught me the importance of adapting my communication style to meet the audience's needs.”