Well, first of all, I want to start by saying I am a paralegal in a small law firm in Texas and I am in control of what unsolicited materials go across my supervising attorneys' desks. This includes reading resumes for paralegal and attorney internship requests, as well as position requests.

What I can say is that each firm is different in how it operates and what is considered...rude, for the lack of a better word. The three attorneys I work for do not like unsolicited resumes or requests. In their eyes, it is a waste of your time, your resources and their time. I know it sounds snobby, but I think once you find yourself a position in a busy firm, you'll understand that they simply don't have that extra time.

With that said, I am the one that contact the persons with the unsolicited resumes and let them know that a position isn't open, etc.

My suggestion to you is always call prior to mailing, and especially faxing, a resume or query letter. It is just a good practice. It will save you money and resources and keep you from knocking on doors that are welded shut. There is a misconception out there that an attorney will hang onto your resume or somehow recall your name when the opportunity does arise. I can tell you from my experience, it is just not true. If the firm has an HR department, they may keep them on file, but in our firm, I make the call as a courtesy and then shred it. Again, we are a small firm. This may not be true for a larger firm with more resources than us.

Keep that in mind when you are sending out these letters. Usually the staff appreciates a phone call to say, "My name is X. I am seeking employment in the legal field and was calling to inquire if you have any openings."

Our secretary is always nice and will tell you no, but for calling beforehand, she often suggests firms we know that have openings.

Again, this isn't trying to discourage you. I would hate for you to send out these query letters and they just get thrown away because they aren't expecting them.