Describe a complex legal issue you faced and how you resolved it


 Theme: Experience, Problem Solving  Role: Lawyer  Function: Legal

  Interview Question for Lawyer:  See sample answers, motivations & red flags for this common interview question. About Lawyer: Represents clients in legal proceedings and provides legal advice. This role falls within the Legal function of a firm. See other interview questions & further information for this role here

 Sample Answer 


  Example response for question delving into Experience, Problem Solving with the key points that need to be covered in an effective response. Customize this to your own experience with concrete examples and evidence

  •  Legal Issue: Provide a brief overview of the complex legal issue you faced
  •  Background: Explain the relevant background information and context surrounding the issue
  •  Challenges: Discuss the specific challenges or obstacles you encountered while addressing the issue
  •  Strategy: Outline the strategy or approach you took to resolve the legal issue
  •  Research & Analysis: Describe the research and analysis you conducted to understand the legal complexities involved
  •  Collaboration: Explain how you collaborated with colleagues or experts to gather insights and perspectives
  •  Resolution: Detail the steps you took to resolve the legal issue and the outcome achieved
  •  Lessons Learned: Reflect on the lessons learned from this experience and how it has influenced your approach to similar issues in the future

 Underlying Motivations 


  What the Interviewer is trying to find out about you and your experiences through this question

  •  Problem-solving skills: Assessing my ability to handle complex legal issues and find effective resolutions
  •  Analytical thinking: Evaluating my capacity to analyze legal problems and develop sound strategies
  •  Legal knowledge: Assessing my understanding of complex legal concepts and their application in real-world scenarios
  •  Communication skills: Evaluating my ability to articulate complex legal issues and explain the resolution process effectively
  •  Decision-making abilities: Assessing my capacity to make informed decisions and take appropriate actions in complex legal situations

 Potential Minefields 


  How to avoid some common minefields when answering this question in order to not raise any red flags

  •  Lack of clarity: Providing a vague or unclear description of the legal issue may indicate a lack of understanding or experience in handling complex legal matters
  •  Inability to explain the resolution process: If the candidate struggles to articulate the steps taken to resolve the issue or fails to provide a logical and coherent explanation, it may suggest a lack of problem-solving skills or experience
  •  Lack of involvement or responsibility: If the candidate fails to demonstrate their active role in resolving the issue or attributes the resolution solely to others, it may indicate a lack of accountability or ability to handle complex legal matters independently
  •  Inadequate research or preparation: If the candidate cannot provide sufficient details about the legal issue or lacks knowledge about relevant laws, regulations, or precedents, it may suggest a lack of thoroughness or diligence in their work
  •  Poor communication or collaboration: If the candidate does not mention any collaboration with colleagues, clients, or other stakeholders during the resolution process, it may raise concerns about their ability to effectively communicate and work with others in a legal team
  •  Ethical or professional misconduct: If the candidate describes a resolution that involved unethical or questionable practices, it may indicate a lack of integrity or adherence to professional standards