Interviews are a two-way street. While your potential employer evaluates you, it’s equally important for you to assess whether the firm or organisation is the right fit for your career goals, values, and work style.
Asking thoughtful questions at the end of your interview doesn’t just show that you’re engaged and prepared — it also helps you make an informed decision about your next legal role.
Here’s a list of useful, targeted questions you can ask during your legal job interview to gain clarity and leave a strong impression.
Questions About the Role
Understanding the specific expectations of the position is key to deciding if it’s the right fit for you.
- “What does a typical day or week look like for someone in this role?”
- “Can you tell me about the main responsibilities and priorities for this position in the first 6–12 months?”
- “What challenges or opportunities is the team currently facing that this role will help address?”
- “How will success be measured for this position?”
Why Ask? These questions show you’re proactive and help you understand what’s expected beyond the job description.
Questions About the Team and Culture
You’ll be working closely with colleagues and reporting to managers — understanding the team dynamic is essential.
- “Can you tell me about the team I’d be working with?”
- “What’s the management style of the person I’d be reporting to?”
- “How would you describe the firm’s culture, both professionally and socially?”
- “How does the firm or team collaborate on projects and cases?”
Why Ask? These questions help you gauge how well you’d fit into the team and firm’s environment.
Questions About Professional Development
Your career growth matters. Make sure the firm aligns with your long-term goals.
- “What opportunities for professional development or ongoing training are available here?”
- “Are there clear pathways for progression within the firm?”
- “Does the firm support lawyers undertaking post-graduate studies, certifications, or other professional growth initiatives?”
- “Can you share examples of lawyers who have progressed within the firm?”
Why Ask? It signals that you’re thinking ahead and committed to growing your skills and career.
Questions About Workload and Expectations
Balancing workload and expectations is critical to maintaining job satisfaction and work-life balance.
- “How is work assigned, and how are priorities managed within the team?”
- “What is a realistic expectation regarding billable hours for this role?”
- “Does the firm have flexibility around remote work, or is there an in-office requirement?”
- “How does the firm support lawyers with managing workload during particularly busy periods?”
Why Ask? These questions give you insights into work expectations, preventing surprises down the road.
Questions About the Firm’s Future and Values
It’s important to understand where the firm is headed and what it stands for.
- “What are the firm’s key goals or growth plans over the next 3–5 years?”
- “How does the firm engage with diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives?”
- “What is the firm’s approach to pro bono work or community involvement?”
- “How has the firm adapted to changes in the legal industry, such as technology advancements or remote work trends?”
Why Ask? These questions show you care about the firm’s values and future direction, ensuring alignment with your own.
Questions to Clarify Next Steps
Understanding the next phase of the hiring process helps you manage your expectations and plan accordingly.
- “What are the next steps in the interview process?”
- “When can I expect to hear back regarding this opportunity?”
- “Is there anything else you need from me to assist with your decision?”
Why Ask? It shows you’re organised and eager to move forward in the process.
Bonus Questions to Leave a Strong Impression
If you feel the conversation has covered everything thoroughly, consider ending with reflective or standout questions:
- “What do you enjoy most about working for this firm?”
- “How would you describe the firm’s biggest success over the past year?”
- “Is there anything about my experience or skills that you’d like me to clarify further?”
Why Ask? These questions leave a strong, positive impression and give the interviewer a chance to highlight their experience and the firm’s strengths.
Asking well-thought-out questions in an interview demonstrates curiosity, preparation, and a genuine interest in the role and firm. It’s also your opportunity to ensure the position aligns with your career goals, values, and expectations.
Remember: a great interview isn’t just about impressing the employer — it’s also about ensuring they impress you.
Looking for guidance on preparing for your next legal interview? Reach out to JLegal Australia today — we’ll help you land your next role with confidence.