CLERKSHIP GUIDE 2018
MOVE YOUR MIND
Graduates in Law
Aim beyond pure legal knowledge. Beyond commercial advice. Be known for something more: a clarity of thought and an instinct for problem solving that can influence governments and leading businesses the world over. Join us and we’ll help you enrich and expand your worldview, grow your skills and influence new ways of thinking. In other words, we’ll help you move minds.
Begin now at ashurst.com/careers Connect with us on
Welcome Editor’s Note President’s Welcome
Firm Information 2 3
Introduction to Clerkships Clerkship 101 Overview of Application Process and Key Dates Clerkship Resources Talk the Talk: Practice Groups NSW Department of Justice Clerkship
6 7 7 8 9
Application Tips & Tricks Writing the Perfect Cover Letter Preparing a Stellar CV Interview Skills For Success Sample Interview Questions Addressing Selection Criteria How to Approach Cocktail Evenings Offers Choosing the Right Firm Law Clerkships for International Students
12 13 14 15 16
Premier Sponsors Ashurst Clayton Utz Gilbert + Tobin Herbert Smith Freehills Jones Day King & Wood Mallesons MinterEllison
22 26 30 34 38 42 46
Major Sponsors Allens Baker McKenzie ANU GDLP
50 53 56
General Sponsors Arnold Bloch Leibler Clifford Chance
K&L Gates
57 58 59
Student Testimonials
17 18 19
Large Australian Firms International Firm in Australia Overseas Firm
60 63 63
20
Acknowledgements
64
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Contents
Published by ANU Law Students’ Society’s exclusive printing partner
All images included are royalty free or are produced with permission from the author.
1
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Editor’s Note Samantha Woodforde (Careers Director), Rocky Lagudi (Vice President Careers) and Georgie Quinn (Careers Director)
Dear ANU Law Students, On behalf of the ANU Law Students’ Society, we warmly welcome you to the 2018 Ashurst Clerkship Guide. For those of you about to commence the clerkship application process, we are here for you! The Careers Portfolio has again made it our aim to provide you with the most comprehensive array of insights possible. This year’s publication aims to extend the information included to provide a more holistic picture of what you can expect from the recruitment period, and how you can put your best foot forward. For this particular edition, we have included a revamped introduction section, as well as a new student testimonials section. We hope that these additions build on the already strong foundation from past Clerkship Guides. We would like to acknowledge our sponsors, for without your continued support this Guide simply would not have been possible. In particular, thank you to Ashurst for partnering with us for the 2018 Clerkship Guide. We would like to further thank all of our student authors for this year’s publication. It has been nothing but encouraging to hear your advice, which I am sure will motivate our readers throughout the recruitment period. We wish you all the best as you progress towards the end of your degrees and into the job sphere.
2
To our readers, we hope that this Guide provides a strong foundation from which you can launch into the Clerkship application process. This is but one of many resources, so make sure to leave no stone unturned! We wish you every success throughout the recruitment period. In regards to future Careers events for the year, we have some very exciting initiatives ahead. In the coming weeks, we will be hosting CV and Interview Workshops. Semester Two is also looking very exciting, with an array of new initiatives scheduled. If you wish to discuss anything at all Careers related, please do not hesitate to contact me at lsscareers@anu.edu.au. Rocky Lagudi Vice President (Careers) ANU Law Students’ Society DISCLAIMER: The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect those of the editors or the Australian National University Law Students’ Society. Best efforts have been made to ensure all information in this publication is correct as at April 2018 but is subject to change without notice. This information is merely advisory and should not be relied upon as being professional advice. This publication is distributed free of charge with the understanding that the authors, editors and any persons related to this publication are not responsible for the results of their actions or omissions on the basis of any information provided in this publication.
Welcome to the 2018 Clerkship Guide, proudly sponsored by Ashurst. The Guide has been put together by the 2018 Careers Portfolio who have worked very hard to provide you a comprehensive Clerkship Guide.
We hope that by reading the advice and experiences of those that were in a similar situation to you will be inspiring and practical. Thank you to those that have contributed and for giving up their time to provide insights into the clerkship application process.
First and foremost, congratulations! This is an exciting moment in your legal journey and for some might be the first stepping stone on to an illustrious corporate legal career. The coveted clerkship often seems like an impossible achievement at the end of a daunting application process. I hope that this Guide will demystify the procedure, help you better understand the wide range of firms and opportunities that are available to law students, and provide you with some essential advice on navigating through the world of commercial law.
Lastly, it is our hope that this Guide will allow you to feel informed and supported- perhaps even excited as you begin to consider life outside of law school. If you have any questions, or queries I encourage you to get in contact with LSS Vice-President (Careers), Rocky Lagudi.
It is important to note that Clerkships are not for everyone, and that is okay. Some of you may dabble with corporate law and others may not even want to engage with it. You may have a career working for NGOs, government departments, development, academia, public interest and countless other employers. Regardless of where you see your career headed, we hope the skills and knowledge provided in this Guide are transferrable. The importance of researching your desired organisation, preparing early and ensuring your application reflects you.
I wish you the absolute best of luck in the career path you pursue, and hope that you remain positive and optimistic through application processes. Suchara Fernando lss@anu.edu.au 2018 ANU LSS President
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
President’s Welcome
3
INTRODUCTION TO CLERKSHIPS
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Clerkship 101 by Samantha Woodforde Samantha is currently finishing an LLB and a Bachelor of International Relations. Over the ‘17/’18 summer she completed a clerkship at a top tier law firm in Sydney and was offered a graduate position in 2020.
What is a clerkship? A clerkship is essentially a formal paid work-experience program at a law firm. Each state and capital city has their own way of running them, and each firm will do their program slightly differently. Generally you will receive training during your time at the firm, will rotate through a number of practice groups, and firms often will hire graduates exclusively from their clerkship intakes. In Sydney and Canberra, clerkships are normally run for 8 to 12 weeks over summer and there is only the one opportunity to work for a firm. In Melbourne and Brisbane, there is a seasonal clerkship model where students can have multiple 4 week placements over the summer and winter university breaks. Why apply for one? A clerkship is a great opportunity to get real world experience before committing to a career right out of uni, and often also leads to a graduate role depending on the business needs of the firm. A clerkship is the best way to try out a law firm and find out if commercial law is right for you. Professionally, you will learn skills that you can take forward with you into whichever career you end up in, and at the very least, is a great opportunity to gain experience. Who can or should apply for a clerkship? Clerkships are aimed at penultimate year students, however final year students can apply and are generally considered on a case by case basis. If you are in your final year, it’s a good idea to head to careers and clerkship fairs to ask the firms directly what their stance is. As above, a clerkship is a great opportunity to understand what life in a commercial law firm might be like. Anyone who is unsure about what they want to do should consider applying, as at the very least you can rule out this option.
6
Do I have to apply for a clerkship? / I know I don’t want to work in commercial law, should I apply for a clerkship? You do not have to apply for a clerkship, and you should not feel pressured just because everybody else is. Whilst a clerkship is a great experience, it’s not necessarily for everyone. There are many other internship opportunities, in law and other industries, that can be equally rewarding for students depending on their personality.
‘You do not have to apply for a clerkship, and you should not feel pressured just because everybody else is’
What do you ‘need’ to get a clerkship? There is no one thing that is the silver bullet that will get you in the door. Firms are looking for a variety of people from different backgrounds and skill sets. Common traits they are looking for is a pursuit of excellence, intellectual curiosity, strong communication skills, attention to detail and commitment to hard work. Things to keep in mind: • Marks are important, but they are not necessarily the be all and end all. A distinction average or higher helps, but if your marks have improved over your degree this is a real positive. • Prior experience in a law firm or barristers’ chambers is not essential. General work experience is important as it shows you can manage your time effectively, and it also can demonstrate skills like communication and client service. • Involvement in activities outside of your degree are essential, as they show that you are a well rounded person, demonstrate your interests outside study, and give you things to talk about in interviews.
Clerkship Resources
Key Steps 1. Written applications: Normally comprised of cover letter, resume and specific questions posed by the firms; 2. Online testing: Occasionally firms will require some form of online testing, often made up of logic and psychometric tests; 3. Interviews: Generally in two rounds, this will be with two senior members of the firm and is an opportunity for them to get a feel for you as a person; and 4. Cocktail and get to know events. These events are opportunities for you to meet a wide variety of people from the firm and ask lots of questions.
CVMail
CVMail is an Australian-wide online portal run by Thomson Reuters. Many firms use this as a way to manage their initial application process and will advertise the seasonal clerkships on the CVMail job boards. There is also information on many of the firms, as well as handy guides to writing a CV and sitting an interview. It is good to create a profile early, and find out which firms do and do not use CVMail. Inside Sherpa
Key Dates Sydney:
Monday 18 June 2018
Applications for summer clerkships open
11:59pm, Sunday 15 July 2018
Applications for summer clerkships close
Wednesday 26 September 2018
Offers for summer clerkships can be made
5:00pm, Friday 28 September 2018
Offers for summer clerkships must be accepted or declined
Melbourne:
Monday 9 July 2018
Earliest day that applications for seasonal clerkships can open
Sunday 12 August 2018
Latest date that applications for seasonal clerkships can shut
Tuesday 7 Wednesday 8 August 2018
Priority offers made
10am, Thursday 18 October
Offers for seasonal clerkships can be made from this time
Inside Sherpa is a platform where university students can get help with job applications and career planning. They have recently established a number of virtual internship programs that are free for students to enrol in and complete, and they have detailed information on each firm as well as sample CV’s and cover letters when you make a free account with them. LegalVitae
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Overview of Application Process and Key Dates
LegalVitae is run by the Law Society of New South Wales. It acts as a national hub for advertising clerkships and graduate roles and provides information about firms. This is a new resource, started in 2017, and will grow in years to come. Although, there are already many firms and other companies participating. The Law Society of NSW
Beyond setting the timeline for clerkship applications and running LegalVitae, the Law Society of New South Wales provides a wealth of resources on their ‘student hub’ to support law students through internships, clerkships, admission and graduate roles. They also run a nine month long mentoring program for recent graduates and students in their final year. Applications open in September and close in December, for a program operating from February.
7
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Talk the Talk: Practice Groups Firms are structured in a wide variety of ways and each firm will have a different organisational and practice structure. Generally, firms will be organised into a number of broad practice groups that contain more specialised teams within. This article will not encompass all of the nuanced, and frankly downright confusing ways the firms are structured. Instead, it is intended to give you a broad understanding and awareness of some of the buzz words thrown around in the clerkship process. Banking and Finance Generally a transactional and advisory practice, Banking and Finance practice groups work on a wide variety of transactions, from financing assets or projects, to assisting in the restructuring of a struggling company. Transactions touch on many areas of law beyond traditional banking and financial law, such as contracts, corporate, trust, property, tax, regulatory and insolvency. Teams that work in the financial services area include, but are not limited to: project finance, asset finance, structured finance, derivatives, insolvency and restructuring, securitisation, debt capital markets, and US capital markets. Generally, banking and finance teams cover a very diverse area of law, and do not necessarily require a background in commerce or finance. Litigation and Disputes Litigation is a mix of advocacy, legal research, investigation, negotiation and strategic advice. Work in a disputes practice generally involves traditional legal research and drafting, and is very similar to the skills traditionally taught through your university studies. Disputes cover all ranges of industries and sectors, and are occasionally cross-border. Mergers and Acquisitions At a broad level, M&A is a transactional and advisory practice that involves buying and selling companies or assets. Under this umbrella, there are two main types of M&A transactions: public and private. Public transactions focus on publicly listed companies and are heavily regulated by law and policy, whereas private transactions generally relate to non-listed companies. As a lawyer working in M&A, you will work in a wide variety of industries and focus on assisting the client reach commercially, as well as legally sound outcomes. M&A can be made up of a number of practice teams, including Equity Capital Market teams (“ECM”) which is related to to capital raising for initial public offerings (“IPO’s”) or broader M&A transactions. Note, at some firms M&A is used as a broader catchall group, with other teams and practice areas falling under this umbrella.
8
Tax Tax practices generally work across all sectors, industries and practice groups at a law firm. It is a very technical practice group that requires constant engagement with substantive law. Tax law can be complicated and is rapidly evolving, resulting in dynamic and diverse work. Other The groups outlined above are just some of the general categories that firms practice in. Each firm will have their practice groups organised differently, and won’t necessarily practice across all areas. Other teams or groups that are commonly found in law firms include: • •
•
•
•
•
•
•
Competition - this involves a range of matters, including transactions, regulatory investigations, ACCC enforcement and third party litigation. Construction - this can occasionally be included in a firm’s property practice, but it is an important sector group that some firms will specialise in or have a large client base in. Work is across a wide range of sectors in the built environment, and clients include developers, contractors, engineers, architects, surveyors and infrastructure owners. Corporate - a catch all group, can cover everything from health and sports law, to insurance, to crossborder transactions, to any of the other categories mentioned here. Energy and Resources - this is an industry sector that covers a range of practice areas and legal concepts. It is an important practice sector for the Australian market, as well as internationally. Intellectual Property - this can vary from assisting clients with patenting to defending a client’s intellectual property rights that may have been infringed. Public law - whilst public law is applicable across all practice groups, some firms will have focussed administrative law teams that will work closely with ministers, public servants, parliamentary committees, government departments, agencies, statutory authorities and government-owned corporations. Real Estate and Planning - a broad practice group, real estate and planning is hands on and lawyers engage with a broad range of clients and matters. Work can include assisting clients with property acquisition and planning permissions, financing, development, construction, sales and leasing. Technology, Media and Telecommunications - often referred to as ‘TMT’, or a breakdown of any of these three, this is a more sector based practice group that will generally do a variety of work across these industries.
by Chloe Thompson Chloe is a final year Arts/Law student originally from Sydney. She recently went to the University of Alabama with nine other ANU Law students for six weeks over the summer break and was a 2017/2018 summer clerk at the NSW Department of Justice.
Like many ANU students, I hope to work in the public service one day. That’s one reason I decided to apply for a clerkship with the NSW Department of Justice (DoJ). I wanted to see if it is something I could imagine turning into a career. I can confidently say that after my time with DoJ, I will absolutely enjoy working in public service. The work is challenging, fast paced and requires balancing many interests to produce the best outcome. As a summer clerk, you are exposed to so many different facets of government. In my first week, I went to a meeting with government and non-government legal stakeholders about sentencing reforms, and I went to Parliament to watch a bill being passed that my branch had worked on. The division I worked in is called Offender Strategy and their aim is to reduce recidivism through legislative and policy reform. My clerkship challenged my legal research skills and I was able to research sentencing and parole legislation, multijurisdictional problems and legal issues encountered in correctional facilities. My clerkship was fantastic because of the wide exposure I was given. I was able to observe meetings involving representatives from each state and territory and see how cross-jurisdictional issues are dealt with. I observed how legislation is drafted, consulted on and introduced. I was able to see how governments respond to reports from Royal Commissions. I witnessed how governments work to fix issues after new legislation has been introduced. I wrote briefing notes for the Attorney General and saw how governments implement evidence based practice. I was given exposure to a wide range of policy and legislative areas, with every day being different. For anyone who wants to apply, I would recommend participating in internships and keeping yourself updated with events in the news and focusing on developing your legal research skills.
In all of this, I was closely supported by my manager and my team. Everyone is generous with their time and you can never ask too many questions. It is such an enjoyable and supportive environment to learn these new skills. Each clerk works in a different area of legal policy as there is a crime policy branch, civil law branch, courts and tribunals branch and my branch, offender strategy. The social aspect is great too as the clerks often grab lunch together or after work drinks. There was a Christmas party too, which was a fun way to get to know more people. DoJ is extremely flexible too. I was able to set my own start and end dates and they even let me go on a short exchange to the University of Alabama halfway through my clerkship.
‘The work is challenging, fast paced and requires balancing many interests’
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
NSW Department of Justice Clerkship
The application process involves a written application, an interview and a short written exercise which was writing a briefing note summarising a legal issue. It was a bit nerve wracking as I had never done anything like it before, but like the whole clerkship process, you have to give it a go and do your best. Applications for the 2018-2019 clerkship will open in June 2018, and I would strongly recommend that anyone who is interested in legal policy, government and public service to apply.
9
APPLICATION TIPS & TRICKS
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Writing the Perfect Cover Letter by Isla Tobin Isla is currently in her fifth year of an Arts/Law degree. She is from Victoria and made the last minute (but very good!) decision to move to Canberra in 2013. She completed a summer clerkship at a top tier firm in Canberra over summer and will begin their graduate program next year.
