2018 Careers Handbook by Blackstone Society

CAREERS CAREERS CAREERS

HANDBOOK 2018

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS The UWA Blackstone Society 2018 Careers Handbook was produced by the UWA Blackstone Society with the generous support of Herbert Smith Freehills. 2018 Careers Vice-President Portia McDonald 2018 Careers Handbook Editor Sophia Nugawela 2018 Careers Sub-Committee Calvin Rokich Grace Bettridge Mitchell Blott 2018 Blackstone President Joshua Sanchez-Lawson Firm Sponsor Herbert Smith Freehills Printing Graphic Source Contributors Alain Musikanth Aleksandra Miller Alex Cook Alex Hewitt Amanda Forrester Damian Quail Daniel Conti Drew Broadfoot Emerson Walker Georgia Turco Guy Greer Jeremiah Riley John Robertson Lauren Jackson Legalsuper Lucy Mengler Marie Wong Michael Hay

Natalie Durr Natalie Skead Natalie Sinton Nathan Collins Rachel Lee Rebecca Claxon Roberta Grealish Sarah Murray Sarah Roughead The Hon. Chief Justice Wayne Martin AC The Hon. Justice Robert Mazza Tony Joyner Zarah Burgess Corporate Sponsors Allen & Overy Allion Partners Allens ANU Ashurst Azure Consulting Baker McKenzie BCG Birman & Ride Clayton Utz Clifford Chance College of Law Corrs DLA Piper EY Gilbert + Tobin Herbert Smith Freehills HopgoodGanim Jackson McDonald Johnson Winter & Slattery King & Wood Mallesons K&L Gates Leo Cussen Legalsuper MinterEllison Norton Rose Fullbright Price Sierakowski Corporate Squire Patton Boggs Steinpreis Paganin William + Hughes

CONTENTS Acknowledgements ............................3 Foreword ...............................................5 Editorial..................................................6 CAREERS TOOLBOX Clerkships............................................10 Practice Group Insights .....................12 Graduate Positions.............................16 Key Dates.............................................17 Beyond Commercial Law .................18 Applying for Clerkships in Sydney ..19 Application Process ...........................21 Application Tips .................................22 cvMail ...................................................23 Writing a Cover Letter .................24-25 Sample Cover Letter ..........................26 Writing a CV ........................................28 Sample CV...........................................29 Interviews ............................................31 Getting Admitted ...............................34 PLT Directory ANU Legal Workshop........................35 Leo Cussen Centre for Law ..............37 The College of Law ............................38 COMMERCIAL LAW GUIDE Allen & Overy......................................44 Allens ...................................................48 Allion Partners.....................................51 Ashurst .................................................53 Baker McKenzie ..................................56 Clayton Utz ..........................................60 Clifford Chance ..................................62 Corrs Chambers Westgarth .............64 DLA Piper ............................................68 EY ..........................................................70 Gilbert + Tobin ...................................73 Herbert Smith Freehills .....................75 HopgoodGanim Lawyers .................79 Jackson McDonald ............................81 Johnson Winter & Slattery ................83 K&L Gates ............................................86 King & Wood Mallesons ...................89 Minter Ellison ......................................91 Price Sierakowski Corporate ............95 Squire Patton Boggs ..........................98 Steinepreis Paganin ........................ 101 William & Hughes ........................... 103

Norton Rose Fulbright.................... 106 ARTICLES FROM THE PROFESSION Corporate Law Life at a Global Law Firm................ 110 Life at a Global Law Firm................ 112 Life at a Global Law Firm................ 114 The Value of Experience ................ 115 Life as a Non-Litigator .................... 116 Life at a Magic Circle Firm ............. 118 Life at a Magic Circle Firm ............ 119 Paths to Commercial Law .............. 120 Life in a Boutique Firm ................... 121 Working in London ......................... 122 Global Experiences ........................ 123 International Clerkships ................. 125 Courts Wayne Martin AC ............................ 127 Judges Associate ............................ 129 Barrister ............................................ 131 Government ASIC................................................... 132 Criminal Law Prosecution ...................................... 133 Defence ............................................ 136 Not for Profit Community Legal Centre .............. 137 Academia Academia ......................................... 138 Intellectual Property Intellectual Property ........................ 139 Native Title Native Title ....................................... 141 Technology Technology and the Law................ 142 TRENDS IN THE PROFESSION Tips for Young Lawyers .................. 146 Australia-China Relations ............... 149 The Future of Law............................ 150

Super for Lawyers ........................... 152 Mental Health Tips .......................... 154 MANAGEMENT CONSULTING Why Management Consulting...... 158 A Week in Consulting ..................... 159 Life as a Consultant ......................... 160 Being a Student Consultant .......... 161 GOVERNMENT DIRECTORY ACCC ................................................ 164 Administrative Appeals Tribunal .. 165 ASIC................................................... 166 Australian Human Rights Commission ..................................... 167 Australian Law Reform Commission ..................................... 168 Australian Taxation Office .............. 169 CDPP ................................................. 171 Commonwealth Ombudsman...... 172 Corruption and Crime Commission ..................................... 173 DFAT.................................................. 174 Department of Premier & Cabinet ............................................. 176 Insurance Commission of WA....... 178 Legal Aid........................................... 179 ODPP ................................................ 180 Ombudsman WA ............................ 181 State Solicitor’s Office..................... 183 COMMUNITY LEGAL CENTRE DIRECTORY Aboriginal Family Law Services .... 188 Citizens Advice Bureau .................. 189 Consumer Credit Legal Service.... 190 Employment Law Centre WA........ 191 Environmental Defenders Office (WA)....................................... 192 Fremantle Community Legal Centre .............................................. 193 The Humanitarian Group ............... 194 Mental Health Law Centre ............. 195 Street Law Centre............................ 196 Sussex Street Community Legal Centre ............................................... 197 Tenancy WA ..................................... 198 Women’s Law Centre...................... 199

FOREWORD DR NATALIE SKEAD DEAN, UWA LAW SCHOOL

If Mr Turnbull’s position, however, is that students should only undertake a law degree if they aspire to a career as a practising lawyer, well then I couldn’t disagree more. A professional law degree, and especially a Masters level Juris Doctor, is quite properly considered to be a pathway to acquiring a wide range of sophisticated academic, professional and legal skills; skills that equip the holder of such a qualification to embark on not only a career in law, but in a vast array of exciting, challenging and immensely rewarding careers. Perhaps ironically, the Prime Minister’s own career path demonstrates just this.

”

n February this year the Prime Minister of Australia, Malcolm Turnbull, stated that Australian students wanting ‘a sort of interesting general qualification’, ‘a general humanities degree that is an intellectual endowment that isn't particularly specific in a vocational sense’, should not study law. Despite protestations to the contrary (including many from the legal academy), in many respects I agree with the Prime Minister: as you will all know by now, there are far easier, less academically rigorous and challenging, ways of gaining a generalist non-vocational qualification than undertaking a law degree. Indeed, a UWA law student typically enters their law studies with such a generalist undergraduate degree already under their belt.

I would urge you to follow your heart and choose a career that excites you and about which you can be enthusiastic.

Once again, the Blackstone Society’s Careers Handbook provides an excellent resource for law students in imagining and planning their future careers. It highlights the diverse traditional and non-traditional paths for which your immersion in the law over the intense three years (or more) of your time at UWA Law School will equip you so well.

”

Whether you entered your law studies with a preconceived plan of the career path you wish to follow - or not, in exploring the many and varied opportunities showcased in this Careers Handbook, I would urge you to follow your heart and choose a career that excites you and about which you can be enthusiastic. In the words of the extraordinarily successful Walter Chrysler: ‘The real secret of success is enthusiasm, I would say is excitement. … When they get excited, they make a success of their lives. You can do anything with enthusiasm’.

CAREERS HANDBOOK |5

EDITORAL Portia McDonald Blackstone Careers Vice-President

Sophia Nugawela Blackstone Marketing Vice-President

Welcome to the 2018 Blackstone Careers Handbook! This Handbook has been created with you in mind. We cater to UWA Juris Doctor students and we hope you derive value from the information provided here. We designed this publication to share the wide range of career possibilities available to law students, and to facilitate your individual career journey in any way we can. This year the Blackstone Careers Handbook has several new features. If you are new to law and have ever wondered what each practice area entails, look no further than the Careers Toolbox. There, you will find explanations of common practice areas like Banking and Finance, Litigation, and Projects. Further, the 2018 Handbook features a new ‘Trends in the Profession’ section which allows insight into the most pressing trends in the legal profession. Topics range from smart contracts to Australia-China relations to the importance of mental health in the law profession. The ‘Careers Toolbox’ provides you with all the necessary information to ensure your clerkship applications and interviews run as smoothly as possible. The ‘Commercial Law Guide’ asks the important questions of firms and allows you insight into firm culture, main practice areas, and the most compelling reasons to apply for each firm, as well as critical clerkship and graduate application tips. In ‘Articles from the Profession’ you will find personalised advice from a variety of legal professionals. Read about what it means to work in corporate law, native title, intellectual property, government, criminal law and a variety of other areas. Hear from an ex-UWA student who desribes how to get a law job in London; take career advice from Tony Joyner, the Managing Parter of Herbert Smith Freehills; read about the fascinating career pathway of Amanda Forrester, the Director of Public Prosecutions. There is ample advice and insight for you to absorb. Under the ‘Management Consulting’ section you can explore the possibility of a non-law career pathway. A law degree opens many doors, not all of which result in a career in law. Lastly, you may search useful information in the ‘Government Directory’ and the ‘Community Legal Centre Directory.’ It is the culminated effort of many people which has allowed publication of this Handbook to be possible. I would like to sincerely thank everyone who has contributed to or worked on this publication over the course of 2018 so far, especially Herbert Smith Freehills who sponsored the publication and Sophia Nugawela who is largely responsible for its sleek, coffee-table-book aesthetic. Thank you to the Blackstone Careers team: Mitch Blott, Grace Bettridge and Calvin Rokich, and the Blackstone Marketing team: Angus Paterson, Lizzie Watts and Lara Borshoff, without whom this publication wouldn’t be possible. Lastly, I woud like to wish everyone the best of luck in their endeavours, you are all destined for great things. - Portia 6 |CAREERS HANDBOOK

CA R E E R S TOOLBOX The following section of the Handbook is a toolbox to assist you through any application process. It sets out techniques to write a cover letter and CV whilst providing insights and tips for your interviews. It also sets out key information on clerkships and graduate applications and the important dates for 2018. We hope this Careers Toolbox will assist you through the year and beyond. The 2018 Blackstone Careers team is organising a variety of Careers presentations in the lead up to clerkship applications period, so ensure that you come along to gain further insight and knowledge. If you have any questions throughout the year, please never hesitate to ask a member of the Blackstone Careers team.

CLERKSHIPS WHAT IS A CLERKSHIP?

clerkship is an employment experience in a law firm or government department over the summer and winter holidays. They tend to run for 2 to 3 weeks and are generally paid. Clerkships provide students an opportunity to gain insight into what practical legal work is like and find the firm that suits you the best. You are given the chance to see how you work and operate in a professional environment and firms will often offer high performers graduate positions. Exposure to a variety of firms and cultures helps you to decide the career path you wish to pursue, should you decid you want to go into commercial law. Clerkships are regarded are important because many of the large international and national firms tend to only hire graduates that have completed a clerkship with them. However, it is also a critical note that completing a clerkship does not guarantee a graduate position at the firm. Clerkships can give you an insight into the areas of law that really do and don’t interest you. Some students may even realise that practicing law isn’t for them after completing a clerkship, which shouldn’t be alarming as a law degree can provide you so many other opportunities. Regardless, completing a clerkship will still provide you invaluable real-life experience and skills that will help you regardless of which career path you choose. Clerkships are designed for students in their penultimate year of study (students in their second to last year) and these students will generally receive preference over non-penultimate. However, this does not mean that you cannot apply as a non-penultimate student. Some firms don’t restrict themselves to just penultimate student in the ‘Firm Profile’ section of this Handbook, firms answer whether they consider applications from non-penultimate students. As a non-penultimate student, even if you don’t get offered a clerkship, there are still benefits to be had, such as going through the experience, and you will have honed your application skills and will be better placed next time.

10 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

WHAT TO EXPECT Expect to be given real work for real clients. You may be given tasks including sitting in on client meetings and taking notes for your supervisor, attending court, drafting correspondence, researching case law or legislation on a complex issue and writing a memorandum detailing the findings of your research. If you work for government departments, professional services firms or in other internships, your work will vary. Expect the work you’re given to be quite different from what you’ve learnt at university and embrace it! Don’t forget that a clerkship is also an opportunity for you to figure out whether you would want to start your professional career with that firm and in that area of law.

WHAT IS EXPECTED OF YOU? »

» »

Firms do not expect their clerks to walk into the firm and know everything. Firms will run a number of training exercises such as research skills, getting to know the firm’s resources, letter writing and drafting memorandums. These exercises will provide you with many useful tips and many of the skills can be transferred into the remainder of your university studies and future careers. That you be yourself. Firms want to see how you fit in with the culture of the firm, and whether they should put the time into training you and taking you on board. It’s also expected that you will work hard and put in effort to meet and get to know the staff. It’s important that you are enthusiastic and keen to learn more about the firm, even though the work can get tedious when you’re essentially at the bottom of the food chain. It’s also important that you’re professional and courteous (and not drunk at Friday night drinks...).

BUDDIES

» »

A lot of firms have a buddy system in place which means you will have a buddy, usually a graduate lawyer or a restricted practitioner in your practice group) who you are partnered with during your clerkship. Your buddy is there is to help you any questions you may have or need assistance as to how things work. It is not a problem if you have any silly or embarrassing questions, your buddy would have been in your position not too long ago so they will understand how you feel.

Clerkships aren’t all just about working! Many firms will organise social events which provide a good break from all the stresses of work and socialise with the wider community of the firm. If your clerkship is in December you will likely attend the Christmas party and if your clerkship is in June, it will likely attend the end of financial year functions. Firms will generally also host Friday night drinks or other sporting competitions to engage with the clerks. It is important to make the most of these events as it is a wonderful opportunity to meet people from other practice groups in the firm and help you determine whether you would be a good fit at the firm.

SOCIAL GATHERINGS

GENERAL TIPS The night before Make sure that you have set your alarm and checked the train/bus times - you don’t want to be late. Make sure you have an early night because you want to feel fresh and ready to go - first impressions count! Dress code Most firms have a corporate attire dress code. For males, this means suits, including a tie. Some firms don’t require their staff to wear ties but it is recommended to wear a tie on your first day and, if you don’t need to wear around the office, still bring one bring with you just in case you need to go to court or a client meeting . For females, this means a mid-length dress or blouse and a work shirt or dress pants. It is normal to feel nervous on your first day Don’t be! Remember that the firm was confident enough in your ability to choose you, so you should be as well! Your first day will usually consist of getting to know the other clerks, familiarising yourself with the computer systems, office tours and being introduced to your practice groups. Enjoy yourself, learn lots and have fun!

OFFERS DAY What happens on offers day? If you are lucky enough to get an offer (or even a few offers), you will receive a phone call from the firm (usually HR or your interviewing Partner) any time between 9am and 1pm.

Do I have to accept the offer straight away? No, you have until 11am to decide. It’s very common to thank a firm for their offer and ask if you can call them back with your decision. This gives you the chance to consider all your options.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 11

PRACTICE GROUP INSIGHTS WHAT AREAS OF LAW DO CLERKS GET INVOLVED IN? » » » » » »

Litigation, Dispute Resolution and Insolvency; Commercial Law, Mergers & Acquisitions and Insolvency; Minerals & Resources and Environment Law; Projects, Real Estate and Construction; and Public Law, Constitutional Challenges, Native Title, Litigation for State Projects. You may also hear the terms, ‘front end’ and ‘back end’. The distinction refers to the type of work legal professionals do. ‘Front end’ includes legal advice given in setting up business activities and operations (including mergers and acquisitions, contract whilst ‘back end’ refers to the work required when legal problems arise, typically exclusive to litigation. During your clerkship, the firm will likely hold presentation and seminars from across the firm’s practice groups. These provide great insight into the areas the firm works in and areas you may be interested in. Even if you know what area of law you want to work in beforehand, always try keep an open mind and try new things - you may find that an area which you first thought was very dull, is actually really interesting.

MinterEllison

Risk, Regulatory, Insurance and Controversy

ur Risk, Regulatory, Insurance and Controversy (RRIC) group includes Dispute Resolution/ Litigation; Insurance and Risk; Regulatory; Competition; Intellectual Property; Technology and Reconstruction (Insolvency/ Restructuring). RRIC is one of MinterEllison’s broadest Lines of Business. Their experience ranges from the work our media lawyers do in handling most (if not all) of Fairfax&#39;s pre-publication work to a significant number of health law matters – lots of hospitals, lots of incidents, lots of interesting work. Not to mention the work we do on major corporate insolvencies and restructurings. Just last year, our team acted in the Ten Network, Dick Smith, Oroton, and Boart Longyear insolvencies along with many others! We are a borderless Line of Business. This means we have the very best people, working on the very best matters – irrespective of geography. Iconic deals: » » » » »

Class actions for Bellamy’s Organic (the baby goods/formula people), Billabong (the surfwear brand) Assisting Foxtel in its precedent-setting application to block infamous pirate websites Advising Calidad in Australia’s first case dealing with whether a patented product can be “recycled” and resold without the patentee’s authority. Acted for Wilmar Sugar in the first deemed arbitration with sugar growers under the controversial amendments to the Sugar Industry Act in Queensland. Patent litigation for global pharmaceutical organisations.

For more information about other areas of law and client work at MinterEllison please visit their website www.minterellison.com

12 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

Allens

M&A – Insight into life as a junior M&A Lawyer at Allens

llens’ Corporate practice group (which encompasses its Mergers & Acquisitions (M&A) practice) is a market-leading team, and is often referred to as the ‘engine room’ of the firm. Gaining experience as an M&A lawyer provides broad exposure to both the business and legal worlds – you might say you get the best of both! At Allens, you are involved in high-profile M&A ‘deals’ (many of which are frequently covered in the Australian Financial Review), and as a junior lawyer, your work is at the coal face of these important matters. The nature of the work in a broad practice such as M&A ranges widely from the negotiation and drafting of agreements, as well as smaller matters which involve advising clients in relation to compliance with company law and other regulatory requirements. The nature of this work provides unique exposure to many different industries, clients and transaction structures in both the public and private M&A spheres.

clients), while other days you are considering how to draft a particularly important agreement in order to cater for the current situation. Almost every day involves significant communication, both by telephone and email, with the client and the other side of the deal, which is a great learning opportunity. Speaking of learning, junior M&A lawyers at Allens are provided with extensive training on all aspects of the practice group, with sessions usually running once per week throughout your first year. This means that between the training you receive and the experience you gain over the course of a oneyear rotation, you are certain to come out the other side a competent M&A practitioner. Over the course of your first year, you could find yourself working on transactions that are as varied as a private sale of company assets, a public capital raising or ‘Initial Public Offering’, as well as a scheme of arrangement or hostile takeover bid.

As a junior lawyer, the work you will do is as varied as the matters themselves. On large-scale transactions, you may be asked to do a first draft of one of the transaction agreements, often based on a firm precedent. Additionally, you’re also commonly involved in reviewing the essential documents that are disclosed as part of the ‘due diligence’ phase of a deal (a critical step in identifying and managing the risks in any given transaction). On smaller matters, you may be asked to take a more central role in the activities such as drafting transaction agreements and corresponding directly with the clients. The amount of client contact you have as a junior lawyer is often believed (incorrectly) to be very little. However, at Allens, it is not unheard of for a junior lawyer in their first year to participate actively in client meetings, or even to give presentations to chief executives of ASX-listed companies. The work can be challenging and fast-paced, but usually the most exciting time at work is when you are busy because it means the deal is on! Day-to-day life can vary significantly, which means going to work is always interesting. You will spend some days attending back-to-back meetings (both internal and with

Often, many of these transactions involve companies located in multiple countries, which adds a further layer of complexity to any particular deal (as well as a bit of a headache to coordinate telephone conferences!). Even transactions of the same type usually offer particular quirks that differentiate them, so there is never a ‘stock-standard’ approach, and you can never fully anticipate what’s coming next. One of the most enjoyable parts of Allens’ M&A practice group is that it is a very team-based environment where you work closely with lawyers of every level. This means you are always supported and never feel alone (even when you are working a bit later!). As it is a transactional team, your workload will fluctuate, but this also means that your ‘busy’ periods are shorter because deals are generally settled within a relatively quick time frame, at the end of which you often have a celebratory lunch or dinner! We’re generally a social and friendly bunch, and are always welcoming to newcomers with an interest in business and a willingness to dive in to the work and give it your best shot.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 13

Herbert Smith Freehills Dispute Resolution/Litigation

he Dispute Resolution group provides a comprehensive service for Herbert Smith Freehills’ clients including the world’s leading corporates and investment banks, governments and high profile individuals. We offer solutions to clients involved in disputes which are practical, competitive and commercially-focused, drawing on our exceptional legal knowledge and in-depth industry sector experience. In addition to general commercial litigation work, we also have expertise in the following specialist areas: international arbitration, banking litigation, contentious financial services regulatory, class actions, competition disputes, corporate crime and asset recovery, employment litigation, intellectual property, tax litigation, insurance litigation, product liability, insolvency and restructuring litigation, trusts, wealth management disputes and public law disputes. We are sophisticated users of alternative dispute resolution procedures including: pre-litigation disputes management, risk management and mediation, expert determinations, adjudications, mini-trials, negotiations and bespoke processes to resolve disputes. With globalisation driving opportunities and challenges both in developed and emerging markets, mitigating risk is a cornerstone of any effective strategy. In order to thrive in these environments, having a range of solutions and options at the clients’ fingertips is critical. Working in the Perth HSF Disputes team involves assisting on matters including class actions, construction disputes, anti-bribery and corruption, restructuring and insolvency, international arbitration and insurance.

King & Wood Mallesons Projects, Energy and Resources

he Projects, Energy & Resources practice group delivers and supports complex projects and transactions, including advising on operational and regulatory requirements, negotiating deals, working on construction matters and navigating Australia’s foreign investment regime. The group works across mining, oil and gas and infrastructure, advising a variety of multinational and Australian clients on projects across different countries and at all stages. This work ranges from acquisitions, to the establishment of joint ventures, development of new projects, the myriad of issues that arise in ongoing operations and through to sales and decommissioning. Our Projects, Energy & Resources specialists work across teams, and with related disciplines, to deliver a tailored legal offering to meet the needs of each client’s situation. Our graduates benefit from a wide range of direct involvement and experience across this spectrum, coming to grips with the many and varied legal issues that arise, and also learning about the practical side of business in the Projects, Energy & Resources industry.

14 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

Allen & Overy Banking and Finance

ith over 1,000 lawyers worldwide, we have one of the largest and most international teams of banking and finance lawyers of any global law firm. Few practices can match our top tier position across the full range of financial products. With the global reach and local depth of our practice, international and industry-leading ‘first-of-a-kind’ transactions are our hallmark. Renowned for our intellectual rigor and commercial expertise, our banking and finance lawyers regularly work alongside our other practice areas to develop innovative solutions for our clients. Our Perth banking & finance group works closely with the rest of our global network on market leading transactions, both domestic and cross-border (including in the wider APAC region, Europe and Africa). The expertise of our lawyers in the energy and resources sector is often drawn on by our other offices around the world. The team acts for project proponents, sponsors and banks on project financing, acquisition and leverage finance, syndicated bank facilities, convertible note and hybrid funding arrangements, commodity finance and equipment leasing transactions. We regularly advise on project structuring and development including joint ventures and offtake arrangements. Recent market leading transactions include acting for: » » »

Pilbara Minerals Ltd USD100m secured project bond issued to raise funding for development of its lithium project. This project is the first Nordic bond issue by an Australian issuer and was awarded IJ Global’s Asia Pacific Mining and Metals Deal of the Year 2017 Fortescue International Shipping on its USD473M sale and leaseback financing of 8 very large ore carriers with China Development Bank Financial Leasing, which won the global publication Marine Money Leasing Deal of the Year 2016 Fortescue Metals Group on its USD5bn senior secured term loan facility, winner of the ALB Australasia Law Awards, Debt Market Deal of the Year 2013.

Clayton Utz Real Estate

ur Real Estate practice group carries out a range of land transactions including acquisitions, disposals and deals relating to the development of property assets (office towers, shopping centres, industrial ports), assisting with subdivisions, and negotiating office and retail leasing agreements on behalf of both the Landlord and the Tenant. With clients ranging from government bodies, major banks and some of Australia’s largest property managers the work is fast paced and transaction based. As a graduate, you will assist with a number of different matters in a day and carry out various tasks commencing from receipt of initial instructions from a client until the matter is complete, allowing you to gain understanding of the different transactions. Whether drafting conditions in land sale and purchase contracts or running commercial settlements and due diligence enquiries, the work carried out is diverse and stimulating.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 15

GRADUATE POSITIONS

“

Graduate positions are the link between the culmination of your studies and your entry into professional life. Graduate programs give you the practical training and hands on experience necessary to aid your entry into the profession. In the legal profession, a firm’s graduate program typically includes a year-long practical legal training or articles.

The earlier you start planning the better prepared you will be for applying for graduate positions. As a rule of thumb, students should keep an eye on the market from the penultimate year of their degree, in order to make informed decisions about where they want to apply during their final year.

“

When should I start thinking about graduate positions?

How do I apply? In most instances, an initial application will require a cover letter and CV. Depending on the firm, you may also have to undertake personality or competency testing, or answer further questions about the firm, the position and your suitability for the job. Even if you’ve clerked with the firm you are applying for, some firms may require you to interview again. Others may also host a social event where all applicants can attend and get to know each other.

Where can I browse graduate jobs? In most instances, graduate jobs will be advertised through a firm’s website. Like the clerkship process, research is the key to finding the firm and position that suits you. cvMail is a great starting point if you’re looking to apply for several positions quickly.

OFFERS DAY What happens on offers day? Similar to vacation clerkship offers, firms will usually start notifying students of offers for a graduate position at 9am on the day. In contrast to vacation clerkship offers, your offer will be valid until 5pm, to provide you extra time to make up your mind.

What is an early offer? A number of firms offer graduate positions to students after the completion of their vacation clerkship. If you are lucky to receive one, it gives you assurance for the year ahead!

What is a priority offer? Priority offers are now made by many firms to applicants who have previously worked or undertaken a vacation clerkship with that firm.

What is a market offer? Some firms also use the standard offer system where all interested applicants are required to submit an application and proceed through an interview process before offers are made.

16 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

KEY DATES Summer / Winter Vacation Clerkships 2018/2019 Summer 2018/2019 Winter 2019 Applications open

Monday 16 July 2018

Applications close

Sunday 5 August 2018

Review and interview

Monday 6 August to Friday 14 September 2018

Offers Made

Friday 21 September 2018 (9 am)

Offers held open to

Friday 21 September 2018 (1 pm)

Graduate Recruitment 2018 - 1st round offers Graduate Recruitment 2018 1st Round Offers First rounds offers made

Friday 27 July 2018 (9 am)

First round offers held open to

Friday 27 July 2018 (5 pm)

Graduate Recruitment 2018 - standard offers Graduate Recruitment 2018 Standard Offers Applications open

Monday 30 July 2018

Applications close

Sunday 12 August 2018

Review and interview

Monday 13 August 2018 to Friday 7 September 2018

Offers Made

Friday 14 September 2018 (9 am)

Offers held open to

Friday 14 September 2018 ( 5 pm)

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 17

BEYOND COMMERCIAL LAW

lthough the clerkship process is highly emphasised throughout your law degree, don’t be afraid if a clerkship or if commercial law isn’t for you! In reality, there are many areas of law out there, that as law students, we are not exposed to during our degree. To help provide you some guidance, this Handbook contains articles written by professionals from a wide range of areas, including: family law, criminal law, aviation law, administration law and media/arts law. If you wish to pursue a non-commercial law career, the recruitment process is less structured, compared to commerical law. However, do not let this deter you! Always keep an eye out for opportunities that arise as firms don’t have a set recruitment period. There are many websites that firms advertise on, such as: GradConnection, Seek, Beyond Law or even the Law Society of WA’s website. If you find a firm that practices an area of law you are particulary interested in but they are not recruiting, it never hurts to send them an email expressing your interest in a position. Although, they may not be actively hiring, showing them that you are interested and sending them your CV, means if a position does arise, it may put you in a good position for the job. Even if you are still unsure what area of law you are interested in, it’s not a problem! Very few people actually know what they want to end up doing when they start their degree. Start by asking yourself what you actually want? What interests you? What do you nd exciting? What would you prefer to avoid? Come to the Blackstone Careers events throughout the year to hear from a variety of professonals and chat to people who can give you some guidance or further your application with their organisation/firm. Some Careers events include the 2018 Perth Law Careers Fair and our on-campus presentations throughout the semester. Never be afraid to ask older students, who may have experience in an area of law, to see how they found their experience and to reflect upon it!

18 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

“

Start by asking yourself what you actually want? What interests you? What do you find exciting? What would you prefer to avoid?

