What information should be included in a cover letter accompanying a résumé for a job application?

A cover letter should point out things about the applicant and his or her qualifications for the position that might persuade a recruiter to examine his or her résumé. Some items to include are high academic standing at school (if applicable), eagerness to specialize in the same area of law as the position that is available, and willingness to relocate to the employer's location. The applicant's job is to convince the recruiter that he or she is a close match to the perfect candidate for the job. The applicant should also include information so that the reader knows when and where he or she can be reached.