Cover letters are a very essential part of applications: a cover letter is the first impression you give to a firm and your chance to differentiate yourself from hundreds of other similar applicants. It’s important to get them right. Trust me when I say I understand that writing cover letters can be quite an ordeal! However, the following guide should provide you with a good place to start. Firstly, make sure to state the obvious (trivial, but essential!). Correctly address the letter. Avoid using generic forms of address, as firms usually specify a certain person or department to address clerkship applications to. At the beginning of your letter, briefly introduce yourself: your university degree, year of degree, GPA/ average if you want to highlight this, any awards and relevant academic achievements. Indicate the position you are applying for (ie. a seasonal/summer clerkship at X firm). Secondly, make your letter firm-specific and do your research. Know your firm! Your letter should demonstrate why you want to work for the firm in question, as well as showing a sound knowledge of the firm’s strengths and culture. You can demonstrate this knowledge by highlighting why you are interested in the firm’s areas of practice and how you align with its values (using achievements, skills, experience and academic results to reflect this). In order to do so well, be sure to do your research. A great way to learn more about firms is to check out the clerkship night run by the Law Students Society and to attend firm information sessions. Take every opportunity to meet current firm employees or past clerks and find out information beyond what is available through a quick Google.
“A cover letter is the first impression you give to a firm and your chance to differentiate yourself”
Thirdly, sell yourself. You’re a law student – you should be well-versed in the art of the humble-brag by now! Wisecracks aside, your letter should demonstrate what sets you apart from a very large stack of applications. You are selling yourself at the end of the day, but ultimately you should come across as eager rather than arrogant (this is why it’s a really good idea to get another pair of eyes to read your letter). Your letter should set out the highlights of your CV: don’t just re-hash it. You should show what you can bring to the clerkship role: what you can offer to the firm by way of skills, and why this would benefit them. Use examples to demonstrate how you have applied skills and experience. Use action words to show this to the firm: for example, how you ‘implemented’ an initiative, or how your ability to do X is ‘demonstrated by’ a particular achievement. Include something (whether by way of skill, experience or interest) that will ensure your cover letter is unique and makes you stand out from the crowd. Remember that at the end of the day, the large majority of candidates will have good grades, legal experience and extracurricular achievements. Fourthly, polish that letter! Your letter should be clearly structured, easy to read and no longer than one A4 page. Keep it snappy – avoid flowery language. Go over your letter with a fine tooth comb – and then have someone else do the same. Finally, start early. Each application requires a lot of work (and rework) to achieve a quality result. Make sure that you start early – it will take the stress off towards the end of applications and it will also mean that you are not left submitting a generic letter to a bunch of firms (not recommended). No penalties for submitting early either! Good luck! Note that some firms no longer require a traditional cover ‘letter’. However, they may seek out some or all of the information typically included in a cover letter through an online form or questions, and to that extent, follow a similar approach. Best of luck! For an example Cover Letter, please refer to the LSS’s 2018 Careers Guide, available online.
12
by Judy Zhao Judy is a final year Science/Law student and completed her summer clerkship at a big six firm in Sydney. Prior to her clerkship, Judy gained policy experience in the not-for-profit sector, volunteered at the ACT Youth Law Centre and worked in the in-house legal team of a government agency.
As clerkship season approaches, the bad news is that applications will probably take longer to complete than you expect. The good news is that you can polish your CV before the process even begins, to give you the best shot at securing a position. While your CV may have already scored you a couple of jobs or extra-curriculars, it might need a tweak here and there to ensure that it’s tailored for clerkship applications. Not only will your CV provide the first impression for the selection panel, firms are also likely to ask about specific experiences during an interview. You want to make sure that your achievements are clear and will stand out to recruitment managers. Format Your CV needs to be well-formatted to ensure that a recruiter can easily identify the skills and experiences that make you the best candidate for a clerkship. There are common elements that CVs generally use, and it is a good idea to follow these norms: • Name and contact details as the heading – Make sure your phone number has a professional voicemail message set up. • Reverse chronology – Places your most recent information first. • Include the name and location of your employer, your position title, when you worked for them and the number of hours worked per week – Use bold or italics to highlight titles. Also, including how many hours you work can demonstrate your ability to manage multiple commitments. • Enough white space on the page – White space can draw the reader’s eyes to important points, so avoid dense blocks of text and use bullet points. • Referees – Try to include two referees, where at least one can comment on your work ethic and skill set. Ideally, your CV should be two pages, or a maximum of three. A recruiter receiving hundreds of CVs will want to know your most important and relevant experiences, so think carefully about what you want to prioritise.
Education Don’t forget to include your expected completion date, your GPA or WAM, and any academic awards you have received in this section. If you have been on exchange, definitely write that down as well – this might come up in the interview as firms often enjoy hearing about your overseas experiences. Work Experience There is no strict format for how you set this out. Instead of separating your work experiences as paid work and volunteer work, it may be more effective to split this section into relevant legal experience and other work experience. Make sure you include all relevant work experience you have, whether it’s paid work as a paralegal or volunteering at a community legal centre. Extra-curricular activities This section may be chronological, or you can split it into relevant categories such as “leadership” for positions in student societies, “competitions” for participation in mooting or debating, and “sport/arts” for your other interests. These categories will better highlight to a recruiter the types of interests that you have rather than a completely chronological list. If you’re short on space, don’t list every extra-curricular activity that you have been involved in – prioritise your most impressive achievements and think about whether your interests demonstrate that you would fit in with a firm’s culture.
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Preparing a Stellar CV
Finishing touches I’m sure you’ve heard this a thousand times, but make sure someone else reads over your CV! Sometimes other people can be better at identifying your strengths and brazenly laying them out to prospective employers. Fresh eyes can also help to pick up typos - there’s no room for these when you’re trying to convince a law firm that you have attention to detail! Once your CV is completed and polished, save it (and cover letter) in PDF before sending for the most professional finish. Best of luck!
Content The key areas you need to cover are your education, work experience and extra-curricular involvements.
For an example CV, please refer to the LSS’s 2018 Careers Guide, available online.
13
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
14
Interview Skills For Success by Jonathan Tay Jonathan is a final year Law/Commerce student at the ANU. He undertook a summer clerkship in 2017/2018 at one of Australia’s largest law firms, working in government and administrative law litigation. Outside work and study, Jonathan has a passion for yoga, running and the odd cheeky boogie.
Congratulations! You’ve made it this far, you’ve made the interview stage of the clerkship application process. Interviews serve as the final hurdle and allow both you and the firm to suss out whether there is potential for a strong positive working relationship here. The light is well and truly appearing at the end of this long, sometimes dark, tunnel. Generally, if you’ve made it to this far, your capacity to actually do the job is likely not at issue. What HR and the partners interviewing you will be more interested in is your ability to stand out and fit the culture of the firm. I hope the following three tips will help you to ace this crucial last step: 1. Be Yourself. Absolute cliché this one, but not without reason. Much like everyday life, putting on a face that is not yours is a sure-fire way to get found out and leave the wrong impression. While this does not mean that you should act very visibly nervous (not unreasonable given that you’re being interviewed by some very senior people for what is a significant opportunity), it does mean that you should back yourself, what you’re about and why you’re there. Everyone in the room understands that the situation is not exactly normal, but they’re genuinely interested in knowing what you’re about. Do you! 2. Prepare. Prepare. Prepare. Prepare. Prepare Again. Prepare. Chances are if you’ve made it this far, you’re the type who is already very prepared. Keep doing this - the interview is not one to be treated casually. As a starting point, you will should have ready a number of substantive reasons why you want to join the particular firm that you are interviewing at. You might want to comment on the firm’s standing within the legal community, the values it espouses, and even note some of the clients or cases the firm has been involved in and why this appeals to you. I’d also relate the firm’s key practice areas to your own personal experiences or interests. These are all things to get familiar with BEFORE the interview. I’d also suggest researching the partners you’ll be speaking to. Firm websites generally provide information about partners’ experience and expertise. Showing the firm that you are aware and interested in what they do, hopefully by relating it to your own experiences, looks impressive.
Finally, practice interview questions (generally all quite similar, a simple Google or Whirlpool search is definitely your friend for getting idea of what you’ll be asked. Actually Whirlpool is a great one for all sorts of insights about the clerkship process. Absolutely get onto Whirlpool!) with mates or family. Ideally, you want to be familiar enough so you’re not caught off guard. However, ensure that you don’t come across as over-practiced or unnatural. This might make you seem false or insincere (see Tip 1). When practicing, I’d also recommend finding a routine or a system in the period immediately preceding your interview that works for you. Getting into a solid set of habits before an interview is both good preparation and something that will probably help you feel more relaxed and in control.
“The partners interviewing you will be more interested in…your ability to stand out and fit the culture of the firm” 3. Make a Lasting Impression This one is probably the most difficult and nebulous, as it can be so contingent on whether the people interviewing you randomly take a liking or an interest. Nevertheless, there are some things you can do to present a strong lasting impression. Discussing an interesting piece of research, an exciting internship, or overseas exchange shows firms that you are a curious person who enjoys learning and new experiences. You might insert an anecdote about some of the cocurricular activities you have engaged in, showing that you are interested in stuff apart from study, and have skills from other areas that can apply to the firm. Finally, if appropriate and well-timed, a bit of humour or a joke can do wonders for keeping the mood of the interview light and relaxed. Further, it can help show that you’re just a normal person with a fab personality and not some robot. Let’s face it, interviews are tough and it would be great if they weren’t necessary. Nevertheless, I hope these tips help make the process a little less daunting and wish you all the best on your future endeavours. Also, be kind to yourself. You’re at one of the premier law schools in the country – you’ll work it out!
Questions from the Interviewer
Questions to the Interviewer
•
Tell us about yourself.
•
What sort of work is [FIRM] proudest of?
•
Why law?
•
How supportive is [FIRM] of people pursuing further study?
•
Why do you want a clerkship at [FIRM]? •
How close is the work you do as a graduate to the work you do as a clerk?
•
Do you work principally under a partner, or in a practice group generally?
•
How does your graduate training work?
•
How much feedback will clerks get?
•
How integrated is the firm - do you often work with lawyers from other practice groups, and how does that work?
•
What is the nature of the work in [X] practice group?
•
Are there options for client/pro bono secondments?
•
Are there international opportunities available at a graduate level?
•
What has surprised you most about working at [X] firm?
•
How have you seen the firm, and the firm culture, change over the time you have been here?
•
Are there any initiatives that the firm is taking to encourage inclusion and promote women/ LGBTIQ*/diversity?
•
How is work/life balance encouraged in the firm?
•
Why did you choose to work here?
•
What subject have you found the hardest?
•
What was a time when you have faced a challenge and showed leadership in overcoming it?
•
Can you tell us about a time when you demonstrated business acumen?
•
Tell us a time you’ve had to give feedback to a group or an individual
•
Where do you see yourself in five years?
•
What is your greatest strength/weakness?
•
Describe a time when you worked in a successful team. What made the team successful?
•
How do you go about making a particularly difficult decision?
•
What do you think sets you apart from other applicants?
•
Describe a time when you had competing deadlines to meet. What steps did you take?
•
Describe a time when you have had to adapt quickly to substantially changed circumstances.
•
Tell me about a time when you felt you had to make an unpopular decision based on your beliefs and values.
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Sample Interview Questions
15
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Addressing Selection Criteria by Alex Jowett Alex is in her final year of a Bachelor of Laws/Languages. Originally from Melbourne, she was a resident at Burgmann College and has spent time on exchange at Trinity College in Dublin. She completed a seasonal clerkship in Melbourne at the end of 2017.
While the clerkship application process can differ vastly between firms, you’ll almost always be given the opportunity to address a set of selection criteria. Illustrating your skills and experience in writing can be a tough task, but with some research, self-reflection and clear written expression you can put your best foot forward in this initial phase of the application process.
“It will often be up to you to establish what the firm is looking for in a prospective clerk”
Be it in cover letter or question form, a clerkship application should demonstrate not only your knowledge about the firm you’re applying to, but also some connection back to a personal story or your own goals. Most of the application questions you’ll encounter will be grounded in these two things, but it will often be up to you to establish what the firm is looking for in a prospective clerk. The criteria each firm assesses you against may not be laid out clearly, but if it is, make sure to clearly address the skills or strengths that they’re looking for. The “criteria” that firms may ask applicants to speak to could be centred on communication skills, adaptability, open-mindedness, intellectual rigour or a desire to learn. These examples are general in nature and only intended to give you a place to start thinking. Always develop a sense of the particular criteria a firm focuses on before beginning your application. In addressing criteria, specific examples will be required, but in highlighting key achievements or experience you should be able to identify how they relate to your desire to work for that particular firm. One of the great things about applying for clerkships is that there is a wealth of information available about the specific work firms have undertaken. For this reason, if you’re lacking contacts within individual firms or some supreme skills in networking, it’s definitely not the end of the world! Developing an understanding of the firms you apply to shouldn’t be a tough task. Integrating this knowledge into written applications, however, can be difficult.
16
If a firm has achieved particular rankings or notes some outstanding achievements in its publications, these can be worth a mention. However, it’s not worth including this sort of information if it doesn’t link to your application in any relevant way. The same goes for the buzzwords you’ll encounter at every turn, which often link in to key corporate values. If you aren’t using these terms to demonstrate your personal alignment with the firm, they probably aren’t adding anything to your written application. If you can, look into the flagship practice areas of each particular firm. But as always, connecting back to your own experience or interests is key! Use subjects you’ve studied, work experience you’ve had or research you’ve undertaken to illustrate how your interest in a specific practice came about. I can’t speak authoritatively as to the application questions you’ll encounter that don’t fall in the ‘normal’ category. Utilise networking opportunities to work out what individual firms are looking for in applicants and craft your answers to these seemingly ‘out-there’ questions in line with an overarching story. These questions are, like all others, also testing your written expression. Structure is paramount, as is getting to the point and answering the question that is actually asked! It’s best not to take an abstract question as an opportunity to give an abstract answer. Finally, remember to give yourself lots of time. If you know you’ll be on exchange, travelling, or working long hours in the time you have to complete applications, be prepared! While the application questions may not be released until the application open date, there’s nothing stopping you from getting an idea of what each firm is looking for. Do your research, map out the order in which you’ll complete your applications, and ensure you’ve got a strong base to get started once applications open. Good luck, stay positive and enjoy!
by Sam Saunders Sam Saunders is a fifth year Law(Hons)/Economics student. He took a summer clerkship over 2017/18, completing rotations in disputes and equity capital markets.
What are cocktail evenings? Clerkship cocktail evenings are very well catered information sessions. Cocktail evenings differ from firm to firm. Some firms run a sit-down information session with a panel. This is often followed by a Q&A with the panel members. Other firms run their cocktail evenings like a networking event, with a 10-20 minute speech halfway through the evening. What is common to all cocktail evenings is their underlying goal. They are designed to provide you with information about the culture of the firm.
“Cocktail evenings … are designed to provide you with information about the culture of the firm”
When do they occur? Most firms have two cocktail evenings. The first cocktail evening occurs before the first round of interviews. At this stage, the number of students depends on the size of the firm. Be prepared for an intimate group of 20, or a sea of 100 students. The second cocktail evening occurs after the second round interviews. These cocktail evenings are often called “Pre-Offer Events”. The number of students substantially decreases at this stage. At certain firms, the second cocktail event may even be a sit-down lunch or dinner with a few partners and solicitors.
How should I approach them? Most people dread clerkship cocktail evenings. I did. But there is nothing to fear. It is important to remember that these evenings are for the firm to sell themselves to you. You do not have to impress them. They must impress you. Given this, I have three tips. 1. Play it safe You do not need to ‘stand out in the crowd’. In my experience, the loud, ostentatious student you met at the first cocktail evening is no-where to be seen at the second event. Play it safe. Don’t run around telling all the partners how amazing you are. Just grab a drink, walk around calmly and try to learn about the firm. 2. Ask questions to understand the firms culture and strengths Remember, the aim of the cocktail evening is for you to learn about the firm. The only way you can do this is to ask genuine questions about the firm. For example, ‘what practice areas does the firm excel in?’.
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
How to Approach Cocktail Evenings
3. Relax - the hard work has been done If you are at a cocktail evening, you have made it through the massive cull of written applications. The hardest part is done. You can now relax, enjoy a glass of wine, and learn about the firm. Good luck to all.
What is the difference between the first and second cocktail event? The second cocktail event tends to feel more intimate. You have passed the first-round interviews and are desirable to the firm. They will be trying very hard to sell the firm to you. Where do they occur? The first-round cocktail evenings generally occur at the firm. For the second cocktail evening, the firm will usually book out a restaurant, bar, or function room.