“

APPLYING FOR CLERKSHIPS IN SYDNEY S T E P HEN PU T T ICK J U R I S D O CT OR ST U D ENT, U WA

he clerkship process is a stressful and challenging experience. It is also a very personal one, not least with regards to where you wish to clerk. This is especially so if you are considering applying for clerkships in another jurisdiction. There are a large number of factors to consider. Perhaps most significantly with respect to New South Wales, and for the reasons indicated below, is where and why. Those considerations obviously speak to both the jurisdiction and also to the choice of firms. WHY SYDNEY? I only applied for clerkships in New South Wales. This entry should be understood from that perspective. I chose to apply to New South Wales for, broadly, two reasons. First, and most significantly, I have wanted to live and work in Sydney for some time. Second, New South Wales is the largest legal services market in Australia. It is also where most of the national and international work of major significance is undertaken. I believe with that comes greater professional opportunity across practice areas and industries. I note that this opinion is not universally shared. Following, I felt I had to decide between starting in Perth and trying to move to Sydney at some later time, or endeavoring to gain a Sydney clerkship, and hopefully a graduate offer. The former approach is not without merit, partly for reasons indicated below. DIFFERENCES BETWEEN SYDNEY AND PERTH CLERKSHIP PROCESS The most important difference between the Sydney clerkship process, and those in the other jurisdictions, is the length of the clerkship. Clerkships at most firms run for around three months, usually with rotations through two practice areas. One will ordinarily do only a single clerkship. This is as compared to the process in the other jurisdictions, with the exception of the ACT in some instances, where one will ordinarily do several, shorter clerkships. It is now commonplace for clerks to rotate through two practice groups in these jurisdictions. What is the significance of this difference? There are several considerations to bear in mind. First, on a positive note, the ‘conversion rate’ from clerkship to graduate of-

fer is higher in New South Wales. Second, perhaps on a more pessimistic note, it is widely accepted that it is relatively more difficult to obtain a clerkship in New South Wales. This is for several reasons. There are, relative to other jurisdictions, fewer clerkships offered relative to graduate positions. Additionally, many firms treat the clerkship recruitment process as, ultimately, recruitment for graduates. This means that the process is perhaps more rigorous than in other jurisdictions. THINGS TO BE AWARE OF WHEN APPLYING FOR SYDNEY CLERKSHIPS As indicated above, I myself did not go through the Perth clerkship recruitment process. As such, any comparisons between the New South Wales and Western Australian experience are necessarily limited. Notwithstanding, I think there are a few things to bear in mind. These are in addition to the comments under ‘Application Tips’. First, most significantly, choosing to apply to New South Wales is a huge decision that necessitates substantial consideration. I say this for several reasons, three of which call for specific mention. One, I (personally) would not apply to more than one office of the same firm – part of the process is obviously selling yourself, including making the case for why you want to move to another jurisdiction. I believe that ‘putting a bet each way’ by applying to a firm’s Sydney and Perth offices undermines that case. Indeed, most firms preclude you from doing so, or will permit a candidate to only interview with one office. This means that applying to the Sydney office of a firm has a substantial opportunity cost – one less (potential) clerkship opportunity in Perth. Two, recall that Sydney clerkships are generally for the duration of the summer vacation. This means that, if successful in obtaining a clerkship in Sydney, it will not be possible to clerk in Perth over that period. Three and finally, the ultimate aim of clerking in Sydney should be the offer of a graduate position and starting your career in Sydney. I say this because clerking in Sydney will likely come at a substantial cost – both financial and opportunity costs – with no tangible benefit greater than the clerkship experience that can be had in Perth. Clerkships are, after all, a means through which to obtain graduate employment As such, I personally would not have foregone opportunities in Perth unless I was serious about relocating. Second, and as abovementioned, I do think that the Syd-

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 19

ney process is more competitive. This is, if nothing else, a function of supply and demand. You should bear this in mind when deciding where to submit applications and also at the interview stage – anecdotally I think the expectations on interviewees are higher in Sydney (see ‘Application Tips’ below). Third, and following from the previous, Perth candidates are probably at some disadvantage relative to candidates from New South Wales. I emphasise ‘probably’ because this is conjecture. However, without doubt, one would have had fewer opportunities to meet and network with firms and others. With this said, I believe that interstate candidates are perhaps at some advantage at the interview stage. For instance, I was the only Perth candidate interviewing at the major firms’ Sydney offices last year – there is probably some advantage in that. STEP-BY-STEP APPLICATION PROCESS Most firms adhere to the timeframes set by The Law Society of New South Wales. In 2018 the steps and key dates are: Monday 18 June – applications open Sunday 15 July – applicable close at 11.59 EST Wednesday 26 September – offers can be made Friday 28 September – offers must be accepted or declined by 17.00 EST Most firms run two rounds of interview, as well as an online aptitude and/or personality test prior to the first round. Some firms use this as an additional ‘screening’ step with some candidates not proceeding to interview. Added to this, most firms host a networking/information session prior to the first round of interviews, as well as a networking event prior to, or after, the second round of interviews. I was told by all of the major firms that those events were not ‘assessed’ as part of the recruitment process. APPLICATION TIPS Start thinking. It is never too early to start thinking about clerkships – are you serious about interstate clerkships? What firms would you like to clerk at? This second question is especially important if you are going to apply for some firms in Sydney and others in Perth – how will you decide which firms? Know the market – start preparing. You will not get any offers by just thinking about it. Prepare your applications (CV, cover letters, etcetera) early. Also, start researching firms, the market, etcetera as soon as possible. This is fundamentally important for no less than two reasons. One, it will help you decide where you want to clerk. Two, interviews can be quite rigorous – you will want information to draw on. It is a good idea to set-up a ‘Google Alert’ for each firm, as well as some other industry keywords. I set a daily alert for these search terms in January of last year. This meant that by the time applications, and later interviews, came around I had a comprehensive resource of information. Another good tip is to start an application for Brisbane clerkships. Most firms use the same application questions for each office. One will be able to see 20 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

what questions are being asked, and to start thinking about responses, months out from Sydney applications even opening. At the time of writing Brisbane applications were already open. Applications to most firms’ Brisbane clerkships close at the end of March. Contact firms as early as possible. One should, without question, contact the recruitment consultant at every Sydney office to which they intend to apply. This is for no less than two reasons. One, I think many firms would be surprised, and probably query, an unanticipated application from a Perth candidate. Two, and more importantly, I found that these conversations were an invaluable source of information, recalling that one is unlikely to be able to attend campus and office events. Prepare to miss out. As above, the Sydney market is very competitive – current statistics suggest more competitive than Perth in terms of number of applications received to positions offered. Further to this, anecdotally, many firms will reject a larger number of applicants at the ‘CV-stage’. This is in part, one imagines, due to the more thorough interview process and consequential resource demands. Also, again anecdotally, firms will target candidates that they believe are most likely to accept an offer from them – again, attributable to resource demands. It is supposedly common for a candidate to interview at many of the major firms but have been rejected at the ‘CV stage’ from mid-tier and boutique firms, or vice versa. I was not offered an interview at more than half of the firms that I applied to. Strongly consider travelling to Sydney. This is not a prescribed requirement. Indeed, all of the firms I applied to indicated that they would be happy for me to interview by videoconference. However, I chose to travel to Sydney for both my first and second round interviews. I would strongly recommend to anyone that they do the same – as a candidate from Perth it is fundamentally important to demonstrate that you are serious about relocating. I considered that travelling to Sydney was a basic requirement. Further, I believe it is much easier to impress in a face-to-face meeting. Each of the my interviewing partners commented that they were impressed I had travelled across for interview. On this note, one of the firms I interviewed with made a generous contribution to my travel costs. I did not travel for the information and networking events – several firms quite openly indicated that this would not be necessary, not least given the cost of travelling to Sydney. Remember that clerkships aren’t everything. Any discussion of graduate employment must come with this caveat. It need not be restated here. However, I would emphasise that there are many opportunities other than through a clerkship to relocate to another jurisdiction if that is, indeed, what one wishes to do. There is a lot of luck in this process and many factors are beyond your control.

APPLICATION PROCESS WHAT IS REQUIRED?

1 2 3

COVER LETTER RESUME MOST RECENT ACADEMIC TRANSCRIPT

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS As part of their application process, a number of firms require you to answer additional questions. These questions will usually focus on finding out more about you, your achievements, what you can offer the firm, why you decided to pursue a career in law and questions about your level of industry awareness. Typical questions will involve asking you about specific situations, usually outside of university and your studies. For example, you may be asked ‘What do you feel is your greatest achievement, and what challenges did you face in achieving it?’ In other situations, your responses should have the effect of convincing the firm or organisation that you are interested in pursuing a career in law and your willingness to work with that firm or organisation. Such questions may include ‘What is your motivation for seeking a career in law?’ or ‘What has attracted you to this firm or organisation?’ Lastly, firms and organisations want to know that you are interested in the industry and that you will be able to assist their clients and provide innovative solutions. It is important that you conduct research in preparation for these questions! An example question may be: ‘Identify a current commercial issue that has attracted your attention recently. Why do you consider it important? Who are the key stakeholders and what are the implications for those concerned?’

ONLINE TESTING In addition to a written application, a number of firms conduct online testing. The nature of these tests is to test your personality, your ability to work in a team environment and to assess how you deal with pressure. If you are asked to complete a test, it is recommended that you give yourself ample time as some can be time-consuming.

[

Each firm will require you to submit a scanned and certified copy of your transcript, either through cvMail or directly with the firm (depending on the firm’s application process). This means you only need to purchase one official copy from the university.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 21

APPLICATION TIPS

1 2 3 4

Always remember that first impressions count! Your written application is the first impression you make to a firm so give it everything!

In your written application, ensure you address the selection criteria that the firm outlines. These are usually stated on their website.

Try avoiding writing one generic cover letter that can be used for many applications. Every firm adopts different values and beliefs and therefore, it is recommended that you tailor your applications to each firm.

It is always important that proof-read your application numerous times. You want to make sure that it is free from elementary mistakes.

NETWORKING EVENTS M

any firms host a networking evening or a cocktail function as part of their application process. Firms will usually invite those candidates that have been successful in receiving an interview with the firm. These events are designed to see how you fit in a social environment and provides the firm a good opportunity to get to know you in a more relaxed setting, outside of the interview. At these events, it is best to speak to as many people as possible as it helps you to gain an understanding of the culture at the firm. It is also important to meet other applicants as this demonstrates that you are socialable and these people may even become your future colleagues.

22 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

Tips Always wear corporate attire. Be on your best behaviour. Don’t be ‘that person’ who drinks too much. Make sure you try to mingle and meet people. Just be yourself! The firm has chosen you to be part of this stage of the recruitment process for a reason.

cvMAIL WHAT IS cvMAIL? cvMail is an online platform run by Thomson Reuters which provides information about the legal industry. It is a portal for students to apply to firms for clerkships, graduate jobs and to schedule interviews online. A number of firms, across all the states, now prefer using cvMail as their method of receiving applications. Be aware that firms often vary their application process, so ensure you are aware of any changes before applying.

GETTING STARTED How to use cvMail? Visit cvmail.com.au to register as a â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;First Time Userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. Create an account by inserting your name, email address and a password. You can then log in as a registered user using your email address and password. Personal Profile This will ask you to enter your personal information, such as full name, address, email, contact details and any language abilities. Academic Profile Create an education record for each relevant academic course. At first, this will require you to enter details for each course, such as the course name, length, institution, the units completed and the relevant marks.

BENEFITS It is easy to use. It stores application data so that you can save time when completing multiple applications. It means that you only have to complete the firm-specific parts of the application. You only need to enter your personal and academic details once. Helps you to keep track of closing dates for each firm and the list of firms you have applied for. Enables you to book your interviews online. Allows you to browse detailed information about the firms and their application process. Sets out other helpful tips such as what to include in application and sample cover letters and CVs.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 23

WRITING A COVER LETTER A COVER LETTER A cover letter is a job application letter which candidates use to explain to an employer why they are qualified for the position and why they should be selected for an interview. It is the means by which an employer will be able to gain their first impression and is a fundamental way for candidates to make their applications stand out from the rest. THE ESSENTIALS You should set out your personal details in the top right corner of your cover letter. This should include: your name, address, email and contact number. Below this, on left hand-side, you should include the name of the person you are addressing your cover letter to, their position within the firm, the name of the firm and the firm’s address. The use of a heading (in bold) goes a long way. Use this to state the position you are applying for - e.g. Application for 2018/19 [Firm] Clerkship Program. Start your cover letter with “Dear [name you are addressing the cover letter to]”. It is best to avoid addressing them as “Sir/Madam” or writing “To Whom It May Concern”, as it shows the candidate has not researched the firm. If you are ever unsure, ask a friend or call the firm and ask. In most instances, the application will advise you to address your cover letter to a specific person, usually the Office Manager, Head of Human Resources, Partner or Principal of the firm.

TIPS Make sure you state what year of study you’re in and when you intend to graduate. Keep your cover letter to one page. Ensure your cover letter is addressed to the right person. If you have a particular interest in an area of law you know the firm specialises in, make sure you mention this. Plan and write your cover letters well in advance. Highlight your strengths and how you can use these to benefit the firm. Write in first-person. Ensure you tailor your cover letter to each firm and are satisfying the selection criteria. Proofread your cover letter, get family and friends to read over it as well. Spelling and grammatical can detract from conveying a strong message. Avoid using big words and colourful adjectives. You should write in plain english; be clear and concise.

A great cover letter will show off your achievements and focus quite heavily on why you want to work at a specific firm;

BENEFITS OF GOOD COVER LETTERS

It highlights how a candidate can contribute to the firm; It shows how a candidate has prepared for their application by researching the firm, the nature of the position and ensuring that they address the selection criteria; and It demonstrates your communication skills and an ability to write clearly.

24 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

WRITING A COVER LETTER

SUGGESTED STRUCTURE

1 2 3 4

INTRODUCTION An introduction should outline the name of your degree, how far into your studies you are, the position you are applying for and when you are expecting to graduate.

ABOUT YOURSELF This paragraph should set out the skills and qualifications you have that are necessary for meeting the selection criteria. You should support this with evidence/examples of past employment history, extra-curricular activities and volunteer positions. Ensure you are emphasising your skills (such as attention to detail, leadership, teamwork and ability to manage multiple tasks at one time) and how you can apply them if you were successful in getting the position.

THE ORGANISATION This paragraph should outline why you are interested in the specific firm. Use evidence to support this, such as sharing similar values with the firm or identifying appealing aspects about the firm. Additionally, conduct research about the firm, their various practice groups, any people you have met, interesting work that the firm is currently working on, recent matters the firm has completed or recent achievements or awards the firm has received.

CONCLUSION A conclusion should thank the person addressed for their time and consideration of your application, and state that you look forward to hearing from them.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 25

SAMPLE COVER LETTER K I N D LY A NNOTAT ED BY C O R R S C HA M BERS W ES T GAR T H

Elle Woods 3 Brighton Avenue Peppermint Grove WA 6011 0413 273 266 ellewoods@hotmail.com

[INSERT FIRM] HR Services Bob Loblaw & Associates Ground Floor, 1 Law Avenue West Perth WA 6005 To Whom It May Concern, Re: Clerkship My name is Elle Woods and enclosed is my CV to work as a clerk at Bob Loblaw & Associates. I study the Juris Doctor at the University of Western Australia and am very interested in gaining practical legal experience. I would therefore like to be considered for a clerkship position in your firm where I can be exposed to many areas of legal practice. My ultimate goal is to work in a top law firm where I can have knowledge of the law over a number of different areas. I consider myself to be a very astute law student and I definitely possess the drive and dedication that this position requires. You will see from my CV that I have participated in university competitions, both of which enabled me to develop a strong passion for the law. I was also elected to the Blackstone society. In addition, I have had a number of volunteering placements. These placements assisted in strengthening my interpersonal and organisational skills. My qualifications appear to be consistent with the desirable attributes that Bob Loblaw & Associates is looking for in a successful candidate. I am also very hardworking and am known for my ability to work well independently with little oversight. My involvement in Blackstone and extracurricular activities, participation in competitions and volunteering placements demonstrates my ability to effectively balance work and personal activities with ease. This balance is especially important in the field of commercial work at Bob Loblaw which is a dynamic and fast-paced environment. Rob & Associates not only appeals to me for its world-class reputation in the commercial law sphere but for its commitment to workplace diversity. The promotion of individuality within a firm is of significant importance to me. I am confident that Bob Loblaw & Associate’s commitment to recognising unique qualities of employees will improve my own ability to adapt to different circumstances in a diverse environment.

26 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

Comment [Corrs1]: Ensure that you double check that your mobile number and email address are correct – so the firm can contact you easily if necessary.

Comment [Corrs2]: It is imperative that you address your application to the right firm, with the right address – this information is readily available on firm websites or career handbooks, so no excuses for getting this wrong! Where possible, include the name of the relevant HR contact too. Comment [Corrs3]: If you have included the HR contact in the address details, refer to them again here. Comment [Corrs4]: Expand on the letter heading by referring to “Clerkship Application for [insert firm]” Comment [Corrs5]: Most firms have an online application process, so unless you are submitting a hardcopy application, consider replacing this with “I am applying”. Comment [Corrs6]: It is helpful to indicate what year of study you are in – first year, penultimate or final year. Some firms are also interested to know what your undergraduate degree is too. Comment [Corrs7]: If you are interested in any particular areas of law, this is an opportunity to say so. Make sure the areas you are interested in are actually offered at the firm you are applying to! Comment [Corrs8]: This is quite generic – consider being more specific about whether the firm is international, national or local. Eg. “a leading national firm”. Comment [Corrs9]: Suggest replacing with “develop”. Comment [Corrs10]: This is unnecessary and can be deleted. Comment [Corrs11]: Suggest replacing with “are” - it sounds more confident. Comment [Corrs12]: Known to who? Suggest saying you have “developed” these abilities instead. Comment [Corrs13]: This is a good example of how your experiences have helped you to develop valuable skills. Comment [Corrs14]: Be consistent when referring to the firm name! Comment [Corrs15]: Be accurate when referring to the firm name!

Comment [Corrs16]: Generic, jargon-filled statements do not resonate with firms. Demonstrate you know what makes them different and why you want to work there.

Thank you for considering my application for a clerkship at Bob Loblaw & Associates. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have further questions. Best Regards, Elle Woods

Comment [Corrs17]: Format your letter so that is fits nicely on one page. And signatures are not required for applications uploaded online. You are good to go!

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 27

[

WRITING A CV A Curriculum Vitae (CV) or resume is a brief account of a candidate’s education, employment history, qualifications, extra-curricular activities, hobbies and interests. A candidate’s CV is usually sent together with a cover letter and should be tailored to highlight the skills and experiences relevant to the firm the candidate is applying to. Similar to a cover letter, it is the employer’s first contact they have with a candidate and therefore, presentation, format and structure are all essential.

[

TIPS

2 3 4 5 6 7

USE PROFESSIONAL LANGUAGE Highlight skills and qualifications relevant to the firm’s application criteria. Attempt to keep your CV to two pages in length, and no more than three pages total. Proofread your CV, get family and friends to read over it as well. Spelling and grammatical errors can detract from the quality of your application. There is no single correct structure to use. Choose a format that you like and ensure you are consistent throughout your CV. Use headings to divide your CV into sections, such as education, work experience, achievements and interests. Avoid using large paragraphs for descriptions. Use short sentences and bullet points. PERSONAL DETAILS You should include your full name, address, contact number and email address. EDUCATION You should outline your education history in reverse chronological order and include the name of the course, the institution and length of study. For tertiary study, you should include your GPA and/or WAM. Feel free to include your secondary study, including your university entry mark. EMPLOYMENT HISTORY If you have extensive and relevant past experience, you may decide to include this first. You should outline all your relevant work experience, in reverse chronological order, so begin with your most recent employment. Ensure you include your job title, start/finish employment dates, name of employer and responsibilities. Be sure to include the skills you developed and any achievements or accomplishments if you believe they are relevant. EXTRA-CURRICULAR In this section, include your involvement at school, university or any community engagement. Examples include university societies, participating in competitions, sporting team or volunteering experiences. You should highlight the skills you developed in these positions, such as teamwork or leadership. OTHERS You may decide to include other headings to suit your personal circumstances or which may be particularly relevant to the position or firm you are applying for. You can include other headings such as: Interests, Achievements, Leadership or Completed Courses such as first aid or computer proficiency. REFEREES Referees may be included at the end of a CV as a point reference which prospective employers may contact. Referees are usually former or current employers, a teacher, or someone who is able to comment on your work and skills in a professional setting. Try to avoid including personal references, such as family members or close friends. You do not have to include referees and it is sufficient to say ‘referees available upon request’ under the heading. If you wish to include referees, two is appropriate. Ensure you include the person’s name, their position, the company name and contact number. If you decide to include referees, be sure to ask them for permission, inform them of the position you are applying for and the skills they are looking for.

28 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

SAMPLE CV K I N D LY A NNOTAT ED BY N O R T O N ROS E F U L BRIGHT

RESUME

Elle Woods Address: 3 Brighton Avenue, Peppermint Grove, WA 6011 Tel: 0413 273 266 Email: ellewoods@hotmail.com DOB: 23 September 1995 Gender: Female

Comment [NRFA1]: The name should stand out. The formatting here could be more dynamic – take advantage of left and right alignment, headers, or underscores to display critical information.

Comment [NRFA2]: It is not necessary to disclose this information.

EDUCATION 2016-Present 2013-2015

2000-2012

The University of Western Australia Juris Doctor WAM 67.5% GPA 5.6

The University of Western Australia Bachelor of Arts, majoring in Political Science & International Relations WAM 75.4% GPA 6.2 Westside College Western Australian Certificate of Education Australian Tertiary Admission Rank: 95.00

Comment [NRFA3]: The format here is well displayed – easy to read and summarises important information such as WAM and the institutions of study.

EXPERIENCE December 2016

July 2016 2015-2016 2013-2014

SKILLS

Suem & Wynn Law Associates Vacation Clerk – Energy Resources This involved document management, reviewing contracts, conducting legal research and drafting case notes Payne & Suffrin Vacation Clerk – Litigation This involved conducting legal research and drafting court documents, including defences and affidavits

InStyle Clothing Sales Assistant

Coffee Express Barista

Comment [NRFA4]: Instead of “this involved” use proactive language “Reviewed contracts, Drafted case notes” and be careful with past/future tenses. Comment [NRFA5]: Be clear with dates – if only for July, in your description write why ie “month long discovery, working on a casual basis on x duties”. Comment [NRFA6]: Where possible, try to identify if there are elements of your role where you had extra responsibility, or where the experience may translate to working in a law firm, and highlight this experience or parts of your roles.

Comment [NRFA7]: A basic description of your duties here should be included for each role and also the months in which you commenced and ceased work at each. Where you might not have legal experience, ensure you are providing enough details on your other roles. Including details of how you were involved in handling responsibility or dealing with customers would be a good idea.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 29

Communication •

Writes clearly and concisely, listens attentively, gathers appropriate information, expresses ideas, communicates well with others, dependable Organizational •

Learns quickly, sets goals, multi-tasks, plans and arranges activities, meets deadlines Interpersonal •

Works well with others, sensitive, supportive, motivates others, shares credit, understands feelings Research and Planning •

Creates ideas, identifies problems, meets goals, defines needs, assesses situations

ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES Leadership • 2012 House Prefect Volunteering • 2016 Blackstone academic mentoring • 2013-2015 Marketing director for a non-profit charity • 2012 Volunteer at The City to Surf (Perth) REFERENCES Brian Payne Partner, Payne & Suffrin 9111 3282 Simone Jackson Manager, Coffee Express 0411 121 213

30 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

Comment [NRFA8]: The “skills” section of a CV can be a tricky area to navigate. Keep in mind that these are unsupported statements to whoever is reviewing your CV and that your actual experience, academic qualifications and achievements, and extracurricular involvement is much more important.

Comment [NRFA9]: Leadership roles should be included and highlighted where possible.

Comment [NRFA10]: Be specific with what volunteering you’ve done – from this dot point, we cannot tell what this person did and how long for.

INTERVIEWS There is no set date for when students are offered an interview. Generally, firms begin to contact students at least a couple of weeks after the application deadline, usually by phone or email. If you are offered an interview, you should be extremely proud because it means the firm is interested in you.

RECEIVING AN INTERVIEW

The purpose of an interview is two-fold. Firstly, being invited to an inteview means the firm believes you are suitable for the position and now they want to ascertain whether you will fit into their environment. This gives you an opportunity to reinforce the positive impression you have already made through your written application. You should elaborate on aspects that you have raised in your cover letter and CV, such as awards and achievements. Secondly, it gives you an opportunity to determine whether you would be a suitable fit at the firm. You should use this stage to learn more about the firm and the position you are applying for.

Individual Interviews Individual interviews will require you to meet with someone from the firm’s human resources team and another member from the firm. This is the most common form of interview style. In these interviews, you will be asked a number of questions that assist the interviewers in geting to know you better and focusing on how and why you would fit within the firm. Additionally, it enables the interviewers to assess your communication skills and determine your confidence and ability to answer questions. Group Interviews A number of firms conduct group interviews as an alternative to individual interviews. The aim of these interviews is to determine your ability to work within a team environment by requiring you to discuss particular problem scenarios or case notes as a group. The problem scenario will most likely be generic in nature, and tend to focus around ethics and technical related questions. During the problem scenarios, one or two ‘silent interviewers’ will be present in the room, who are there to observe the dynamics of the team and to assess the problem scenario.

WHAT NOT TO DO

» » » » » »

TYPES OF INTERVIEWS

Arrive late Poor presentation - improperly dressed and lack of cleanliness Bad manners, lack of eye contact Addressing the interviewer by the wrong name Inability to listen/not answering the questions properly Having little or no knowledge about the organisation

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 31

INTERVIEWS BEFORE THE INTERVIEW PREPARATION The interview stage is the best opportunity to make yourself stand out from the rest. Therefore, it is recommended that you prepare and ensure you do your research. Interviewers will want to see that you demonstrate an interest in the law, the firm and exhibit a desire to join them. You should conduct research into the firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s culture, what they look for in prospective employees and, if you are told beforehand, the interviewers. BE YOURSELF! The final step of preparation should focus on yourself! Ensure you have read through your CV and cover letter. You want to make sure that you are prepared for any questions relating to points you have raised in your written application. Making sure you are prepared in this regard shows the interviewers a greater sense of honesty and confidence.

TIPS

32 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

RESEARCH The best place to start your research is the firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website. This allows you to find out more about the firmâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s values, different practice areas, biographies on various staff, recent transactions, information on their clerkship and graduate programs and whether the firm engages in pro bono or volunteering activities. Another effective method of finding out more about a firm is to talk to people who work, or have worked there. There are many opportunities for this, such as the Careers Fair and various on-campus presentations. This gives you the chance to ask questions directly to people who have experienced the work and culture of the firm. You should also consider researching the firm on other sources, such as in the news, the Australian Financial Review or the Lawyers Weekly. These sources provide up-to-date information about matters the firm is working on, whilst also providing insight into the legal profession generally. Many organisations want to see that you have commercial awareness, and it is therefore important to understand current events.

Make sure your clothes are clean and professional. Ensure you have all the relevant documentation. Make sure you are on time - punctuality is crucial so try to arrive at least 10 minutes early. When you are introduced to your interviewers, shake hands and smile. It is important to remember their names. Maintain eye contact throughout the interview as it shows confidence. Being able to answer questions is only one part of the interview. Make sure you listen carefully to the question being asked. Try not to be nervous. It is important to be relaxed and professional. The most important thing is to be yourself!

INTERVIEWS SAMPLE QUESTIONS

“

Tell me about yourself? Why have you pursued a career in law? Why do you want to work in this particular area of law? Where do you see yourself in five years? Describe a time you have demonstrated leadership skills? What is your greatest weakness? Why do you want to work at this firm? Describe a time when you conflicted with another member of a team. Describe a time when you were faced with a difficult problem. How did you approach it? What skills can you contribute to this firm and this position? Describe a time when you had to meet a difficult deadline. How did you approach it? What has been your most enjoyable unit? What has been your least enjoyable unit? Tell me about a time you worked under pressure. What is your biggest regret? What sort of working environment motivates you? What is a current issue facing the legal profession? Why did you leave your previous job? What is your greatest achievement? What is the most exciting/interesting part of working for this firm? Why did you choose to work here? What attracted you to working in your practice group? What would an average day as a clerk be like? What tasks would a clerk be required to undertake? How often is feedback provided? Does the firm offer any international opportunities? Does the firm engage in any community activities, if so, what? How would you describe the ‘culture’ at the firm? Does the organisation have policies in place for ongoing/further studies? Do you have any advice for someone interested in a career in law? How is the health and wellbeing of employees encouraged in the firm?

“

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 33

GETTING ADMITTED REQUIREMENTS At the completion of a law degree (or a course prescribed by the Legal Practice Board of Western Australia), in order to be admitted into practice, a prospective practitioner must complete a practical legal training course (PLT) that complies with the training requirements for admission. There are many courses available, including the WA College of Law, the Leo Cussen Centre for Law and ANU Legal Workshop.

This will require you to locate a legal practitioner to move your admission at the ceremony. For more information, see the the Admissions section of the Supreme Court website. Within 2 days of filing the Motion Paper, you must then file a Notice of Application for Admission with the Legal Practice Board of WA, together with a copy of the Motion Paper and other supporting documentation.

These courses usually run for a year and will require a prospective practitioner to complete additional study, whilst obtaining a certain number of hours of practical experience. More information about each course is outlined in the following PLT directory.

Following receipt of the application, the Legal Practice Board will place the required advertisements and the Supreme Court will write directly to you to confirm arrangements for the ceremony. The Board will file a compliance certificate with the Court, at least 7 days prior to the admission ceremony.

Upon completion of the PLT course, prospective practitioners are required to file a Motion Paper with the Supreme Court at least 2 months prior to the proposed admission date.

