Yes, it's OK. And in my opinion, more people would be hired if they did just that.

While a company may not be actively hiring, there are times when people leave a company unexpectedly, such as career advancement, found a better job, tired of their current job, relocation, an early retirement, illness, death, etc. Many firms will keep a resume for a little while, just in case.

You definitely seem rounded and experienced as far as working in several areas of law, something a new law graduate who never worked anywhere wouldn't be. You may also have something on your resume that stands out, that says to a partner "hmmm, with this persons credentials I could lighten my workload, or branch out to different cases, or handle more cases". In other words, you may be the person to solve a problem they didn't know they had.

And when you drop off your resumes, remind those partners that you're still available when you see them in your arena. (IMO I would carry resumes with me, and hand them out DIRECTLY to the partners you meet outside their office, besides dropping them off with the receptionist at the firms where you may never get to meet the decision maker. That would put a face to the resume).

Be proactive, not reactive, you'll go farther!

Good luck to you!

Mailing them shows an understanding of professionalism. Be sure to use a printed envelope instead of a handwritten envelope for the return address and the addressee.

Be sure to include a cover letter stating that you are aware that they may not have any open positions but please keep my application on file and consider me for any future openings.

One important note: Many companies no longer recognize mailed-in resume's or solicitations and only ONLY accept applications via internet. Be sure to check this out b/4 wasting your time and theirs so they have to be bothered with throwing out your resume'

I have just completed a week long intensive job search. Not only did I forward emailed letters of interest and resumes, but I was encouraged to ring and request permission to hand deliver my resumes which I also did. Actually one of these I followed up today said they had received 140 applications for an advertised position but they remembered my one because it was the only one hand delivered. Didn't work for me but at least there was some recognition for the effort made. Who knows maybe this method may pay off for me in another job. Perhaps this method is worth considering for you too. Also gives you the opportunity to check out the vibes in the office. On another note at least I have one interview lined up for next week too. Good luck with your job search.

If you deliver them in person, the person you may encounter is the receptionist. He or she may not appreciate competition for his or her job. I would mail them.

Moreover, I would take the time to find out who the person is you would like to work for. Sometimes this may involve using the specialized directories at a large library in your area.

Also, some companies do not consider paper resumes at all any more. You should also submit your resume online. I sometimes doubt that the companies actually consult the resumes in their databases when new positions open up, but submitting online will make sure all your bases are covered.

Good luck.