17
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Offers If you reach this stage, congratulations! The recruitment process is long, and many students do not make it to this point. If you have received an offer, or even several offers, you have done incredibly well. Do not stress and do not rush your decision! The offer process works as follows: there is a window of time where all the firms will make their offers and all applicants must accept an offer. In Sydney and Canberra, this window is a couple of days long, while in Melbourne it is only a few hours. When taking the call with your offer, make sure to thank the person and politely let them know that you will think about it and get back to them. Note down the time that the firm requires a response by. Some firms will ask that you get back to them sooner than the ‘official’ deadline.
When it comes to making a decision like this, which ultimately boils down to ‘which excellent job opportunity am I going to choose?’, it’s hard to clearly know your own thoughts. Many things can cloud how you feel about different firms, from the opinions of friends and family, to the rankings and awards firms have received, to the actual work that is done and that you’ll be doing. To clarify your thinking, a pro/con list or comparative table of your different options can be a great help. Even then, what factors are important to consider?! Whilst this is ultimately a personal choice, a couple of questions to maybe think about are: Do I have a particular goal in completing this clerkship? (E.g. obtaining a graduate position, receiving training, securing a position in your final year, sussing out what ‘commercial law’ really is...)
This is usually because they will make offers on a rolling basis (ie. the firm will not make all of their offers on the very first day, and may make them at any point in the offer window).
Is there a particular sector group or area of legal practice I think I might be interested in? Which firm serves that the best?
If you are in the enviable position of having multiple offers, there are a number of things that you can do to help inform your decision:
Do I want to travel nationally or internationally? Does one of these firms offer better opportunities for this than the other(s)?
•
Do the values of this firm align broadly with mine?
• • •
Call or contact the firm’s HR, your buddy or even a partner you met during the recruitment process to discuss through your thought process; Consider whether this is a firm you can ultimately see yourself working at; Keep in mind whether that firm has any specialities or focuses that may, or may not, interest you; and Consider the structural benefits to working at a certain firm - for example, some firms will be able to offer you paralegal opportunities in your final year of study (if this is something that you are interested in).
If you do not get a clerkship offer but are determined to work in commercial law, do not panic! There are a number of alternative pathways you can take. In particular, securing a paralegal position to gain some practical experience is invaluable in establishing future pathway options. For more information and ideas, have a look at the LSS Careers Guide, published in March of each year (www.anulss.com/careers/career-guides/).
18
Hot Tips For Writing Pro/Con List
Can I see myself working at this firm with the people I’ve met and in the firm culture I am aware of? Are there particular projects or pro bono streams that I am really passionate about at any of the firms?
by Ben McLachlan Ben is a 5th year international relations/law student. He just completed a summer clerkship with with a top tier firm in Sydney, and is desperately trying to finish his degree on time in order to start as an associate in the Federal Court next year.
So, you’ve jumped through all the hoops and finally made it to the finish line with multiple offers from various law firms. Congratulations! There is no doubt that you’ve earnt it and that you’re about to have a fantastic summer. These offers are a huge compliment to you, and you should be proud. However, remember that people often keep their progress throughout the process private, and others may have had less good news, so be attuned and sensitive to this. Regarding the process from here, you will have received phone calls from all the firms that wish to make you an offer. Typically, this will be from one of the partners who interviewed you. Soon afterwards, you will also receive a formal contact from each firm. When on the phone to the partner, make sure you ask for their number for if you have any more questions. Also, this sounds obvious, but make sure to have a quick look at the contracts. This will give you a good idea of each firm’s respective dates for the clerkship, how much time you’ll have over Christmas, and of course, your remuneration. Armed with some information, get ready for the largest first world problem you’ll ever have – choosing the right firm. For some of you, it’ll be a natural choice. If you’ve known which firm you want from the start, and you get an offer from them plus some extras, then hey presto your decision is easy! But if you’re anything like me, who wasn’t very sure coming in, and was perhaps even more unsure coming out, then here are some tips on how to decide. First, talk, talk, talk and talk some more. Throughout the interview process, you will very often have been given a buddy. Email them, make sure to say thank you for all their help, and ask them why they chose that firm. Often, surprisingly, they will have practical and pragmatic responses to your questions that will help you decide. Similarly, if you know any older students at uni who previously clerked at the firms your deciding between, ask them about their experience. They will also have some useful insights, especially concerning the clerkship experience specifically. Finally, talk to your family and friends. Some of them will know very little about these firms and will have novel insights.
Second, critically evaluate each firm. This is going to be an unpopular position because most people will tell you to pick whichever firm is right for you based off which felt the best. While this is important, and your feel for the right firm should factor into your decision process, remember that your feeling can be very skewed. Many firms, just like you, put on their very best show throughout the clerkship process, and this can sometimes be misleading. Not all firms are their cocktail evenings, and if you have an interview that you come out of feeling weird about, that might not be representative of that particular firm. Make sure you don’t disqualify a whole firm based on these things, and try to get some other perspectives that can help you figure out whether your experience was a one-off, or more indicative generally. Third, remember your choice is ultimately not the end of the world. Any clerkship presents a fantastic opportunity to meet some incredibly smart people and work alongside them, whether they be partners, special counsels, senior associates, graduates, executive associates and other clerks. Regardless of where you end up, you will have started your career on an excellent note. And if you are unhappy for any reason, it is only three months of your summer, and you have set yourself up to explore many other opportunities at other firms or in other professions with the backing of some excellent legal experience.
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Choosing the Right Firm
Now, all these considerations being said, it is important that you make this decision quickly. Firms often make rolling offers, so another person may get a place at a firm that they were very keen for based on your decision. By this point, I hope any of this advice has been somewhat helpful. Once again, congratulations, this is an exciting time that well deserved. When I was in this position, I could think about very little else except which firm to choose, so I also appreciate how hard it can be. But I have no doubt, regardless of where you end up, you will have a fantastic time. As one last note, once you’ve made the decision, make sure to email all the partners of the firms you’ve received offers from to thank them for all their help and inform them of your choice. Law is ultimately a small profession and the impression you leave with these people, even in rejection, will go a long way in the future.
19
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Law Clerkships for International Students by Jolyon Ford Jolyon is the Associate Dean (International) at the ANU College of Law.
In principle, short-term and part-time work experience in law firms is open to international students. Once visa issues are taken into account, in theory there are no reasons why such students cannot apply for and undertake these positions. In practice, it appears that international students ‘selfselect’, or rather self-deselect. That is, it may be that they do not apply because they believe that they will not be considered due to their visa status. If this belief exists, it would be a pity. This is because many law firms in Australia might greatly value the perspective, contacts, insights and skills that international students might bring to the firm’s clerkship cohort. They might see international students not only as bringing their own skills to bear, but also as enriching the cultural and social make-up of the clerkship cohort, reflecting the reality of the transnational and global nature of much legal practice (at least in commercial law) these days. We lack good survey or other data on these issues, but anecdotally we do know that firms are interested in international students, even (or perhaps especially) where these students intend to return home after their studies. This is because of the realisation that a globalised economy requires firms offering legal, assurance and advisory services to develop transnational networks of people. Of course, it is always open to international students to explore law clerkship opportunities in their home countries, and to explore such opportunities with Australian firms (or firms with Australian ties) in those countries. One way to enhance one’s application to an Australia-based firm is to explore the opportunities for you to help that firm build links with new clients or partner firms in one’s home country. For clerkships taking place outside of semester, there are no restrictions to the amount of hours an international student may work (subject to what follows below). It may be that employer firms are not aware of this or believe that hours are restricted (which they are during semester). The ANU website outlines guidelines for international students in terms of working and visa conditions. This website can be found at http://www. anu.edu.au/students/health-wellbeing/mental-health/ study-work.
20
As famous (infamous?) TV shows such as Border Control remind us, Australia strictly enforces visa conditions, including for international students. However, there is no reason for students to be concerned if they comply with their visa conditions. The ANU International Education Office (IEO) suggests that international students must normally seek permission to work while in Australia. The maximum allowable hours of employment are 20 hours per week during semester, and unlimited hours during semester breaks. International students can apply for permission to work in two ways: For online applications, students need to send an e-mail to compliance.ieo@anu.edu.au asking for IEO to confirm course commencement for permission to work. For in-person applications, students can visit the IEO reception and complete a ‘permission to work’ form. The result of this is that during study breaks (especially the longer summer break in December-February), international students face no visa restrictions in undertaking a clerkship. During semester, they would be limited to work experience that has a maximum of 20 hours per week. I would always encourage students to refer to the Department of Home Affairs for more information if they are ever in doubt. The Department has a special page on work conditions for student visa holders: https://www.homeaffairs.gov.au/trav/stud/more/workconditions-for-student-visa-holders. Students can also view their specific visa conditions through the Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) service: https:// www.homeaffairs.gov.au/busi/visas-and-migration/visaentitlement-verification-online-(vevo). The ANU has a careers advisory service, but the ANU College of Law does not run its own careers advisory service. Student representative bodies are one source of advice, but international students are also welcome to approach their lecturers for advice, contacts, references and other assistance with law-related employment – or indeed with any aspect of their studies here, from internships and other experiences, to support and care in relation to their time in our lovely capital city.
FIRM INFORMATION
GUIDE TO
PREPARING FOR
INTERVIEWS
Know yourself • Review what the firm is looking for. Do you have good examples to talk about for each one? Take time to prepare this. • Review your application form. Especially if you made lots of applications. At Ashurst, the content of your application forms the basis of your interview.
Know the firm • What is their position in the market? Who are their clients, core practice areas and competitors? • SWOT on the firm: have you thought about the firm’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats? • Check out recent news. Any rumblings of game-changing mergers, big client wins or partner hires?
Know why you want to work for the firm • Do you know why you are applying to that firm? If you do not, you will come unstuck. Remind yourself why they meet your career criteria. • Think about the commonalities between the firms you have applied to. Can you identify from them the sort of firms you’re attracted to? If you are struggling to find similarities, then you might need to re-think.
Think about your presentation and how you come across • Dress professionally and be well-groomed; your interviewer will want to be able to picture taking you to a client meeting a few years down the line. • You will be nervous, that is to be expected, but think about your body language. Tone down the ear-scratching and arm-waving as this will distract your interviewer. • Maintain eye contact and smile; this will help you to remain calm and composed. Take time to think before answering.
Know what you want to get out of the process and what questions to ask at the end • Questions at the end are for you but can impress too. Ask about the future of the firm, the strategy, and hot topics at the partner conference. • You will probably get to meet a graduate so use them to get under the skin of the firm’s culture. Ask them about their last really great day, their worst and the support they receive.
You can’t prepare for everything • Most firms will be looking to see how you perform under pressure and will test you on topics you likely won’t have been able to prepare for. Do not panic; take your time, try to think around the issue and remember that sometimes the obvious answer is the right one. • You might be asked your opinion on an issue. Can you defend your position and will you accept that you may be wrong? Don’t be afraid to hold your ground if you can back up your argument.
CONNECT WITH US ON
A dAY iN the life of… derek, Seasonal Clerk Studied: Bachelor of Business Administration / Bachelor of laws (llB (hons)), Australian National University, Canberra
No single day is ever the same when you are a seasonal clerk! You may find yourself doing a single urgent task for the majority of your day, or a series of small tasks broken up by catch-ups with mentors, client meetings and wellbeing sessions. Below is an example of what you may expect as a clerk at Ashurst: 08:30: When i arrive at my desk, i check my emails and familiarise myself with upcoming tasks for the day. Soon after, i get coffee with my supervising lawyer. this is useful for seeking feedback and mentorship on tasks i have recently completed. 09:15: i attend a morning meeting with my team to discuss the matters that we are working on and our current levels of capacity. After i am allocated some work that i expressed interest getting involved in, i present an expertise item to the team. this highlights a development that is relevant to my team’s practice and fosters discussion about what this will mean for future advice we provide to clients.
12:00: At the hearing, i observe and take notes. Reading the suite of documents before the hearing was useful as it identified the most relevant points of discussion, allowing me to take logical notes. After the hearing, i debrief with the lawyer to completely understand the purpose and implications of the hearing before drafting a report for the client’s file. 15:00: i attend a business development (Bd) team meeting with the other clerks. Bd is the principal way in which commercial law firms develop networks and enrich relationships with clients. the clerks are responsible for drafting an expression of interest (eoi) and presenting a pitch for an upcoming tender that the firm is positioning itself to secure. our work will feed into the Partners’ eoi and pitch that they will use to secure the work.
09:45: i conduct some research on a Pro Bono project which my fellow clerks and i are working on. the clerks are responsible for the entirety of the project. We are currently assisting a community legal centre to prepare a submission to the government regarding law reform with respect to women escaping domestic violence.
16:30: i seek instruction from my Partner and i begin work on a research task that takes me up to the end of the day. i am given a lot of responsibility on the task, but i am always able to collaborate with other lawyers in the team, especially my buddy.
11:30: i receive an email from a lawyer in my team inviting me to come along to a hearing. i read the documents in the client’s file located in our document management system to become familiar with the matter before meeting with the lawyer.
17:15: With the day coming to an end, i conduct a final check of emails, post my time for the day and write a short to-do list for tomorrow. With that finished, i meet some colleagues downstairs for some drinks and snacks to end the day!
careers.ashurst.com
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Ashurst Areas of practice at the firm: Corporate Transactions (M&A), Corporate Projects (Infrastructure, Environment & Planning, Native Title), Disputes (including Employment, IP/TMT and Dispute Resolution) and Finance (including Banking and Insolvency) Offices offering Clerkships: Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra, Brisbane & Perth Domestic Student Eligibility: Completed degree by end of 2019. Application in one Ashurst office only. International Student Eligibility: Must have permanent residency at time of application Application Process: CV, Cover Letter, Academic Transcript, Short Answer Responses, Psychometric Testing Clerkship Dates: November 2018 to February 2019 Clerkship Intake: See website Firm Website: ashurst.com/careers Contact person for each of the offices offering clerkships: Sydney & Melbourne: Joanne Dean, HR Manager – National Graduate Programs Canberra: Leah Wood, HR Consultant Perth: Jacqueline Taylor, HR Consultant
What we look for in our clerks What makes a student stand out to Ashurst during the application process? There are many ways in which you can impress us in your application. Accuracy, integrity and honesty are a must but above all, we want to know the real you. What you say in your application is up to you, but be sure to express your personality and tell us why you want to be a commercial lawyer – and why you’d like to join Ashurst in particular. In the interview process, be genuine and prepared. Come with questions that show you have researched the firm, understand who we are, our values and most importantly, let your passion for Ashurst shine. What strengths and values does Ashurst look for in a potential clerk? There’s absolutely no Ashurst “type”. We want to actively involve a broad range of minds with a broad range of backgrounds, all united by a common set of strengths.
24
There is no required past experience – but it is advantageous to have a diverse range of experiences that demonstrate the following competencies:
• • • • •
Excellent academic record and a passion to develop a career in an elite international law firm; Outstanding communication skills; Analytical ability, motivation, determination and drive; Commercial awareness; and Teamwork and interpersonal skills
What can students do in their pre-penultimate year to prepare for the clerkship process? Students can research different firms, attend career events and demonstrate involvement in extracurricular activities. These can include: • • • • • •
Volunteering at Law Clinics; University Exchange; Mooting Competitions; Mentoring Programs; Participating in the Law Student’s Society; and Commercial work experience.
We encourage you to get involved in as much as possible to build your CV. Your activities and experiences do not have to be within the legal field. We are keen to learn about your interests and hobbies outside of study and get to know the real you!
What is it that makes people proud to work for Ashurst? How we work together! The different cultures, communities and countries within which we operate around the world are immensely varied. The way we actually interact with each other isn’t. The simple fact is: people here like working with each other. We help and challenge each other to develop our thinking and deliver our best work. In every office, you’ll find different perspectives, backgrounds, cultures and personalities to learn from. We’re renowned for helping our clients navigate through a complex and constantly evolving global landscape. With 25 offices across the world’s leading financial and resource centres, we offer the reach and insight of a global network combined with deep local market knowledge. What is the Ashurst’s culture? Open-minded, friendly, considerate. How we interact with each other leads naturally to collaboration. Working together is how we thrive. We’re a community, and we want you to feel part of it. Performing at a high level is important, and that can mean working long hours, under pressure and to tight deadlines. We ask a lot of ourselves. Support is everywhere – from structured training, supervision and honest feedback. On a personal and professional level, whether you’re a partner or a graduate you know there’s someone who cares about your wellbeing as well as your work. How does Ashurst support their employees and clerks? The ways in which Ashurst supports employee’s and clerks is varied. The firm’s structured aQ training helps to develop the highest standards of technical legal expertise, industry know-how and business and legal skills. Honest, transparent conversations and constructive feedback ensure employee’s and clerks learn and know exactly what we expect. A network of highly respected figures will inspire and actively mentor your development.