HOW TO PRACTICE IN WA?

HOW TO PRACTICE IN A FEDERAL JURISDICTION?

34 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

A person must hold a practicing certificate issued by the WA Law Society. An admitted lawyer cannot engage in legal practice unless they hold a current practicing certificate. Upon initial receipt of the certificate, you must complete two years of supervised/restricted practice.

In order to be qualified to practice in federal jurisdictions, a practitioner requires entitlement to practice in the Supreme Court of a State or Territory, and entry in the Register of Practitioners kept in the High Court of Australia.

[

ANU SCHOOL OF LEGAL PRACTICE Building 5, Fellows Road, ANU, Acton ACT +61 2 6125 3483 slp.studentadmin@anu.edu.au legalpractice.anu.edu.au/gdlp

How does your PLT course differ from the other courses? ANU is Australia’s leading tertiary provider of Practical Legal Training (PLT). The ANU GDLP program uses online learning to enable you to balance your PLT with employment, or other personal commitments and to study at ANU regardless of your location. Our GDLP students are based all over Australia and the world. You are able to tailor your ANU GDLP to what best suits you: you decide your start date, your face-to-face location, your individual mentor and when you want to graduate. How is the course structured? The ANU GDLP is comprised of 5 elements: Element 1 – Becoming a Practitioner (BAP): 4 day Face-to-Face in various locations across Australia. Element 2 – Professional Practice Core (PPC): 12 weeks, online. Includes property law, commercial law, civil litigation practice, ethics and professional responsibility, and professionalism in practice. Element 3 – Electives: the number of electives you are required to complete depends upon how many days of LPE you choose to complete. The electives you are able to choose from are broad and comprehensive, giving you scope to develop your skills in certain practice areas.

plete 20 days, 50 days or 80 days LPE. Element 5 – Ready for Practice (RFP): 3 weeks online. RFP is a capstone experience which enables you to draw together your learning in the GDLP. You are offered individual mentoring throughout your ANU GDLP, and you are able to choose your mentor from our range of experienced practitioner teachers. There is some flexibility around the order that you complete the above elements, so that depending on the timing of when you start and when you want to graduate, you can fit your course load and study load into your already busy lifestyle!

More information Choose Australia’s leading university GDLP provider for your compulsory Practical Legal Training. Designed to build on the knowledge you have gained in your LLB/ JD, your ANU GDLP will provide you with the practical knowledge that you will need to take the next step in your career. Tailor your ANU GDLP: you decide your start date, your face-to-face location, your individual mentor and when you want to graduate. We welcome you to enrol online and take your PLT to the next level.

How do graduates enrol in the course? Apply online at any time during the year. What work experience options (if any) are students able to choose from? ANU is able to assist students with LPE opportunities. Do you provide full time and part time courses? Yes

Element 4 – Legal Practice Experience (LPE): You can choose to com-

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 35

ANU School of Legal Practice What does ANU School of Legal Practice consider the most valuable part of completing your ANU GDLP? Completing your ANU GDLP will give you a postgraduate qualification from Australia’s leading university provider of Practical Legal Training (PLT). Your ANU GDLP will build on the knowledge you have obtained in your undergraduate studies, providing you with the practical skills that you will need to take the next step in your career. Tailor your ANU GDLP: You decide When to Start; Where to Complete your 4 day Face-to-Face ‘Becoming a Practitioner’ course; Who Your Individual Mentor will be; Your Electives; and When You Will Graduate.

Is the work experience component of your ANU GDLP placement, arranged by students individually, by the ANU School of Legal Practice or a combination of both? How many hours must students complete? Legal Practice Experience (LPE) (also referred to as placement) is a requirement of all PLT courses. Your ANU GDLP gives you the option to choose to complete 20 days, 50 days or 80 days LPE. We have exclusive opportunities available for ANU GDLP students to apply for placements with third parties – and we have relationships with community and private employers where applications from ANU GDLP students are preferred.

What is the delivery mode for your ANU GDLP? Is it onsite, online, or combination of both? Your ANU GDLP is delivered online, and can be completed from anywhere in the world – with the exception of the 4 day Face-to-Face ‘Becoming a Practitioner’ (BAP) course. The BAP course is offered at locations across Australia 15 times per year. You can apply at any location that suits you, and then complete the remainder of the ANU GDLP online.

facebook.com/ANUGDLP

36 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

What is the duration of you ANU GDLP in part-time and full-time study mode? The duration of the course is up to you! You can complete your ANU GDLP in under 6 months – or you can take more time and complete it at a more steady pace. Your ANU GDLP is completely flexible, designed to be able to fit in with your existing work and life commitments – you can tailor your course and study load to suit you! Your ANU GDLP is comprised of 5 elements: > Element 1 – Becoming a Practitioner (BAP): 4 day Face-to-Face in various locations across Australia. > Element 2 – Professional Practice Core (PPC): 12 weeks, online. Includes property law, commercial law, civil litigation practice, ethics and professional responsibility, and professionalism in practice. > Element 3 – Electives: the number of electives you are required to complete depends upon how many days of LPE you choose to complete. The electives you are able to choose from are broad and comprehensive, giving you scope to develop your skills in certain practice areas. > Element 4 – Legal Practice Experience (LPE): You can choose to complete 20 days, 50 days or 80 days LPE. > Element 5 – Ready for Practice (RFP): 3 weeks online. RFP is a capstone experience which enables you to draw together your learning in the GDLP. You are offered individual mentoring throughout your ANU GDLP, and you are able to choose your mentor from our range of experienced practitioner teachers.

What is the cost of completing your ANU GDLP? > If you choose 20 days LPE, you will be required to complete 4 electives – cost of $12,324. > If you choose 50 days LPE, you will be required to complete 3 electives – cost of $11,147. > If you choose 80 days LPE, you will be required to complete 2 electives – cost of $9,970. Our fees are FEE-HELP eligible.

legalpractice.anu.edu.au/gdlp

LEO CUSSEN CENTRE FOR LAW GPO Box 853, Melbourne VIC 3001 1300 039 031 pltadmin@leocussen.edu.au www.leocussen.edu.au

How does your PLT course differ from the other courses? We believe that practical legal training should be just that – practical. Build your skills and confidence with a mentoring program you won’t find elsewhere. Small group training – to provide the finest practical training experience. Our blended learning program is offered predominantly online, but also has 13 days onsite so that you can better build skills and confidence through a personalised mentoring program.

signings and other activities are scheduled on intensive contact days. Students develop excellent advocacy skills through civil and criminal file work.

How is the course structured? Our online PLT is a blend of online and onsite activities over 24 weeks, complete either 4 weeks of professional placement or 9 weeks of professional placement (if an expemption from the 5-week coursework Careers Planning and Profession Ready Module is given). Applicants must have proficiency in email and internet applications, reasonable access to such resources and an aptitude for successful learning via online delivery modes.

Professional Placement Trainees will need to complete either 4 weeks of professional placement or 9 weeks of professional placement (if an expemption from the 5-week coursework Careers Planning and Profession Ready Module is given). Placement can be done shortly before or after the formal coursework, or concurrently with coursework. Placements can be organised with private law firms, community legal centres, government agencies, public interest organisations or in-house.

Contact days The PLT is suitable for law graduates who have other commitments during typical business hours. The course includes 13 face-to-face intensive contact days from Perth’s CBD. Attendance is a requirement. Trainees manage and conduct simulated les. This includes attendances at hearings, settlements, interviews,

Online completion of Client Files Online PLT files are largely conducted via guided one-to-one online contact with mentors, except for attendance at hearings, settlements, interviews, signings and other activities that are scheduled on contact days.

How long does the course run for? 5 months How do graduates enrol in the course? Online via www.leocussen.edu.au/ apply What work experience options (if any) are students able to choose from? Trainees have access to a designated Graduate Placement & Careers Advisor. Do you provide full time and part time courses? We currently provide a full-time course from Perth’s CBD. We also offer a full-time and part-time onsite and online course from Melbourne’s CBD. More information Please visit www.leocussen.edu.au Phone: 1300 039 031 Email: pltadmin@leocussen.edu.au

Optional Topics Can be chosen in Administrative or Family law. When does the course start? The next course starts late January 2019.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 37

THE COLLEGE OF LAW Durack Centre, Ground Floor, 263 Adelaide Terrace, Perth WA 6000

(08) 9214 0200 Student Services | enrolments@collaw.edu.au www.collaw.edu.au

How does your PLT course differ from the other courses? As the leader that is aligned with the legal industry, The College of Law offers the largest range of flexible Practical Legal Training programs, all purpose-driven to put your hard-earned degree seamlessly into practice. With more study freedom, lecturer support and practical task-based, hands-on learning, you’ll enter the profession with a profile that is more attractive to employers. You will benefit from: Just 5 days of face-to-face attendance; No assessable group work; More than 10 start dates in Perth in 2018; Part of the Western Australian profession for more than 10 years; and Lowest fees in Western Australia How is the course structured? Our aim is to ensure you transition successfully into your chosen workplace. We achieve this goal through the integration of three essential program components:

38 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

1. Coursework Complete five compulsory subjects and two electives. You will learn key areas of competence through everyday scenarios that parallel real-life practice. With no academic essay writing required, you will focus on solving problems and completing tasks using resources available. Develop the skills you need to help solve our clients’ most complex challenges in thoughtful and innovative ways. 2. Work Experience Designed to give you insights into what it’s like to work in a real legal environment, this is your first opportunity to apply your skills to real-life legal problems. Choose from two formats: Short Format - 25 days of approved work experience + Clinical Experience Module (CEM); or Standard Format - 75 days of approved work experience. 3. Continuing Professional Education (CPE) Open your eyes to the importance of ongoing professional

education and career development. Choose 10 units from two series options: Legal Series Legal Business Skills Series If you choose to complete all 10 units from the Legal Business Skills Series, you will be awarded a Certificate of Legal Business Skills in addition to your GDLP. When does the course start? We offer more than 10 start dates a year in Perth, so you can complete your Practical Legal Training at a time that suits you. How long does the course run for? 15 weeks - If time is of the essence for you, you can study full-time online and complete the coursework in just 15 weeks. 30 weeks - If you prefer to learn at your own pace while working or managing other commitments, you can study online part-time either during the daytime of evenings.

How do graduates enrol in the course? You can apply via our online application form that will take less than 15 minutes to complete. Simply visit www.collaw.edu.au

Do you provide full time and part time courses? You can complete your coursework component in one of three study modes: online full-time, online part-time or online parttime evening. Choose the mode that suits your goals, timeframe and lifestyle. More information Visit www.collaw.edu.au/PLT or contact our Student Services Team on 1300 856 111 or enrolments@collaw.edu.au

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

As the leader that is aligned with the legal industry, The College of Law offers the largest range of flexible Practical Legal Training programs, all purpose-driven to put your hard-earned degree seamlessly into practice.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

What work experience options (if any) are students able to choose from? We offer two formats for the work experience component of your training: Short Format - 25 days of approved work experience + Clinical Experience Module (CEM) Standard Format - 75 days of approved work experience

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 39

Activate your career. Practical Legal Training programs that better activate your career. Leading, and in tune with your profession, The College of Law offers the largest range of flexible programs, all purpose-driven to ensure you have the best start to your career. • Just 5 days face-to-face attendance • Study full-time or part-time online • Emphasis on task-based learning • More than 10 start dates in Perth in 2018

Maggie Quach

Lawyer, Lander & Rogers Lawyers Graduate of the Practical Legal Training program

Learn more at collaw.edu.au/PLT or call 1300 856 111

COMM E R C I A L LAW G U ID E Gaining experience in a commercial law firm will offer you a chance to develop your legal skills and knowledge whilst also being exposed to a variety of practice groups. The experience will help you develop skills that are not taught at university, such as client interaction and various other real-life scenarios. It is a common misconception that in order to work in a commercial law firm, one needs a background knowledge in business. This is wrong! Many firms have comprehensive training and career development programs which help to build skills and develop the career of any individual. This may be in the form of mentoring, international rotations, whilst also building relationships and gaining practical experience. As there are a large number of firms, it is recommended that you spend some time learning about each firm, its culture and its opportunities, in order to find the right fit. We have put together firm profiles of our major sponsors, outlining key information and other insights to help assist you in making the right choice. Beyond the information provided, firm websites are a helpful tool to gather more information. A number of firms also attend on-campus events or the Careers Fair, which also provide you an opportunity for direct contact with the firms and to ask any questions you may have.

ALLEN & OVERY Level 12, Exchange Tower, No 2. The Esplanade Perth WA 6000 Our Australian practice has three core groups: Banking & Finance, Corporate and Litigation. Within these, the practice areas are diverse including: International Capital Markets, Mergers & Acquisitions, Private Equity, Projects, Structured Products, Funds, Competition, Tax, Energy & Resources, Litigation and International Arbitration. Rachelle O’Keefe, Human Resources (08) 6315 5919 Rachelle.okeefe@allenovery.com | www.allenovery.com 2 offices in Australia (Sydney and Perth). Globally 44 offices.

How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ At Allen and Overy (A&O), we believe in the fundamental importance of collaboration and teamwork, of giving lawyers, graduates and summer clerks tasks that will challenge, stretch and support them in advancing their careers. We have developed a culture of learning, where lawyers at all levels are committed to helping graduates and clerks to understand not just what needs to be done, but why it is important. We believe that our people perform best when they are given the very best resources, facilities, opportunities and encouragement to explore their full potential. We believe that teams perform best when they focus on performance rather than hierarchies, and where they are comfortable socialising together as well as working together. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? A&O was the first global elite law firm to commence operations in Australia. The firm is fully integrated with the global A&O network and now has over 90 top tier lawyers in Sydney and Perth.

44 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

At A&O, we advise on our client’s most strategically important business decisions. With a track record of advising on complex, Australian and cross-border matters for market leading organisations, we are able to offer the best of both worlds: the expertise and resources of a global elite law practice coupled with seasoned practitioners with Australian and international experience. We focus on innovative and expert legal solutions for our clients across a broad range of areas: mergers and acquisitions; private equity; capital markets; regulatory and funds; anti-trust/competition; litigation and dispute resolution; banking and finance; infrastructure and projects; energy and resources; communications, outsourcing and technology; tax and real estate. Does the firm engage in pro bono, volunteering or other community activities? A&O, is very active in the pro bono space, both globally and here in Australia. In Australia, we have established a committee comprised of staff from the Sydney and Perth offices that are dedicated to community volunteering and building our pro bono practice. All staff have

the option of regularly donating to our Global partner, War Child. A&O’s Perth office has also built relationships with other local Western Australian organisations such as Lady Lawley Cottage - a residential respite care service for children with disabilities. We are also a stakeholder on the Law Access advisory committee overseeing the Western Australian Law Access clearing house, a system designed to help people obtain pro bono legal assistance in areas of law where there is limited or no assistance available from Legal Aid or any other agency. How does the firm encourage a work/life balance? A&O understands that to have the most engaged and productive employees, work needs to adapt to integrate with other areas of its employees’ lives. The importance of work/life balance at A&O is underscored by the A&O iFlex initiative, which was introduced in 2015 and enables our lawyers to work from home or elsewhere on an ad hoc basis. A&O Perth also has an active social committee, free gym membership, wellness programmes and a number

of other initiatives in place to assist our people to maintain a healthy work/life balance.

thinking, commercial awareness, and commitment - both to a career in law and to a career with A&O.

- CLERKSHIP INFORMATION -

Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Yes.

During which period do you offer clerkships? We will be running one program during the Nov/Dec 2018 period. How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? We anticipate offering 10 clerk ships. How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? Applications for clerkships must be submitted through our website at www.allenovery.com/careers/australia – you can access the portal via the Australian sub-site of our careers pages. Candidates will need to attach a cover letter, curriculum vitae and their latest academic transcript. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? During the program you will gain practical experience in one of our practice areas, where you will work alongside A&O partners and lawyers on real deals, disputes and other client matters. Before you join us, we will ask you to indicate the areas that most interest you – this is a great opportunity to get hands on experience in an area of law that really appeals to you. In addition to your legal work you will attend training sessions and presentations aimed at broadening your understanding of our business and helping you to develop the skills you need to be a successful commercial lawyer. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? There’s no such thing as a typical A&O candidate. We’re open minded and interested in people who share that quality. Beyond strong academic performance, we want to see evidence of teamwork, motivation and drive, communication skills, planning and organisation, critical

- GRADUATE INFORMATION How can students apply for a graduate job with your firm? Applications for graduate positions will only be accepted through our website at www.allenovery.com/ careers/australia – you can access the portal via the Australian sub-site of our careers pages. Candidates will need to attach a cover letter, curriculum vitae and latest academic transcript. How many graduates does your firm anticipate to hire in 2018? We aim to recruit between 2-4 graduates each year. What is the structure of the graduate program? Graduate training will comprise of at least two six-month rotations in different practice areas. During each rotation, graduates work alongside a partner and our lawyers and actively contribute to the day-to-day work of that team – working on transactions and cases, taking real responsibility and gaining plenty of client exposure. Our new graduates attend a dedicated training program to introduce them to core legal and commercial knowledge, and skills which will form the essential building blocks for a career at A&O. Asia Pacific Graduate Secondment Program A&O graduates may also have the opportunity to participate in the APAC Graduate Secondment Program, an exciting program which provides our graduates with the opportunity to experience a 6 or 12 month secondment to one of our Asian offices. During their second-

ment, secondees have the opportunity to expand their technical skills and experience a range of different practice areas in an international office, while experiencing the culture of a new city. Does the firm assist graduates to complete their Practical Legal Training? If so, how? Your PLT will be completed through the College of Law (NSW and WA) and we will support you throughout the program, providing financial and study break assistance. - INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Your interview is an opportunity to substantiate what you have said about yourself in your application and for us to get to know you better, and vice versa. Naturally, if you’ve come this far you want to impress, so make sure you get the basics right and remember to be yourself throughout. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Revise and practice Remember to revisit your application before your interview. The interview questions are likely to include details about school and university studies, your interests and achievements, work experience, why you have chosen this career and why you want to work at Allen & Overy. University careers services may offer mock interviews, so book one if you can. Getting feedback on how you come across in an interview scenario from someone you don’t know can be really helpful before the event. Stay up-to-date You should expect to be asked questions about topical, commercial or business issues so start reading up on stories in

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 45

Get the logistics right Before your interview, ensure you know the dress code, directions and the selection process. Make an impression First impressions count so dress appropriately, smile, maintain eye contact and offer a confident handshake. It’s not simply a case of impressing your interviewer – getting the basics right will make you feel better and more confident, which will help you in the interview itself. Be confident and self-assured – if you have been invited to an interview, we already think you have potential, so remember this. Ask pertinent questions An interview is a two-way process, so while you will be expected to do most of the talking in an interview, this is also your opportunity to see whether the firm is right for you. It’s a good idea to prepare a couple of questions to ask at the end of the interview covering issues you genuinely want to learn more about. If you are unsuccessful at interview, ask for feedback so you know what to work on.

46 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

“

We’re open minded and interested in people who share that quality.

“

the newspapers or online, and be prepared to discuss your opinions at interview. We want to find out what you think and why you think that way.

It’s finding your direction. Pushing beyond what’s possible. Building the future you want.

IT’S TIME.

isit alleno ery.co

careers gradsaustralia C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 47

ALLENS Level 37, QV1 250 St Georges Terrace, Perth 6000 Australia Banking & Finance, Mergers & Aquisitions and Captial Markets, Disputes & Investigations, Projects, Real Estate & Development, Environment & Planning.

08 9488 3700 Amy Altamura, Graduate Resourcing Advisor Student.Careers@allens.com.au | www.allens.com.au/yourcareer Offices across Australia and Asia and many more throughout the world with our integrated alliance with Linklaters. What are your firm’s core values? 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. 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. Initiative, excellence, commerciality, flexibility and commitment are all attributes that our people have in common. These help us to succeed as a team and individually. Building a culture of inclusion ensures our people can reach their full potential. For us, this starts with strong leadership. Our inclusion and diversity strategy is supported by an Inclusion and Diversity Council, chaired by our Managing Partner. This council provides sponsorship, role-modelling and drives initiatives across our firm. How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ Work with us and you’ll discover it’s our approach that sets us apart as much as our expertise. We’re

48 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

supportive, open-minded and passionate. With a deep understanding of our clients, we tackle problems from every angle and we’ll do whatever it takes to find a solution. It’s that unwavering commitment that continually builds our expertise and ensures we sustain and enhance long-term client relationships. While our history proves what we’re capable of, we’re not complacent. We will continue to shape the future with and for our clients, our people and our communities. It takes determination, energy and talent to make it to the top of the legal profession. We’ll give you access to the best training and support to help you get there. At Allens, there will be ongoing opportunities to make an impact and drive your career. It’s up to you to make the most of them. Our lawyers are rewarded on expertise, competence and performance rather than time with the firm. You’ll be encouraged to develop skills that extend beyond technical excellence. And, you’ll help others to do the same. We’ll make sure that you are ready for each promotion with individual career planning, focused training and a clear view of what needs to be achieved at each level.

For our legal professionals, careers at Allens are a two-way deal. You’ll be expected to work hard, be driven to succeed and committed to excellence. We’ll be focused on your development and support your career aspirations in return. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Working together and working together well: there’s an important difference. It’s a given that we work on complex multi-jurisdictional projects across Australia and the world through our strategic alliance with Linklaters. But it’s how we do it that makes us different. We work as one team, collaborating across practice areas and disciplines to solve complex problems and build great relationships. It’s what makes Allens a great place to work. Our people play a huge part in our success. We attract and develop exceptional talent and we welcome diversity and individuality. You’ll be given opportunities to grow, learn and succeed, but it’s up to you to make the most of them. We’re well aware that your job satisfaction and our success go hand in hand. You’ll be involved in high-profile, complex work and we’ll provide the very best

training throughout your career. We’ll reward your commitment to learning with the flexibility to drive your own career. What is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? In our rapidly changing world, our clients – and our own people – expect us to keep evolving to stay a step ahead. We’re entrepreneurial in spirit, driven to go beyond setting legal precedents and cutting-edge work. We seek out ways to do things differently and embrace innovative ideas. Then we create tools that bring our thinking to life, using emerging technology to solve real-world problems. We believe what makes us stand out as an employer, is the high-quality technical training and excellent learning environment we offer. We’ll work together to develop your understanding of commercial law, build your skills and provide the foundation you need to become a successful lawyer. We offer a wide range of opportunities from introductory workshops to our two-year graduate program. You’ll be involved in some of the most complex domestic and global transactions in the market – whether you join us as a clerk, paralegal or law graduate. Does the firm engage in pro bono, volunteering or other community activities? Yes! Being a leading law firm in Australia and Asia, we have an important role to play in the wider community. We take this role very seriously and are proud of our people who work with great passion, energy and commitment for the benefit of the wider community. We offer our people opportunities to make a broader difference to the firm and the wider

community through pro bono work or through the work of our Reconciliation, Charity and Footprint committees. As well as our people’s contributions, we are proud of the community organisations and people with whom we are associated and invite you to take a look at some our recent pro bono achievements and community initiatives (via our website) – and some follow-ups on past community stories.

work and your career aspirations.

During which period do you offer clerkships? During Winter and Summer.

Through the recruitment process you’ll learn about Allens and what makes us unique as a firm. It’s a great time for you to ask questions, think about you career and do your research. If you would like to find out more, you can find a calendar of upcoming events, presentations and workshops on our events page. We’re looking for people who will thrive in our environment and make a positive, ongoing commitment to our firm. There is no ‘Allens type’, we’re seeking people with a broad range of expertise, skills and attributes.

How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? Approximately 35.

Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? No

- CLERKSHIP INFORMATION -

How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? All applications are submitted online via our careers website. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? As a clerk, you’ll work with some of the most experienced lawyers in Australia and experience first-hand the type of work you could do as a lawyer with us. You’ll get to work as part of a team on real matters for our clients. If you’re driven, make the most of the opportunity and get to know our people, you’ll thrive during a clerkship with us. Your development supervisor and buddy will be there to support you and help you grow. Our clerkship program is a stepping stone to bigger things. Many Clerks go on to become Graduates with us. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? At Allens, we’re looking for individuals not robots. We’re interested in what you can bring to the firm and what we can offer you in return. We’ll use the recruitment process to get to know you, how you like to

- GRADUATE INFORMATION How can students apply for a graduate job with your firm? We typically recruit our graduates through our clerkship program, however from time to time we will recruit graduates from the open market. We adhere to the open market recruitment dates set out by the Vacation Clerk & Graduate Recruitment Guidelines. What is the structure of the graduate program? We offer a rotations program over two years. Experience has shown us that these two 12-month rotations give our graduates great exposure to clients, work and teams across a variety of areas. One of the other benefits of our approach is that you don’t work for one partner – you will work for many people across a variety of areas, therefore we do not operate in a siloed structure. During the program you are individually supported by three people – a development supervisor, a performance coach and a buddy. We recognise that it’s early

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 49

in your career and we aim to give you as much support, guidance and mentoring as possible. Does the firm assist graduates to complete their Practical Legal Training? If so, how? We deliver our Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (GDLP) in conjunction with the Australian National University. The 18-week program consists of a variety of learning opportunities that will help you transition from law student to practitioner. The majority of the GDLP program is undertaken online and involves you working with other graduates in ‘virtual law firms’ to conduct ‘real life’ legal transactions. This online format gives you the flexibility to access information for the course and submit assign- ments when it’s convenient to you, while the virtual team structure keeps the program as close to the realities of a law practice as possible. - INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? The face-to-face interview is a chance for us to get to know you, and for you to get to know us. During your interview, you’ll meet with members of our recruitment panel. We want to hear about your university and work experiences, extracurricular involvement, career aspirations and interest in Allens. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Explore our website and learn about us. Take note of current projects that we have been involved in and undertsnad who

50 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

our main clients are. Be confident when talking about your strengths, achievements and what you enjoy. We don’t expect you to know which area of law you want to work in but a general understanding of what might interest you and why, is important. Think about the questions you might be asked. The interviewers will want to get to know you, so their questions will be based around your application. Know your resume well and be prepared. Identify any points of interest or potential weaknesses in your resume. Think about how you might respond to a question about them, such as failing a subject, swapping courses mid-semester or leaving a parttime job. Think about why you want to work at Allens and be prepared to respond to this question. The interview not only provides us with the opportunity to get to know you but it is also an opportunity for you to learn more about the firm. Think about the questions you’d like to ask. Practice interviewing with someone you are comfortable with and who will give you honest feedback.

ALLION PARTNERS Level 9, Cloisters Building, 863 Hay Street, Perth 6000 Australia Corporate, Energy, Projects & Resources; Property & Agribusiness; Workplace Relations, Health & Safety.

(08) 9216 7100 Sue Redmond, People & Operations Manager sredmond@allionpartners.com | www.allionpartners.com 2 offices in Australia - Perth and Sydney.

What are your firm’s core values? Accountability, Commitment, Compassion, Excellence, Integrity, Loyalty & Teamwork How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ Our work culture can best be described as friendly and inclusive in which our lawyers are encouraged to think for themselves within a strong, supportive team environment. Our values underpin our culture and help us to deliver a healthy work and life balance for our people. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Allion is a boutique commercial law firm and we focus only on the areas of law that we excel in. We have a strong and well established reputation in the marketplace - firstly for delivering high quality, commercial legal advice and secondly and of equal importance, for employing smart, commercially minded lawyers. By way of example, Allion is often the only boutique firm involved on transactions, which is testament to the quality of our lawyers and our clients and the high regard they have for our firm.

What is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? The most common feedback we receive from our graduates and young lawyers is that they get to do quality, complex legal work well beyond what their peers are doing at other firms including the larger national and international firms. In addition, our lawyers work closely with our clients and our partners, allowing them to accelerate their learning and develop a level of commerciality much earlier. Apart from the obvious career benefits, this type of working environment delivers a high level of challenge, enjoyment and engagement. - CLERKSHIP INFORMATION Allion will not be offering vacation clerkships for the 2018/2019 summer break. - GRADUATE INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a grad? There is no escaping from the fact that academics are important; our type of practice and quality of clients means we need smart lawyers. We also need lawyers who

like responsibility, are accountable and can demonstrate initiative and thought to whatever task they are undertaking. Having well developed interpersonal skills, a keen eye for detail and a desire to learn are equally important as is being organised and having a genuine interest in the law we practise. What can students do to increase their likelihood of securing a graduate job with your firm? As our graduate recruitment programme application dates often differ from the standard dates that other firms use, we would encourage students to visit our website mid-year if they are interested in a position with us. How can students apply for a graduate job with your firm? Students can apply via our website in July/August 2018. How many graduates does your firm anticipate to hire in 2018? 2. Does the firm assist graduates to complete their Practical Legal Training? If so, how? Our graduates join us having completed their College of Law

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 51

(COL) studies. Allion covers the COL course fees.

- INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? To be shortlisted for interview means we have already gained quite a lot of information about you from your resume including the courses/ subjects you’ve chosen to study, your academic record, your interests and work history. Our interviews are relatively informal as the main aim for us is to get to know you better and to assess your potential and fit for our work environment. We therefore like to see candidates who are engaged in the process and have really thought about where they may best be suited to start their legal career. What are some less-obvious things students should avoid when interviewing? While not ‘less-obvious’, being genuine and true to yourself is very important. It helps you to stay calm and enjoy the process and it helps us to engage with you and get to know you better. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? You should know as much as possible about our firm and our practice areas; you also need to be able to articulate why you find our firm appealing. You may like to speak to people who currently work at our firm for their insights.

52 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

“

...being genuine and true to yourself is very important. It helps you to stay calm and enjoy the process and it helps us to engage with you and get to know you better.

