Writing samples don't count for much. That means the best choice is usually something you've done as a law clerk. The next best choice is something that simulates a real-world product. Don't hand an employer a writing sample that is not as perfect as you can make it. I've had students give me writing samples that contain graders' critical comments in the margins.
Employers use writing samples to winnow down their list of finalists.
Based strictly on interviews, employers usually have more finalists than positions. If you give your writing sample scant attention, you'll lose out to candidates whose samples are polished. Writing samples are tie-breakers. All rights reserved. Reprinted by permission from Student Lawyer, November 1998, Volume 27, Number 3, pages 11-12.