What are some of Ashurst’s proudest achievements? Ashurst has received many awards and work on many successful deals over the years. Here are some of our most recent achievements: • •
• • •
In 2018, Legal Vitae awarded ‘Ashurst Most Popular Clerkship Employer’; We have been awarded the Workplace Gender Equality Agency’s (WGEA) Employer of Choice for Gender Equality citation in recognition of the firm’s ongoing commitment to supporting women to achieve gender equality in the workplace for the 17th year running. We are the only law firm to be recognised 17 times; Advised the AIA Group on its A$3.8 billion acquisition of Commonwealth Bank of Australia’s life insurance businesses; Acted for Google Inc. in relation to defamation cases brought against them; and Advised one of the world’s largest multinational mining companies in relation to a multimillion-dollar fraud perpetrated by one of its former executives.
What skills do clerks gain from completing a clerkship at Ashurst? Ashurst Clerkships give you the opportunity to be involved with real work, interact with clients and increase commercial awareness. All clerks are supported by a supervising partner and lawyer to assist in developing the following skills: • • • • •
Drafting Research Preparing file notes Pro Bono work e.g. fact sheets for legal centres Attending client meeting
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Who we are and what makes us unique
How does Ashurst give back the community? Corporate responsibility (CR) at Ashurst encompasses our community involvement, place-to-work and environmental initiatives. Pro bono is considered a stand-alone legal practice and we regard pro bono legal work as an integral part of our professional responsibility. Both the CR program and pro bono practice are led by a fulltime partner. We are passionate about using our skills and resources to support projects and initiatives where we believe we can make a real difference. Our lawyers help us to achieve this by providing their time, expertise and experience in any number of different ways, ranging from the provision of pro bono legal advice to charitable fundraising.
25
STAY TRUE.
Staying true to your direction is what defines Clayton Utz. We’ve built a culture that’s unlike any other law firm, but don’t just take our word for it. A good lawyer needs compelling evidence so meet our people and judge for yourself. claytonutz.com/graduates
Academic brilliance certainly counts, but graduates who thrive here have something extra – a natural passion for connecting with people and a strong sense of self. That’s what staying true is all about. If you have these qualities, Clayton Utz is for you.
CLERKSHIP PROGRAM If you’re a law student in your penultimate year, our Clerkship Programs will expose you to the fast pace of a full-service commercial law firm and show you the law in action. You’ll be working under the guidance of some of the sharpest legal minds in Australia, on challenging, complex and high-profile transactions and matters. You’ll be mentored by partners and lawyers who are leaders in their fields, in a firm where individuality is embraced and innovation actively encouraged.
GRADUATE PROGRAM It’s not just about wearing a suit. There’s always a gap between theory and practice, and post-university prospects can be daunting. How do you make the leap to working in the industry?
That’s where we come in. Once you’ve completed your studies, our national Graduate Program gives you the perfect foundation for your legal career. Our 2.5 week orientation program is designed to ensure that you’ll hit the ground running. It consists of PLT+, local training and a national orientation week in Sydney. Our rotations will help you discover different areas and find the right fit. From day one you’ll be working on complex and sophisticated legal issues, and with our innovative learning and development approach, you’ll get the support to become the best you can be.
You’ll get… • Three rotations of six months in our national practice groups • continuing legal education programs and professional development support • mentoring from some of the best lawyers in the country • a buddy who’ll give you the inside information
• the chance to participate in our Community Connect and Pro Bono programs and really give back
• meaningful performance feedback so you know you’re on • social and sporting activities, because we know it’s not the right track all work and no play.
We hire most of our Graduates from our Clerkship Programs. Occasionally, additional opportunities may arise. These opportunities will be listed on our website.
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Clayton Utz Areas of practice at the firm: Banking & Financial Services, Commercial Litigation, Competition, Corporate, M&A and Capital Markets, Environment and Planning, Insurance, IP & Technology, Major Projects & Construction, Public Sector, Real Estate, Restructuring & Insolvency, Pro Bono, Tax, Workplace Relations, Employment & Safety, Forensic & Technology Services Offices offering Clerkships: Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney Domestic Student Eligibility: We consider applications from penultimate year students. International Student Eligibility: We are happy to consider international students for our clerkship and graduate programs, however they are required to be studying an Australian law degree (e.g. LLB or JD) Application Process: Online application form: CV, cover letter and academic transcript; following this, also will complete a Rare Recruitment survey and a Logical Ability Assessment via Talent Q Clerkship Dates: Canberra & Sydney: 26 November 2018 – 8 February 2019 Melbourne: Summer: 19 November 2018 – 14 December 2018, Winter: 24 June 2019 – 19 July 2019 Perth: Summer 1 - 26 November 2018 - 21 December 2018, Summer 2 - 28 January 2019 - 22 February 2019, Winter - 24 June 2019 - 19 July 2019 Clerkship Intake: Canberra: 5-10 clerks; Sydney 35-40 clerks Firm Website: claytonutz.com/graduates Contact person for each of the offices offering clerkships: Canberra and Sydney: Sarah Pinczewski - Graduate Resourcing Consultant, spinczewski@claytonutz.com; +61 2 9353 5477 Melbourne: Alison Tassiou - Graduate Resourcing Consultant, atassiou@claytonutz.com; +61 3 9286 6955 Brisbane & Perth: Alicia Pasquini - Graduate Resourcing Consultant, apasquini@claytonutz.com; +61 7 3292 7443
What we look for in our clerks Clayton Utz employs people with a wide range of backgrounds, skills, interests and competencies. We look for people who can contribute new ideas and who take a creative approach to solving problems. We look for people who are:
Most importantly, we are looking for people we’d enjoy working alongside. We want clerks and graduates who embody the firm’s behavioural values of trust, respect and co-operation and our foundation value of highest ethical standards in all that they do.
•
Things you may consider including in your application:
• • •
Flexible, and can stay effective while adjusting to a changing work environment; Excited by learning, and actively seek new ideas and different perspectives; Adept at building relationships with peers and clients to achieve goals; Focused on results and can drive a task or project through to completion.
• We’re looking for people who are personable, practical, commercially-savvy, as well as flexible. Our lawyers undertake complex and innovative legal work, so it’s important that our clerks and graduates are motivated individuals who aren’t afraid of a challenge.
28
We are also interested in learning more about your outside interests. You need to be able to balance your professional and personal lives, and have fun!
• • • • • • •
Why you are applying for the program; Why you have an interest in commercial law; Areas of interest, subjects have you enjoyed; Skills you have built from your experiences; Details of work experience (legal and/or nonlegal); Activities you have been involved in at university or outside university; Contributions to the community, as well as volunteer activities and interests.
What is it that makes people proud to work for Clayton Utz? Staying true to your direction is what defines Clayton Utz. At Clayton Utz, we’ve built a team of down-toearth, collaborative lawyers who know that at the heart of exceptional client service is knowing what your client needs. We offer the sharpest legal minds. The clearest advice that cuts through the complexity, so our clients can concentrate on the things that really matter. This offers our graduates the opportunities to work on cutting-edge, complex transactions and litigation with lawyers who are recognised as leaders in their fields. We also provide first-class training and development to support our lawyers to be the best they can be. As one of the world’s top 10 pro bono firms, graduates will also have the chance to contribute to our pro bono practice and help make a difference to the individuals and organisations it supports. What makes Clayton Utz unique? Clayton Utz was named among the ten leading pro bono firms in the world in the inaugural Who’s Who Legal Global Pro Bono Survey. The survey recognises firms that are leading the way in their pro bono contributions, levels of participation and efforts to institutionalise pro bono work. Pro bono is a fundamental part of Clayton Utz. Clayton Utz is serious about pro bono best practice. We were the first large Australian law firm to establish an in-house pro bono practice; the first to appoint a full-time pro bono partner; and the first to sign the National Pro Bono Target. Since 1997, our commitment to pro bono has helped to shape what it means to be a leading Australian law firm. In 2015, we became the first law firm in Australia to provide 500,000 hours of pro bono assistance (and counting). We have achieved this by focusing on our clients’ needs; collaborating with the legal assistance sector and other pro bono colleagues; and making pro bono work part of each of our lawyers’ everyday practice. How does Clayton Utz approach Diversity & Inclusion? Our people come from a wide range of backgrounds and have different skills, interests, personalities and capabilities. We are committed to an inclusive culture in which all of our people are recognised for their unique contributions and are encouraged and supported to achieve their full potential.
Diversity at Clayton Utz includes diversity of thought, background, experience, personal circumstances, education, religion, sexuality, gender, age, cultural background and ability/disability. That diversity helps to generate new ideas, creates more effective teams and relationships, and is a key enabler to attract, develop and retain the very best people. We are a proud member of the Diversity Council of Australia and have been a sponsor of its Gender Reporting Network for several years. Diversity & Inclusion (D&I) is central to the identity and culture of the firm. We have a comprehensive D&I strategy and action plans through which equal opportunity is promoted. At its heart is: • • • •
ongoing senior leadership commitment and setting the tone at the top; raising awareness and education; taking direct action; and measuring and monitoring.
The strategic imperatives that underpin our strategy are: gender, flexibility, LGBTI, ethnicity and disability. Our Chief Executive Partner is the chair of the firm’s Diversity Council, which sets the firm’s diversity inclusion policy, strategy and agenda. How does Clayton Utz give back the community? The law is what we do, but our community is part of who we are. We understand that we are part of the wider Australian community and legal profession, and we have set serious goals to assist us in addressing disadvantage and support access to justice in the communities in which we live and work.
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Who we are and what makes us unique
Partners and employees have direct involvement with charities across Australia by volunteering and fundraising through Community Connect. This has enabled us to participate in numerous activities, with ourCommunity Partners, including climbing mountains with children with Cerebral Palsy, holding mock job interviews in schools and setting up mobile libraries for people living on the streets. We have financially supported our charity partners through the Clayton Utz Foundation, distributing over $9.3 million since 2003. We are committed, through our Reconciliation Action Plan, to working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People to create positive and lasting change, and to reducing inequality between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and other Australians in the areas of access to justice, education and access to support services. We promote Environmental Sustainability through initiatives that assist us to understand our impacts and incorporate sustainability into our decision-making.
29
BE MORE BE PART OF THE MOMENTUM A Gilbert + Tobin clerkship is both positive and challenging. You’ll work directly with partners and lawyers who will assist with your professional development and challenge you intellectually. While your main focus will be corporate work, everyone at G+T has the opportunity to assist on pro bono matters and participate in firm-wide activities. As you progress through your rotations you will develop invaluable skills and knowledge and gain first-hand experience of our various practice groups. Our Sydney program runs for 9 weeks, consisting of two four-week rotations across the firm’s practice areas. During both rotations each clerk is assigned a supervising partner, mentor and buddy to assist with on-the-job training. Participating in our customised in-house training will build your confidence and help you understand the mechanics of legal practice. You’ll have the chance to jump right in and immerse yourself in a leading corporate law practice. And we’ll encourage you to contribute ideas and your own fresh perspective. Preference is given to students in their penultimate year of study. We’re not a prescriptive firm when it comes to our people; we invite individuality and diversity. We also hold ambition, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit in high regard. Our people are collaborative, passionate and dedicated – but most of all they enjoy what they do and never forget to have fun. We seek clerks and graduates who will complement our practice groups and don’t feel the need to take themselves too seriously. Applications for 2018-19 summer clerkships in our Sydney office are open from Monday 18 June to Sunday 15 July 2018. For more information about applying for a clerkship or for program dates please visit gtlaw.com.au, or contact Kristie Barton on 02 9263 4575 or at clerkships@gtlaw.com.au
Find out more at GTLAW.COM.AU
BE PART OF OUR STORY Since starting, and finishing my clerkship, I have been consistently reminded of how glad I am that I chose to clerk at Gilbert + Tobin. I can’t imagine I would have had the experience I did, anywhere else. The firm is energetic – determined to do well and full of hardworking people. It’s not traditional nor steeped in hierarchy, partners and senior lawyers are willing to give you time and are interested in you and your development. I was surprised at how much time the partners and my buddies devoted to making sure I knew the background to a transaction, or the reason we were doing a particular piece of work. I was able to learn so much more because of that help. I was often given responsibility over tasks and given opportunities to demonstrate my capability.
You’re also able to see that the junior lawyers above you are doing work well above their years because they’ve being given opportunities to learn and excel. G+T are doing really exciting things and you notice that during your clerkship. It’s a place where you do feel like you’re working at the forefront of changes in the market. Whether that’s through their real interest in innovation – where juniors especially are regularly working with new tools and products to make your work more efficient – or through their determination to do things differently – most notably in their fierce dedication to pro bono and community involvement. While you’re here you get a clear sense that this is an exciting, different law firm to be working at. Sophie Bogard, 2017/18 Sydney Summer Clerk
Find out more at GTLAW.COM.AU
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Gilbert + Tobin Areas of practice at the firm: Banking and infrastructure; corporate advisory – funds, mergers and acquisitions, private equity, capital markets, tax and stamp duty; communications and technology; competition and regulation; energy and resources; intellectual property; media; litigation and dispute resolution; and real estate and projects. Offices offering Clerkships: Melbourne, Sydney, Perth. Domestic Student Eligibility: Preference is given to penultimate year students. Final years students who did not undertake a clerkship due to exceptional circumstances (e.g. overseas exchange) can apply for a Sydney summer clerks and will be considered on a case by case basis. International Student Eligibility: Our preference remains for students to be either Australian Citizens or Permanent Residents. However, international students may still apply (i.e. there is no automatic cull) and will be considered on a case by case basis, alongside our standard application criteria. Application Process: Application process varies per office; please refer to our website for details. Clerkship Dates: Sydney: November 2018 – February 2019 Melbourne: Summer intake 1: November – December 2018, Summer intake 2: January – February 2019, Winter intake: June – July 2019 Perth: Summer intake : November – December 2018,Winter intake: June – July 2019 Clerkship Intake: Sydney: 10-12 summer clerks Melbourne: 8-10 per intake (summer & winter) Perth: 6-8 per intake (summer & winter) Firm Website: www.gtlaw.com.au/careers Contact person for each of the offices offering clerkships: Sydney: Kristie Barton Melbourne: Sarah Crinnigan Perth: Kristie Barton clerkships@gtlaw.com.au
What we look for in our clerks What makes a student stand out to Gilbert + Tobin during the application process? There is no ‘typical’ G+T clerk. We actively seek people from all types of backgrounds, and with very individual personalities. We look for applications which reflect a candidate’s ambition, determination and entrepreneurial spirit; qualities we believe it takes to succeed both at G+T and to meet the challenges of the future of law. Of course, candidates need to carefully consider the reasons they are applying to G+T and articulate these in their tailored application. What strengths and values does Gilbert + Tobin look for in a potential clerk? While strong university results and academic achievements count, we’re also looking for people who align with our firm’s culture and values. We’re not a prescriptive firm when it comes to our people; we invite individuality and diversity.
32
Our people are collaborative, passionate and dedicated — but most of all they enjoy what they do and never forget to have fun. We seek clerks who will complement our practice groups and don’t feel the need to take themselves too seriously. What skills do students need to demonstrate to be a clerk at Gilbert + Tobin? In addition to the qualities outlined above, successful candidates will have ability to build positive working relationships within and between different teams. They will be able to demonstrate a creative, confident (without arrogance) and thoughtful approach to solving problems. Other key assets we look for include an interest in the world and its challenges, the ability to thrive and adapt, and a willingness to roll up your sleeves. Who does Gilbert + Tobin hope to see more clerkship applications from in 2018? G+T encourages clerkship applications from students from a diverse range of backgrounds, including those with law/STEM degree combinations.