“

This means that depending upon your workload, you may choose to commence your COL studies part time (30 weeks) while still studying at university. Alternatively, you may prefer to finish your degree and then embark on your COL studies full time (15 weeks).

ASHURST Level 10, 123 St Georges Terrace, Perth, WA 6000 Australia Our presence in the world’s leading financial and resource centres in Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and the USA gives us the scale to attract global mandates, with cutting-edge capabilities in three key areas: Corporate, Disputes and Finance. In Perth, our prominent practice areas include our corporate projects and corporate transactions teams, banking & finance, and disputes resolution and employment teams. 08 9366 8000 Jacqueline Taylor, Human Resources Consultant Graduate.Programs@ashurst.com | www.ashurst.com/careers 25 offices globally. What are your firm’s core values? Collaboration Excellence Innovation Integrity Accountability How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ Open-minded, friendly, considerate – as people and as a firm we’re good company. There’s something about how we are with each other that leads naturally to collaboration. Actually, let’s go further: working together is how we thrive. We’re a community, and we want you to feel part of it. Don’t be fooled: this isn’t the place to come for an easy ride. Performing at a high level is important to everyone here, and that can mean working long hours, under pressure and to tight deadlines. We ask a lot of ourselves. We also give a lot to each other. 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 well-being as well as your billable hours.

How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? With our technical expertise, local knowledge and international network, we deliver an experience for our clients that other professional service providers find hard to match. We are committed to being a sustainable global law firm, having positive impacts for our clients, employees, profession, the environment and the communities in which we are based. What is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? A variety of experience is essential in developing the kind of expertise that will set you apart. At Ashurst, you won’t just be learning from the past or from specifics. You will also be developing the instincts to tackle the most complex issues in international law, and building an understanding of each client’s business. The ways in which we support you in this are equally varied. Structured training helps you develop the highest standards of technical legal expertise, industry knowhow and business and legal skills. Honest, transparent conversations ensure you know exactly what we expect

from you. Useful, constructive feedback helps you learn. And a network of highly respected figures will not only inspire you, they will actively mentor your development. Does the firm engage in pro bono, volunteering or other community activities? Involvement in our stand alone pro bono practice is an integral part of the firm and we are passionate about using our skills and resources to support initiatives we believe will make a difference. Corporate social responsibility at Ashurst encompasses our community involvement, place to work and environmental initiatives. How does the firm encourage a work/life balance? In Perth, the Brookfield Place precinct offers a wealth of opportunities right in the heart of the city. Our employees can take advantage of complimentary gym membership with GoodLife, discounted BUPA insurance, sports teams, employee assistance scheme and wellbeing initiatives.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 53

- CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer + Winter. How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? Over 100 seasonal clerkships nationally. How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? We offer clerkships in each of our Australian offices, application and recruitment dates are aligned to the state guidelines. You’ll firstly need to decide which office you want to clerk in, and only make one application via our online application form. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? You can expect to be involved in a wide variety of work and activities during your clerkship. Ranging from drafting, research for client advice, preparing file notes and case summaries to assisting with pro-bono matters and research projects. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? 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. There is no required past experience – but it is advantageous to have a diverse range of experiences that demonstrates the following competencies: Excellent academic record and a passion to develop a career in an international law firm Outstanding communication skills Analytical ability, motivation, determination and drive Commercial awareness Teamwork and interpersonal skills

54 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? We prefer clerkship candidates to be in the penultimate year of their Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctor or Graduate of Law degrees. But we will consider applications from other years, if they are not able to complete a clerkship in their penultimate year. - GRADUATE INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a grad? Commercial Instinct Flexibility/Adaptability Analytical Ability Resilience to Tough Situtions Communication Skills Team & Interpersonal Skills Motivation/Drive Culture Fit How can students apply for a graduate job with your firm? We predominately recruit our graduates from our seasonal clerkships. It’s important to apply for a clerkship at the office of your choice. Any further graduate roles will be advertised on our website after the clerkship season ends. How many graduates does your firm anticipate to hire in 2018? Approximately 70 graduate positions nationally. What is the structure of the graduate program? Your programme kicks off with an induction and education series where you’ll meet your peers in one location, giving you the chance to build your networks across the nation.

Back in your home office, you’ll benefit from a local induction plus an in-house Practical Legal Training (PLT) course. This is tailored to our firm and so, as you might expect, some modules are chosen for you. We cover all the costs. We’ll also work closely with you to plan your three rotations, and we’ll review this regularly over the 18 month programme. Does the firm assist graduates to complete their Practical Legal Training? If so, how? Ashurst offers in-house Practical Legal Training to all of its graduates in conjunction with the College of Law. - INTERVIEWS How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? There are many ways in which you can impress us in your application. Accuracy, clarity and honesty are a must but above all, we want to know the real you. For the interview process, be genuine and be prepared.

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 weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll help you enrich and expand your worldview, grow your skills and influence new ways of thinking. In other words, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll help you move minds.

Begin now at ashurst.com/careers Connect with us on

BAKER McKENZIE Melbourne Address: Level 19, CBW, 181 William Street Melbourne Victoria 3000 Banking & Finance, Corporate (including Mergers & Acquisitions, Capital Markets and Private Equity), Commercial Real Estate, Construction, Dispute Resolution (Litigation and Insolvency), Employment & Industrial Relations, Energy, Resources, Infrastructure & Corporate, Environmental Markets, Technology, Communications and Commercial. (03) 9617 4200 natalie.mascarenhas@bakermckenzie.com https://www.bakermckenzie.com/en/locations/asia-pacific/australia 78 offices in 47 countries.

What are your firm’s core values? Like all top-tier law firms, quality and excellence along with team work, integrity and responsiveness are central in delivering outstanding service to our clients. The values that make us a unique and great place to work are deeply embedded and you will notice our difference in all of your interactions with us, in Australia and across the globe. We are passionately global, and leverage our global expertise for our Australian and global clients at every opportunity, recognising our strength is in our diversity. We have a strong culture of friendship and inclusion, and an egalitarian and collaborative working style. We are commercial pragmatists who make complex issues simple for our clients and we focus on our clients’ business needs. We strive to stay ahead of the curve and encourage entrepreneurship. We actively encourage and support contribution to the community, through our pro bono and community service programs.

56 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

We want everyone at Baker McKenzie to reach their potential so we invest in global, regional and local world-class development and mobility programs for our people, and our culture is diverse, inclusive and flexible. Our award winning diversity strategy, initiatives and programs are focussed in four areas, in which all of our people can participate: BakerWomen – gender equality and supporting the progression of women; BakerDNA – ethnic, indigenous and cultural diversity; BakerBalance – supporting carers and parents, employee wellbeing and workplace flexibility; and BakerLGBTI – lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex diversity. How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ Baker McKenzie is the largest law firm in the world operating in the Asia-Pacific region, Continental Europe and Latin America. At Baker McKenzie, we are different in the way we think, work and behave. Our story is one of imagination, determination and hard work. Like no other law firm, we were born global, so thinking and working globally is embedded in our culture.

For more than 60 years, our people have helped nurture our unique global organisation. We have followed clients into new markets, each time establishing offices driven by local lawyers and talent. Our growth has been organic, giving us a strong, common culture that runs through our Firm. We understand the challenges of the global economy. Our commitment to excellence underpins our path to success. Many of our Seasonal Clerks, Graduates and lawyers say that the reason they join us is because of our people and culture. In Melbourne, the size of our office enables everyone to get to know each other - plus we have the benefit of a strong global connection to our other offices, offering something unique and special to our people. Our people are genuinely friendly and diverse, and enjoy coming to work everyday. Our social and sports committee contribute to the Firm’s social glue offering regular Firm drinks, events and sporting activities. We also offer a range of social and financial benefits (including massages, discounted movie tickets, study assistance, corporate discounts, etc.).

How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Baker McKenzie’s key difference is that, unlike other firms, we were ‘born global’. Our practices and culture are well established and integrated globally, which is why many clients and lawyers choose to work with us. Our global development roadmap, the Development Framework, clearly explains what success looks like at each career stage at Baker McKenzie. It shapes the way we recruit, select, develop, manage and promote our lawyers. For you, it means always having a clear career roadmap, empowering you to plan and drive your development – formally and on the job – at every stage. Our lawyers benefit from an Australian professional development curriculum based on the Development Framework – from black letter law to practice-specific skills and knowledge development at the local, regional and global levels. Our lawyers also attend regional training and events/conferences relating to their practices to help develop networks and legal skills. Further, they attend regional transition programs at each career stage which provide development in the key skills our lawyers need – like people leadership, business development and project management – and which enable them to foster relationships with international peers at the same career stage. Recently, programs have been held in Bangkok, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Singapore, Taipei, and Tokyo. We also provide our lawyers with opportunities to attend USA summer school courses and scholarships for full-time legal study overseas. In addition, the Firm offers opportunities for lawyers at varying stages of their career to work directly for clients or with our other offices in the Asia Pacific region and globally. In the last few years, we have placed lawyers in London, Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Paris, Stockholm, Chicago, Washington DC, New York, San Francisco, Toronto, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong Kong, Kuala

Lumpur, Manila, Taipei, Singapore, Shanghai, Bangkok, Tokyo, Jakarta, Myanmar, and of course, we have had lawyers across our network come to work with our Melbourne office too. What is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? As stated above, Baker McKenzie’s key difference is that we were ‘born global’, meaning we have been global from the outset. For you, this means being a part of one of the world’s largest law firms and a network of 78 offices globally. It means being a part of a firm which is globally integrated beyond any other law firm. It means having access to world class development programs, and regional and global training. And it means experiencing cross-border and international work, and secondments with our offices and clients globally… All while working in a local firm which has a size that lends itself to our lawyers working directly with Partners and clients, having real responsibility and autonomy, and not just being ‘a number’ - but having a real and meaningful part to play in the Firm. - CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Melbourne: 2 summer + 1 winter. How many clerkships is your firm intending to offer in 2018? 20. How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? Applications for Seasonal Clerkships should be submitted via our website www.bakermckenzie.com/Australia#careers What tasks do clerks usually undertake? At Baker McKenzie, our aim is to give our Seasonal Clerks the opportunity to experience life as a junior lawyer with our Firm. Right from the start, our Clerks get involved in real work and are given real responsibility, just like our Graduates and junior lawyers. You will be exposed to our Australian and international clients through client meetings and telephone calls, client

events and shadowing, and you will often have the opportunity to deal with clients directly. More specifically, the type of work that Clerks get involved in includes drafting correspondence, preparing Court documents, drafting advices or agreements, document review tasks, attending Court/mediations, attending meetings with counsel, attending meetings with expert or other witnesses, attending settlements, preparing client alerts - and of course, you get to put to work those excellent skills which you gain at university - undertaking legal research, preparing memoranda and preparing case summaries. Our Clerks also have the opportunity to participate in community service initiatives and pro bono files. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? The Clerks who have ultimately succeeded during a Clerkship and in securing a Graduate position have, of course, performed strongly - displaying excellent legal and technical skills. But they have also displayed commercial acumen and awareness, strong communication and interpersonal skills, enthusiasm and a great attitude, the ability to use their initiative, a client-service focus, and a genuine interest (and excitement!) in working with us. They have also made an effort to be a part of Firm life - attending social events and professional development sessions, and have made an effort to get to know our people. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate students? Our preference is to take students in their penultimate year. However, we will consider final year students on a case-by-case basis. - GRADUATE INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a grad? 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 C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 57

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 can students do to increase their likelihood of securing a graduate job with your firm? We generally recruit our Graduates from our previous Seasonal Clerks. Therefore, the best way to secure a Graduate position with our Firm is by undertaking a Seasonal Clerkship with us. Apart from performing well during a Clerkship, and exhibiting the qualities set out in the previous answer, a good way to show your interest in the Firm is to undertake a Research Clerk role with our Library, undertake a Paralegal role with one of our practice groups and/or make an effort to stay connected with the Firm, and our people, post-Clerkship. How can students apply for a graduate job with your firm? We generally do not take applications from the market, as we generally recruit our Graduates from our previous Seasonal Clerks. How many graduates does your firm anticipate to hire in 2018? 6 - 8. - INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? As set out above, in our interviews, we want to get to know all about you – your experiences, your interests, your achievements, your strengths and your abilities. We also want to know why you want to work with Baker McKenzie. To that end, our interviews are a mix of ‘getting to know you’ questions and ‘behavioural’ questions, so that we can get to know you and you can make the best impression. Our global Development Framework also shapes the way we recruit and select our people, so our successful candidates will often display the key 58 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

performance areas and personal qualities set out in the Development Framework. More generally speaking though, our successful candidates have displayed: A genuine interest in our Firm - and they have researched our Firm beyond their Careers Guide or our promotional material; Strong communication skills - and the ability to answer the actual question put to them in an articulate, concise and considered manner; Intelligence and an ability to think on their feet; Commercial awareness and business acumen; Enthusiasm and engagement; A global focus and interest; A professional appearance; An ability to highlight their experiences, interests, achievements, and strengths in their responses; and An ability to build a rapport with their interviewers - making them want to work with the candidate. What are some less-obvious things students should avoid when interviewing? While we don’t have any Firm-specific things that students should avoid, a couple of the key things to avoid are: Trying to be someone you are not - it is really important to be yourself so that you (and we) can see if the firm is a good fit for you and you can build a rapport with your interviewers; Asking inappropriate questions (i.e. about salary or any controversial issues in the media relating to the Firm); Displaying arrogance; Treating reception or catering staff poorly - just because they are not your interviewers, doesn’t mean they are not an important part of the Firm; Clichés (!) - especially with your strengths or areas for development; Defensive body language (ensure your body language suggests you are open, engaged and interested); and Leaving your mobile phone on loud (this goes without saying, but it has happened on a

number of occasions!). How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance! A critical element of setting yourself up for a successful interview is knowing as much as possible about the challenge you’re going to face. Find anyone you know who’s had an interview at the firm, talk to HR and legal representatives from the firm when they come to uni or careers fairs, read guides like this for any indication about the type of questions you might be asked, and conduct google searches on “interview questions” and “behavioural interviews” to give you lists of practice questions that you can use as preparation. Then prepare a few points, as answers to each question, highlighting your strengths, capabilities, employment/ work experience (legal and non-legal), academic achievements, extra curricular activities and other general experiences. Practice practice practice! Interviews can be challenging and none of us are born ready to ace them. For many, Seasonal Clerkship interviews are one of the first times they’ve engaged in such a formal process. So the best way to prepare for these is to practice! Sign up for mock interviews, practice with your family and friends, form study groups and practice with your fellow students. Finally, it goes without saying, but it’s also important to research the firm you are interviewing with. Part of convincing your interviewers that you’d make a valuable addition to their firm, is showing them that you have a sound understanding of the firm and know why you want to work there. While it is useful to research the firm on their website and in the media, the best way to gain an insight into the firm is by speaking to the people who know the firm best the ones who are driving it forward. Speak to anyone you know who’s worked or Clerked at the firm, and talk to the representatives the firm sends out to careers events.

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.

Ready to explore our world? Natalie Mascarenhas +61 3 9617 4349 natalie.mascarenhas@bakermckenzie.com

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

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 59

CLAYTON UTZ Level 27, QV1 250 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000 Australia Commercial Litigation; Corporate/M&A/Capital Markets; Workplace Relations, Employment & Safety; Environment & Planning; Real Estate; Banking; Restructuring and Insolvency; Major Projects & Construction. (07) 3292 7443 Alicia Pasquini, Graduate Resourcing Consultant apasquini@claytonutz.com | www.claytonutz. com/graduates 6 in Australia.

How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ Our culture is founded on the behavioural values of trust, respect and co-operation and our foundation value of highest ethical standards. They underpin everything we do. It affects the way we approach each other and our work, our service to our clients and our community involvement.

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).

lenges and disadvantage faced by Indigenous Australians.

How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Staying true to your direction is what defines Clayton Utz. At Clayton Utz, we’ve built a team of down-to-earth, 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. And an unshakeable sense of what’s possible.

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 our Community 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 $8.3 million since 2003.

During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer and Winter.

Does the firm engage in pro bono, volunteering or other community activities? Yes! Pro bono, volunteering and community activities are a fundamental part of Clayton Utz. We were the first large Australian

60 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

Our work with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is reflected in our Reconciliation Action Plan, which commits us to working with Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians to overcome the chal-

We promote sustainable practices through Footprints with environmental initiatives that assist us to understand our impacts and incorporate sustainability into our decision making. - CLERKSHIP INFORMATION -

How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? 25-35. How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? Via our website at www.claytonuz. com/graduates What tasks do clerks usually undertake? There is no set routine and allocated work will depend largely on the practice group and its specific needs at the time. However, some common responsibilities include: Research; Writing clients memos/letters; Attending client meetings with

lawyers; Attending court with lawyers; Pro bono work; Liaising with internal colleagues; and Assisting with the preparation of matters for hearings. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? 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.

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. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? No.

“

At Clayton Utz, we’ve built a team of downto-earth, collaborative lawyers...

“

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!

- GRADUATE INFORMATION How can students apply for a graduate job with your firm? Via our website at www.claytonutz. com/graduates. We generally recruit our graduates from our Clerkship Programs. What is the structure of the graduate program? 3 x 6 month rotations in our national practice groups. Does the firm assist graduates to complete their Practical Legal Training? If so, how? Yes, graduates are able to complete their PLT+ as part of our Graduate Program. C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 61

CLIFFORD CHANCE Level 7, 190 St Georges Terrace Perth WA 6000 Areas of Practice / Arbitration, Banking and Finance, Corporate, Litigation and Dispute Resolution +61 2 8922 8010 Kelly Meaney, HR Manager, Australia E: grads.perth@cliffordchance.com www.careers.cliffordchance.com/australiagrads 32 offices in 22 countries

What are your firm’s core values? What are your firm’s core values? Exceeding clients’ expectations. Local excellence, global standards. An ambition for success. Investing in talent. An adaptable and approachable team. Thinking ahead. Strength through diversity. Community. How would you describe firm culture? Inclusive, collegiate and supportive, focused on servicing client needs internationally. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Our culture of international collaboration sets us apart. Our teams are close-knit and clients praise the seamless, integrated service they receive from us. For you, it will make for an exceptionally supportive environment where you will connect regularly with colleagues around the globe. Collaborating across borders, languages and legal systems, you’ll work as part of a team to find solutions for global and domestic clients on high profile matters. - CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer + Winter.

62 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? 4 in December and 4 in July 2019 How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? Visit our website at careers.cliffordchance.com/australiagrads. Do you offer paralegal positions? Yes

- GRADUATE JOB INFORMATION What is the structure of the graduate program? Graduates undertake a two year training program that involves four six-month rotations across the practice areas. Business needs permitting, at least one seat will be undertaken in one of our global offices – usually within Asia Pacific. How can students apply for a graduate job with your firm? Through our Online portal How many graduates does your firm anticipate to hire in 2019? 8. Perth graduate intake March 2020 (with an option to work as a paralegal prior to starting as a graduate).

What does your firm look for in a graduates? Clifford Chance is one of the world’s leading law firms with 32 offices in 22 different countries, more Chambers tier-one rankings than any other firm and an extensive team of legal professionals recognised as being among the very best in the world. Our graduates must have a global perspective and be ready to work across borders and jurisdictions on complex and challenging matters in Banking and Finance, Private Equity, Mergers and Acquisitions, Commercial Litigation and Antitrust. We are looking for ambitious people capable of working with significant responsibility from day one, who are committed to an international legal career with a dedicated team of domestic and international practitioners and who will thrive in Australia and the Asia-Pacific. What kind of responsibilities/ tasks can a graduate expect at the firm? Our graduate program is two years, with four rotations of six months each. Three rotations are in the Sydney office covering the three core practice areas of Corporate, Banking and Finance and Litigation. One rotation will be (subject to business needs)

What is unique about this firm’s culture? Our Sydney office, which consists of approximately 50 lawyers, offers the close-knit and inclusive culture of a smaller law firm with the internal networks, resources, reputation and market-leading work of an elite global law firm. Working at Clifford Chance offers constant exposure to top-tier domestic work together with matters from Asia-Pacific and our global network – opportunities that few firms in Australia can offer. Our women’s networks, cultural and faith based groups, and our Arcus network for lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT+) colleagues and its Allies network for their supporters and friends, thriving local and global groups help encourage an inclusive, integrated culture in our firm. It is important to everyone at Clifford Chance that we foster an environment where everyone can be themselves and can perform to the best of their abilities How does the firm encourage a work-life balance? Our lawyers are hard-working and there will be long hours involved in your graduate contract. To look after our people, Clifford Chance has a number of policies in place and supports staff with regular social events, lunches, participation in sport and

flexible working arrangements. As part of a small team, you won’t be lost in the crowd and we are committed to ensuring the physical and mental well-being of all lawyers.

“

Our culture of international collaboration sets us apart.

“

in one of our international offices. Graduates are expected to take on significant responsibility from the start of the program and are supported by a close team of senior and junior practitioners. With just a small intake of outstanding candidates, our graduates are an integral part of the Clifford Chance team. Throughout the graduate program you will be supported with training, feedback and mentorship and given a supervisor in each rotation. Clifford Chance takes a “learn-by-doing” approach which sees graduates taking on important work in all matters.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 63

CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH Level 6, Brookfield Place Tower 2, 123 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000 PERTH OFFICE - Corporate, Finance & Tax (Energy & Resources, Mergers & Acquisitions, Corporate Advisory, and Banking & Finance); Property & Development (Property & Infrastructure, Environment & Planning, and Construction); Litigation & Workplace Relations (Commercial Litigation, Insolvency, and Workplace Relations) (08) 9460 1666 Jennifer Jacobs, Human Resources | jennifer.jacobs@corrs.com.au www.corrs.com.au/graduates 5 What are your firm’s core values? We may hail from different walks of life and have different ambitions and interests, but we are connected by our shared values and behaviours. It’s this that makes Corrs a truly great place to work. Our core values are: Generous of Spirit: We respect and care for each other, our clients and our communities. We value difference. Trust and integrity are at our core. We build the firm today for tomorrow. Connected: We build long lasting relationships with and for our clients. We work across boundaries for the benefit of our clients and our people. Pioneering: We encourage insights that provide an edge for clients. We learn from experience. We will disrupt to create advantage. Change doesn’t scare us – we expect it, create it and work with it. Agile: We think and act quickly when we need to. We take ownership and get things done. Team players: We treat each other with civility and respect. We work together to solve problems. We rely on each other to deliver excellent performance all the time, not just some of the time. We encourage diversity of thought.

64 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

To the point: We communicate openly and honestly with each other and our clients. We provide commercial and decisive advice to clients. We offer practical solutions: no fence- sitting, no spin. World class: We aim to be recognised as the benchmark of excellence within the global legal sector. We know what we are doing. We are relentless in the pursuit of success for our clients, our people, the community and the firm.

personal growth and innovative opportunities for both legal and business services staff. An open environment in which diversity in experience, opinions and skills is embraced and celebrated. And a reward and remuneration system that drives excellence across the board. Collaboration and opportunity extend well beyond the daily legal work. They extend into Corrs’ pro bono and community efforts and social events as well. Corrs people work together, but it’s not all work!

How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ Ours is an energetic and exciting environment in which our people are motivated and challenged to do their best. An open culture, where people feel free to ask questions or talk through an issue. We seek out the best people to work for us, so we can provide the best results for our clients. And we support and train them to do just that. We consider our learning and development to be the most innovative, progressive and supportive people development program in the industry. Our culture is defined by collaboration and opportunity. A supportive workplace through teamwork, mentoring and flexible resourcing. Opportunity for professional and

How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Corrs Chambers Westgarth is a premium independent Australian law firm. With offices around the country and strategic alliances throughout the Asia Pacific region and worldwide, we partner closely with our clients to create opportunities for them in Australia and on the global stage. Corrs is a firm that thinks strategically, not just in its legal work, but also for the firm’s future and the success of its people. Corrs is known for its clear vision and ability to develop and implement strategy, as well as its lawyers’ ability to help clients achieve their business goals.

Corrs’ culture of performance excellence drives this achievement and can be seen in our mentoring, coaching and comprehensive learning and development programs, both formal and informal. We draw on the best expertise in Corrs’ own lawyers as well as external specialists to make sure our people never stop learning. The combination of these factors creates a firm that celebrates its independence, is open to new ideas, has the courage to think and act differently from the rest of the market, and thrives on new challenges and opportunities.

that’s exactly what we do when it comes to our innovations: think differently.

What is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? At Corrs, you will not only have the opportunity to become a world class lawyer but you will also be at the forefront of client success. We’re committed to finding innovative solutions that help drive the success and competitiveness of our clients, our firm and our people. We strive to pioneer new ways of working within the legal industry by constantly evaluating market opportunities, technological advancements and partnerships that improve efficiency, add value and enhance client experience. We have won numerous accolades for our innovations and, in 2016, were named the sixth most innovative law firm in the Asia Pacific region by the Financial Times. Corrs is committed to ‘open innovation’, which means that we regularly partner with third parties to deliver better outcomes than either of us are capable of on our own, and also open up our advancements to the market. This approach benefits not just our clients, but the legal profession (and at times other sectors) more broadly. As our CEO John W.H. Denton AO recently wrote in The Australian, innovation in the legal industry calls for a different kind of thinking. And

How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? All applications must be submitted online, via the firm’s website or through cvMail.

- CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer + Winter. How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? In 2018, Corrs Perth will offer three, three-week clerkship programs which will be held in either summer or winter. Each program will have approximately 6-8 clerks.

What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Corrs’ Seasonal Clerkship Program is a great opportunity for you to experience the people, clients, work and culture that differentiates Corrs from other law firms. Clerks will spend the three week program working within one practice group. During the clerkship program, clerks will have the opportunity to draft advice, conduct research and review documents. Clerks are also encouraged to ‘shadow’ partners and lawyers on activities such as meetings with clients, barristers or witnesses; client phone calls; and mediations, settlements and court appearances. The clerkship program promotes a more hands-on approach to developing their knowledge and skills. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? At Corrs, we appreciate diversity in our clerks and are not looking for identical or ‘cookie-cutter’ candidates. The best way to make a good impression is to be genuine, approach each task with enthusiasm,

complete tasks to the best of your ability and be open to receiving feedback and continually improving yourself. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Yes. - GRADUATE INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a grad? As with our clerks, we appreciate diversity in our graduates and are not looking for identical or ‘cookie-cutter’ candidates. In particular, we look for well-rounded individuals who can demonstrate strong academic performance, evidence of work experience (law or non-law related), as well as experience in leadership positions, volunteering or community service, and other extra-curricular activities. What can students do to increase their likelihood of securing a graduate job with your firm? During your time as a clerk or paralegal with Corrs, it is important to be genuine, approach each task with enthusiasm, complete tasks to the best of your ability and be open to receiving feedback and continually improving yourself. In addition, if you have a great attitude, communicate well and have excellent attention to detail, this will help you stand out from your peers. How can students apply for a graduate job with your firm? Previous clerks will be eligible to receive a priority offer for 2019 Graduate positions. Corrs contacts eligible clerks about the priority recruitment process in May, with offers made in late July. If necessary, Corrs will open applications to the general market after the priority offer process.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 65

How many graduates does your firm anticipate to hire in 2019? We anticipate recruiting 6-8 Graduates for our 2019 Graduate Development Program. - INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Interviews can be a stressful or daunting process, so being nervous is understandable and perfectly ok – most candidates are! With this in mind, we take a relaxed approach to interviews – think conversation, rather than interrogation. Ideally, we are looking for candidates who can build rapport with their interviewers and are comfortable articulating their experience, as well as demonstrating why they are studying law and pursuing a commercial law career. We want to know why you applied to Corrs and what you know about us as a firm. We also want to get to know you as a person, so come ready to talk about your hobbies, interests or passions outside of the law too. The interview should also be a twoway discussion, so asking questions is definitely encouraged and welcomed. What are some less-obvious things students should avoid when interviewing? While it is important not to waffle, it is equally important to ensure you answer the question in enough detail. Otherwise, expect the interviewer to repeat the question or drill down further if they do not feel you have adequately answered the question. It is also important to ensure you can talk knowledgeably about everything included on your cover letter or resume. If you have stated you have a strong interest in a particular area of law or case, make sure you can engage in a conversation about that particular topic if asked during the interview.

66 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

Don’t get caught out trying to bluff or bull$%!t your way through an answer! And finally, if you are being interviewed by more than one person, make eye contact with everyone during your interview – and shake everyone’s hand before and after the interview too. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Don’t underestimate the importance of good preparation for your interview, as a lack of planning will be evident to those interviewing you. A few key tips on preparing for an interview at Corrs are: Plan your trip: Make sure you know where the firm is located and how you plan on getting there. Will you take public transport, drive in or get a lift? Be well presented: Organise what you are going to wear in advance and don’t leave it to the last minute. Is the outfit professional, comfortable and ready to go? Arrive early: This ties in with planning your trip. Make sure you arrive 10 minutes early to your interview as this demonstrates you are organised, prepared and punctual. Research the firm: Check out the firm website, as well as media or newspapers to pick up any current issues or news items relating to Corrs, our clients or the legal industry in general. Re-read your application: This will jog your memory on what you submitted and allow you to easily answer any cover letter or resume specific questions you may be asked. Relax: We want to get to know you as a person, so try to relax and go with the flow of the conversation, rather than being too stiff or rehearsed.

