SEC Lawyer Interview Questions
& Process
Real candidates share what happened, how many rounds they had,
and how the experience turned out.
Based on 6 interview experiences · FREE TO READ
Candidate interview experiences
First-hand accounts from people who interviewed at SEC.
SEC
Legal Counsel
Entry Average Positive experience Accept offer 1 round
Interview process
Recruiter call Phone screen Panel Offer
Interview formats
Behavioral Technical
I had a 30-minute phone chat with two attorneys about my previous work and my understanding of the agency. They asked direct questions and were friendly. The attorneys then sent a recommendation to the hiring panel. I got a response from the agency the day after the call. I found the interview easy and enjoyable.
Confirmed questions1 question
- Can you tell me what you know about the responsibilities of our division?
SEC
Attorney
Mid Average Negative experience No offer 3 rounds
Interview process
Take home Technical screen Background check Offer
Interview formats
Technical Behavioral
About a month after I applied, they asked me to submit a brief writing sample answering a question they posed. Another month went by before I got invited to a "technical" interview. Then, a month later, I was invited to a "fit" interview. After the last interview, they said I'd hear back in a few weeks, but it actually took another 3 months, even though I followed up several times and they kept saying hiring decisions were still being made. It was stressful waiting, especially during these tough covid times. Please improve, SEC. You have people who believe in your mission and want to work with you, don't treat them badly. It's not professional. If you decide not to hire someone, please tell them promptly. This experience has made me reconsider working for the Commission in the future.
Confirmed questions1 question
- Can you describe an instance where you resolved a challenging legal issue?
SEC
Legal Counsel
Mid Average Positive experience No offer 1 round
Interview process
Recruiter call
Interview formats
Behavioral
The process is straightforward but expect a slower process than a private company. The key is to get through the initial screen by tailoring your resume and details to the job description while also showing your full career. I did not complete all rounds of the process as I accepted an offer from a different employer.
Confirmed questions1 question
- Could you share an instance where you had to manage a conflict of interest?
SEC Lawyer Interview Questions
Quoted word for word from SEC interview reports.
“Can you disclose the questions asked?”
Read reports →“Can you tell me what you know about the responsibilities of our division?”
Read reports →“Can you describe an instance where you resolved a challenging legal issue?”
Read reports →“Could you share an instance where you had to manage a conflict of interest?”
Read reports →“What on your resume is relevant to this role?”
Read report →“Could you answer some behavioral questions?”
Read report →“Can you share your experience in this industry?”
Read report →“Tell me about your experience in the industry.”
Read report →Formats, difficulty and experience
Across all 6 SEC interview reports.