What is Gilbert + Tobin’s culture? As a young and independent firm we’re not constrained by tradition, so we are always open to change, new ideas and different perspectives on how to deliver the best outcomes to our clients. We work within a flat structure, which means our clerks and graduates have direct access to lawyers and partners who are experts in their fields, as well as matters that will improve their skill sets and career prospects. We offer an informal and relaxed environment, approachable partners and lawyers, diverse teams, friendly people who care about the firm and the high performance contribution they make irrespective of their role. “Our culture is unique, with its focus on innovation and change. It challenges you to do better, and to be bold and stand by the advice we give. But one thing that surprised me when I joined is how caring it also is. It’s not just about getting the work done – there’s genuine empathy, and a lack of formality or bureaucracy.” Anna Sparkes, Chief People Officer. How does Gilbert + Tobin support their employees and clerks? G+T presents a unique opportunity for you to make a name for yourself through the matters and transactions you work on, with personal accountability yet supported by those around you. Mentoring is an important aspect of clerk and graduate life at G+T. You’ll be paired with a more experienced lawyer who will mentor and guide you through your rotations and your transition into a practice area. You can look to your mentor to assist you in establishing relationships firm wide and for ongoing support as needed. It’s less about developing your technical legal skills, and more about helping you forge your own career path. At G+T, we consider continuous learning to be a critical component of your professional and personal career development. The firm’s learning courses improve the technical, legal and business skills of our employees at all stages of their careers. We use a variety of teaching techniques, including at-desk instruction and mentoring, classroom-based training and experiential learning.
Formal training is only one element in your development of strong legal skills. For this reason, we place considerable emphasis on practical, one-on-one learning with managers, senior lawyers and partners. Lawyers are also encouraged to attend relevant external seminars. We encourage our lawyers to undertake postgraduate study. This includes offering funding assistance for masters’ degrees and other postgraduate courses as part of our ongoing commitment to your continuing education. While studying, you will also be offered study leave to complete essays and attend exams. For our graduates we fund Practical Legal Training (PLT) through our tailored in-house program and the College of Law. Graduates are provided with PLT exam and study leave and are supported the whole way through by a dedicated PLT mentor. Our graduates also benefit from a tailored Younger Lawyers training program. This starts with a concise introduction to G+T’s areas of specialisation and includes core skills training you will require as a lawyer. “The collaborative way in which we work at G+T means we can regularly tailor our approach to learning and development. We are always looking out for current, relevant and exciting topics that will benefit our people and help them excel.” – Jen Lanahan, Manager – Learning + Diversity. What skills do clerks gain from completing a clerkship at Gilbert + Tobin? As you progress through your rotations you will develop invaluable skills and knowledge and gain first-hand experience of our various practice groups.
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Who we are and what makes us unique
Understanding the mechanics of legal practice through research, drafting memos, attending court and meeting clients builds confidence in our clerks. You’ll have the chance to jump right in and immerse yourself in a leading corporate law practice. “On my first day in Litigation I was given the incredible opportunity to sit in on an arbitration with an ex-High Court Judge as the arbitrator. Over the course of my rotations I worked on a wide variety of matters that involved conducting research, drafting letters, preparing memos, reviewing statements, and collating evidence. This meant I was able to develop a lot of useful skills that will hopefully benefit me in my future career as a lawyer.” - Annabelle Klimt, 2017 Summer Clerk
33
SEE OUR WORLD THROUGH OUR EYES BE A PART OF EVERYTHING
GRADUATE CAREERS IN LAW Join our outstanding graduate program with a law degree and potential to succeed, and experience real responsibility, a flexible career path and an innovative, collaborative environment to help you thrive. Join us as a Herbert Smith Freehills graduate with your degree behind you, but a world of opportunity in front of you. Don't just experience it, be a part of everything. SEARCH HSF GRADUATES AUSTRALIA FOR MORE
27
OFFICES GLOBALLY
TOP 100
GRADUATE EMPLOYERS 2018
MOST INNOVATIVE INTERNATIONAL LAW FIRM FT ASIA-PACIFIC INNOVATIVE LAWYERS AWARDS 2016
BE A PART OF EVERYTHING Join us as a Herbert Smith Freehills Vacation Clerk and you’ll do more than just experience life at a leading law firm, you’ll be a part of everything we have to offer.
Everything about us
With 27 offices around the world, we can show you exactly what a world class law firm has to offer, giving you the chance to work as part of an international team, on high-profile matters, for some of the most significant organisations in the market. Our focus is on the future: the future needs of existing and new clients, the future of the legal profession and investing in our future lawyers. That’s why we aim to attract the best talent from a broad range of backgrounds, ensuring we are optimising our position as a progressive, forward thinking professional services business. At Herbert Smith Freehills, you’ll be given the opportunity to develop the skills you need to help solve our clients’ most complex challenges in thoughtful and innovative ways.
What we look for
We recruit people with the desire and ability to be exceptional, commercial lawyers. This means that we look for more than just a great academic record and strong technical aptitude. We seek people who are curious, empathetic and understand the importance of building relationships with clients and colleagues. We also look for an international mind-set and a desire to work within our global network, not just one office. Complex cross-border deals. A market-leading Disputes division. Worldwide reach. If you’re ready to be a part of it all, we’re looking forward to hearing from you.
HERBERTSMITHFREEHILLS.COM
Clerkship program
There’s nothing more important than finding a role and an organisation that’s right for you and there’s no better way to really get to know our profession than gaining practical, hands-on experience. Our vacation clerkships will immerse you in our business, networks and the international world of law. We encourage students to participate in our vacation clerkship program and we fill the majority of our graduate positions through this program. As a vacation clerk, you will be given extensive training on all aspects of the firm, drafting and research skills. Current lawyers and partners will speak to you about what they do and the nature of work in each part of the firm. You’ll attend workshops and presentations that will give you an insight into the depth and breadth of our practice areas and international reach. You’ll be invited to a range of events giving you the opportunity to network with partners, associates and graduates, as well as with your fellow vacation clerks.
Joining us
We offer a range of summer and winter clerkships across our Australian offices. If you have queries about graduate or vacation clerk positions, please visit our website: careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/au/grads/ vacation-clerkships or contact one of our graduate recruitment team.
Key dates and deadlines SYDNEY Approximate number of positions
25-30
Clerkship programs
summer
Applications for all 2018/19 programs open
18 June 2018
Applications for all 2018/19 programs close
15 July 2018
Offers made
26 September 2018
Please note: An application should only be submitted to the office where you intend to start your career as a graduate. Multiple applications will not be considered.
Our global practice groups • Alternative Legal Services (ALT) • Competition, Regulation and Trade • Corporate • Dispute Resolution • Employment, Industrial Relations and Safety • Finance • Projects and Infrastructure • Real Estate
Contacts James Keane Graduate Recruitment Consultant T +61 2 9322 4313 james.keane@hsf.com
© Herbert Smith Freehills 2018 NOF176854_v6_advertorial_A4_Sydney /160318
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Herbert Smith Freehills Areas of practice at the firm: Six global divisions – corporate; dispute resolution; finance, real estate and projects; employment, pensions and incentives; competition, regulation and trade and alternative legal services Offices offering clerkships: Sydney; Melbourne; Perth; Brisbane Domestic Student Eligibility: Preference is given to penultimate year students International Student Eligibility: Penultimate year law students with unrestricted legal rights to work in Australia when they commence their clerkship Application Process: Applications for vacation clerkships should be submitted via our online graduate portal. Your application should include a brief cover letter, a current CV and a recent copy of your academic transcript. We ask all candidates to answer a few short questions about their interest in Herbert Smith Freehills and commercial law generally. Clerkship Dates: Sydney: One program x 10 weeks from Dec 2018 to Feb 2019 Melbourne: Summer: One program x four weeks in Dec 2018, Winter: One program x four weeks in July 2019 Perth: Summer: Two programs x three weeks each in Dec Clerkship Intake: 140-160 nationally Firm Website: https://careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/au/grads/join-us Contact person for each of the offices offering clerkships: Sydney: James Keane, James.keane@hsf.com Melbourne: Hong Le, Graduates.Melbourne@hsf.com Perth: Chloe McClements, Chloe.mcclements@hsf.com Brisbane: Emily Gimpel, Graduates.Brisbane@hsf.com
What we look for in our clerks We recruit people with the desire and ability to be exceptional, commercial lawyers. This means that we look for more than just a great academic record and strong technical aptitude. We seek people who are curious, empathetic and understand the importance of building relationships with clients and colleagues. We also look for an international mind-set and a desire to work within our global network, not just one office. We are also interested in language ability, particularly native/fluent Mandarin (written and oral) skills. We have prepared some more detailed information on our website: careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/au/ grads/join-us
36
With 27 offices around the world, we can show you exactly what a world class law firm has to offer, giving you the chance to work as part of an international team, on high-profile matters, for some of the most significant organisations in the market. Our focus is on the future: the future needs of existing and new clients, the future of the legal profession and investing in our future lawyers. That’s why we aim to attract the best talent from a broad range of backgrounds, ensuring we are optimising our position as a progressive, forward thinking professional services firm putting our clients at the heart of our business. At Herbert Smith Freehills, you’ll be part of a culture of client focused innovation and engagement which is continuously evolving for our own and our clients’ benefit. We’ll encourage you to think and work differently and you’ll be given the opportunity to develop the skills you need to work with our clients to solve their most complex challenges in thoughtful and innovative ways. What is the Herbert Smith Freehills’ culture? We’re proud of our culture. It’s supportive and it’s non-hierarchical. When you join us as a graduate, you’ll find that your growth is supported at all levels across the firm – whether you’re working on a highprofile takeover, catching up with an overseas client or taking on some challenging pro bono work. It’s an environment that will give you the skills you need to become a brilliant lawyer. And it’s an environment in which your perspective, ideas and experiences will make a real difference.
As a vacation clerk, you will be given extensive training on all aspects of the firm, drafting and research skills. Current lawyers and partners will speak to you about what they do and the nature of work in each of the legal sections of the firm. You’ll attend workshops and presentations that will give you an insight into the depth and breadth of our practice areas and international reach. You’ll be invited to a range of events giving you the opportunity to network with partners, associates and graduates, as well as with your fellow vacation clerks. How does Herbert Smith Freehills give back the community? At Herbert Smith Freehills our focus is on using our expertise and leadership to increase access to justice and opportunity for the benefit of local and global communities. At the core of Herbert Smith Freehills’ approach is a long-standing and proud tradition of providing pro bono legal services and advocacy. This commitment to pro bono legal services for members of the public has developed into a broader program of volunteering and charitable giving that involves a wide range of people across our firm. Many of our vacation clerks participate in pro bono and community work and describe it as one of the highlights of their clerkship. For more information about our pro bono and community work visit: herbertsmithfreehills.com/probono-and-citizenship
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Who we are and what makes us unique
What skills do clerks gain from completing a clerkship at Herbert Smith Freehills? There’s nothing more important than finding a role and an organisation that’s right for you and there’s no better way to really get to know our profession than gaining practical, hands-on experience. Our vacation clerkships will immerse you in our business, networks and the international world of law. We encourage students to participate in our vacation clerkship program and we fill the majority of our graduate positions through this program.
37
WHO WE ARE Jones Day is a global powerhouse, with 43 offices and more than 2500 lawyers. The largest law firm in the United States and included among the 10 largest internationally, Jones Day is recognised as one of the world’s most elite law firms, ranking first in the US Law Firm Brand Index 2017 and holding approximately half of the Fortune 500, the Fortune Global 500 and the FT Global 500 as clients.
HOW WE’RE DIFFERENT What separates Jones Day from our competitors is our commitment to client service. This commitment, along with the Firm’s distinctive structure, ensures that lawyers work together collaboratively across offices and jurisdictions to gain the best outcome for the client. Teamwork, respect for and from colleagues, and shared credit are essential and form the Firm’s core values. Every facet of the Firm is structured to promote an environment that’s client-focused and team-oriented.
TRAINING AT JONES DAY Jones Day provides a non-rotational system. You will work with any partner or team across all departments throughout your home office and often assist partners and practice areas across our other Australian offices. Following your first 18–24 months gaining broad legal experience, you will be offered the opportunity to place with a practice of interest. Visit Jones Day’s website to identify the practice areas offered in each office.
You will: •
See deals and matters from beginning to end.
•
Experience a range of practice areas.
•
Receive more rounded and hands-on training, assisting with all aspects of a matter or transaction.
•
Learn different styles and techniques from a range of partners and associates.
You won’t: •
Worry about the lottery of practice allocations.
•
‘Belong’ to one partner.
•
Drop an interesting case to move to another practice.
We provide full payment of PLT studies and support our lawyers with study leave. Our law graduates undertake a comprehensive learning and development program designed specifically to meet the needs of new lawyers.
THE WASHINGTON NEW LAWYERS ACADEMY Every new law graduate attends the Washington New Lawyers Academy during his or her first year. The New Lawyers Academy offers both training and an opportunity to forge relationships with other new lawyers across the Firm’s global network.
5
LIAN OFF TRA
TINENTS
18
CO N
43
COUNTRIES
O F FI C E S
2500
ICES
A US
LAWYERS
ONE FIRM WORLDWIDESM
4
AUSTRALIAN OFFICE PRACTICE AREAS
Global Disputes • M&A • Private Equity Antitrust & Competition Law • Intellectual Property Energy • Environment • Labour & Employment Business Restructuring & Reorganisation Banking, Finance & Securities
#1 GLOBALLY FOR M&A
We have been ranked #1 globally for number of deals in the Thomson Reuters and Bloomberg M&A league tables for every single calendar quarter since year-end 2000.
WHITE & CASE LLP (241) SKADDEN ARPS SLATE MEAGHER & FLOM LLP (269) BAKER & McKENZIE LLP (270) CLIFFORD CHANCE LLP (276) HOGAN LOVELLS US LLP (278) ALLEN & OVERY LLP (285) DLA PIPER LLP (406) LATHAM & WATKINS LLP (415) KIRKLAND & ELLIS LLP (465) JONES DAY (570)
#1
IN M&A BY NUMBER OF DEALS IN BLOOMBERG GLOBAL TABLES SINCE 2000
BLOOMBERG — GLOBAL
YEAR-END 2017 BASED ON NUMBER OF DEALS
WE ARE GROWING
Jones Day’s presence in Australia has doubled in size over the last three years, and we are committed to further growth within the Australian market. We continue to attract the industry’s most highly regarded and sought-after partners, whilst maintaining our focus on driving internal talent up through the ranks to partnership.
‘COLLABORATIVE, NOT COMPETITIVE’ CULTURE
Our One Firm Worldwide structure fosters teamwork and discourages competition among offices and lawyers.
Working at Jones Day Sarah Loewy – 2017 Graduate Since starting as a graduate six months ago, I have been really fortunate to work on a large litigation matter with a close-knit team of lawyers. My day generally consists of assisting the team with a variety of tasks, including conducting discovery, assisting in the preparation of witness interviews and affidavits, undertaking legal research, preparing materials for court hearings, and attending team meetings to discuss the progress of the matter. I take time out during the day to have lunch with colleagues in our break room overlooking Sydney Harbour, go to the gym with colleagues, or attend one of our regular New Lawyers Group training sessions. Each day presents new challenges and opportunities to learn, so I always feel engaged. In addition to local training, Jones Day sends all graduates to Washington, D.C., for the New Lawyers Academy to support us in our development and encourage us in building relationships with international partners and our global cohort.
Paddy Clark – 2017 Summer Clerk My clerkship with Jones Day provided me with an incredible opportunity to experience real life inside a global law firm with a rapidly growing presence in Australia. A typical day during my clerkship involved completing legal research, drafting documents, attending meetings with clients and counsel, and accompanying lawyers to court. The lawyers I worked alongside always explained the broader context of the task I was doing, which made the work significantly more interesting for me and confirmed that I was making a meaningful contribution during my time with the Firm. The size of Jones Day’s Sydney Office has provided me with the very best of both worlds: great one-on-one experience with both senior lawyers and partners, plus work on nationally and internationally significant matters, thanks to the standing of the Firm globally. The other clerks and I formed a closeknit group and often shared lunches and drinks together after work, as well as being involved in the many social events included in Jones Day’s Clerkship Program.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION, PLEASE CONTACT SydneyRecruiting@jonesday.com
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Jones Day Areas of practice at the firm: Global Disputes, M&A, Private Equity Antitrust & Competition Law, Intellectual Property, Energy, Environment, Labour & Employment, Business Restructuring & Reorganisation, Banking, Finance & Securities Offices offering clerkships: Sydney Domestic Student Eligibility: Eligible International Student Eligibility: Not eligible Application Process: Apply with a copy of your CV, academic transcript and a cover letter. Shortlisted students are invited to our Summer clerk information evening to meet with our Partners and Associates. There are 2 rounds of interviews, followed by a lunch with a partner. Clerkship Dates: 8 week program – 4 weeks before Christmas and 4 weeks after Clerkship Intake: Usually 4 - 6 Firm Website: http://www.jonesday.com/ Contact person for each of the offices offering clerkships: Jade Olsson, HR Manager, jolsson@jonesday.com
What we look for in our clerks What strengths and values does Jones Day look for in a potential clerk We seek lawyers who will thrive in the exceptionally supportive, nonhierarchical, team environment that is the hallmark of Jones Day. Our lawyers share certain fundamental strengths: exemplary integrity, a selfless dedication to the Firm and our clients, and a sense of responsibility and initiative that leads them to take ownership of assignments and to complete them at the highest level of quality legal service. We look for candidates who have a strong work ethic and respect for their colleagues and who place a high value on working as an effective team as well as an individual. We look for well-rounded candidates who are willing to pitch in and do whatever is required in order to ensure the best outcome for our clients. In addition, we seek candidates who are always looking for opportunities to contribute more in solving our clients’ problems and who focus on why we are crafting a particular solution rather than merely concentrating on the mechanics of what needs to be done.