Does the firm assist graduates to complete their Practical Legal Training? If so, how? Corrs provides PLT study assistance to all Graduates who commence with the firm as part of our Graduate Development Program. We partner with the College of Law and our Graduates undertake the PLT course part-time, during the first year of the Graduate Development Program. Study leave to prepare for and attend PLT exams, as well as workshops and subject introductions, is also provided.

ENJOY YOUR INDEPENDENT SPIRIT WWW.CORRS.COM.AU/GRADUATES

Corrs is a place that celebrates individuals. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for spirited, determined graduates who think big and like doing things a little differently. In exchange for your energy and commitment weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll provide extraordinary learning and work opportunities here and on an international stage. If you want more, visit corrs.com.au/graduates C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 67

DLA PIPER Level 31, Central Park, 152-158 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000 Litigation & Regulatory, Corporate, Real Estate, Employment, Finance & Projects, Intellectual Property & Technology, Tax, Restructuring (02) 9286 8000 Mith Ambikaipalan, Human Resources | GraduaterectuitmentAUS@dlapiper.com www.dlapipergraduates.com 4 in Australia

How does the firm distinguish itself? We help the world’s top companies with their business-critical issues. Many of the deals we work on are complex and challenging – transcending not just practice areas, but borders, languages and legal systems. As a firm, we never stand still. We think nimbly and seize opportunities. We’re ambitious and are never afraid to innovate. So if you possess these qualities too, there could be a bright future for you at DLA Piper. Does the firm engage in pro bono, volunteering or other community activities? At DLA Piper we are committed to contributing to the wellbeing of communities around the world. We encourage our lawyers to do pro bono work that is meaningful, impactful and supports those in need. New Perimeter, our non-profit initiative, provides pro bono legal assistance in under-served regions around the world to support access to justice, social and economic development and sound legal institutions. Our Break into Law project is a

68 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

worldwide initiative focused on removing barriers to employment within the legal profession, while we have pledged $6.5m over the course of our three-year partnership with UNICEF to improve child justice. We are proud to be signatories of the United Nations Global Compact (UNGC), as our support for the initiative underlines our commitment to responsible business. - CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer. How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? 25 - 30 nationally. How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? We accept online applications via our job board. Visit our website for more information on recruitment dates and our selection process www.dlapipergraduates.com. What tasks would a clerk be required to undertake? During your seasonal clerkship you can expect to do a variety of things both in and outside the office. The

tasks you are involved in will depend on the team you are assigned to and the work they have on at the time. Some common examples include accompanying lawyers to court, attending client meetings and mediations, and assisting on large corporate transactions. As a clerk, your learning and development begins with our tailored clerk induction program. The knowledge you gain here is supported by on the job training from partners, senior lawyers and other peers. We also ensure you have regular contact with the other clerks throughout the program through social activities, lunches and presentations. All clerks are assigned a buddy (usually a current graduate) and a supervisor (senior associate or senior lawyer) who will support and guide you through the clerkship. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? While you could be studying from a range of degree subjects, you will need a strong academic record.

But it goes further than that. You’llneed to be naturally inquisitive, have plenty of drive and possess a genuine commitment to your career path. Among other things, we’ll be looking at your extra-curricular activities for evidence of these qualities. Does the firm offer clerkships to non-penultimate students? Yes.

opment, commercial awareness and financial management. Does the firm assist graduates to complete their Practical Legal Training? If so, how? Yes. In all states, our graduates receive the prescribed training necessary for admission through the College of Law.

- GRADUATE INFORMATION How can students apply for a graduate job with your firm? Joining us as a clerk is your path to a graduate position.

The program itself will see you undertaking rotations in different practice groups. This will see you work alongside people at all levels of the business, including partners. As an integral member of the team, you’ll be ready to hit the ground running and make a real contribution from the outset. While much of your learning will be done on the job, you’ll also receive formal business skills training. This will develop your abilities in areas such as networking, business devel-

“

The knowledge you gain here is supported by on the job training from partners, senior lawyers and other peers.

“

What is the structure of the graduate program? We offer graduate programs in all our Australian of offices and have one intake each year in February. The graduate program starts with an induction, designed to ease you in and get you acquainted with the firm. Within the first year, you’ll also attend a week long Induction in London where you’ll meet and network with graduates from across our international offices.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 69

EY 11 Mounts Bay Road Tax (advisory and litigation), trust law, corporate structuring, estate planning and asset protection, superannuation and charitable/philanthropic advice 08 9429 2222 Human Resources | perth.graduate.recruitment@au.ey.com ey.com/au 150

What are your firm’s core values? Our values define who we are: People who demonstrate integrity, respect, and teaming. People with energy, enthusiasm, and the courage to lead. People who build relationships based on doing the right thing. How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ Supportive, inclusive, people-focused and ambitious. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? The Law practice in Perth has been named the top West Australian Tax Law firm by Doyle’s Guide for 2016 and 2017. Our team specialises in tax (advisory and litigation), trust law, corporate structuring, estate planning and asset protection, superannuation and charitable/philanthropic advice. We act predominantly for high net wealth individuals and their private corporate groups. We are Perth’s largest specialist tax law team and have a collegiate learning environment headed by senior and experienced tax lawyers. We undertake work for our existing external clients, but also have access to EY’s internal network of clients

70 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

in WA and nationally. This gives the team a broad range of clients with respect to the above practice areas.

How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? 2 - 4.

What is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? Our Law team operates as a fully integrated commercial law firm within the Tax division at EY. EY is a Big 4 professional services organisation with capabilities extending not only to Australia, but also globally. By joining Law at EY you will join a network of 2,100 lawyers globally. Our Law team operates as a national practice and so work is not limited to the geographic boundaries of our local offices.

How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? The first step is to submit an online application at ey.com/au/betterbeginsnow.

EY has a strong focus on diversity and inclusiveness and promotes an environment where everyone feels accepted and supported. By joining our Law team you are joining a large network of likeminded individuals across EY who work together to achieve the best outcomes for our clients. - CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer + Winter.

What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Tasks include, but are not limited to, legal research, preparing legal memorandums, attending client meetings and drafting commercial documents. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? No. - GRADUATE INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a grad or clerk? We look for people who are technically capable but also those who are self-motivated and keen to make the most of the opportunities given to them. We look for people who are well-rounded, with good communication skills and enthusiasm, as well as those with a genuine interest in tax law and/or commercial law.

How can students apply for a graduate job with your firm? The first step is to submit an application at ey.com/au/betterbeginsnow. How many graduates does your firm anticipate to hire in 2019? 2 - 4. - INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Someone who is well-presented, well-articulated and has a genuine interest in and understanding of the work our law team does. Our advice is to do your research and demonstrate your knowledge of EY and the role. In addition to your academic achievements, highlight your non-academic achievements such as involvement in the community, extra-curricular activities and leadership positions. What are some less-obvious things students should avoid when interviewing? Long winded answers. Consider the point that you are trying to get across, we know you are nervous so don’t be afraid to take a pause and consider the answer you are going to give before you start speaking. Also try to avoid saying um or using passive language. Be confident in

why you have been selected for an interview and focus on your key strengths, these might not be ‘time management’ or other skills that you think are necessary in a law firm. Whilst you will have these skills, your key strengths may actually be your oral communication or something else that you have developed outside of a professional workspace, use these to set yourself apart. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Find out who is interviewing you and look them up on LinkedIn, review our website and be familiar with what our team does. Skim over recent news and events in the tax space and practice the STAR interviewing approach.

“

Our Law team operates as a national practice and so work is not limited to the geographic boundaries of our local offices.

“

What can students do to increase their likelihood of securing a graduate job with your firm? It is imperative that students demonstrate a general understanding of the work our law team does, through researching our website or speaking with our people at campus events.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 71

Law at EY

“When I was a graduate, I knew I wanted to practise as a lawyer in a position where I would be exposed to a variety of challenging work, where I would be learning from leaders in the field and also be utilising my Bachelor of Commerce degree. Being a part of the Law team at EY has provided me with those opportunities, and more. Shivani Jethwa

Solicitor, Ernst & Young

The Law team at EY is in the unique position of being a specialist legal practice within a large multi-national and multi-disciplinary organisation. This enables the Law team to work with other divisions at EY to deliver tailored solutions to our clients. This also means that as a lawyer in the team, I have the opportunity to work with a range of different professionals and on different types of clients. In my experience, I have worked on complex matters in various areas of tax law, trust law and commercial law. The exposure that I have had at such an early stage in my career has been invaluable.”

The Ernst & Young Law practice in Perth has been named the top West Australian Tax Law firm by Doyle’s Guide for 2016 and 2017. Our team specialises in tax, trust law,estate planning, superannuation advice and not for profit work. We act predominately for high net wealth individuals and their private corporate groups.

One decision, life time of opportunities Our Vacationer Program is a great way to experience the working world during your summer (or winter) holidays. Show us what you’re capable of and you may be invited to join us after graduation in a full-time position.

Get connected ey.com/au/careers

bit.ly/EYLinkedIn_Careers

facebook.com/eycareers

instagram.com/eyaucareers

Our Graduate Program will put your knowledge to the test. Build your technical skills. Join us fulltime as a graduate and you’ll get early responsibility, support and training. We also offer our Game Changers Club and Career Compass Program to students who are due to graduate in 2020/2021. Please see our website for more details.

GILBERT + TOBIN Level 16, Brookfield Place Tower 2, 123 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000 Corporate Advisory, Energy + Resources, Litigation

(08) 9413 8400 Lisa Harold, Human Resources | lharold@gtlaw.com.au www.gtlaw.com.au 3 - Perth, Sydney, Melbourne

What are your firm’s core values? Innovation, entrepreneurial spirit, commercial acumen and a determination to succeed. How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ Ambition + Heart - At Gilbert + Tobin, we pride ourselves on remaining a first-tier corporate law firm while maintaining the values and ideals that we hold true. Gilbert + Tobin is an egalitarian, open-minded meritocracy committed to the growth and development of our people. We embrace change with enthusiasm and we are committed to absolute excellence in everything we do. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? With over 650 professionals in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, we are home to many of the finest legal minds in the nation. We invite and embrace difference in our people. Diversity is embedded in Gilbert + Tobin’s DNA. What is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? Perhaps the most compelling reason to join G+T is the feeling you’ll gain

by working at the firm. As a younger organisation that has built its success on legal excellence and entrepreneurial drive, Gilbert + Tobin is energetic and passionate. We are non-bureaucratic and value diversity, individuality, innovation and fun. We have a long heritage of giving back to the community through our Pro Bono practice and corporate social responsibility initiatives. Our size and structure mean you’ll have more contact with partners and lawyers, as well as closer involvement on client transactions. You’ll be given the opportunity to take responsibility for challenging work, commensurate with your skills and abilities. - CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer + Winter. How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? 1 Summer, 1 Winter How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? Via cvMail What tasks do clerks usually undertake?

Research and drafting, attending client meetings, attending court – working alongside partners from day 1. In addition to a full induction you’ll undertake additional training that complements your academic knowledge with invaluable practical and commercial skills. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? Bring your best attitude to all that you do. Seek out as many opportunities as you can during your time with us. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Yes, we have in the past. - GRADUATE INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a grad? We’re always looking for students who have the potential to progress through the firm – intelligent, personable, committed individuals who are energetic and show good leadership qualities. If you’re bright, ambitious, self-motivated and have an entrepreneurial spirit, G+T is the place for you.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 73

How many graduates does your firm anticipate to hire in 2019? Approximately 5 graduates. - INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Genuine interest in the firm’s areas of specialisation, professionally and highly motivated, friendly and personable, and excellent collaborators confident, strong communicators. What are some less-obvious things students should avoid when interviewing? Being overly confident, too laid back, underprepared for interview or demonstrating no real interest in the firm. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Do your research on our firm and ensure you are applying for the right reasons.

74 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

“

We invite and embrace difference in our people. Diversity is embedded in Gilbert + Tobin’s DNA.

“

How can students apply for a graduate job with your firm? Directly to our HR department.

HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS Level 36, QV1 Building, 250 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000 We’re organised along six global divisions - corporate; dispute resolution; finance, real estate and projects; employment, industrial relations and safety; competition, regulation and trade and alternative legal services. 9211 755 Chloe McClements, Human Resources chloe.mcclements@hsf.com | www. careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/au/grads/ 27 offices globally

What are your firm’s core values? Connect, Collaborate, Lead and Excel. How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ 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. We believe allowing people to perform to the best of their abilities requires a culture of openness and authenticity, one that allows each of us to bring our whole selves to work. We work hard to create such a culture. Wherever you join us, you’ll find talented people with different views, experiences and backgrounds. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? 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 is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? 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. 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. - CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? 2 Summer + 1 Winter.

How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? 35 - 40. How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? Applications for vacation clerkships should be submitted via our 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. Candidates who are invited to interview will be asked to complete an online assessment. We’ve included some information on our online assessment process to help you prepare: careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/au/grads/join-us We run events in each state throughout the recruitment period, where you can meet our lawyers in an informal setting. Chat with our graduates and junior and senior lawyers, and ask any questions that haven’t been answered. We aim to make the interview as relaxed as possible. It’s less about us asking a list of prepared questions and more about giving you a chance to tell us all about yourself.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 75

Even so, the interview is your opportunity to present yourself in the best light. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? 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. 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 can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? 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 have prepared some more detailed information on our website: careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/ au/grads/join-us

76 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

In summary some of the key capabilities thought to be critical were: resilience; adaptability; creativity; analytical ability; curiosity; judgement; commerciality (a business consulting mindset) and tech proficiency. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Yes. - GRADUATE INFORMATION How can students apply for a graduate job with your firm? We encourage students to participate in our vacation clerkship program and we fill the majority of our graduate positions through this program. We do not currently have a separate graduate recruitment program planned. How many graduates does your firm anticipate to hire in 2019? 10 - 15. - INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Before the interview you will have had a chance to attend an event where you can meet our lawyers in an informal setting. We hope that you will be able to take the opportunity to come along and chat with our graduates as well as junior and senior lawyers. You will be able to ask any questions, and generally get a feel for what working with us is really like. Your interview is a chance to show us your professional, business side - so all those tips about turning up on time and dressing in a professional corporate style are useful. Beyond that - try to let us see you at your best.

What are some less obvious things students should avoid when interviewing? While we aim to make the interview itself as relaxed as possible, it is important you present and interact in a professional manner. The interview is intended to be a two-way process and provide an opportunity for you to see yourself working with us, as well as for us to get to know you. We want to try and give you a chance to tell us all about yourself. We’re particularly interested in your work experiences, extracurricular activities and interests, and why you think Herbert Smith Freehills is the right place for you. There are several specific interview tips that can help you to appear at your best. Listen carefully to the question, and don’t hesitate to check that you’ve understood it correctly or ask for clarification. Take your time - a period of silence may feel like a lifetime but it’s better to pause than rush into the wrong answer. Be honest. If you don’t know the answer to a question, say so. Often you can use the opportunity to ask a really good question. Make eye contact with the interviewers. Try to relax and avoid fidgeting as it can be distracting. Take a breath before answering a question, your voice will project better and it can help you sound less nervous.

How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? You’re likely to be more confident and present better if you have prepared.

“

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.

“

Take every opportunity you can to meet with our people. And keep an eye out for recent news about the firm, clients, competitors and areas in which we work. Practice for the interview with friends or family. Think of some questions that you would like us to answer for you. Be ready to discuss your experience in your interview. Make sure you keep a copy of your application and that you’ve reviewed it before your interview. Your interviewer will probably refer to it. Try to allow enough time before your interview to catch your breath, refresh your memory and review any materials you are provided with.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 77

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 PERTH Approximate number of positions

30–35

Clerkship programs

2 summer/1 winter

Applications for all 2018/19 programs open

16 July 2018

Applications for all 2018/19 programs close

5 August 2018

Offers made

21 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 Chloe McClements Graduate Recruitment Consultant T +61 8 9211 7556 chloe.mcclements@hsf.com

HOPGOODGANIM LAWYERS Level 27, Allendale Square, 77 St Georges Tce, Perth WA 6000 Banking and Finance, Capital Markets and M&A, Commercial Property, Corporate and Commercial Advisory, Construction, Employment, Health and Safety, Information Technology and Data Protection, Insurance, Insolvency, Intellectual Property, Litigation and Dispute Resolution, Native Title, Planning and Environment, Resources & Energy, Taxation, Estate Planning, Estate Litigation, Family and Relationship Law, Taxation 08 9211 8111 Human Resources | l.stockwell@hopgoodganim.com.au http://www.hopgoodganim.com.au/ 2

What are your firm’s core values? To be a great law firm and a place where people love to work. TRUSTED Trusted experts in our fields. PRIDE Pride in who we are and the quality of the outcomes we produce RESPECT Respect for who we are and genuinely privileged to help our clients. CARE We take ownership of our clients’ problems and value the relationships we have. COLLABORATIVE Proud of our combined capability and stronger when we work together. How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ HopgoodGanim enjoys a reputation as a place where people love to come to work. We describe our culture as ‘The HG Way’ and central to this is a theme of ‘Business Mateship’. Business Mateship was a phrase we coined many years ago

to capture the culture of friendship created by our founding partners and to describe how the people of HopgoodGanim, our clients and other stakeholders come together and interact. That is, we believe in treating each other, and our clients, as we would treat our friends. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? More than 40 years ago, HopgoodGanim was founded by two great friends with a focus on commercial litigation and family law. Today, HopgoodGanim is a large and fully integrated national law firm offering solutions to commercial problems across the full spectrum of legal services. We continue to house one of Australia’s largest and most well regarded family and relationship law practices. We believe it is the close relationships we have with our clients and each other. We do our very best work when we know our clients personally and we know their businesses inside and out. Inside our firm, people genuinely like each other, refer to each other as friends and work collaboratively to achieve the best outcomes possible for our clients. It’s our emphasis on deep

and successful relationships that helps us maintain our reputation as a law firm with the greatest skills and expertise, which is also a truly great place to work. What is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? Working at HopgoodGanim is never dull. We are fiercely independent; possess a unique culture and we are uncompromising in the protection of our values. In many areas of law, our practitioners practise in all Australian jurisdictions and work with international clients, meaning the work you do in any given day is equally complex and exciting. - CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer + Winter. How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? 7. How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? The first step is to submit an online application at ey.com/au/betterbeginsnow.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 79

How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? cvMail. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Over the course of each program, our vacation clerks spend time with two different practice groups (based on their preference) and will undertake real legal work as well as attend client meetings and court appearances. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? Be themselves and be willing to have a go at anything.

costs associated with you completing this course. We also provide you with paid study leave for both study and exams. Does the firm assist graduates to complete their Practical Legal Training? If so, how? We currently use College of Law as our PLT provider and we cover the costs associated with you completing this course. We also provide you with paid study leave for both study and exams.

Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Yes. - GRADUATE INFORMATION -

What can students do to increase their likelihood of securing a graduate job with your firm? Complete a vacation clerkship with the firm. How many graduates does your firm anticipate to hire in 2019? 3. Does the firm assist graduates to complete their Practical Legal Training? If so, how? We currently use College of Law as our PLT provider and we cover the

80 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

“

We describe our culture as ‘The HG Way’ and central to this is a theme of ‘Business Mateship’.

“

What does your firm look for in a grad? Our graduate lawyers are our future leaders. Our future leaders need to be relationship builders, highly commercial, service and outcome focused and excited by change.

JACKSON McDONALD Level 17, 225 St Georges Terrace Perth WA 6000 Dispute Resolution and Litigation; Construction; Insurance and Risk; Property, Planning and Finance; Corporate Commercial, Energy and Regulation. 94266611 hr@jacmac.com.au www.jacmac.com.au 1

What are your firm’s core values? Honesty and ethics, client focus, complete professionalism, mutual respect and teamwork, contribution to the community. How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ We are committed to maintaining and applying the highest standards of skill and knowledge, and perform our work in a collegiate and supportive environment where partners are accessible and where lawyers and support staff work together to achieve desired outcomes. We appreciate that our successes throughout our proud history are largely due to the energy, commitment and excellence of our people. As such, we aim to provide a professional and stimulating environment where staff can engage in challenging work whilst also having opportunities to interact socially and support the local community through volunteer and pro bono work. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Jackson McDonald is Western Australia’s largest independent law firm with over 160 staff and 27 Partners, offering a full range of commercial

legal services. For over 90 years we have played an integral role in shaping the State by providing our clients with clear, concise legal advice that is tailored to their commercial and operational needs. What is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? As a Graduate at Jackson McDonald you’ll be working with partners and other senior lawyers on real matters, for real people, in our beautiful Perth CBD offices where all the decisions are made. You’ll have the opportunity to make your mark and to make a difference, right from the outset. - CLERKSHIP INFORMATION How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? Whilst our clerkship program is on hold, we employ graduates on an ad-hoc basis. We also offer casual positions to students to work in our busy Legal Technology Support (LTS) team while they continue to study. This is a great introduction to working in a law firm and you will gain valuable legal skills and experience along the way.

- GRADUATE INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a grad? Whilst your university grades are important, they are not the only consideration. We look for people who are engaged and passionate about what they do, and whose values match our own. What can students do to increase their likelihood of securing a graduate job with your firm? Search for vacancies through LinkedIn jobs, follow Jackson McDonald’s LinkedIn page and set-up job alerts to receive notifications. Keep an open mind - consider casual or part time employment opportunities while you study or during university breaks. Spend time on your application and double check spelling and grammar. How can students apply for a graduate job with your firm? Law Graduate positions are displayed on the vacancies section of our website and we encourage all students to regularly visit these pages for opportunities.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 81

JOHNSON WINTER & SLATTERY Level 4, 167 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000 Transactional & Advisory and Dispute Resolution

(02) 8247 9655 Connie Herbert, Professional Development Advisor | connie.herbert@jws.com.au www.jws.com.au 5 - Sydney, Melbourne, Adelaide, Brisbane, Perth

How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Johnson Winter & Slattery is a national law firm where young lawyers play a meaningful role in strategic and complex transactions and disputes, and build relationships with executives from Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most successful companies through close client contact. What is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? Our lawyers thrive in an open environment with few internal administrative boundaries. The absence of formalised teams means that junior lawyers get to work alongside different specialists right across the firm. And our low leverage structure means that this is normally with partners. - CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer + Winter. How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? 4 - 6.

How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? cvMail. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Examples of work done by the clerks at JWS include: Research on a particular case law or matter; Preparation of a brief for counsel; Drafting of letters for a corporate takeover bidder and ASIC; Review of an Investment Management Agreement; Drafting of directorsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; resolutions; Preparation for and attendance at a meeting in relation to trademark applications; Preparation of the documents needed for a witness interview; Attendance at court to hear closing statements on a case; Preparation of a full summary report for a client on discussion and orders made at a directions hearing; and Research and preparation of a memorandum summarising points on the legislative history of continuous disclosure obligations. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? We look for people who:

Are enthusiastic about succeeding in a service driven environment Have excelled academically Are committed to the continual development of their technical and commercial skills Are excellent communicators Will thrive in a collaborative environment Demonstrate a genuine interest in the commercial affairs of our clients and Australian commerce. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? No. - GRADUATE INFORMATION What can students do to increase their likelihood of securing a graduate job with your firm? The primary criteria for assessment of graduate applications are outstanding academic achievement, excellent communication skills, and a demonstrated interest in commercial law. - INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? You should be able to articulate why

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 83

you considerJohnson Winter & Slattery appealing, and why you want to work with us. What are some less-obvious things students should avoid when interviewing? Answer the question that you are actually asked in the interview. Don’t just repeat the answer you have rehearsed at home. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Explore our website and understand our business and what makes us different. You will also be able to find information on recent matters that we have worked on. Does the firm assist graduates to complete their Practical Legal Training? Yes.

“

The people at JWS make all the difference. I have been lucky enough to work ‘one-onone’ with various market-leading partners; they have always taken the time to mentor me and help me to develop. George Croft, Senior Associate

“

84 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

YO U R C A R E E R , YO U R C H O I C E

SHAPE YOUR CAREER Develop strong technical and client service skills, and benefit from professional development programs and mentoring from Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best lawyers.

THRIVE WITH NO BOUNDARIES Collaborate with diverse teams of specialists across the country, and work side by side with experienced partners. Dip your toe in various practice areas, all free of financial targets.

Join our clerkship program and experience a snapshot of your f uture w it h us.

EMBRACE YOUR AMBITION Build relationships with executives from Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most successful companies. Contribute to our reputation for practical commercial solutions and outstanding client service, and play a meaningful role in complex transactions and disputes.

www.jws.com.au/en/graduate-lawyer-careers C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 85

K&L GATES Level 32, 44 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000 Litigation & Dispute Resolution; Labour, Employment & Workplace Safety; Real Estate; Corporate & Commercial

(08) 9216 0900 Sarah Brown, Human Resources sarah.brown@klgates.com | www.klgates.com 45 offices globally

What are your firm’s core values? Client service, innovation, transparency and global integration. How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ At K&L Gates, we really believe that our culture is unique. It reflects the personality of our people - down to earth, collaborative, straight talking, and socially responsible, with a strong work ethic. We recognise the individual needs and differences that each person brings to the firm. Our aim is to provide a supportive environment where everyone can thrive. This is achieved through our extensive range of learning and development programs, industry group collaboration, practice group meetings, flexible work programs and health and well-being support. Our people are ambitious and work hard to ensure that our clients’ needs are met. We also like to have fun and connect with

86 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

each other in an informal and social sense so that coming to work is enjoyable and stimulating. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? What truly differentiates us is how we serve our clients. When our clients tell us that the quality of our work and the experience of working with us are equally satisfying - that is true distinction. What is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? The great combination of quality work, great clients, a really inclusive environment and great colleagues. Also the global feel of the office, you could find yourself doing work for cients in Africa, New Zealand, America and the UK, as well as in every state in Australia. We have a one-company, one-team mentality, constantly seeking ways to add value for our clients and staff. Most importantly you will be part of a straight talking culture where you will be rec-

ognised for what you do and how you do it. - CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer. How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? 6-8. How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? Please submit your application via cvMail. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? During your clerkship with K&L Gates you will do real legal work. This could include participation in client meetings, court visits, conducting research or drafting advice for one of our four main practice areas.

How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? Ask questions, have a go, don’t be afraid to get stuck in and take advantage of all opportunities presented to you. Pay attention to the little things - attention to detail, time management and a good work ethic will all stand you in good stead. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? No. - GRADUATE INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? We look for mature, curious individuals with a strong work ethic and a can-do attitude. We know that you won’t be a fully formed lawyer at this stage, what’s important is that you can work well with others, demonstrate enthusiasm and drive, have a commitment to exceptional client service and can communicate well; whether this be listening, writing or speaking. What can students do to increase their likelihood of securing a graduate job with your firm? We mostly recruit from our seasonal clerk program so the first step is to secure a clerk spot with us. Occasionally we will advertise outside of this program.

Use your application form to showcase your abilities and how well you align with what we look for in a graduate. How many graduates does your firm anticipate to hire in 2018? 2 or 3. - INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? We want to hear honest answers from individuals rather than what you think we want to hear. Our top tips are to be professional, answer the questions asked of you, keep your answers succinct and dress appropriately. Don’t be afraid to show your personality - we don’t expect you to be a robot!

How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Have some clear examples ready to go which demonstrate your initiative, tenacity, ability to solve problems, passion, communication skills and team work. Talk to previous or current clerks and graduates, find out what you can about the firm and who you are interviewing with to help you feel less nervous. Remember we are all people and not there to intimidate you - we are genuinely interested in you and what you have to say.

What are some less-obvious things students should avoid when interviewing? When you are asked about what you have done in a particular situation or example, focus on what you did and not the team or others in the team. We are interested to know what you did specifically so we can get a feel for how you think, react, strategise, problem solve and deal with setbacks.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 87

GROW YOUR CAREER Looking for a law firm that is defined by its universal experience and unsurpassed commitment to client service? Join us and grow your career.

PERTH Clerkship applications open: 16 July 2018 Clerkship applications close: 5 August 2018

Check out our Facebook page. /klgatesgraduaterecruitingau /klgateslaw Watch our brand video. /klgateslaw 88 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

KING & WOOD MALLESONS Level 30, QV.1 Building, 250 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000 KWM offers a number of market-leading practice teams including; Banking & Finance, Dispute Resolution, Mergers & Acquisitions, Projects & Real Estate and Taxation. +61 8 9269 7000 Shenae Djulbic, People & Development Advisor | Shenae.Djulbic@au.kwm.com http://www.kwm.com/en 27 offices globally

What are your firm’s core values? Our values are at the heart of our workplace culture and shape how we operate each day. 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. How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ King & Wood Mallesons is a firm with a community feel with room for everyone to make their mark. Our people are the difference and we believe the power of together delivers the best results for our people, our clients, and the firm. We are committed to supporting a culture that encourages and embeds diversity and inclusion, both within the firm and across the broader legal sector. We are results orientated and have a track record of high achievement and performance in life, not just in our professional and academic careers. We also have a strong focus on recognising and acknowledging our staff’s contributions and at our core are client centric – partnering with each client to help them to achieve their business goals. Many graduates state that 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. 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. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? 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 growing region for clients. 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.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 89

- CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? 2 Summer + 1 Winter. How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? Intake numbers vary from year to year and are driven by business needs. How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? Via our online application system at www.kwm.com/careers. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Our clerkships give you a clear picture of what it’s like to be a lawyer at King & Wood Mallesons. You’ll get to know our people, the way we like to work, our culture, practice areas, clients and more. During your clerkship, you’ll learn: The day-to-day skills to get you started – taking instructions, meeting with clients, drafting memos/documents, managing your practice and professional relationships. Our core practice teams – who they are, what they do, how they’re structured, the clients they work for, and of course, your role within them. Our culture – you’ll be exposed to (and encouraged) to get actively involved in the many activities and events that define KWM. Our people – you’ll find that people from every part of the business will help you along, sharing their knowledge, and ensuring you have everything you need to succeed. Clerks usually work in one practice group. You’ll be allocated a supervisor and you’ll work closely with the partners, senior associates and

90 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

solicitors in that team. It’s a handson role, you won’t just be watching from the sidelines. Our people have the opportunity to get involved in the many social and sporting activities that go on in the firm, as well as pro bono and volunteer work to give back to the broader community in which we work and live. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? Our people are what makes the firm great. We are looking for the next generation of lawyers who are innovative, adaptive and strive for excellence, therefore we recruit broadly and not to a set formula. It’s important to get to know the real you during your clerkship. Here are some practical tips and information to stand out throughout your clerkship: Get involved – join in with various social and team based activities. Ask questions - we have an open and honest culture, it’s fine to ask questions and we actively encourage you to do so. Share your thoughts and ideas - the ‘power of together’ is all about sharing your thoughts and ideas to improve what we do, think differently and create value for clients and each other. Build connections – start genuine and authentic conversations, be yourself! Team player – help solve problems through team-work, collaboration and engagement. Legal Knowledge – aim to demonstrate a logical and systematic approach to understanding concepts and legal issues. Research – ensure you know the firm and show your interest.

Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? We accept applications from penultimate year students and beyond. - GRADUATE INFORMATION How can students apply for a graduate job with your firm? Eligible law students who have undertaken a vacation clerkship at King & Wood Mallesons can apply for the first round of Graduate offers. Generally most of King & Wood Mallesons’ (Perth) Graduate offers will derive from the vacation clerkship. How many graduates does your firm anticipate to hire in 2018? Intake numbers vary from year to year and are driven by business needs. - INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Though interviews can be nerve-racking, try to relax as much as you can (little things like turning up early and having a read over your cover letter and CV can really help!). Remember that the interview is just an opportunity for the firm to learn more about you and for you to learn more about the firm. It also helps to do some research beforehand, as it will help you frame why you want to be at KWM, which in turn will help you formulate questions about the things we do that you find most interesting. Also, don’t be afraid to let your personality show – there is no single “type” at KWM.

MinterEllison Level 4, 77 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000 Competition & Market Regulation, Construction, Corporate, Employment, Finance, Environment & Planning, Insurance, Real Estate, Reconstruction, Tax and Technology (08) 6189 7904 Neisha Clare, Talent Business Partner | neisha.clare@minterellison.com www.minterellison.com 15

How does the firm distinguish itself? At MinterEllison, our aspiration is to be our clients’ best partner. Our large, diverse client base includes public and private companies, leading multinationals operating in the region, global financial institutions, and government and state owned entities. 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. We draw on the extensive capability of our own office network and relationships with other leading firms around the world to deliver seamless service to our clients wherever they need us. What is the firm’s approach to community investment and pro bono work? At MinterEllison our people take immense pride in contributing to the communities in which we live and work. The focus areas of our community work is driven by our people who have driven our efforts towards breaking cycles of disadvantage – especially for young people; people experiencing homelessness and poverty; and those who require access to justice.

Our community partnerships ensure that resources are targeted effectively where assistance is most needed, with our contribution including pro bono legal work, staff volunteer hours, in-kind support and community grants. Some of our community initiatives include: Strong local pro bono practices. Charity morning teas to raise money for organisations including World Vision, Kids Help Line, Jeans for Genes and the Cancer Council. Regular blood donation drives. MatchME staff donation program that enables staff to donate directly from their pretax pay to a charity. World Vision sponsorship of children by our staff through automatic payroll deductions. Non-legal volunteering opportunities, including student mentoring, partnerships with government schools, through our membership of the Australian Business and Community Network. In Hong Kong we also have an active school-based volunteering program.

Each year MinterEllison delivers around 30,000pro bono hours to the community – a reflection of our commitment to make the justice system more accessible. This equates to an average of 39 hours of free legal work per lawyer – exceeding the 35 hour industry benchmark set by the Australian Pro Bono Centre. More than 75 per cent of our lawyers perform pro bono work on a voluntary basis in any given year. How does the firm promote diversity and inclusion? We believe diversity is about creating a high-performance culture that values individual contribution, teamwork, innovation and productivity regardless of background, ethnicity, disability, gender, faith, sexual orientation or family structures. Diversity and inclusiveness are at the core of our values and we firmly believe our people should be able to bring their whole self to work. 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. What is the firm’s position on work/life balance? We support a range of flexible

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 91

working arrangements, including part-time, job-sharing, variable start and 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. We also support the health and wellbeing of our lawyers, including by providing: Free gym memberships. Discounted corporate health insurance with four leading providers. Free annual influenza vaccination clinic on the premises. 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. Free access to expert providers of parenting support and education for working professionals. Free Personal Health Optimiser (PHO) online service that looks at, monitors, and records various aspects of individual long term health and wellbeing. Free, healthy and delicious after-hours meals cooked by our in-house chefs. How does the firm support continuous personal and professional growth? At MinterEllison, your ongoing professional development is key to

92 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

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. 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. Describe a successful MinterEllison candidate. At MinterEllison we are not looking for people to fit a mould. Academics are just one piece of the puzzle, and we recognise the strength that diversity can bring to a team. Work experience, extra-curricular activities, sporting participation, music and travel are all important qualities to us. At MinterEllison we want you to bring your whole self to work. Individual strengths and diversity are what builds our teams up to be the successes they are.

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 with which they are presented. 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 a successful candidate expect at MinterEllison? To be more than just a technically excellent lawyer; To achieve early success through fast tracked career opportunities; To become your clients’ best partner; To create innovative solutions for clients; and To gain broad exposure through a flexible graduate program. What is the MinterEllison graduate and clerkship launch program? The MinterEllison graduate and 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 to people are able to future proof their

career 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. - CLERKSHIP INFORMATION What is the anticipated intake for the clerkship/graduate launch program 2018? There are 8 positions available for the clerkship/graduate launch program. How do students apply for a position? All applications should be submit-

ted online via the careers section of our website from Monday 16 July through Sunday 5 August 2018. Applications should include: online application form, resume, cover letter, transcript. What are the tasks you are expected to undertake if successful for a position? At MinterEllison you will: work closely with partners and lawyers on active matters to meet deadlines, produce quality and meaningful work, participate in tangible learning & development activities and attend social and networking events. You will also be allocated a supervisor for daily support who will help you manage your workload, and a ‘buddy’ for extra insight and advice. What does the firm look for in people? You should consider a career at MinterEllison if: Your passion for excellence leads you to winning solutions. You have what it takes to apply technical thinking through the prism of commercial advice. Building relationships excites you. You see yourself outside the office, working in partnership with clients. You think outside the box and embrace new ideas. You want to feel empowered and be part of a high performance team. Collaboration and inclusiveness are principles you value. The status quo bores you. You want to be part of something different. You’re looking for a firm with a clear game plan.

- GRADUATE INFORMATION What is the anticipated number of graduate intakes for 2019? There are eight positions available for the clerkship/graduate launch program. What is the structure of the graduate program? MinterEllison is committed to providing you with the tools to become not just a qualified lawyer, but a lawyer that inspires and excels. We will enable you to utilise your commercial and support programs to ensure that every time you interact with clients you showcase your skill set. Through our clerkship/ graduate launch program you will be exposed to subject matter experts, mentors and thought leaders that are committed to fostering your professional development. Does the firm assist graduates to complete their Practical Legal Training? If so, how? Part of our formal learning includes MinterEllison’s integrated Practical Legal Training (PLT) program. Through your PLT, you will attend various workshops to gain the practical skills that a lawyer needs – such as interviewing skills, legal writing and drafting skills, and negotiation and advocacy skills. Our PLT program is specifically tailored for MinterEllison graduates with a strong focus on working for a top tier commercial law firm. Assessment timetables are designed to allow you to manage your workload more effectively, and firm precedents and resources are used so that your experience is truly ‘practical’.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 93

e m a The g hanged. has crt of it. Be pa 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

PRICE SIERAKOWSKI CORPORATE Level 24, 44 St Georges Tce Perth 6000 Corporate, Energy & Resources, Mergers & Acquisitions, Insolvency & Reconstruction, Litigation, Commercial Law

(08) 6211 5000 apply@pricesierakowski.com.au l http://www.pricesierakowski.com.au/

1 office

What are your firm’s core values? In Clerks and Graduates we highly value teamwork, pragmatism and tenacity. How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ The firm acts as a partner with staff in their professional and personal development. Working in an intimately sized firm means that interests can be clearly identified and addressed. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? We are a boutique commercial law firm. Our expertise is in high level corporate work, including capital raisings, mergers and acquisitions, resources and energy, reconstructions and litigation. What is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? At Price Sierakowski, solicitors enjoy big firm work but in a more personable and engaging culture. We are looking for hard

working individuals who thrive in a team environment. We have a genuine interest in helping clients across a wide range of commercial practice areas. We offer clerkships 1 day per week during semester or during semester break. - CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? During Semester. How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? 10. How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? Emailing a cover letter, CV and academic transcript to apply@pricesierakowski.com.au What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Clerks undertake meaningful work from day one of their clerkship, working on transactions with experienced solicitors. We

only place one clerk in the firm at any time, so students enjoy sole exposure to training, development and client opportunities. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? By demonstrating the ability to work in a collaborative environment and taking initiative. An undergraduate degree in Commerce and completion of the Corporations unit is beneficial. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? No. - GRADUATE INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? Someone who has shown that they are aligned to the Company culture, works well in a team and has a genuine interest in practising commercial law.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 95

What can students do to increase their likelihood of securing a graduate job with your firm? Although we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t strictly offergraduate positions to students who have completed a clerkship, it is beneficial to go through our Clerkship program to build relationships with the team. - INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Research of the firms recenttransactions, professionalism and a discussion on relevant experience. What are some less-obvious things students should do when interviewing? Read the WA Business News and be knowledgeable about what is happening around Perth. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Research the interviewers and recent firm transactions.

96 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

• • • • • •

As a graduate lawyer with Price Sierakowski Corporate you will enjoy transaction experience early in your career and client contact from day one. Our individually tailored mentoring and CPD programs provide a ‘fast-track’ for high performers. Our staff enjoy high level corporate work in a casual and friendly office. Easy application process, simply send your CV and cover letter to apply@pricesierakowski.com.au or go to www.pricesierakowski.com.au

PHONE (61-8) 6211 5000 FAX (61-8) 6211 5055

EMAIL info@pricesierakowski.com.au WEB www.pricesierakowski.com.au

SQUIRE PATTON BOGGS Level 21, 300 Murray Street, Perth Corporate, Litigation, Real Estate, Construction, International Dispute Resoltuion, Labour and Employment, Restructuring and Insolvency, Financial Services, Energy and Natural Resources (08) 9429 7444 Rebecca Hansen, Human Resources rebecca.hansen@squirepb.com | www.squirepattonboggs.com 47 offices globally

What are your firm’s core values? Collaboration, Professionalism, Responsibility, Diversity, Excellence. How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ We opeate on a philosophy of “One Office, Three Locations”. Our teams in Darwin, Perth and Sydney work collaboratively to deliver excellence and efficency to clients all over the world. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? Although we are a top global law firm, our Australian offices are boutique in size and nature giving you access to quality legal work from day one. Our people, incluidng Paralegals and Law Gradautes, are working directly with Partners and clients ensuring everyone is contributing to the firm in a meaningful way and achieving excellent results. From the very start, you will be provided with the tools, know-how and options you need to set your

98 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

own challenges and define your career path. What is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? Be connected to a global network of colleagues and clients, working on high quality commerical work from day one. We are committed to a culture of collaboration and exellence ensuring your career in law is supported from day one. - CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? During Semester. How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? N/A How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? You can apply for a paralegal position on our website.

What tasks do clerks usually undertake? You will be exposed to quality work from day one. The general duties of a Clerk or Paralegal are wider in our firm due to our boutique size. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? Ask questions, have a go, don’t be afraid to get stuck in and take advantage of all opportunities presented to you. Pay attention to the little things - attention to detail, time management and a good work ethic will all stand you in good stead. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? No.

- GRADUATE INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? Intitative driven individuals, resilience, curious, enthisastic, and passionate about contributing to the success of our firm. We are looking for collabrotive people who will thrive in our culture. What can students do to increase their likelihood of securing a graduate job with your firm? Demonstrate you are innovative, entreprenerial and hungry for a challenge at our firm. We want people who will contribute positivley to our collabrotive culture, and continuing growth and success. How many graduates does your firm anticipate to hire in 2018? 4 - 6 across Australia.

What are some less-obvious things students should avoid when interviewing? Recite your generic acheivments made in law school. We all know you are smart and studying law, but we want to know more! Ask yourself what are you passionate about and why do you want to work for our particular firm. There is always something small that will seperate you from the pack and that is what we are looking for from our people. It is those individual characteristics that make our culture what it is today. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Be yourself. We want to recurit like-minded people who will thrive in our firm. We want to get to know you and what drives your passion for the law!

- INTERVIEWS -

“

We are committed to a culture of collaboration and excellence...”

“

What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Your unique personality shining through. We want to learn about you and for you tell us about yourself, not what what you think we want to hear.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 99

100 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

STEINEPREIS PAGANIN Level 4, The Read Buildings, 16 Milligan Street Perth WA 6000 Corporate, Commercial, M&A, ECM

(08) 9321 4000 Emma Elliott, Human Resources eelliott@steinpag.com.au | www.steinpag.com.au 1 office

What are your firm’s core values? Honesty and Integrity, Teamwork and Respect, Open Communication, Quality, Solution Driven Work, Know Your Client. How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ Our people are the key to making our firm a great place to work and as such we strive to create a dynamic environment with on the job learning and a friendly, team-oriented environment with a focus on the sharing of knowledge. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? We:... Strive to evenly spread our work amongst all support and professional staff to create a balanced environment. Encourage our staff to respect one another, to work as a team and pull together in times of need.

Do not have cells or silos within our firm meaning our lawyers are exposed to a variety of work, Partners and senior lawyers across our firm. Believe in honest, direct and open communication with each other at all times. Will provide feedback to our team members on their performance, good or otherwise. Strive for excellence in what we do ensuring we pay attention to the little things. Always strive to provide our clients with commercially orientated advice that adds value and achieves our clients’ objectives. Do our best to know our clients well and to understand their expectations of us. We understand that our profession is a service industry built on trust and relationships. What is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? We are now one of Perth’s largest independently owned corporate

law firms, specialising in corporate, energy & resources, and commercial matters. We are consistently identified as the most active advisor in the area of initial public offerings in Australia and one of the most active advisors in the mergers and acquisition space. We act for a large number of ASX listed and private company clients around Australia and overseas in the areas of mining and resources, technology, biomedics and other general commercial industries. We have over 30 lawyers and graduates on our team, so our wealth of corporate knowledge is second to none. If you are interested in a career as a Corporate lawyer and seek first hand, frontline exposure with one of Australia’s leading corporate law firms then we would love to hear from you. - CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer + Winter.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 101

How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? 16+ How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? By directly emailing a CV, Cover Letter and Academic Transcript to HR. What tasks do clerks usually undertake? We treat our Vacation Clerks as we would our new Graduates. So, essentially we provide an experience as to “what life would be like, as a Graduate, working for Steinepreis Paganin”. We typically take a view that Vacation Clerks want to experience the type of work our Graduates do, therefore that is what we provide you with. From day one you will be working with our lawyers on client matters. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? Clerks genuinely need to have an interest in corporate & commercial law. As we only practice within this space it is paramount that you are certain you want to practice within this area of law. Other than that, we look for clerks that are keen, interested, team players and are willing to learn. Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? Not typically.

102 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

- GRADUATE INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? Again, someone who is interested in Corporate & Commercial law, keen & interested, a team player and willing to learn. What can students do to increase their likelihood of securing a graduate job with your firm? Submit an application for our Vacation Clerkship program. Typically we recruit our Graduates from our Vacation Clerks, however that is not always the case. If you were unsuccessful in securing a Vacation Clerkship, please reapply and ensure you state why you think you would be a good fit for our Firm. How many graduates does your firm anticipate to hire in 2018? 4. - INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Open and honest communication. What are some less-obvious things students should avoid when interviewing? Please do not recite the contents of the Firm’s website.

How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Just be yourself!

WILLIAM & HUGHES Ground Floor, 25 Richardson Street, West Perth, 6005 Litigation & Dispute Resolution, including: Corporate & Business Litigation, Insolvency, Mining, Resources, Energy & Mining Services, Intellectual Property, Trademarks & Domain Names, Trade Practices & Australian Consumer Law, (08) 9481 2040 Dominique Engelter, Principal careers@whlaw.com.au 2 offices

What are your firm’s core values? Williams + Hughes operate on core values established by our founding partners in 1986, these values reflect our mission of making the client central to all that we do: We are passionate about what we do We act with honesty and integrity We provide excellent legal service with commercial understanding We are responsive and reliable How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ As an independent firm Williams + Hughes has created a culture that gives lawyers the opportunity to provide our clients with the best possible legal advice. We are committed to providing outstanding results for our clients while maintaining a healthy work life balance for our people. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms?

Williams + Hughes is a proudly independent, Western Australian firm, respected as experts in commercial and litigation law. What our clients appreciate and keep coming back for is our pragmatic approach and positive outcomes. We deliver commercially realistic solutions tailored to provide the best possible results for our clients. What makes our practice unique is the way we work to deliver a positive outcome for our clients. We are creative and precise in our thinking, pragmatic in our approach, responsive to our client’s changing needs and understand the importance of achieving practical commercial solutions. A key differentiator is that we work hard to understand our client’s industries. Often we become trusted business advisers, and are involved in the early stages of developing transactions rather than being brought in later to document agreed deals.

We are the exclusive Western Australian member firm of Meritas, the world’s largest global alliance of independent business law firms. This membership augments our local services and has been used successfully by clients for various cross border and international transactions. Meritas allows us to access the expertise of over 7,500 lawyers in 183 law firms globally. What is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? When you clerk with us, we won’t sell you glitz and glamour. We don’t try to put on a show and pretend that restaurant lunches and fashion shows are the life of a lawyer. Instead, you will see how a busy private practice actually operates. Our graduates do real legal work with the intention they quickly gain practical experience and become skilled lawyers. Working at Williams + Hughes gives you an outstanding opportunity to forge your own career in law. You will be thrown straight into real client work, but don’t

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 103

worry you will be supported and mentored every step of the way by our experienced team.

diligent and hardworking is key, as is having an opinion and not being afraid to express it.

Williams + Hughes employs a low-leverage model, meaning that you will have the opportunity to get experience in both commercial and litigation areas and a broad understanding of different industries including mining, resources, construction and more.staff. Most importantly you will be part of a straight talking culture where you will be recognised for what you do and how you do it.

Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? No.

- CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Winter and Summer. How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? 15. How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? Please email your Cover letter, CV and Academic Transcript to careers@whlaw.com.au What tasks do clerks usually undertake? At Williams + Hughes clerks can expect to be doing real work from day one. Clerks will be given relevant tasks from ongoing cases including researching legislation and case law and writing memoranda on your findings, writing articles or taking notes in court. The broad range of work we do means no two days are the same and the work is interesting and challenging. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? The clerks who make the best impression are those who are genuinely interested in the work we do and demonstrate an ability to deliver results in the ‘real world’ of private practice. Being 104 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

- GRADUATE INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a graduate? We look for candidates with a great attitude and strong academic results. Attention to detail and good communication skills are also vital. We’re looking for people who can work independently and don’t need to be micromanaged. While experience working in a law firm is a bonus it is not essential. What can students do to increase their likelihood of securing a graduate job with your firm? Do great work while you are with us, don’t be afraid to ask questions to clarify instructions, ask for and act on feedback. How many graduates does your firm anticipate to hire in 2018? 2. - INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? We are looking for people who are motivated and eager to learn. That said, please be yourself! We love to talk so please ask us questions about Williams + Hughes and the type of work we do. What are some less-obvious things students should avoid when interviewing? Be sure to tailor your responses to the firm you are applying to. For example Williams + Hughes is WA based,

so it’s best not to talk about wanting to work in Sydney. Don’t focus too much on what you stand to gain from the role individually, remember we want to employ people who are not just in it for themselves. We are passionate about what we do and look for that in potential employees, but be professional about it. Be sure to listen carefully and answer the questions you are asked – we know you have done a lot of preparation for the interview but be sure you listen to the whole question before you launch into your response. Don’t exaggerate your experience or skills, it may be tempting but is more likely to trip you up in an interview. Be specific when talking about your experience and skills, give examples. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? Get to know who we are and what we do. Give some thought to where you see yourself in 5 or 10 years. We’d like to hear about your career plans and how you’d like to see your career progress.

You will need to spend a bit of time working with us first! Many Partners at Williams + Hughes began their legal careers with us. Great work and great work life balance are just two of the things that make Williams + Hughes a great place to begin your law career.

Connect with us today Tel: 08 9481 2040 careers@whlaw.com.au www.whlaw.com.au/careers/

www.whlaw.com.au

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 105

NORTON ROSE FULBRIGHT Level 30, 108 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000 Litigation, Insurance, Employment & Labour, Construction & Engineering, Banking & Finance, Financial Restructuring & Insolvency, Real Estate and Corporate (08) 6212 3286 Celeste Hancock | Human Resources Coordinator celeste.hancock@nortonrosefulbright.com nortonrosefulbright.com 58 offices

What are your firm’s core values? Quality, Unity and Integrity. How would you describe your firm’s culture?’ Our values of Quality, Unity and Integrity are the foundation of our culture. Our focus is on providing consistently high quality legal services to clients across the business as industry experts. We operate in a team culture, collaborating and sharing information and knowledge across disciplines and markets to achieve the best results for our clients. We value our people – they are our most important asset – and we promote a culture of respect for the individual. We build long term relationships with our clients and colleagues by being trustworthy, open and fair. We value our culture and work hard to preserve it. How does your firm distinguish itself from other law firms? By being industry experts, prioritising diversity & inclusion and

106 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

ongoing learning and development. Knowing how our clients business works and understanding what drives their industries is fundamental to us. Our lawyers share industry knowledge and sector expertise across borders, enabling us to support our client’s anywhere in the world. We have a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. We aim to be an employer of choice worldwide by valuing difference, promoting a culture of respect for each individual, and encouraging workforce diversity in all aspects and at all levels. We offer education assistance support to all staff and design and deliver development programmes addressing our employees specific needs. Our award winning International Academies are delivered to Associates, Senior Associates and Special Counsel at the relevant stages of their career.

What is the most compelling reason students should aspire to work at your firm? We take the view that we are only as strong as our people – which is why quality training and flexible work programmes are paramount to our business. You will be supported by an empowering culture that fosters collaboration, responsibility and professional development from the outset. We deliver an extensive range of training programmes targeted at specific stages of our lawyers’ professional development. Does the firm engage in pro bono, volunteering or other community activities? Yes. We have a strong focus on Corporate Social Responsibility including pro bono and volunteering. All legal staff have a pro bono target of 35 hours per year, and our graduates can complete one of their rotations in a pro bono seat.

- CLERKSHIP INFORMATION During which period do you offer clerkships? Summer. How many clerkships is the firm anticipating to offer in 2018? 6 How can students apply for a clerkship with your firm? Through the Norton Rose Fulbright job board; https://www. nortonrosefulbrightgraduates. com/au What tasks do clerks usually undertake? Our summer clerkship programme offers a real taste of life as a Graduate, including: attending clients meetings and teleconferences, visits to court, research, preparation of court documents, drafting deeds/contracts, discovery and much more! There will also be additional activities for you to take advantage of including: Key skills training with our Learning and Development team. Q&A sessions with our leaders. Presentations about practice areas and deals . Networking and social events. How can a clerk stand out or make a good impression? Be authentic and bring your whole self to work. Be curious and get to know your practice groups and the firm. Be proactive and willing to take on all tasks. Be involved in team and firm events.

Do you offer clerkships to non-penultimate year students? We require students who are completing the clerkship to be able to commence the graduate programme in February 2020. - GRADUATE INFORMATION What does your firm look for in a grad? Strong academic results are important, but not the only criteria - Norton Rose Fulbright seeks well-rounded candidates who have strength beyond academia including work experience and extracurricular interests. We also look to candidates with strong commercial awareness, a global outlook, open mindedness and long term motivation for a career in the law. What can students do to increase their likelihood of securing a graduate job with your firm? By being themselves throughout the selection process, and demonstrating a genuine interest and knowledge in our firm and the opportunities it has to offer. How can students apply for a graduate job with your firm? Through the Norton Rose Fulbright job board; https://www. nortonrosefulbrightgraduates. com/au How many graduates does your firm anticipate to hire in 2018? Norton Rose Fulbright will be hiring up to 5 graduates to commence our Graduate Program in February 2019.

- INTERVIEWS What does your firm like to see in a clerkship or graduate job interview? Prepare for your interview by researching our firm, your interviewer and be ready to explain your interest in Norton Rose Fulbright. Be yourself and be honest in your responses. Be prepared to provide specific examples of situations where issues/obstacles arose and how you overcame it, rather than giving generalisations. Make the most of opportunities to meet Norton Rose Fulbright staff during the recruitment process. Remember, interviews are a two way process so make sure you ask questions to ensure we are the right fit for you. What are some less-obvious things students should avoid when interviewing? Be mindful of your body language and make sure you are ready to introduce yourself with a strong handshake, maintain good eye contact and posture during the interview. How can students best prepare for a clerkship or graduate job interview with your firm? In addition to the points above, arrive early, do your best to calm your nerves and know your resume inside out!

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 107

Norton Rose Fulbright balances freedom for personal development with regular and consistent guidance.

Summer clerkship Our summer clerkship offers you a real taste of life as a Graduate. The clerkship involves doing many of the things our Graduates do, including attending clients meetings and visits to court. You will also enjoy exposure to our deals, culture and practice areas. There will also be lots of additional activities for you to take advantage of including: key skills training talks about practice areas and deals networking and social events

Graduate Academy Over the course of our Graduate programme, you will develop a huge range of knowledge and skills, gain exposure to different sectors and work environments, and ultimately build up the experience you need to become a qualified lawyer.

To see how you could define your own path within our global legal practice, visit: nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com/australia

Progress with purpose

A RT I C L ES FROM THE PROFESSION Whilst studying, students are only exposed to a handful of disciplines within the law. In reality, there are so many areas of law, many of which you may never have heard of or didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t even realise existed. This section of the handbook is a compilation of articles written by a range of legal professionals. Each article touches on a different area of law and each author has their own unique background. The purpose of this section is to highlight the range of careers in the legal profession, and that studying law does not mean you are limited to the types of law you learn at university. We hope that the insights provided will help spark interest and intrigue and will provide guidance on how to pursue such a career. For those who already have interests, we hope that these articles confirm those interests and provide you with further insight.

LIFE AT A GLOBAL LAW FIRM

CORPORATE LAW

T ONY JOY NER M A N A G I N G PA R T NER AT HERBER T S M IT H F REEHILLS

I have been asked to write about what it is like to work at a top tier law firm. And I suppose that is what Herbert Smith Freehills is in a technical sense. But that’s not how I think of it. It’s where I work, and it’s where a lot of people I like work. I graduated from UWA in 1986. Bob Hawke was Prime Minister and Crocodile Dundee was the biggest movie in the country.

The work is hard, and it is challenging. You have to think. You have to solve problems. You have to have energy and nous. I love it. I had never really met a lawyer - I had just fallen in to studying Law because it seemed more interesting than Engineering, and I faint when I see blood, which is apparently a problem at Medical School. So Law it was. And I ended up liking it. It was rational, and interesting, and the people were smart and (mostly) funny. I ended up with the firm that eventually morphed into Herbert Smith Freehills by being interviewed by the Managing Partner. He was old and scary, and it was obviously inconceivable that I would ever be anything remotely like him. And somehow I’m still here. Old. Not that scary. I never resigned, though through mergers I have worked at 4 firms. In my first year I did basic work, and collected the partners’ dry-cleaning (a sadly extinct practice). Last year I attended meetings in London, Madrid, Dubai and Singapore.

to think. You have to solve problems. You have to have energy and nous. I love it. I am still here because I have never felt like leaving. What I have done has always been changing, and interesting. And, most importantly, the people I work with continue to be great. Just like law school: rational and interesting; and smart and (mostly) funny. I started in banking, which morphed into property when banking became a little quiet. The GFC wasn’t my first FC you know. I then moved to our Melbourne office for two years - what a great experience. When I came back I thought I’d like a change. It was 2000. The first Tech Boom was underway. I bought myself a black skivvy and became a technology lawyer. As time has passed and the economy here has grown, internationalised and changed, my practice has changed with it. There has been so much going on. It’s been fascinating being a small part of it.

And, most importantly, the people I work with continue to be great. Just like law school: rational and interesting; and smart and (mostly) funny.

I still feel pretty much the same, though I don’t look it.

I have also had the opportunity of becoming involved in management. I am head of the office here in Perth. I am also a member of our global board.

The work is hard, and it is challenging. You have

I also have really interesting roles within our

110 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

Technology practice, and with our continuing strategy, both of which are fascinating when your firm is an international one. My experience has also meant that I have been able to take roles as a Director of the Lions Eye Institute and the Chamber of Commerce. I am also the Chair of Scitech. Great WA institutions, that I really enjoy working with and I only had that opportunity because of my career at HSF. There are great opportunities for energetic and interested law students in this city. It is blessed with some really good national and international law firms that have good offices here. You will get good training and do interesting work that will set you up as a quality lawyer for the rest of your life. I urge you to hunt the opportunities down with gusto. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s an adventure.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

I am still here because I have never felt like leaving. What I have done has always been changing, and interesting.

