In applying to law school, letters of recommendation are one very important aspect of the process. A letter of recommendation should serve to provide the admissions committee with a unique perspective on your work and personal qualities, as seen through the eyes of a third party. The third party is most often a professor but can also be an employer, community leader, organization leader, military commander, or close acquaintance. The potential impact of a letter of recommendation demands that you carefully think through the selection of those who will approached and asked to write on your behalf. The decision process is a complex one which must take into consideration all of the factors which will be discussed here.
Law schools vary in their individual guidelines for letters of recommendation.
A law school may specify the number of letters required or may leave the number open. One school may specify academic letters only, while another may not specify the kind of letters required. Some require a Dean's Letter, although a far fewer than in years past. Schools vary as to the form of the letter as well. Each letter should be accompanied by a signed waiver form and enclosed in a sealed envelope with the signature of the letter writer over the seal.