40
What skills do students need to demonstrate to be a clerk at Jones Day? We do not expect prior law firm experience from our Summer Clerks. Jones Day invests significant time and resources in training and development. The Jones Day Training Program combines both Australian and international elements through a variety of mediums. New Lawyers receive formal training on the core elements of Australian practice. This includes substantive law but also practice and business development skills that are important components of a fulfilling legal career. Jones Day draws on in-house expertise but also has invited speakers from industry, regulators, the Bar, Judiciary and Academia. The key for us is for candidates to have the right approach, a genuine passion for the law, and who are eager to learn and take advantage of all the opportunities on offer. Once onboard, successful Summer Clerks need strong attention to detail, the ability to prioritise and manage competing deadlines and effective written and verbal communication skills.
What is it that makes people proud to work for Jones Day? Jones Day has been, and will continue to be, a firm where a lawyer can make a career. Many of the Firm’s leaders began here as new lawyers and summer clerks, and are testament to the Firm’s commitment to our associate development. Up-fromthe-ranks partners are the norm, not the exception, and the Firm invests considerable time and effort in both formal and informal training that will enable our associates to take on ever increasing responsibilities and to advance in the Firm. Jones Day provides the opportunity to work with top end clients on high profile headline matters. These matters are challenging and complex and often at the forefront of what is cutting edge in the industry. What does Jones Day do to ensure a positive work environment? At Jones Day, providing exceptional client service has been the hallmark of our practice philosophy. The time it takes to do that is not an end in itself, but merely incidental to the true goal. As a consequence, billable hours, while often reflective of effort, are not the singular, or even most instructive, measure of an associate’s contribution. Associates are not expected to mark time or to show up on a weekend just to be visible. We expect our associates to be effective and efficient. When our lawyers determine how to spend their time, common sense, rather than a spirit of competition, prevails. We encourage all of our lawyers to find a successful balance between the demands of client service, community involvement, family and personal interest. This balance is often vital to long term success and enjoyment in the practice of law. The great diversity of our lawyers’ backgrounds, interests and talents reflect their success in enjoying full lives while also engaging in one of the world’s most challenging and stimulating legal practices.
What opportunities and experiences are available to those who work at Jones Day? Jones Day offers a dedicated New Lawyers training Program in addition to the national CLE program. New Lawyers receive formal training on the core elements of Australian practice. This includes substantive law but also practice and business development skills that are important components of a fulfilling legal career. Jones Day draws on in-house expertise but also has invited speakers from industry, regulators, the Bar, Judiciary and Academia. In addition, most of our Summer Clerks and Graduates have found that the best and most effective training comes from their daily interactions with their peers. Whether it’s drafting a deal document, taking a deposition or trying a case, the opportunity to do your best work and then receive constructive feedback from a more experienced colleague offers unparalleled benefits to your professional development. You will learn how to write more concisely, ask questions more clearly, organize a brief better and make arguments more persuasively. The immense skill set of our lawyers is truly a rare asset and one that makes each of us better. The opportunity to become. The opportunity to gain broad experience early on in your career and be involved in large and complex matters from day 1 enables our clerks to kick start their careers and get ahead in the industry. sooner Within their first year Jones Day Graduates are given the opportunity to attend the New Lawyers Academy in Washington. This is an invaluable opportunity for Jones Day graduates globally to create meaningful relationships with their peers and to receive training from some of the leading experts at Jones Day. There is also the opportunity to work on cross border matters, and for international assignments and secondments.
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Who we are and what makes us unique
Jones Day also provides gym subsidies, sporting teams, fresh fruit, monthly morning teas, Friday drinks each week, social events throughout the year and casual Fridays.
41
Free to sign up
5-6 hours to complete
Practical legal experience
What’s life really like working at one of the world’s leading corporate law firms? King & Wood Mallesons and InsideSherpa are giving you a genuine insight into the role of a corporate lawyer through our virtual experience program. Gain experience, whilst honing your skills and responding to real-life legal scenarios. In this free open-access program, you will receive instructions from our lawyers and complete thoughtprovoking tasks that mirror the work our graduate lawyers do each day. Review a confidentiality agreement for a Chinese party, prepare a presentation on smart contracts or email advice to a pro bono client – all whilst enjoying the flexibility and convenience of completing the tasks whenever and wherever you like.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to gain a competitive edge - enrol today at
www.insidesherpa.com/king&woodmallesons
We are redefining what a law firm can be. Working for some of the world’s most innovative organisations, our people go beyond the law. They are inventors, designers and pioneers – translating smart ideas into groundbreaking solutions. KWM is a launchpad for endless opportunities. We want to help you think differently about yourself and the possibilities of where a career in the law might take you. WE OFFER: •
Culture of innovation, collaboration and high performance
•
Multiple career pathways where you can shape your future
•
World-class training and coaching to unleash your full potential
•
High impact work for the world’s leading organisations
•
Relationships that last a lifetime
Download the KWM Become app today! Available from the App Store or Google play now.
Interested in building skills in commercial law and getting insight into life at a leading international law firm? KWM have partnered with InsideSherpa to launch an innovative online Virtual Experience Platform. Check it out here! www.insidesherpa.com/king&woodmallesons
Asia Pacific | Europe | North America | Middle East www.kwm.com In Competition China Law blog Insight blog
White icons below:
Spotlight on Safety blog
Google+
RSS
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
King & Wood Mallesons Areas of practice at the firm: King & Wood Mallesons offers a number of market-leading practice teams including; Banking & Finance, Dispute Resolution, Mergers & Acquisitions, Projects & Real Estate and Taxation. Offices offering clerkships: Canberra, Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth. Domestic Student Eligibility: We accept applications from penultimate year students and beyond (i.e. applications from final year students will be considered). International Student Eligibility: All applicants must hold Australian citizenship or permanent residency. If you are not an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you must hold all visas and other approvals necessary for you to work for the firm on a full-time permanent basis. Application Process: The application process for Canberra involves submitting an academic transcript and answering a few short questions. We review all online applications carefully, before selecting candidates for interview. Our interview process occurs in two stages and you will also be invited to events during the recruitment process. Clerkship Dates: Approximately November 2018 – February 2019 Clerkship Intake: Intake numbers vary year on year and are driven by business need Firm Website: www.kwm.com/en Contact person for each of the offices offering clerkships: Canberra: Bonnie Robinson, People & Development Coordinator, Bonnie.Robinson@au.kwm.com Sydney: Kellie Mildred, People & Development Advisor (Graduates), Kellie.Mildred@au.kwm.com Brisbane: Haley Fisher, People & Development Advisor, Haley.Fisher@au.kwm.com Perth: Shenae Djulbic, People & Development Advisor, Shenae.Djulbic@au.kwm.com Melbourne: Alana Arfi, Graduate Resourcing Consultant, Alana.Arfi@au.kwm.com
What we look for in our clerks What makes a student stand out to King & Wood Mallesons during the application process? Our people are what makes the firm great. We are looking for the next generation of lawyer who are innovative, adaptive and strives for excellence, therefore we recruit broadly and not to a set formula. It’s important to get to know the real you during the recruitment process. Here are some practical tips and information to stand out:
We value a range of skills in our employees and recognise that a diversity of strengths leads to best results. We are looking for people who have an intellectual curiosity and are intrinsically motivated. Excellent marks are not necessarily a predictor of career success.
•
•
• • • • •
44
Make it real – give us a sense of who you are, what you’ve achieved and what you’re about Use clear and plain English. Be succinct. It’s the first time KWM gets to see your written communication Use practical examples - avoid generalising Answer the question – don’t go off on a tangent Avoid repeating yourself Start early and give yourself time to work out what you want to say
What strengths and values does King & Wood Mallesons look for in a potential clerk? We recruit high achieving, client centric, learning agile people with an international perspective. We understand that technical excellence is only one success factor.
•
• •
Are you empathetic? Can you stand in the shoes of our client and experience the problem from their perspective? Is it more important to you to admire the problem or are you most interested in providing a practical, efficient and commercially sound solution? Are you traditional and risk averse or are you excited by a changing and fluid work environment? When you think about your career are you only focused on Australia, or do you appreciate that Australia’s closest neighbours are the new power houses of the global economy?
We believe in team work and the ‘Power of Together’. We are not a collection of siloed practices, but work closely across the network to pursue client opportunities. Through a high performance culture our results are realised through collaboration, innovation and engagement.
What are King & Wood Mallesons’ key values? Our vision and values are the backbone of how we work and behave. They are part of our brand promise to our people, and our clients, and they ensure that we make a difference. Our values are: Client centric – Putting our clients (inside and outside the firm) at the centre of everything we say and do. Dynamic and entrepreneurial - We are passionate about challenging the market to create a shared future, together. We are bold in our aspirations and confident in our execution. One team, one firm - Our belief is that the power of together delivers the best results for our people, our clients, and the firm. We operate as one firm, working collaboratively and supporting each other across all cultures. Excellence and innovation - We combine quality and creativity, with the ability to get the right results through innovative solutions. Stewardship - We will build a stronger firm for the future generations by nurturing our clients and colleagues to excel at everything they do. International perspective - Connecting learning and understanding to open doors and unlock opportunities in our local and international markets. What is the King & Wood Mallesons’ culture? King & Wood Mallesons is a firm with a community feel with room for everyone to make their mark. Our people are the difference. Our belief in the power of together delivers the best results for our people, our clients, and the firm.
What distinguishes King & Wood Mallesons from others? Our ability to connect Asia to the world and the world to Asia, is our key differentiator. Through local connections and deep understanding of the region’s culture we are focused on opening up the world’s fastest growth region for clients. King & Wood Mallesons is a unique employer for a number of reasons. As the only global law firm that can practice Chinese, Hong Kong, UK, European and Australian law, we offer real depth and local connections in China. Our Australian practice spans international, local and regional clients, focused on creating value in a real and tangible way. With an ambition to help clients to shape their business for the future – we can help you to shape your world too. That’s because our people are our future and a significant source of pride to us at KWM. We offer more than 200 years of collective knowledge and experience, and we know that our future is in the hands of the next generation of lawyers. As such, at KWM we make your development our priority, and encourage our lawyers to be innovative and creative in meeting our clients’ challenges. We see KWM’s innovative mind set as one of the key factors setting our firm apart in the Australian legal sector, underpinning both our client engagement strategy and firm culture. This involves empowering everyone to help identify opportunities for new revenue streams, as well as improving the way we deliver our current services. As our innovation strategy and reputation continues to develop, leading national and international organisations are increasingly turning to KWM for its pioneering solutions to complex legal problems.
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Who we are and what makes us unique
We are results orientated and have a track record of achievement and performance in life, not just in our academic career but beyond. We also have a strong focus on recognising and acknowledging our staff’s contribution. We are client centric and work in our clients’ worlds and partner with them to achieve their business goals. Many graduates tell us one of the main reasons they joined the firm was the people. We work hard together but we also enjoy spending time with each other outside the office. Each centre has social and sporting committees to help organise a wide range of activities for staff to enjoy, from themed Friday night drinks to free gym memberships. We also have a multitude of sporting teams including soccer, basketball, netball and cricket.
45
e m a g The hanged. c s a . t h i f o t r a p Be hanger
sgamec #minter
Graduates who join MinterEllison have the opportunity to change the game when it comes to their future and career. graduates.minterellison.com MinterEllison minterellisongraduates minterellison
Key Dates Applications open 18 June 2018 Applications close 15 July 2018 Offers made 26 September 2018
Lines of Business 1. Capital Markets & Corporate 2. Risk, Regulatory, Insurance & Controversy 3. Infrastructure, Construction & Property 4. Consulting Solutions
Clerkship launch program For details on our clerkship dates and durations: graduates.minterellison.com
You should consider a career at MinterEllison if: Your passion for excellence leads you
to winning solutions Building relationships excites you – you see yourself partnering with clients to truly understand their needs You’re looking for a firm with a clear strategy You want to feel empowered and be part of a high performing team Collaboration and inclusiveness are principles you value You’re a game changer – you think outside the box and embrace new ideas
About the MinterEllison clerkship launch program
What makes MinterEllison a Game Changer?
The MinterEllison clerkship launch program is critical to our firm for three reasons. First, the market has changed, companies don’t recognise borders the same way they used to, neither should your career. Secondly we know that graduates entering the job market today have unique career expectations – and we have listened. Lastly the future of legal practice is moving very quickly and we need to be agile to ensure we continue grow as a firm and that our talented people are able to future proof their career.
At MinterEllison our aspiration is to be our clients’ best partner. Last year, MinterEllison introduced a new internal structure whereby the firm operates under four Lines of Business. This unique and market facing structure provides opportunity for greater collaboration across the firm and ensures that we are able to seamlessly service clients with our solutions-based approach.
Prior to the launch program we will work closely with you to identify areas of the law that you are passionate about. Throughout the launch program we will ensure you gain experience in practice areas, within our Lines of Business, that match your interests and that fit with your career goals. Successful candidates get the opportunity for real life work experience, a supervising partner, career mentor, and a buddy. Our launch program is filled with challenging and exciting work, support and mentorship, as well as professional and personal growth – all the while having the opportunity to develop new networks and friendships. Candidates who complete a launch program often take on the opportunity to continue with MinterEllison in a flexible role throughout their final year of study. Following the launch program, MinterEllison graduates are able to fast-track their full time career in a Line of Business that aligns with their career objectives. MinterEllison’s agile program also provides the flexibility for graduates to move between practice areas and Lines of Business while they are looking for the area of law that they wish to pursue.
This operating model also encourages a broad career path for our people, with increased opportunities to work across multiple practice areas our lawyers have the opportunity to develop a breadth of skills that will future proof their career. MinterEllison lives and breathes the mantra of Innovate, Collaborate, and Inspire; we think beyond the law and apply a commercial approach and creative thinking to some of the region’s most high-profile transactions, projects and disputes.
Your contact Gill Morphett gill.morphett@minterellison.com Level 3, 25 National Circuit Forrest Canberra 2603
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
MinterEllison Areas of practice at the firm: International Commercial Law Firm headquartered in Australia; four lines of Business: Capital Markets & Corporate; Risk, Regulatory, Insurance & Controversy; Infrastructure, Construction & Property; Consulting Solutions. Offices offering clerkships: Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth, Sydney. Domestic Student Eligibility: Preference is given to penultimate year students. Final year students who were unable to complete a clerkship in their penultimate year may also apply. International Student Eligibility: Penultimate students who have legal rights to work during the period of the clerkship. Application Process: students are required to submit a cover letter, CV, academic transcript and complete psychometric testing. Clerkship Dates: November 2018 - February 2019 Clerkship Intake: Nationally 100+ students are offered clerkships Firm Website: http://www.graduates.minterellison.com Contact person for each of the offices offering clerkships: Brisbane: Lauren Barker: Graduate Resourcing Advisor +61 7 3119 6130: lauren.barker@minterellison.com Canberra: Gill Morphett: Talent Business Partner +61 2 6225 3270: gill.morphett@minterellison.com Melbourne: Katherine Wood: Graduate Resourcing Consultant +61 3 8608 2699: katherine.wood@minterellison.com Perth: Neisha Clare: Talent Business Partner +61 8 6189 7904: neisha.clare@minterellison.com Sydney: Anna Jackson: Graduate Resourcing Advisor +61 2 9921 4880: anna.jackson@minterellison.com
What we look for in our clerks What makes a student stand out to MinterEllison during the application process? At MinterEllison we are not looking for people to fit a mould, academics are just one piece of the puzzle, we recognise the strength that diversity can bring to a team. Work experience, extra-curricular activities, sporting participation, music and travel are all important to us. At MinterEllison we want you to bring your whole self to work, individual strengths and diversity is what builds our teams up to be the successes they are.