â&#x20AC;?

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 111

LIFE AT A GLOBAL LAW FIRM E M ILY P U R VIS S O L I C I T O R AT HERBER T S M IT H F REEHIL L S

MONDAY 6.00AM: I almost always start my working week before the sun comes up, either running through Kings Park or in the gym. The luxury of mid-afternoon workouts quickly ran out after I graduated from uni, but I’ve come to realise that early morning exercise is more effective than your regular Cup of Joe. 8.30AM: I’m greeted by a flurry of ‘hellos’ and smiles as I walk to my desk, before I begin the task of wading through weekend emails. (Full disclosure: I have 5 emails in my inbox, mostly firm-wide notices; I’m not that busy and important – yet.) 8.33AM: My supervising Partner calls me and another lawyer into her office to discuss a new matter. The Perth Disputes team of 5 Partners and about 15 lawyers works together daily on a large variety of matters, including commercial litigation, international arbitrations, class actions, corporate crime prosecutions, insolvencies, and construction disputes. Our Perth office advises on some of the largest and most complex matters involving Western Australian, Australian and international clients. Each week is different for a junior lawyer, and could involve working on matters in any or all of the categories described above. 10.30AM: I throw on a blazer and rush down the Terrace to attend a bankruptcy hearing in the Supreme Court. Our insolvency part of the Disputes practice is always interesting and today is no exception – we’re representing a client attempting to recover a large sum of money that was previously awarded by a judge in different proceedings. The other side is particularly aggressive in court and the judge doesn’t like it. The lawyer speaks over the judge several times and I can see the judge is getting frustrated. The matter is adjourned for 4 weeks to allow for affidavits to be filed. 1.00PM: I eat lunch at another office in our building, where I’m attending a committee meeting for an association I’m a part of outside of work. I always look forward to catching up with the team and discussing our upcoming events. 2.00PM: I return to an urgent research request from one

112 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

of the Partners. Our client is involved in a dispute over the construction of a rail line to a mine site in northern Western Australia. As part of our pre-eminent dispute resolution group, the construction disputes practice is regularly asked to advise on a variety of construction claims, including variations, liquidated damages, delay and disruption claims. I’ve been asked to consider a particularly difficult issue, and I spend the afternoon poring over case law and LexisNexis search results. I come to a conclusion and draft a memorandum for the Partner. My findings are adopted and relied upon in the final advice that is sent to the client. I’m congratulated by the team and thrilled with the result. 7.30PM: A quick change from flats to heels and I’m out of the office in time to meet friends for dinner at a restaurant in Shafto Lane. WEDNESDAY 9.30AM: Our weekly team meeting is always surprisingly entertaining: equal parts shop talk and banter. I update the team on my capacity for the week and am delighted to learn that a colleague shares my love of reality TV. Talk of upcoming work quickly devolves into a recap of last night’s episode of “The Bachelor”. 10.00AM: I sit in on and take a file note of a conference call with a potential witness in the Middle-East. Our client is facing prosecution for allegedly bribing a foreign government official, and the witness may end up giving evidence about local law. Lawyers from our Dubai office are also on the call. 12.30PM: I attend a lunchtime seminar on the law of defamation. Sessions like this are held regularly by senior members of the team and keep us up to date with legal developments (and our all-important CPD points). Rebel Wilson’s defamation case against Bauer Media is used as an example to demonstrate the application of the law. Key takeaway: Rebel was only paid US$3,000 for her role in the movie “Bridesmaids”. Who knew? 1.30PM: A matter that I’ve been assisting one of our East Coast offices with has flared up. I’ve been asked to urgently review a bundle of documents for a shareholder class action. The group of shareholders filed a statement

of claim alleging that our client made a number of decisions resulting in significant company losses. The shareholders say that the value of their shares diminished, and that they’re entitled to damages. I sit in on a briefing call with colleagues from our Perth and Sydney offices and take notes. The rest of the afternoon is spent reading emails and company documents to determine whether they are relevant to the proceedings. The Partner buys us coffee and donuts to say thanks. 6.00PM: The Asian Australian Lawyers Association (WA) is hosting a panel discussion. I’m looking forward to meeting some new people. As part of my role on the Perth China Team, I regularly attend networking events and report any newly acquired knowledge at our monthly meetings. I take some notes, swap business cards and enjoy a glass of shiraz over a discussion about China’s Belt and Road initiative.

“

Our weekly team meeting is always surprisingly entertaining: equal parts shop talk and banter. I update the team on my capacity for the week and am delighted to learn that a colleague shares my love of reality TV. Talk of upcoming work quickly devolves into a recap of last night’s episode of “The Bachelor”.

”

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 113

LIFE AT A GLOBAL LAW FIRM R A CHEL L EE S O L I C I T O R AT HERBER T S M IT H F REEHIL L S

How did I get here? I started at Herbert Smith Freehills in March 2015 after completing a vacation clerkship in January 2014. Prior to clerking I was uncertain whether I wanted to work in government, criminal law, commercial law, community law or perhaps something entirely different. The reason I chose to work at a large commercial law firm is predominantly for the opportunity to work with smart, dedicated people who challenge you to become the best lawyer possible. I have met great mentors here who have helped me shape my career direction and discover new interest areas. I have also had the opportunity to balance my passions for working on challenging, large “front page” commercial matters and pro bono human rights matters. Life as a graduate As a graduate lawyer at Herbert Smith Freehills you complete three six month rotations around teams within the firm. I worked in Employment, Pensions & Incentives, Disputes and Mergers and Acquisitions. As a graduate I always felt like a valued part of the teams I worked with. In these roles I attended Court, drafted transaction documents, attended General Meetings, prepared research notes and assisted with writing legal advice. A big highlight of the experience was the opportunity to do work with so many offices on deals and disputes happening in various parts of the world from Singapore to Paris to – the most glam of all - Brisbane. The lawyers I worked with were great at giving me the opportunity to attend client calls and meetings regarding work that I assisted with. A key difference from law school is that you have people sitting in front of you with a real problem - often involving millions of dollars and lots of non-legal commercial risks and pressures to factor in - and no clear answer. This can be scary, but it is also what motivates you to do the best work possible and give a clear, commercial answer to help the business you are working with. I have also been involved in the firm’s community initiatives. This has included a mentoring program for girls at Clontarf Aboriginal College, cooking Christmas dinner

114 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

for the kids at Ronald McDonald House and meeting with the firm’s Big Issue vendor, Eve, fortnightly. Working in London I recently completed a six month secondment in our London office. Graduates have the opportunity to apply for a secondment to our London office or one of our Asian offices during their first two years. Working at the London office has been the opportunity of a lifetime. People here call us “Herbies”, which is a cute alternative to the nickname Herbert Smith Freehills had while I was at UWA of “Freemeals”. The clients that I work with are predominantly in the consumer products sector including pharmaceutical manufacturers, alcoholic beverages companies, food and soft drink companies and self driving cars (sadly yet to be offered a test drive, but we did get toy cars from one client!). I have had the opportunity to meet with top QCs, have assisted with a Court of Appeal hearing on issues of international intellectual property law and have worked on market leading advice for emerging consumer products (including an analysis of Twitter Tweets for one matter!).

As a graduate I always felt like a valued part of the teams I worked with In addition to client work, I have also worked on pro bono EU migration law advice to vulnerable people such as trafficking victims, human rights law position papers on issues such the rights of the children of prisoners and (for the Serial podcast fans) I have been involved in an innocence-project style appeal of a murder case from the Caribbean to the Privy Council. It has not been all work and no play – two of my favourite social events have been the Herbet Smith Freehills Christmas party inside Tower Bridge overlooking the Thames and a comedy night with performers from Edinburgh Fringe for multi-cultural week.

THE VALUE OF EXPERIENCE J O HN ROBER T S ON P R I N C I PA L AT W IL L IAM S + HU GHES

had the opportunity to work at the Supreme Court of Western Australia with the Honourable Justice Owen from 2003 to 2006. Ironically the opportunity arose because I was a mature aged law graduate with experience in the banking industry and his Honour was about to start hearing a case involving syndicates of Australian and European banks. The opportunity was once in a lifetime as it involved a case that would run for three years and require evidence to be taken on commission in the Royal Courts of Justice in the United Kingdom. Not only was the size of the case unprecedented, the logistics of the trial were also more difficult than anything else that had been heard in the Supreme Court of Western Australia. The trial relocated to London twice in three years. The privilege of being involved with large scale civil proceedings and the numerous senior counsels that appeared can only be trumped by working with the humble and kindly trial judge that presided over the case for the years that it took to hear and the time it took to determine. The first question a law graduate will be asked in our office is do you have a preference for litigation or commercial? A founding principal of our firm once said the only difference between litigation and commercial is that litigators live by a set of rules (i.e. RSC and FCRs) whereas commercial lawyers have no rules – it is whatever can be negotiated. I maintain that knowledge of commercial legal work makes a better litigator and knowledge of litigation makes a commercial lawyer better at drafting and avoiding litigation. At large firms graduates might have the benefit of rotating through practice groups to determine whether they prefer ‘litigation or commercial’. They in fact have more specific opportunities such as specialist litigation and commercial practice groups such as construction, insurance, property or IP. In a smaller firm the distinction is usually litigation or commercial and in my view the benefit is the crossover from one discipline to the other. For example, if you settle a dispute you have the ability to prepare the settlement deed or if a contractual dispute arises from a conveyancing matter you have the benefit of managing the file whilst the dispute takes shape that might involve repudiation, termination and a damages

claim or specific performance. In my view working closely with lawyers that litigate and undertake commercial legal work allows for greater and faster development than working in a dedicated practice group. That is not to say large firms do not have good mentors managing those practice groups but the concern is having access to those people. Our firm has an open door policy with unlimited access to senior lawyers. It values all opinions and encourages independent thought in troubleshooting legal issues for clients.

A founding principal of our firm once said the only difference between litigation and commercial is that litigators live by a set of rules (i.e. RSC and FCRs) whereas commercial lawyers have no rules – it is whatever can be negotiated Whatever experience you bring with you to the law is valuable. Whether it is the ability to interpret the language and jargon of bankers that are defendants in large civil proceedings or any other experience in different areas of commerce, your experience is what makes law graduates better lawyers and able to understand the legal issues of their clients. It was humbling for me to discuss banking jargon or a bank’s procedure with Justice Owen and apply my past knowledge to a legal issue in a civil trial. Suffice to say His Honour did not require significant explanation of any area of commerce but he prided himself on hearing all views and valuing anything that would assist him to unpack the evidence to get at the substance of the dispute and make his decision intelligible to the litigants and anyone with an interest in the outcome of the case. In concluding I maintain that your outside interests, past knowledge and experience are valuable to the law and wherever you get a start (in law), the time you have spent in other areas of commerce won’t be lost and will contribute to your vocation as a lawyer.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 115

LIFE AS A NON-LITIGATOR D AM IA N QU AIL D I R E C T O R AT W IL L IAM S + HU GHES

he purpose of this note is to give budding lawyers some insight into the reality of practicing as a lawyer in Perth, and in particular to share some observations about the daily life of a busy commercial lawyer versus a busy commercial litigator or dispute resolution lawyer. Based on my experience from talking to and interviewing students, 90% of law graduates want to become litigators i.e. Court room advocates. Perhaps this is due to many hours watching Boston Legal, LA Law or whatever is the lastest legal drama on Netflix. The picture painted on television is that life as a litigator is a fast paced and thrilling ride, dueling with wily opposition Counsel, approaching the bench, banging your fist on the bar table and giving impassioned speeches to sway an otherwise cynical jury. Or it could be that many law graduates have an urgent and burning desire to fight for justice, or to help people less fortunate than themselves who need legal help. That is to be commended! Whatever the reason you want to be a lawyer, if you want to be a litigator, I think you should take the time to find out what a Court lawyer really does with their time - day to day, week to week, year to year. The reason I say this is because what you see on TV is not really what you will experience in practice, particularly as a commercial litigator. In years past, commercial litigators spent a lot of time in Court. Daily or weekly visits to Court were common. Procedural points were argued in person, and busy commercial litigation firms had maybe ten or more complex Supreme Courts trials each year. Those days are gone. Many of the procedural points are now argued and settled “on the papers” i.e. by exchange of paperwork and emails. Commercial litigation matters must proceed through mediation in an attempt to settle the dispute before the matter ends up in Court. The costs of conducting a full Supreme Court trial are now too high for many clients. All of this means that commercial litigators spend a lot less time in Court than was anticipated when still at Law School. Another key point to recognize is that the usual commercial litigation scenario is that a client has lost money or is owed money or owes someone money. And they are seeking your help to avoid paying money, or to get back

116 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

money paid or lost, or to just get paid! If you want a career as a commercial litigator, you need to accept that you will spend 40+ years fighting other people’s fights over money. I know more than a few ex-commercial litigators who threw in the Law because they realized they wanted something more fulfilling from their career. The life of a commercial lawyer who doesn’t go to Court is quite different to being a litigator. Since leaving Law School I have worked in big and small firms and run a sole practice for many years. I have worked as General Counsel for a number of my clients, including several gold explorers, quite a few tech startups, a large spatial services provider with four offices globally, a software developer and a satellite launch services company.

What you see on TV is not really what you will experience in practice, particularly as a commercial litigator Over the years my legal work has led to me serving as a Director of many client companies, from the rocket company to a CSIRO spinout developing gallium arsenide semiconductor chips, to the gold explorers, to a biotech incubator, to a mobile phone app developer… the list goes on. I have travelled extensively throughout North America and Europe (at client expense), helping them with various legal and commercial projects and problems. The point of this potted summary of the first 20 or so years of my work life is not to boast about what I have done. Rather, it is to illustrate the variety of interesting and different work you can be exposed to if you decide to pursue a career as a commercial lawyer who doesn’t go to Court. Being a non-Court lawyer means you don’t prepare Court pleadings, you don’t know the rules of evidence, you haven’t read the “Red Book” since Law School, and you don’t read reams of cases and reported judgements. Although you don’t get to stand on your feet and make submissions before a Judge or Master or Magistrate, you also don’t spend hours preparing for a case that settles on the steps of the Court. You also don’t spend inter-

minable days, weeks and months trawling through the emails and dusty archive boxes of people you’ve never met, undertaking boring pre-trial discovery. However, you do get to work with a wide variety of clients across a wide variety of industries. Over time you develop an indepth knowledge about how, and how not, to run a business. You learn how to read a balance sheet and how to make a profit. You get to watch how deals are originated and executed, and sooner than you think clients will ask you to take a leading role in both tasks. You help give birth to companies, and you help many to the grave. For many clients you become a trusted business adviser.

Find out what litigators and non-litigators do and don’t do on a daily basis, and choose carefully. Along the way you usually have the pleasure of helping to put in place business structures that create jobs for other people and add significant value to the community. Sometimes you can proudly watch from a distance as a small company that you worked many hours for grows and turns into a large enterprise with many employees generating many export and tax dollars for WA. I have yet to meet a litigation lawyer that can say they had a hand in creating from scratch lasting employment opportunities for upcoming generations. My experience is that most days that I work as a commercial lawyer are different. One day I am working on a software license agreement, the next on a joint venture agreement. The following day will be spent helping a client plot the path to production for a gold mine. The next day will be helping a large family company develop Board strategy documents and policies or a set of interlinked construction contracts. I think that most commercial lawyers can genuinely say that no two days at work are the same. Although the mainstay of a commercial lawyer’s life is churning out and reviewing contracts, most of the contracts are different and interesting. In my view, you will not have a long and satisfying career in the Law if you do the same thing, day in, day out. Most lawyers end up being either litigators or non-litigators, as it is difficult to work in both sides of law and to consistently do a good job. Find out what litigators and non-litigators do and don’t do on a daily basis, and choose carefully.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 117

LIFE AT A MAGIC CIRCLE FIRM R E BECCA CL AXON L AW Y E R AT A L L EN & OVERY

fter completing a Bachelor of Laws/Commerce at the University of Western Australia, I joined Allen & Overy as a graduate in 2013. Following my graduate rotations, I settled in the corporate team which advises on public M&A, private M&A, equity capital markets and general corporate matters. I don’t think I will be the first corporate lawyer to say that, in our role, no one day is the same. The matters we work on vary from providing advice to junior mining clients on their disclosure obligations under the ASX Listing Rules, to acting for a private equity firm in the acquisition of an interest in an African mining project valued at close to US$100,000,000. Our sector focus is energy and natural resources and our work generally relates to transactions in this sector, for example, the disposal or acquisition of substantial mining assets, joint ventures, inbound and outbound investment in mining projects along with providing ongoing advice to energy and resources clients in respect of ASX and ASIC compliance. The varying nature of our work can be challenging at times but being involved in a variety of matters is beneficial as it allows you to develop knowledge and skills in different, but complementing, areas. We are often engaged by other offices within the Allen & Overy network to assist on cross-border transactions due to our depth of experience in the energy and resources sector which allows us to work on complex and high profile mining deals in other jurisdictions. Over the past five years, I have had the opportunity to work on a number of cross-border matters run by other offices around the Allen & Overy network including Singapore, Dubai, London, Paris, Tokyo, Myanmar, Beijing and New York. Assisting on these deals has provided me with the chance to work on matters that are less common in Australia and to establish relationships with my peers throughout the Allen & Overy network. I have found that these connections are incredibly valuable when you need to connect with another Allen & Overy office to seek assistance with a local law query. I have also had the opportunity to expand my network at global and regional training programs which are a key aspect of your formal training at Allen & Overy. In 2015, I went on secondment to our Bangkok office and spent six months working with the project financing

118 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

team. I must confess that I had not seriously considered an international secondment in my first few years of practice but the offer of living and working overseas with the full support of the firm was too good of an opportunity to turn down. Whilst on secondment I worked on a range of different matters including the financing of renewable energy projects throughout the Asia-Pacific region. I was also able to travel extensively around Thailand and other parts of Asia including Singapore and Hong Kong and form friendships with other expats who I still keep in touch with today.

I don’t think I will be the first corporate lawyer to say that, in our role, no one day is the same. Aside from legal work, I am a member of the Communitas Committee which is responsible for our pro bono resourcing, volunteering and charity work. Being involved with Communitas allows me to contribute to the firm outside of my legal work. It is incredibly rewarding to be able to use our knowledge, skills and people-power to assist those who are less fortunate within the community. Whilst all that I have mentioned may seem very glamorous (and sometimes it is), being a lawyer is hard work - it requires perseverance, resilience and, sometimes, sacrifice. You will be faced with complex legal problems and you will be pushed outside of your comfort zone but, if your experience is anything like mine, you will also be supported, by your peers and by your seniors who are invested in your development. So explore your options and find work that you truly enjoy in a team of people that want to work with and learn from – as I have done at Allen & Overy.

LIFE AT A MAGIC CIRCLE FIRM E M ERSON WAL KER L AWY E R AT ALLEN & OVERY

What were the biggest challenges you faced moving from university to full-time work? The move from university to full-time work was a significant learning experience, but something that was actually surprisingly easy to manage. The biggest challenge that I experienced was understanding that the performance of your role actually has a real-life outcome and can have a significant effect on a client’s business. You are therefore required to be on your toes at all times, rather than being able to skip a lecture here or a tutorial there. The transition from university to full-time work was made relatively straightforward as a result of the support that the firm afforded me and my fellow graduates. We commenced with graduate training in the Sydney office, which doubled as a fantastic opportunity to meet some colleagues from around the network. Graduates are able to take study days to assist in the completion of College of Law, and there are regular training opportunities which allow graduates and junior associates to quickly understand how the firm works and what is required of them. In addition to the graduate training in Sydney, I have also travelled to Singapore and London for further career development opportunities. How has Allen & Overy’s presence in the international market impacted the work you receive? One of the things that drew me to Allen & Overy was the unique combination of the relatively small office here in Perth that allows for a tight-knit, collegiate feel in the office, with the scope to work on large cross-border matters with colleagues from around the globe. In my two years at the firm I have worked on matters, and for clients, based in the US, the UK, the Netherlands, France, Spain, India, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Papua New Guinea, Tanzania, Mauritania, Guinea and Zimbabwe, among others. The Perth office works on a combination of domestic and cross-border matters for both local and international clients. Given the firm’s integrated structure, work flows freely between offices depending on the expertise, experience and capacity of lawyers around the network. That is, the firm’s integrated structure means that there is no incentive for lawyers to ‘ring fence’ or protect their own work streams.

All of our practice groups have an international focus. Whilst our Corporate and Banking teams work for a number of ASX-listed clients with a largely domestic focus, they also advise in relation to international projects and transactions in places such as Africa and south-east Asia, among others. It is a similar situation for our Disputes team, which is involved in both domestic litigious matters and international arbitral proceedings. What secondment opportunities does Allen & Overy offer? Allen & Overy has 44 offices in 31 countries around the world, and there are few limitations on secondment opportunities. There are Australian lawyers scattered around the network at present, including in the firm’s London, New York, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Singapore offices. Secondments are offered at all levels, and many graduates take the chance to complete one of their rotations in another office. Secondment opportunities may arise either through formal secondment programs (which are generally offered biannually – the most recent opportunities were in Milan, Tokyo and Luxembourg) or on an ad hoc basis when offices are short on resources. What are some challenges that a graduate can expect when placed on secondment? Secondments come with various challenges, including in relation to establishing a support network, cultural integration (including language barriers) and simply understanding the legal regime of the local jurisdiction. That being said, the firm goes over and above to ensure that its people are best equipped to deal with the challenges that a secondment may pose. For example:depending on the secondee’s level of experience, the firm will often provide a family living allowance to ensure partners and children are able to relocate; and where there are language barriers, the firm covers the cost of language lessons (which are generally taken in the office two or three times per week). Additionally, many of Allen & Overy’s offices are located in cities with thriving expat communities which hold regular events, and so it is easy to establish new networks soon after commencing overseas.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 119

PATHS TO COMMERCIAL LAW D R E W BROA D F OOT A S S O C I AT E AT JONES D AY

y path towards a career in law has been slightly unusual, but I think it has led to me having a holistic view of legal issues that has helped my legal practice overall. My first university degree was from the University of Wisconsin – Madison in Marketing and International Business. A compulsory unit for all business students at UW-Madison was Business Law. While the unit was dreaded by most business students, really enjoyed it. I had no immediate thoughts of switching majors, but I did think that studying law might suit me in the future. I continued on the business path to work at Komatsu America Corporation, the North American division of the Japanese construction equipment manufacturer. I worked in marketing during my time at Komatsu, primarily assisting Komatsu’s sales staff with information requirements. While it was a very solid company and I had good prospects there, I did not see myself there long-term. I decided to move (back) to Australia to pursue a law degree at UWA. My time at UWA was tremendous, and I really enjoyed the intellectual rigor of the course work. My message to anyone at UWA now is that you should take any opportunities you can to learn from the community at UWA, on any subject that interests you, particularly subjects beyond law. The law does not exist in a vacuum – it applies to any set of facts and circumstances as required. To get an understanding of how the law applies, one must understand the facts and circumstances intimately. Broadening your university experience is the best way to give you a grounding to understand the facts and circumstances that are thrown at you in your legal practice. After graduation, I commenced work as an Articled Clerk at Blake Dawson Waldron (now Ashurst). I started work with a great crew of fellow Articled Clerks at Blakes. I remain good friends with many of them. Your fellow graduates are an excellent resource as your career progresses. You can learn a lot from your peers as you all progress through your legal careers. No two paths are the same! Since I started practicing law, I have worked at national, international, and local law firms. I highly recommend

120 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

getting experience in many different environments, as they will all teach you something useful. That being said, the best experiences I have had in working in law have been based on great teams I’ve joined. Legal work is always a team effort. A great legal team, working together, will always have an advantage over a team that is not as cohesive. I have used my experience to benefit the community in a small way, by participating in the Management Committee of Street Law Centre Inc. – a community legal centre for Perth’s homeless community. Street Law was originally the idea of a UWA graduate, (and current UWA Law Senior Lecturer), Ian Murray. While I don’t have the opportunity through Street Law to directly assist members of the community in need, I hope my experience helps to guide Street Law to meet its goals.

Your fellow graduates are an excellent resource as your career progresses. You can learn a lot from your peers as you all progress through your legal careers. No two paths are the same! It has been a long road in law to get me to this point, but I hope to never stop learning, and continue to explore my path in law. I hope your path is as rewarding as mine has been!

LIFE IN A BOUTIQUE FIRM L U CY M ENGL ER S OL I C I T O R AT P R I CE SIERA KOW SKI CORPORAT E

am a junior solicitor at Price Sierakowski, having joined the firm’s litigation team as a graduate in August 2016.

Following my admission to the Supreme Court in late 2016, I have had the opportunity to assist with matters in the Federal Court, Supreme Court, District Court and Warden’s Court. By ‘assist’, I do not mean trailing behind counsel and supervisors, carrying their files to court. An advantage of working in a smaller litigation team is that each team member is required to take an active role in the matters in which they are involved. The interesting work is not hoarded by senior lawyers while the juniors get the dubious privilege of document review and hospital handpass appearances in court. For instance, as a restricted practitioner under supervision, I have drafted pleadings in the District Court, a lengthy witness statement for a Supreme Court matter and have attended a subpoena hearing as instructing solicitor with counsel in the Supreme Court. A smaller firm can also provide juniors with the opportunity to interact with partners, barristers and clients on a daily basis. I also appear frequently in the Magistrates Court in relation to matters for which I am responsible. In addition to developing my advocacy skills, my work in the Magistrates Court provides good practice in managing clients which is an essential skill in all courts and practice areas. Work in the Magistrates Court can highlight that legal problems can be stressful for clients who are personally involved and it can be satisfying to assist by advising on the strategies and commercial implications of litigation for everyday people, as well as the law itself. Early exposure to court appearances can provide a confidence boost and develop advocacy skills, and it is not always possible to gain such experience at a larger firm.

“

Early exposure to court appearances can provide a confidence boost and develop advocacy skills, and it is not always possible to gain such experience at a larger firm.

”

In sum, it would be a mistake to underestimate the type of work that can be available to a junior lawyer at a smaller firm. Beyond the work itself, a smaller firm can also provide a collegiate environment where all doors are open for a chat about life beyond the office, or the latest test cricket disaster, as well as legal strategies and issues in litigation.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 121

WORKING IN LONDON M ICHAEL HEY L AW G R A D U AT E AT F RESHF IEL D S

hile there has always been a large flow of Aussie lawyers infiltrating the law firms of London after working in Australia for a few years, not many people know that London law firms are increasingly hiring graduates from overseas. If you are keen to skip the first few years in Australia and move overseas ASAP, I would encourage you to consider the London equivalent of a grad scheme, called a “training contract”. At the end of which, you will be dual-qualified in Australia and the UK, giving you some excellent legal training to jumpstart you career, while also providing the option to return home whenever you choose. I’m now coming to the end of my training contract in London at a firm called Freshfields. What is a training contract? A training contract is a two-year graduate program that all law grads across the UK must complete to become qualified as a solicitor in England and Wales. It is very structured – trainees rotate through different departments for those two years and then qualify into a team at the end. While this two year period is a bit longer than the usual grad scheme at an Australian firm, it gives you the opportunity to try many different areas of law and, for some, the opportunity to go on secondment to a client or overseas. In this time I’ve rotated through banking litigation, international arbitration, leveraged finance, M&A and competition law, and am about to spend my last six months on secondment to the M&A team at Bank of America Merrill Lynch.

The best selling point for me was that London has a world of opportunities to jump over to if I ever want to move, both in law and outside law. How do I become qualified in the UK? An Australian law degree is not recognised in the UK so unless you want to spend another two years studying in the UK, the best option is to get admitted in Australia first (this can be done in six months), which will make you eligible to sit the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme (QLTS) exam. Most firms make you sit the QLTS at some point before the end of your training contract and will pay for everything, including the costs of getting admitted in

122 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

Australia. The QLTS exam was a little painful, but it’s a small price to pay for a very useful qualification (and is hopefully my last exam ever!). I am very relieved to have just found out that I passed and will be getting admitted as an English solicitor in a few months. Applications process Training contracts are offered very far in advance – usually just under two years before the start date (firms will be hiring grads to start in 2020 this year!). Unlike many Australian firms, it isn’t a prerequisite to do a clerkship at a firm to get a training contract. The interviews can be a bit longer and intensive, however it can all be done over Skype. Can I return to practise law in Australia? As long as you were admitted before heading to the UK, the option to return home is always open. Your experience in London will likely be highly regarded on your return and, depending on the stage of your career and your field of practice, you should be able to slip back into a similar (or more senior) role in Australia. What’s it like working in the UK? For a start, things in London are usually on a larger scale. The big firms take on nearly 100 grads per year. The deals and cases are also generally larger, more complex and involve multiple jurisdictions. It’s hard to comment in more detail on the differences between work as I have never worked in Australia, but working in London you do feel closer to some of the major developments in the financial and legal world. London salaries are also a lot higher once you qualify, however this is in return for generally longer hours and worse work-life balance. I’ve really loved living in London – it’s a city that never gets boring and is a short (and cheap) flight away from anywhere in Europe. The best selling point for me was that London has a world of opportunities to jump over to if I ever want to move, both in law and outside law. I’ve seen friends move to jobs in areas ranging from FinTech and other start-ups to European public policy. If you’re interested, I would start by checking out the UK Chambers Student website which has a good overview of all the firms in London – then get applying!