48
For MinterEllison, an outstanding applicant will know their application inside and out and be confident in their responses. They need to have thought about their own business acumen and be able to provide real life examples to the questions they are presented with. A strong applicant has a desire to get to know, not just the business, but also the people at the firm, why they are there, and what they enjoy about MinterEllison. Cultural fit is an important element in deciding on a career path for both the applicant and MinterEllison.
What can students do in their pre-penultimate year to prepare for the clerkship process? Students are advised to attend as many Firm information events as possible. Put quality time into researching Firm’s websites and keep up to date with commercial news.
What is it that makes people proud to work for MinterEllison? MinterEllison is a Firm where: • a passion for excellence leads to winning solutions • partnering with clients is encouraged to truly understand their needs • there is a clear strategy • you feel empowered and feel part of a high performing team • collaboration, diversity and inclusiveness are valued principles • you are encouraged to think outside the box and embrace new ideas What are MinterEllison’s key values? MinterEllison lives and breathes the mantra of Innovate, Collaborate, and Inspire, we think beyond the law and apply a commercial approach and creatively approach some of the region’s most high-profile transactions, projects and disputes. How does MinterEllison support their employees and clerks? We do this in a number of ways. Flexible work practices: We support a range of flexible working arrangements, including part-time, job-sharing, variable start & finish times and work from home. We also offer unpaid leave for special requirements not covered by our usual leave policies. Typically this may cover study, overseas work experience, judges associateships and personal emergencies. Health and wellbeing: Free gym memberships.Discounted corporate health insurance with four leading providers. Free health, wellbeing & lifestyle sessions presented by health professionals and providers on an array of topics. Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP) providing confidential counselling service for employees and their immediate family on work or family related issues. What skills do clerks gain from completing a clerkship at MinterEllison? In our clerkship launch program, clerks will get the opportunity for real life work experience, a supervising partner, career mentor, and a buddy. Our launch program will be filled with challenging and exciting work, support and mentorship, as well as professional and personal growth – all the while having the opportunity to develop new networks and friendships. Candidates who complete a launch program often take on the opportunity to continue with MinterEllison in a flexible role throughout their final year of study. What opportunities and experiences are available to those who work at MinterEllison? To be more than just a technically excellent Lawyer: MinterEllison is committed to providing you with the tools to become not just a qualified lawyer, but also empowering you to be a technical thinker and a truly commercial advisor, enabling you to utilise your business acumen every time you interact with clients.
To achieve early success through fast tracked career opportunities: At MinterEllison we understand that our people are our greatest asset. We have invested heavily in understanding how best to capitalise on the unique and diverse range of expertise that our people bring to the firm. To become your clients’ best partner: MinterEllison lives and breathes the mantra of our clients’ best partner, through the relationship driven approach to the way we work. By placing you outside the office you will have genuine opportunities to work hand in glove with clients where you will build enduring relationships both locally and internationally. To create innovative solutions for clients: With our solution focus, we understand that all of our clients have a unique business and to solve their problems in real time we need to be innovative in everything that we do. You will be challenged to think outside the box by a firm that embraces new ideas. To gain broad exposure through a flexible graduate program: We are committed to ensuring that you have the all the information you need to make the right decision about where to focus your career. Our program is designed to give you the critical experiences necessary to become a well-rounded lawyer. What opportunities are there for Career growth and future advancement within MinterEllison? At MinterEllison, your ongoing professional development is key to being our clients’ best partner. We have a distinctive learning culture, where all of our people are encouraged to be their own career architect - learning through experience, exposure to others and program participation.
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Who we are and what makes us unique
During your career with us you will be exposed to great work with top-class clients whilst being surrounded by supportive teams who are experts in their fields. This experience and exposure provides you with a fantastic opportunity to continue to develop yourself and others throughout your career. Our milestone programs target Graduates, Associates and Senior Associates. All programs offer current thought leadership, focused capability development and networking. Our learning offer is tailored to ensure our people realise their potential, think like leaders and take responsibility for building their own careers. All development is focused around our MinterEllison career framework and development guides. Does this firm have any structures in place to promote women/LGBTI individuals? We are committed to leveraging the advantage of a diverse and inclusive workforce and actively promote an inclusive work culture through our Empower Program, our Pride Respect & Inclusion at MinterEllison (PRiME) network as well as numerous internal training sessions and related resources.
49
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Allens Areas of practice at the firm: Allens Accelerate, Arbitration, Asia, Banking & Finance, Capital Markets, Class Actions, Climate Change, Competition Law, Construction & Major Projects, Data Governance, Data Services, Privacy & Cyber, Employment & Safety, Energy, Environment & Planning, Financial Services Regulation, Funds, Governance Insurance & Reinsurance, Intellectual Property, International Business Obligations, Litigation & Dispute Resolution, Mergers & Acquisitions, Patents & Trade Marks, Personal Property Securities, Regulatory Investigations, Resources, Restructuring & Insolvency, Superannuation, Tax, Technology & Outsourcing, Water Offices offering clerkships: Sydney, Melbourne, Perth & Brisbane Domestic Student Eligibility: Penultimate year students for clerkship program, final year students for graduate program International Student Eligibility: Penultimate year students with a valid work visa for clerkship program, final year students with a valid work visa for graduate program Application Process: CV, cover letter, transcript, response to application questions, Rare questions (optional), Koru questionnaire. Clerkship Dates: 19 November – 8 Feb (2 weeks leave between) Clerkship Intake: TBC Firm Website: www.allens.com.au/yourcareer Contact person for each of the offices offering clerkships: Sydney: Lauren Kay Melbourne: Manreet Singh Brisbane and Perth: Amy Altamura
What we look for in our clerks What makes a student stand out to Allens during the application process? We appreciate the clerkship recruitment process is a lengthy one, and can be stressful on top of balancing your university, work and other commitments. We take this into consideration, especially for ANU students, so we come to Canberra to carry out our first round interviews for the Sydney recruitment period. Ultimately, we are looking for students who are driven and are ambitious, not only about the law, but have interests outside their university life and career. Our people are our greatest asset, and it’s having diversity and different personalities that we believe sets us apart. If you can demonstrate your ability to balance priorities, and exhibit that you’re a dedicated budding commercial lawyer, we would love to hear from you.
50
The more you enjoy working with a diverse range of people, the greater your success will be. While we celebrate our differences, it’s important to understand what unites us. These are attributes that our people have in common. These help us to succeed as a team and individually: •
• •
And finally, as clichéd as it sounds, be yourself. We value authenticity. We want to work with clerks and graduates who value this too; we believe you’re able to build better relationships if you are true to yourself.
•
What strengths and values does Allens look for in a potential clerk? We’re proud that there isn’t an ‘Allens’ type’. We know that diverse perspectives help solve complex problems, strengthen teams and enrich client relationships.
•
Initiative: a curious mind is vital. The more adaptable you’re able to be and the more energy you bring with you, the more you’ll get out of a career at Allens. Excellence: it’s a guarantee we give our clients. Intellectually rigorous, driven and eager to learn. Commerciality: law is more than an academic pursuit; it’s about understanding the client – their objectives and the challenges they face – as well as the wider commercial environment in which we operate. Flexibility: a key priority for the firm is to ensure our people feel they are trusted to work in a way that allows them to balance the needs of the firm alongside the pursuit of their own career and life goals irrespective of gender, age or life stage. Commitment: positive people thrive in our environment. We look for people who can build sustainable careers with us, and successfully juggle work and a personal life while maintaining their wellbeing.
What are some of Allens’ proudest achievements? Most recently, we are proud to be named number one law firm in GradAustralia’s Top 100 Graduate Employers. More than 14,000 university students nominated Allens as the most appealing law firm as a first employer. Allens was also the only law firm to be named among the top 75 graduate employers in the 2018 Australian Association of Graduate Employers’ (AAGE) Top Graduate Employers list. The AAGE rankings recognise organisations that provide the most positive experience for their new graduates, as determined by the graduates themselves. ‘Each year we are delighted to welcome our new graduates and the fresh perspectives, enthusiasm and energy they contribute to our firm,’ said Richard Spurio, Managing Partner, who accepted the GradAustralia award on behalf of the firm. ‘We are committed to providing an enriching environment for graduates, which delivers hands-on experience, global opportunities, and learning and development. ‘It’s an honour to have been recognised by university students across Australia.’
How does Allens give back the community? We use our position to give back to our community. We stand up for what we believe in and strive to make a real difference. Not only because it’s the right thing to do, but because we are truly motivated by positive change. You’ll find individuals and teams across the firm committed to providing access to justice, alleviating disadvantage, promoting reconciliation and protecting the environment. At Allens, we are proud of the important role we play in our community. From support for marriage equality to campaigning for refugee rights and going carbon neutral, we use our technical knowledge and professional skills to help others. Pro bono: Pro bono work is a valued part of life at Allens. Join us and you’ll have the opportunity to apply your skills and contribute to causes and organisations. You’ll also be encouraged to take part in challenging matters and develop new skills that complement what you already know. Reconciliation: We believe in creating a just society. We’re committed to ensuring the same level of opportunity exists for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as for other Australians. That’s why we launched our Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) more than eight years ago. Since then, 23 Allens staff have spent a total of 154 weeks living and working alongside Indigenous communities from Arnhem Land to inner Sydney to the West Kimberley.
Environment: We take responsibility for our impact on the planet and work together to reduce it. We’re committed to organisational sustainability and best practice environmental management. Our staff-led Footprint Committee drives us to keep improving and inspire action within the firm. We’re proud to be the first Australian law firm to achieve certification as carbon neutral. We extend our influence to outside of the firm too. Philanthropy: At Allens, we have philanthropy committees in each office. This means we’re supporting the causes closest to our community. Our people work hard to support and advocate for charities and community organisations by hosting fundraising days and events. Our legal professionals can take part in volunteering opportunities of their choosing, ranging from making meals for homeless people to mentoring disadvantaged children.
What opportunities are there for Career growth and future advancement within Allens? Applications are welcomed from final year undergraduates, graduates and post-graduate law students. As a Graduate at Allens, you’ll complete two 12-month rotations in different practice areas. We don’t work in silos, so you won’t be limited to working with only one partner or by your practice areas. There’s no substitute for the depth of insight that comes from working with different teams. You’ll work on complex transactions with leading organisations. And you’ll have the opportunity to apply for a client or international secondment to London or Asia via our Linklaters alliance. You’ll engage with our Allens Academy, which means you’ll benefit from a range of personalised tools and training to unlock your potential, including: • • • • • •
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Who we are and what makes us unique
The Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice program Practical legal seminars during our Cornerstone program Online learning portal Personalised induction program On the job training Ongoing supervision, coaching and mentoring
During your graduate program you’ll be in control of your own learning and you’ll have the flexibility to drive your career with support from your development supervisor and performance coach. We encourage our graduates to pursue their interests and we support our people so they can succeed with us and in their future endeavours. Post graduate program, there will be continued opportunities to make an impact and drive your career, it’s up to you to make the most of them. We progress our people based on merit and capability, rather than seniority. Our career deal clearly articulates what we expect of our people, and what they can expect from us in return.
51
Great change is here.
Are you ready? At Allens, we’re focused on advancing our industry through equipping our people with the skills and experience they need to be the lawyers of the future. We’re ready to define tomorrow. Are you? With us, you’ll be more than a lawyer. Our people are technical experts, but they’re also trusted business advisers who think bigger, more broadly and more strategically. Together, we solve complex legal challenges, and collaborate across practice areas and disciplines to guide our clients. We work across borders too, thanks to our alliance with Linklaters. This strategic partnership opens up worlds of opportunity for our business and our people, including rotations in Linklaters London, Hong Kong and Singapore for our graduate lawyers. In a rapidly changing world, we seek opportunities to innovate, embracing creative thinking, new approaches and emerging technology. And we don’t just use them to benefit ourselves and our clients. We believe strongly in driving positive change to do right by our community too. Our teams are open, inclusive and encouraging, giving you the chance to learn and grow, but your development will be down to you. You’ll have the flexibility to drive your career, and we’ll recognise your achievements and hard work as you progress through the firm. Are you ready to begin?
Clerkship program A clerkship with Allens is the first step in a rewarding legal career. The program will give you invaluable insight into our work and culture. With support from a buddy and development supervisor, you’ll work on real matters for real clients and be involved in projects.
Graduate program Comprising two 12-month placements in different practices, our graduate program offers exposure to stimulating legal challenges. In each rotation, you’ll gain a depth of experience that comes from seeing matters through. However, at Allens we don’t work in silos so you won’t be limited to working with one partner or by your practice areas. Working with different teams and leading organisations, you’ll grow a solid skills base and develop the agility needed to thrive in our ever-changing world. Early careers at Allens provide highly tailored training through the Allens Academy. Developed in partnership with the Australian National University, our Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice will help you transition from law graduate to legal expert and trusted business adviser. Allens is an independent partnership operating in alliance with Linklaters LLP.
Will you make great change happen? Clerkship > Programs run from three to ten weeks > Available at our Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney offices > Ongoing support and buddy system > Exposure to one or two practice groups
Graduate program > Two 12-month rotations in your areas of interest > Secondment options in London or Asia via our alliance with Linklaters > Ongoing supervision, coaching and mentoring > Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (via Allens Academy) > A 12-month legal seminar series (Cornerstone Program)
Find out more at allens.com.au/yourcareer 16774D
Your journey begins with a world-class summer clerkship
Real client work. Invaluable coaching. A tailored development program. A genuine insight into working with our Firm – while building great friendships. Plus, we offer the unique opportunity to build your global knowlege and network – through an International Clerkship. Become a world-class lawyer. Join the firm that was born global.
www.bakermckenzie.com/australia#careers Find us at @BakersAUS
Find us on Facebook
Ready to explore our world? Angelique Wanner +61 2 8922 5596 angelique.wanner@bakermckenzie.com
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Baker McKenzie Areas of practice at the firm: Banking & Finance, Corporate (including Mergers & Acquisitions, Private Equity and Capital Markets), Commercial Real Estate, Construction, Dispute Resolution & Litigation, Employment & Industrial Relations, Energy, Resources, Infrastructure & Corporate, Environmental Markets. Intellectual Property, Media, Tax, and Technology, Communications & Commercial. Offices offering clerkships: Sydney and Melbourne Domestic Student Eligibility: Penultimate year law students. However, Baker McKenzie will consider applications of final year students on a case by case basis. International Student Eligibility: Penultimate year students who have legal rights to work during the clerkship period. Application Process: Cover letter, responses to application questions, and academic transcript. Clerkship Dates: Sydney: Late November 2018 to early February 2019 Melbourne: Three seasonal clerkship intakes: late November 2018 - late December 2018; late January 2019 - late February 2019; late June 2019 - late July 2019. Clerkship Intake: Sydney: approx. 10-12 Summer Clerks Melbourne: approx. 20 Seasonal Clerks (across 3 intakes) Firm Website: www.bakermckenzie.com/careers/Australia Contact person for each of the offices offering clerkships: Sydney: Angelique Wanner, Talent Management Consultant – Graduate Recruitment & Diversity T: +61 2 8922 5596, angelique.wanner@bakermckenzie.com Melbourne: Natalie Mascarenhas, Talent Management Consultant T: +61 3 9617 4349, natalie.mascarenhas@bakermckenzie.com
What we look for in our clerks What makes a student stand out to Baker McKenzie during the application process? Each applicant is unique, which makes each application unique. Each individual brings their own style, profile, experience, and interests to their application. Some general features which will ensure your application stands out, include: Style: • well-written, well-structured, and succinct application; and • correct grammar, no spelling errors, headings, and easy to read font selection.
54
Content: • highlight information about you and your achievements (e.g. your personality, skills, experience, and interests), making readers want to work with you; and • outline why you want to work with us by demonstrating a good understanding of our Firm – beyond what is contained in a Clerkship guide or on our Firm’s website.
What strengths and values does Baker McKenzie look for in a potential clerk? Baker McKenzie looks for people who genuinely want to work with us and who understand our unique offering and position in the market. We look for well-rounded, motivated individuals who share our global perspective; who are intellectually curious and have sound academics; who display business acumen and are practical in their approach; who enjoy a challenge and seek new opportunities; who like taking responsibility and getting things done; who express themselves confidently while staying open to new ideas; who strive to provide excellent service to their clients; who seek a friendly, diverse, and inclusive culture; and who take seriously our role in making a difference to our local and global communities.
What is Baker McKenzie’s culture? Baker McKenzie’s difference is in our unique values: our passion for being global, our culture of friendship, our commercial pragmatism, our support for entrepreneurship, our commitment to development, our focus on contributing to the community, and our genuine focus on maintaining a diverse and inclusive environment for all of our people. Baker McKenzie is committed to diversity, inclusion, and workplace flexibility. As the first truly global law firm, Baker McKenzie’s origins are rooted in the respect for and appreciation of difference. We understand that organizations work best when people with different backgrounds and multiple points of view are brought together. Our own diversity mirrors our commitment to exploring multiple perspectives to develop the best possible solutions for our clients and to fostering a culture of respect and inclusion that celebrates diversity. Diversity and inclusion are in our DNA. Our award winning diversity strategy, initiatives and programs are focused in four areas, in which all of our people can participate: • • •
•
•
How does Baker McKenzie give back the community? Pro Bono and Community Services initiatives are an integral part of Baker McKenzie’s mission. Our Pro Bono, Community Services and corporate social responsibility programs aim to inspire staff to make a difference and collaborate with clients who share the same commitment to social justice. We believe that the provision of pro bono legal services is a fundamental professional responsibility. •
BakerWomen – gender equality and supporting the progression of women; BakerDNA – ethnic, indigenous, and cultural diversity; BakerBalance – supporting carers and parents, mental health and wellbeing, and workplace flexibility; and BakerLGBTI & Allies – lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex diversity.
What opportunities and experiences are available to those who work at Baker McKenzie? At Baker McKenzie, we have a deep commitment to your development. •
•
A solid transition from law school to a law firm – We understand that the transition from university to legal practice can be challenging. We provide our Summer Clerks and Graduates with a comprehensive induction program, to help make this transition as smooth as possible. Our training program is designed to help you get the most out of your Summer Clerkship experience. Working and thinking globally – We know you want to be working with clients on real work right from the start. We pair each Summer Clerk and Graduate with a supervising Partner and an Associate “buddy” to maximise on-the-job and formal learning. Summer Clerks in our Sydney office also complete a one week client secondment and have the opportunity apply for an International Clerkship. Our lawyers also attend regional training in our Asia Pacific offices and Associate Training Programs overseas.
Setting you up for success – We work with you to create a tailored development plan aligned with the your career goals. We offer learning opportunities and work hard to facilitate your onthe-job learning and the many ways it happens – through informal mentoring relationships, client secondments, involving you in global teams working on international deals, or supporting you to run your own file as part of our award-winning pro bono program.
•
Pro bono legal services – Baker McKenzie is a signatory to the National Pro Bono Aspirational Target of at least 35 hours of pro bono legal work per lawyer per year. Our lawyers regularly undertake a wide range of pro bono legal work for disadvantaged clients in Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane as well as not-for-profit organisations. Some of our work includes assisting victims of domestic violence seek compensation; representing asylum seekers seeking judicial review of decisions relating to their refugee status and statement-taking in support of protection visas; helping elderly and ill clients and young people exiting the child protection system with their legal affairs; assisting with submissions and advocacy papers to support law and policy reform; and presenting legal workshops to vulnerable and at risk youth. Our pro bono work extends globally, including the Asia Pacific region. Community Services and CSR – We also offer the opportunity to participate in a variety of community service initiatives. Our community service programs include the LEAPS literacy and mentoring program in Sydney, and the MacChat program run by the Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre in Melbourne. Baker McKenzie staff also have the opportunity to join their office’s Community Service Committee which is responsible for organising awareness and fundraising for each office’s nominated charities throughout the year. In FY18, our Partners and staff are supporting organisations which include the Refugee Advice & Casework Service (RACS), Mary’s House, The Freedom Partnership, Youth Projects and the Deafness Foundation.
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Who we are and what makes us unique
55
Choose Australia’s leading university provider of Practical Legal Training ANU Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice > Accredited > Online, with 4 day face-to-face intensive in locations across Australia > Experienced, practitioner mentors > Choose your start date, mentor and when you graduate
Go straight to the top.
_WEB
legalpractice.anu.edu.au/gdlp _FACEBOOK
facebook.com/ANUGDLP
Sydney Office: Level 24, Chifley Tower, 2 Chifley Square, Sydney NSW 2000 Melbourne Office: Level 21, 333 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000 Hayley Brown, Human Resources Consultant 03 9229 9802 hbrown@abl.com.au Arnold Bloch Leibler Arnold Bloch Leibler is the commercial law firm clients turn to for advice and support on their most complex legal matters, high stakes transactions, litigation and commercial decisions. With a reputation built on a long history of success, our lawyers are often at the centre of law reform and regularly advise on landmark matters. Our firm advises entrepreneurial family-owned businesses, ASX listed companies, private clients and international corporations. We enjoy long-standing relationships with a select group of other professional advisors − including accountants, hedge funds, insolvency practitioners, private bankers and equity firms and overseas-based specialist law firms. We pride ourselves on our ability to deliver innovative strategic guidance and solutions to complex problems related to our clients’ commercial interests, legal position and reputation. Practice Areas We organise our practice groups to allow our lawyers to be broad generalists, our groups are split between transactions and disputes. From cover:
the client perspective, our services banking & finance competition corporate & commercial dispute resolution & litigation native title & public interest law property & development reconstruction & insolvency taxation technology & intellectual property workplace advisory
At Arnold Bloch Leibler we relish our exposure to a wide range of interesting and challenging matters that enable our lawyers to draw on their expertise and intellectual potential. We encourage them to bring their whole selves to work each day, recognising that diversity of thought, background and life experience all contribute to our distinctive culture and the solutions we deliver for each of our clients. Our internal structure is also a little different to our competitors. Our lawyers are trained to be ‘generalist specialists’ - able to straddle a range of different legal matters, as opposed to only being super specialised in a narrow field. Working in a broad based practice group this way, you’ll work across the full range of matters that the group deals with. What does ABL look for in a clerkship application? We look for exceptional people who are seeking, and can provide, something extraordinary. We value good grades and intelligence, as well as life experience, lateral thinking, imagination and a passion for the law. Work experience and extra-curricular activities show your ability to manage your time. We look for people who know how to use initiative and accept shared responsibility for their career development. The other personal qualities we consider are a willingness to learn, sense of humour and preparedness to assume responsibility. Because we don’t make you jump through hoops in our application process, we like to see tailored covering letters telling us why you’re interested in working at ABL.
Clerkship and Graduate Opportunities
For clerkship and graduate opportunities in our Sydney office, please visit our careers page on our website, www.abl.com.au. Expressions of interests are available year round as we hire on an ad hoc basis. What distinguishes ABL from other firms? For further information about our clerkship and graduate programs in Melbourne, including key dates and details regarding the application process, please visit www.abl.grad.careers
WHERE BRIGHT MINDS MEET
WINTER INTERNSHIP At Clifford Chance, our diverse and talented people are at the heart of everything we are and everything we do. Our ability to excel on behalf of our clients; the quality of work; our international capabilities; collaborative and supportive working culture; our innovative mindset – they are all driven by our people. Joining us means sharing our ambitions, realising your potential and making an impact. Dates of scheme: 2nd July 2018 – 20th July 2018 Applications open: 26th March 2018 Applications close: 21st May 2018 Vacancies: 6-8 Interns All applications must be completed online at www.careers.cliffordchance.com/australiagrads Say g’day to us at grads.sydney@cliffordchance.com
GROW YOUR CAREER Looking for a law firm that is defined by its universal experience and unsurpassed commitment to client service? With approximately 2000 lawyers across 5 continents, you will be joining a team of passionate professionals who work across: • Corporate & Transactional • Labour, Employment and Workplace Safety • Energy, Infrastructure and Resources • Litigation & Dispute Resolution • Finance • Policy & Regulatory • Financial Services • Real Estate • Intellectual Property
MELBOURNE clerkship applications Applications open: 9 July 2018 Applications close: 12 August 2018
Join us and grow your career.
SYDNEY clerkship applications Applications open: 18 June 2018 Applications close: 15 July 2018
STUDENT TESTIMONIALS
Annie Zhou Degree: Bachelor of Laws (Hons) and Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics Rotations: Cross-Border M&A / Dispute Resolution (Intellectual Property)
Why did you choose to work at your chosen firm? I chose to work at this firm due to the firm’s strong focus on growing in the Asia market. As someone who is passionate about the Australia-China relationship, I wanted to work for a firm that recognised the importance of China and actively seeked to establish its presence in Asia. What was the most interesting part of your experience? I was most surprised by the diversity of the work completed by different teams. I did entirely different work in my two rotations. My time in the DR team involved a lot of legal research whereas I mainly reviewed documents and contracts in the M&A team.
What advice would you have for future students considering a clerkship at a large Australian firm? I would definitely recommend clerkships to future students, as it is a great learning opportunity. Regardless of the career you want to pursue, undertaking a clerkship allows you to develop a wide variety of transferable skills. I thoroughly enjoyed working with different teams and learning from my supervisors on how to interact with clients. In addition, one of the highlights of my clerkship was bonding with my cohort through fun activities like picnicking at the Botanic Gardens or going to trivia night at a local pub.
The diversity of the work means that you can discover what you enjoy by rotating through different teams.
Robert Allen Degree: Bachelor of Laws (Hons) and Bachelor of Economics
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Large Australian Firms
Rotations: Disputes (Commercial Litigation), Finance (Asset and Structured Financing)
Why did you choose to work at your chosen firm? Although I hated hearing it when I was applying for clerkships, in retrospect the observation “you’re interviewing the firm as much as they’re interviewing you” was good advice. As you go through the application process, you will start get to a picture of each firm, its people and they work they do. In the end, I chose the firm where I felt most at home. What was the most interesting part of your experience? Definitely meeting new people, both as professional role models and as friends. No two people at the firm were the same, and everyone brought different skills and perspectives to the table.
I am also certain that all the clerks cemented lifelong friendships during their time at the firm. What advice would you have for future students considering a clerkship at a large Australian firm? Firstly, talk to as many people as you can. If everything goes smoothly, you will be investing a lot of time and resources as a graduate into the firm you ultimately choose. You owe it to yourself to learn as much about each firm as possible before making your decision. Secondly, and as corny as this sounds, just be yourself. I guarantee that you will interview ten times better.
Everyone was generous with their advice and genuinely invested in your development and future success as a lawyer with the firm.
61
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Large Australian Firms Annabelle Klimt Degree: Bachelor of Laws (Hons) and Bachelor of Arts, majoring in English, minoring in Film Studies Rotations: Litigation and Intellectual Property
Why did you choose to work at your chosen firm? I was drawn to my firm because of its unique combination of high calibre work for top tier clients and engagement on social responsibility. I was also attracted to its forward thinking approach to the law and its development and promotion of women. What particularly stood out to me were the people. I found that everyone was friendly, welcoming and genuinely passionate about the work they do. What kind of work did you do? I worked on a wide variety of matters that involved research, drafting, preparing memos, reviewing statements and collating evidence. While in the IP team, I assisted with the IP components for a transaction being run by the Corporate team.
At first, I needed a lot of guidance to ensure I was on the right track. By the end of the rotation, I was responding to queries from the corporate team directly, without having to go through the other members of my team. It was so satisfying that I was able to work up to this level of responsibility in such a short time. What was the most interesting part of your experience? On the first day of my rotation in Litigation I was given the opportunity to sit in on an arbitration with an exHigh Court Judge as the arbitrator which was surreal! But day-to-day I was surprised that the partners of the firm were so willing to take the time to get involved in my clerkship experience, by mentoring me and finding interesting matters for me to work on.
Jennifer McRae Degree: Bachelor of Laws (Hons) and Bachelor of Arts Rotations: Litigation and Property
What kind of work did you do? While in the litigation team I completed a variety of work on matters including debt recovery claims, contractual disputes and WHS claims. I also completed research tasks, prepared content for presentations, sat in on client meetings and attended court. On my second rotation I worked in the property team, which was focused largely on large property development projects. I assisted in negotiating with other lawyers on contractual terms, attended client meetings, assisted in completing plans for development approval.
62
What was the most interesting part of your experience? The most interesting part of my experience was finding out how different lawyers approach their work. Rotating through two teams allowed me to see how various areas of law require you to use your skills in many different situations.
What advice would you have for future students considering a clerkship at a large Australian firm? The advice I would give to students considering a clerkship at a large Australian firm is to highlight your strengths in your application. Make sure you carefully research what the different firms look for in their clerks and tailor your responses to highlight how you suit their vision. I would also advise you get a friend to help you with mock job interviews, nerves can get the better of you, so with practice it will be much easier.
Patrick Clark Degree: Bachelor of Laws (Hons) and Bachelor of Commerce Rotations: M&A and Disputes
Why did you choose to work at your chosen firm? I chose to clerk at my firm for a number of key reasons. Firstly, because of the firm’s reputation globally as both a leader in M&A and litigation, and the depth and breadth of work this meant I would be exposed to. Secondly, I wanted to work in a rapidly expanding local practice which continues to add new partners and open new offices in Australia. Thirdly, the number of junior lawyers at my firm relative to the number of partners and senior associates was much lower than most other firms I applied for, and I saw this as an opportunity to learn from some of the most experienced legal professionals in Australia. This was very much the case during my clerkship, often working one-on-one with partners who cared greatly about my experience and development.
What kind of work did you do? All summer clerks at my firm spent time in both the transactional and Global Disputes (litigation) practices. I was fortunate during my time in the transactional practice to be involved in a number of deals with both the M&A and Private Equity teams with significant international aspects. I attended conferences with Counsel, drafted advice to clients and completed research on key issues for senior lawyers and partners. One of my favourite pieces of work was for a significant French client involved in an insolvency matter with many Australian parties. During my time in the Global Disputes practice I was involved in a number of very large matters, also with many international aspects. I spent a significant period of time working on another insolvency matter in which I assisted in the drafting of affidavits, researching case law and attending court.
Overseas Firm
2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
International Firm in Australia
Timothy Magarry Degree: Juris Doctor and Bachelor of Asia-Pacific Studies in Japanese. Rotations: Corporate, Employment, Tax, IP Location: Tokyo, Japan Why did you choose to work at your chosen firm? I wanted to find legal experience where I could use my Japanese skills in a meaningful way. What kind of work did you do? Most work involved drafting and due diligence. Beyond this, though, I did research for articles on current legal and commercial issues. Because of my language skills, I also did some translation. What was the most interesting part of your experience? As an international firm, everyone had a working understanding of multiple different legal systems, and a thirst to learn more. On one occasion, I found myself explaining the constitutional background behind federal consumption and income taxes – all for a client wanting to establish its Australian subsidiary.
I never thought ComCon would be so useful in the private sector! What advice would you have for future students considering a clerkship at a large Australian firm? 1. Start looking early. Most firms won’t have established programs for overseas interns, so you need to organise an employment visa and negotiate your employment terms. 2. Overseas clerkships typically don’t come with any chance of a graduate position, unless you’re willing to be seconded back to Australia for a while. Firms want Australian lawyers with experience in Australia. 3. It is NOT a waste of time; you can count all your overseas experience towards your GDLP.
63
64 2018 Australian National University Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide
Acknowledgements Premier Sponsors
Major Sponsors
General Sponsors
TIPS
FOR CLERKSHIP
SUCCESS
Be self-aware and remember that first impressions count
Remember to request feedback after completing tasks
• In locations with multi-clerkship opportunities, a 3.5 to 4 week clerkship is essentially a long interview for a graduate position
• A clerkship is a great opportunity for you to learn and develop your legal knowledge and skills
• Consider your personal brand and how you want to be perceived and remembered in terms of your strengths and fit with firm • A great attitude, enthusiasm for any sort of task and the ability to quickly build rapport with others goes a long way
• Take the time to follow up your work providers and get their thoughts on the work you have completed however be aware of their workload and the timing of asking for feedback • Acting on this feedback is a great way to demonstrate your ability to learn quickly – a key skill for junior lawyers
Show initiative and seek opportunities
Develop your networks – speak to as many people as possible
• What do you want to get out of your clerkship? What do you want to learn about the firm and what work do you want to get involved in?
• As well firms looking at your abilities and fit to the firm, it’s also your opportunity to find out if this is the place you want to start and establish your career
• Take the initiative to get to know your team as well as other practices across the firm, meet as many people as possible and try to get involved in different types of work, projects and activities
• Take every opportunity to meet people from across the firm to learn about the practice groups and if they are people you would like to work with in the future
Keep your supervisor updated on workload and schedule
• Lastly, take the time to get to know your fellow clerks – you may be colleagues one day
• Communication is key in a law firm. Take on a variety of work for different people across the team, but don’t forget the importance of managing your priorities and keeping your work providers up to date • Clerkships involve a number of training sessions and other activities so it’s important to keep people informed as to where you will be if you are away from your desk for a long period of time
CONNECT WITH US ON