GLOBAL EXPERIENCES S A R AH ROU GHEA D A S S O C I AT E AT BAKER M CKENZIE

’m sure that a few “aspiring” Seasonal Clerks have seen “Born Global”, “Passionately Global” and “Cross-Border” on a Baker McKenzie publication at some point - but in reality, the global nature of the Baker McKenzie network is so much greater than that! Cross-Border Transactions Starting at Baker McKenzie as a Graduate, I rotated through our Banking & Finance and Dispute Resolution groups before settling in the Melbourne Corporate group. I was immediately placed on a global spin-off transaction in which the Melbourne office was co-ordinating around 10 jurisdictions in the Asia-Pacific region. That role involved advising on the Australian aspects of the transaction, managing timelines and work product across those 10 jurisdictions, and liaising with our colleagues in the US about the overall implementation of the project. Since then, I have worked on a number of cross-border transactions ranging from pre and post acquisition restructures to cross-border M&A and corporate advice. The exciting thing about cross-border transactions is that there is always something new! You meet people with different backgrounds, learn about the laws (or lack thereof) in other countries and are exposed to your client’s global strategy. Working on cross-border transactions has been engaging, interesting and challenging. International Meetings - from Singapore to New York All APAC mid-level Associates at Baker McKenzie attend the Asia-Pacific Mid-Level Associates Meeting (APMAM). The year I attended, the meeting was in Singapore. The meeting was a fantastic opportunity to meet and catch up with colleagues at a similar level across APAC. The training itself was hands on and practical - covering development, leadership, delegation and the global and regional strategy of the Firm. The best part, however, was the opportunity to meet and network with other Baker McKenzie lawyers. From a practical perspective, it made it much easier to just “reach out” to (for example) our Bangkok office for work related matters. More generally, it really brought to life the global culture of the Firm. In 2017, I flew to New York for the Global Reorganisations meeting. Reorganisations are the most “global” type of transaction you can work on. They almost always involve

a few other jurisdictions (and sometimes almost every country you can think of!) and give you the opportunity to work with colleagues and clients around the world. This meeting brought hundreds of Baker McKenzie reorganisations lawyers together for two days of training and socialising (ahem, networking). Personally, I was very excited to finally meet people that I had been emailing / calling for years! The training really brought together our global resources and showed the strength of the global reorganisations team.

I think that one of the keys to the success of the global Baker McKenzie network is that almost everyone working here has had global experiences in one way or another, which means that everyone feels like they are part of the global fabric of the Firm, not just one or two people. Chi-town life A few weeks ago, I moved to our Chicago office for 12 months. There are a number of people in our Chicago office from all over the world - France, Ireland, Mexico and Japan, just to name a few. It has been fantastic to meet and work with the team in Chicago and interestingly, it feels very similar to Melbourne (but a lot bigger!). After arriving, it was immediately apparent that the global experiences just keep on coming - there is a North America Associates training program that will be hosted in Chicago in mid-April which will be a great way to meet people in our offices in North America (especially as North America includes Canada and Mexico!). Working in Chicago, I’m still working on cross-border transactions. Day one, I started advising on a cross-border M&A deal involving three jurisdictions and it has just continued from there. Chicago is a global hub and, as such, is often involved in the co-ordination of global projects. I’m sure that the challenges I’ve previously experienced working across time zones, managing timelines

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 123

and the intricacies of co-ordinating multiple jurisdictions, together with the “fun” that goes with such projects will be magnified here! Is this something you are interested in? Having worked at Baker McKenzie for the past 5 years, it is obvious to me how interconnected the Firm is and the enormous benefits that offers to its clients and lawyers. The experiences that Baker McKenzie offers its lawyers are second to none and have been (and continue to be) excellent for my personal and professional development. I think that one of the keys to the success of the global Baker McKenzie network is that almost everyone working here has had global experiences in one way or another, which means that everyone feels like they are part of the global fabric of the Firm, not just one or two people. If you are interested in a legal career with global experiences, Baker McKenzie is “the place to be”!

“

Having worked at Baker McKenzie for the past 5 years, it is obvious to me how interconnected the Firm is and the enormous benefits that offers to its clients and lawyers. The experiences that Baker McKenzie offers its lawyers are second to none and have been (and continue to be) excellent for my personal and professional development.

”

124 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIPS D A N I E L C ONT I & A L EX HEW IT T G R A D U AT E S AT L AW AT BAKER M CKENZIE

Daniel Conti Baker McKenzie resonated with me, on a number of levels, as an ideal Firm to begin my legal career because of its high calibre international and cross-border work; its friendly and collegiate culture; and its outstanding opportunities to work and undertake training overseas. I undertook a Summer Clerkship in 2017 with the Melbourne office’s Corporate team and was fortunate to receive a Graduate position with the Firm later that year. Subsequently, I was excited to be selected to undertake a four-week International Clerkship with the Firm’s London office, prior to commencing as a Graduate in Melbourne. Having expressed a strong desire to gain some exposure to international Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) and Capital Markets, the prospect of spending two weeks in the London office’s M&A group and two weeks in its Structured Capital Markets (SCM) group was a fantastic opportunity. While the M&A and SCM practice groups in London are incredibly busy, they are very supportive and friendly. Having made the long trip over to London, it was comforting that I could make a smooth and seamless transition into the office and immediately become involved in a plethora of matters. In addition to assisting both teams with research and advisory work, I had the opportunity to work on two incredibly interesting matters. Whilst working in the M&A team, I was fortunate to be involved in advising one of the Firm’s longstanding clients on its multi-billion dollar acquisition of the personal care and homecare brands of a Latin American consumer goods company. The deal involved 10 Latin American jurisdictions, an incredible amount of coordination and the consideration of many other areas of law (such as tax, competition and intellectual property). This significant deal allowed me to fully appreciate Baker McKenzie’s capability and capacity to facilitate such a strategic yet complex transaction. Whilst working with the SCM team, I was fortunate to be a part of concluding a USD$500m note issuance by an Eastern European bank on the Irish Stock Exchange. I also had the opportunity to attend a number of client meetings, professional development sessions on emerging areas of law and possible reform, and an energy derivatives

trading conference - where I represented the Firm! Of course, I was also able to fit in some travel in my downtime! For anyone who has been to London, you would know it is laden with history and culture. To that end, I visited many museums (including the world-renowned Natural History Museum), numerous landmarks (such as Westminster Abbey and Wembley Stadium) and, of course, a number of fantastic pubs - to soak up the British’s love for sport! I am very grateful, especially at such an early stage in my career, for the opportunity to have undertaken an International Clerkship with our London office - and to have built my knowledge, experience and global network. I look forward to continuing to build my career with the Firm in the years to come!

I am very grateful, especially at such an early stage in my career, for the opportunity to have undertaken an International Clerkship with our London office - and to have built my knowledge, experience and global network. Alex Hewitt fter completing a Summer Clerkship with Baker McKenzie during February 2017, in the Firm’s Technology, Communications and Commercial group, I was fortunate to receive a Graduate position with the Firm. I was then thrilled to be awarded an International Clerkship, which I completed in February 2018.

Having enjoyed Intellectual Property (IP) at uni, I expressed my keen interest in experiencing Baker McKenzie’s strong global IP practice, which was also one of the key reasons I was attracted to the Firm. As there was a considerable amount of interesting work being undertaken in Hanoi, I was sent to work with the IP team in that office.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 125

My experience as an International Clerk with Baker McKenzie was overwhelmingly positive. From the outset, I found it easy to transition into my role in the Hanoi office, particularly as the Firm’s systems and styles are largely common throughout its different jurisdictions. Having worked with other global law firms, I know that this is quite unique to Bakers and speaks volumes to its global integration. Baker McKenzie’s IP practice in Hanoi is busy and constantly expanding. My team worked with clients from a multitude of different countries such as Japan, Korea, the USA and countless others. Each client was eager to invest in Vietnam’s developing economy and the Hanoi IP team was kept busy assisting these clients grow their businesses in Vietnam. During my time in the team, I was able to assist with several franchising matters for large companies who were expanding into the territory. Similar to my Clerkship in Melbourne, I worked on tasks such as letters of advice to clients and attended client meetings. The most exciting tasks I worked on were Trademark and Copyright Reports, which I helped draft for our clients these reports outlined the likelihood of a breach of the client’s IP rights (based on police reports and undercover investigations!). Of course, in my leisure time, I was also able to explore all that Hanoi had to offer. I tried local dishes including ‘Balut’ (or ‘half-developed duck egg’ – not for the faint hearted), many different varieties of fried insects, and of course indulged in the more well-known Vietnamese dishes such as Banh Mi. The greatest highlight though was the Tet party which I was fortunate enough to attend, given the timing of the Lunar New Year. Everyone in the Firm dressed in the traditional costume of a country where Baker McKenzie has an office. Given the Firm has 78 offices across 47 countries, this led to some very diverse and creative costumes, the best of which were showcased in a fashion parade! I learnt so much during my time in the Firm’s Hanoi office, and made some incredible friendships, which I know I will keep in the coming years. Cảm ơn (thank you) Baker McKenzie - I am incredibly appreciative to have had this experience!

126 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

“

My experience as an International Clerk with Baker McKenzie was overwhelmingly positive.

”

WAYNE MARTIN AC CHIEF JU S T ICE O F T H E S U P R E M E COU R T OF W ES T ERN AU S T RA LI A

COURTS

here are about 120 judicial officers in Western Australia. Roughly half are judges and half are magistrates. I have the privilege of being one of them. Western Australia’s judiciary come from a diverse range of educational and professional backgrounds. Professionally, judges and magistrates are appointed from private law firms, the Bar, government legal agencies including legal aid agencies and occasionally from the academy. Regrettably, the demographic diversity of Western Australia’s judiciary does not match the diversity of our community. Women and ethnicities other than Anglo and Anglo-Irish are significantly under represented. I am optimistic that the ethnic mix of our judiciary will closer resemble the ethnic mix of our community over time, as the ethnic mix of those entering the legal profession has changed significantly over the last 10-20 years. Lawyers generally require about 20 years of practical experience before they reach the point at which they are appropriately considered for judicial appointment. Regrettably, I am not so optimistic in relation to gender balance. Women have comprised the majority of graduates from Western Australia’s law schools for more than 30 years. The under representation of women in the judiciary does not appear to be a timing issue, as the under representation has increased in the Supreme and District Courts over the last 10 years. It seems to me to be clear that there are structural barriers within the legal profession which discourage a significant number of women from pursuing career trajectories which would place them amongst those considered for judicial appointment. It is my hope that this will change, and the sooner the better. There is, however, one thing that all judges and magistrates in Western Australia have in common. At the time of our appointment we all took an oath or affirmation to faithfully serve the peo-

ple and State of Western Australia and to “do right to all manner of people, according to law, without fear or favour, affection or ill will”.

Every judge and magistrate in Western Australia has a solemn obligation to provide justice to all, whether rich or poor, whether powerful or vulnerable, whatever their ethnicity, religion or gender, whatever their state of physical or mental health, and whatever the extent of their disadvantage or dysfunction. The language is a bit clunky and outdated, but the concept is clear enough. Every judge and magistrate in Western Australia has a solemn obligation to provide justice to all, whether rich or poor, whether powerful or vulnerable, whatever their ethnicity, religion or gender, whatever their state of physical or mental health, and whatever the extent of their disadvantage or dysfunction. The inclusion of a promise to discharge this obligation in the oath or affirmation of office reflects its fundamental importance. The effectiveness with which we discharge that obligation significantly contributes to the quality of justice provided in this State. And the quality of justice, and in particular the extent to which justice is provided to all the residents of this State irrespective of economic status, gender, ethnicity, etc is a good measure of the civilisation and strength of our community. The obligation to ‘do right to all manner of people, according to law’ is fundamental to the effective discharge of judicial duties. It is also the most difficult objective to achieve and provides

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 127

very real challenges on a daily basis to each and every member of Western Australiaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s judiciary. That is because, speaking generally and somewhat imprecisely, the justice system which this State inherited at the time of colonisation is essentially adversarial. It proceeds upon the assumption that justice is best attained by adjudicating upon a battle between two combatants or contestants, although unlike Norman times, the battle is not physical and the jousting is verbal. Obviously the extent to which justice can be determined through such a process depends upon the extent to which the contest is fair. But the contest will only be fair if the contestants have equal access to the justice system and if the resources which they are able to bring to bear upon the contest are approximately equal. There are, of course, cases in which these preconditions are met, but there are many in which they are not. The law becomes more complex every time a parliament sits, and despite our best efforts, the procedures of our courts remain mystifying to many. The cost of legal representation (which is very often a practical necessity if the assumptions which underpin the adversarial process are to be satisfied) is beyond the reach of all except government, substantial business enterprises, the wealthy, and the increasingly select few who are eligible for legal aid. This leaves a large group who must, of necessity, represent themselves in court. One of the most difficult challenges faced by judges and magistrates is the obligation of providing justice to all in the many cases in which the scales of justice start out of balance because of the different level of resources available to the participants in the trial process. The provision of any form of assistance or advice to the less resourced litigant creates an immediate tension with the judicial obligation to remain aloof from the parties and scrupulously impartial. Of course, these are not the only challenges we face. Like most agencies of government, we are being called upon to do more and more with less and less resources. The quality of justice to which we all aspire is threatened by the practical necessity of getting through our caseload in a timely fashion. Practical necessity has caused us all to realise that justice is a relative concept, not an absolute, and judicial resources must be allocated to reflect competing priorities in that context. So how do you become a judge or magistrate? Probably the worst way is to plan a career with the objective of ultimately becoming a judge or magistrate. There was never any point in my career in which I took a particular path because it would improve my prospects of judicial appointment. Suitability for judicial appointment requires

128 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

some fairly basic human qualities to be combined with demonstrated legal skills and experience. Honesty and integrity are, of course, essential, and humanity, compassion and an even temperament are highly desirable. The best way of demonstrating legal skill and gaining experience is by working hard, and in my experience the best way of working hard is by working in any area which you really enjoy.

find an area of the law that you really like, and which gives you a sense of satisfaction and fulfilment. If you enjoy what you are doing, you will do it well So, if you think you would like to be a judge or a magistrate, my advice would be donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t plan for it. Instead, find an area of the law that you really like, and which gives you a sense of satisfaction and fulfilment. If you enjoy what you are doing, you will do it well. And if you do it well, you will be given more and better work and you could find yourself amongst those being considered for judicial appointment, as I was. A good step in that direction is to study areas of law which you find interesting, where those options are available.

JUDGE’S ASSOCIATE A L E K SAND RA M IL L ER A S S O C I ATE T O JU ST ICE HAL L

was Justice Mitchell’s Associate in 2017 and am now Justice Hall’s Associate until the end of the year. When I got the job, a lawyer I was working with at the time told me there’s one down-side to being a Judge’s Associate – your subsequent job will never be as good! The average day of a Judge’s Associate at the Supreme Court is not so easy to capture. Each day can bring with it new challenges, and the role varies immensely depending on which particular judge you are working for. Judge’s Associates are members of a judge’s personal staff. Each judge will generally have their own Associate, Orderly and secretary. They may have a Research Associate, or a Research Associate/Orderly instead of an Orderly. Associates conduct correspondence on behalf of their judge, do legal research, proof-read judgments, maintain files, and complete court documentation such as official records of orders and warrants. In court, Associates operate the in-court monitoring software, dial up video-links, hold onto exhibits and perform some speaking roles such as identifying accused persons, reading out charges and taking verdicts.

When I got the job, a lawyer I was working with at the time told me there’s one down-side to being a Judge’s Associate – your subsequent job will never be as good! If you are a Research Associate/Orderly your role may be very similar to the Associate role, with additional Orderly tasks, or it may be more similar to the traditional Orderly role. The role of the Orderly in court is to knock the judges into the courtroom, swear in witnesses and jurors, provide water to court attendees and hand documents to the bench. Outside of court, the role of an Orderly is akin to a personal assistant to the judge. As a law graduate Research Associate/Orderly, and depending on your judge’s preference, you and the Associate may alternate the Associate and Orderly roles in court, and you will likely also be asked to do legal research, proof-reading and other Associates’ tasks.

The main highlight of being an Associate or Orderly is getting to see court hearings. It is a great way to learn by observation if appearing in court is something which you aspire to. You will get to see some of the best (and worst) advocates in the state, and quickly learn the dos and don’ts of being a lawyer. The other main highlight is getting to work closely with people who have effectively made it to the top. Hopefully, your judge will not only be your boss but also a mentor. Many ex-Associates keep in touch with their judges even after moving on to different jobs. You will have the opportunity to hear their insights about practice of the law and career paths. You will get to see their legal minds at work and may even be asked to provide your own opinion on how a case should be decided. You will also have the benefit of discussion following hearings as to what counsel did well or should have done differently in their advocacy techniques. The Supreme Court judges are very friendly and you will get to know many of them, whether it be chatting at Judges’ and Associates’ drinks or when you run into them making themselves a coffee in the kitchen! The role is quite different depending on which division of the court you work in, and whether your judge specialises in criminal or civil law, or does both. For this reason, working with Justice Mitchell in the Court of Appeal was quite different to the work I do now for Justice Hall. If you are in the General Division of the Court, and in particular if your judge is a Crime judge like Justice Hall, you will be in court most days of the week. If you are in the Court of Appeal, you will be in court on average once a week, and more of the work will be researching and proof-reading. You will be exposed to in-depth and technical legal argument in uncertain areas of the law. In the General Division, you get exposed to more advocacy, court procedure and a greater variety of different types of hearings in different legal areas. More of the work involves making arrangements before hearings and preparing the documentation afterwards. While this is a responsibility of all Associates, the greater number of court hearings make this a more prominent part of being a General Division Associate. You are in charge of making sure video-links, interpreters etc. are booked, and you are responsible for coordinating trials by liaising with counsel, jury services, prisons and security to ensure everything goes smoothly.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 129

As an Associate, you will learn a lot about the law, court procedure and competent legal practice. You will also get to work at a collegial and supportive workplace, make friends within your tight-knit cohort of Judge’s Associates, and enjoy cake each Friday provided by rostered Associates in accordance with the Provision of Cake Act 2011 – so brush up on your baking skills so not to disappoint!

“

”

130 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

BARRISTER A L A IN M U S IKANT H F R A N C I S BU R T CHA M BERS

first started working as a barrister at the age of 23 in Cape Town, South Africa in the year after graduating from university. Going straight to the bar (rather than starting articles at a law firm) was a less common path, though at the time (and in the place where I began my career) not an exceptionally unusual one. Before commencing practice on my own, I was required to undergo a period of pupillage in the chambers of a senior barrister, followed by a gruelling national bar exam. In the early years, many of my cases involved appearing in trials for indigent defendants. Several were Supreme Court matters involving multiple accused who faced very serious criminal charges. While being thrown in that sort of “deep end” is an experience unlikely to be repeated by a recently-admitted lawyer in Western Australia any time soon, it forced me to start developing, at a relatively early stage of my career, some of the essential skills necessary to practice as a barrister. Most importantly, how to think on my feet and to expect the unexpected. As time went by, I began making increasing contacts within the profession and received a growing number of briefs in civil and commercial matters. By the time I left Cape Town for Perth, after 7 years in chambers, most of my work involved those sorts of cases.

While the work is exacting, demanding and, at times, exhausting, I have not for one moment regretted my own decision to become a barrister. At least not yet. Soon after moving to Perth, I joined the commercial litigation division of a national Australian law firm. I remained there for over 5 years until early 2007 when I again commenced practice as a barrister, this time at the Western Australian Bar. Since joining the WA Bar, I have found the experience of developing a practice, the method of practice and the collegial and supportive environment within chambers to have been remarkably similar to what I had encountered in Cape Town.

Fundamentally, a barrister is independent sole practitioner who specialises in advocacy. At the bar you generally have more time and space to focus and reflect without the added pressures (and distractions) associated with working in a busy law firm. You may choose which areas of law you wish to focus on and, hopefully, develop your practice in. And you are surrounded by colleagues with whom you can discuss legal and ethical conundrums in both a safe environment and in the strictest of confidence. But independence comes at a price. You no longer have control over “the file”. The court materials you will receive will frequently have been prepared by others. You will often be at the mercy of deadlines not of your own making. And, as you are the one who will generally have to persuade the judge, the buck will stop with you. Diligence, rigorous attention to detail, being a good listener, intuition, objectivity, courtesy, courage and, above all, frankness and honesty are among the key qualities you will need to possess to succeed. At a most basic level, however, you will require work. As the source of that work is usually (if not invariably) other lawyers, it may be wise to develop a solid network of contacts within the profession before making any move to the bar. You will also need to continue to work on those networks (and develop them further) when you get there. It is perhaps largely for these reasons that many of those who have joined the bar made the transition after practising within the wider profession for many years. Having said that, there is, encouragingly, a growing number of lawyers who have joined at a younger age. While the work is exacting, demanding and, at times, exhausting, I have not for one moment regretted my own decision to become a barrister. At least not yet.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 131

ASIC

GOVERNMENT

NATAL IE D U RR R E G I O N A L COMMISSIONER FOR WA AND S E N I O R E X E C UT IVE - ENF ORCEM ENT WA AT A S I C

y rights, I probably shouldn’t be a lawyer. My best subject at High School was Physics. I made the curious decision to commence Commerce at UWA, thinking I wanted to be an Advertising Executive. After deciding that Accounting and Marketing really weren’t for me, I had the good fortune of getting sufficiently high marks to transfer to Law. After spending nearly three years with Clayton Utz in Perth in the early 1990s, I took my first position with ASIC as a commercial lawyer. I transferred to ASIC’s Enforcement Division, after coming to the view that they seemed to have a more exciting existence, and I have never turned back. A trip to Melbourne to execute a search warrant in a ritzy suburb, assisted by AFP colleagues, probably changed my life. I decided then to take a 6 month secondment to ASIC’s Melbourne office and stayed nearly 6 years. A criminal investigation there led to the three Directors of a failed futures trading company pleading guilty and going to jail. I then led an ASIC Melbourne investigation into suspected insolvent trading by a rice milling company founded by a former President of the Carlton Football Club. ASIC was successful in civil penalty (as distinct from criminal) proceedings against the three directors of the company. We achieved an order in the millions of dollars to compensate creditors, financial penalties and orders banning all three of them from managing corporations for various periods. I then returned home to Perth and spent several years as General Counsel with the Consumer Protection Division of the then WA Department of Commerce, and took three years off to have my two kids. In late 2013 I returned to ASIC, and shortly thereafter moved into the role of Senior Executive, Enforcement WA. Since July 2016 I have also been the Western Australian Regional Commissioner

132 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

for ASIC. In my first role, I have the privilege of leading a talented team of investigators and lawyers carrying out investigations of suspected breaches of the Corporations Act and other legislation, ranging from insider trading and market manipulation, through to unlicensed provision of financial services, breaches of Director’s duties, theft of company funds and illegal phoenix activity. My principal contribution (I hope) is solving problems for my team (for which I draw upon my earlier Physics study). The legal content of my work is high, although it tends mostly to be at the strategic level of picking legal issues and suggesting potential solutions/ appropriate direction for our matters. I also manage a budget, work jointly with other law enforcement agencies, lead ASIC’s involvement in the Serious Financial Crimes Taskforce, give presentations to the law and business community, and through these various roles seek to create opportunities for my team members to further their own legal, investigative and management careers.

I transferred to ASIC’s Enforcement Division, after coming to the view that they seemed to have a more exciting existence, and I have never turned back. Although ASIC does not have an unlimited budget, I believe I have more opportunity than I would in private practice to take on matters “out of principle”. In the process, we get to work with some of the best barristers and other professionals in Perth. Every day, without fear or favour, my team and I seek to play our part in maintaining the integrity of the Australian markets, and addressing misconduct affecting investors and financial consumers. For me personally, I find it difficult to imagine a more challenging and rewarding legal career.

PROSECUTION

CRIMINAL LAW

A M AND A F ORREST ER SC D I R E C T O R OF PU BL IC PROSECU T IONS

â&#x20AC;&#x2122;m not sure exactly when I decided I wanted to be a prosecutor. From my senior years of high school, I had in mind that I wanted to be an advocate. It wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t until I had spent a couple of years in a commercial firm that I realised that one of the best places for a young lawyer to get advocacy experience was the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. So I applied for, and eventually was offered, a job at the ODPP. Most prosecutors would agree that the learning curve was, even then, very steep. When I started, there were still preliminary hearings, so we got to learn to take evidence in the Magistrates Court. Nowadays, there are few opportunities to learn that skill other than in front of a jury.

It wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t until I had spent a couple of years in a commercial firm that I realised that one of the best places for a young lawyer to get advocacy experience was the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions. Very early on I realised that I loved being a prosecutor. Even as a junior, the work was fascinating and forever changing. The people were interesting and, although some witnesses and victims were challenging, to say the least, it was almost always possible to understand, even if with some effort, how their personal circumstances had led them to that point. And the opportunity to learn from some of the best advocates in the profession was right there for the taking. As I progressed in seniority, the trials became longer, and more difficult in different ways. Longer trials can, at times, completely take over your life. The supervisory and mentoring aspects of the role also became a greater focus, as it is the senior lawyers who are required to train and su-

pervise the junior prosecutors. That mix of work really appealed to me, although the transition to management roles is by no means easy, and required me to go through a whole new learning curve. Prosecuting is not for everyone. It can be mentally draining. The graphic and disturbing nature of some of the work affects people in different ways, and the legal system is still learning how to better prevent vicarious trauma. The work is relentless and requires enormous attention to detail. It requires empathy, compassion, an understanding of human psychology, and the right amount of resilience. And it requires an instinctive understanding of the law combined with the capacity to always continue learning new aspects of it. Since I started prosecuting, so much is the same, yet much has changed. Improvements in the treatment of sex offence victims are significant, although much more can and should still be done. The methylamphetamine epidemic, and the normalisation of its use in the general community has radically impacted on the criminal justice system, both in terms of volume and crime type, as well as a new cohort of people with mental illness as a legacy of their drug use. The increased understanding of Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is presenting new dilemmas with which the system is presently ill equipped to cope. And the explosion in technology has not only increased investigative options, but also the huge workload associated with it. What has stayed the same? Unfortunately, the rate of incarceration of Aboriginal people remains a blight on the criminal justice system. The right balance between rehabilitation and punishment remains elusive. We have still not worked out how the adversarial system can operate without victims often being made to feel as if the offences were somehow their fault, or being retraumatised by having to recount the events.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 133

The hours of work, largely regulated by the Courts, remain fixed, leaving less room for flexibility in the workplace to be accommodated. While part time arrangements are common in the ODPP, the need to be available between 9.30am and 4.30pm on consecutive days to do trials, hampers those who desire flexible working hours, whether it be to look after their children or for any other reason. And working from home, given we are a court based practice, is almost impossible, particularly given the ODPP’s current technology framework. In 2007, I moved to the Victorian ODPP as a Crown Prosecutor, to give myself a new perspective. I remained there for more than 4 years. It was a very challenging and informative experience. Most importantly, it reminded me to continuously challenge assumptions that our way is the best one. I came back to the WA ODPP in 2011 and became a Consultant State Prosecutor, primarily conducting homicide trials and appeals. It still never occurred to me that the role of DPP might be one for me. But when it came up, after the former Director was appointed, I thought it might be a challenge, and a change. And it’s certainly been that. I thought I knew what the job involved, but it’s impossible to know until you’re doing it. It’s very hard to plan a day, with so much unexpected work to do each day. Much of the job can’t be delegated, at least entirely, even though I have a great team of people supporting me. Commenting on draft legislation, providing high level ministerial advice, dealing with the budgetary and personnel issues, assisting staff with legal issues and working on initiatives to make the system more efficient and modern, leaves little time for that part of the job which led me to come to the ODPP in the first place - advocacy. Certainly, it leaves little time to prosecute criminal trials, given they require such intensive attention. However, I still get to court when I can, and I try to stay involved as much as I can with training and encouraging junior staff to keep improving their advocacy. And, importantly, I get to keep doing a job that I genuinely enjoy.

134 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

“

Very early on I realised that I loved being a prosecutor. Even as a junior, the work was fascinating and forever changing.

”

PROSECUTION Z A R A H BU RGESS S TAT E P R OSECU T OR AT OD P P

riminal law has always fascinated me, and I went into Law School knowing that I wanted to practise it when I graduated. With that in mind, I threw myself into anything that might be of relevance, both at Law School and outside of it. If criminal law is something you would like to forge a career in, I would encourage you to take the same steps, namely: (1) Take advantage of any elective units outside the compulsory Criminal Law/Evidence ones – we only had a few back when I was studying, but I made sure I did them all – and if you don’t think the Law School has enough on offer, speak up and lobby the Faculty to consider adding units to the curriculum; (2) Bite the bullet and sign up to that mooting competition – sure, it’s extra work (and can be daunting when you start out), but so much of the practice of criminal law in this State is advocacy-based, so you may as well get used to standing up and thinking on your feet; and (3) Don’t just consider the big firms when doing your clerkship applications – keep an eye out for the Summer and Winter ODPP clerkships (these are always advertised on the Jobs WA board, but if you’re concerned about missing any deadlines just call the ODPP and ask about the relevant dates). I gained entry to the ODPP’s Articled Clerk program in 2012 after graduating my combined Law/Arts degree. (Note: the ODPP currently does not offer a graduate programme, but it continues to recruit at more junior levels, so there are opportunities for entry to the office after admission to the Court.) Being a State Prosecutor at the ODPP is challenging and sometimes emotionally exhausting, but in my experience the rewards and job satisfaction make it entirely worthwhile. It is ideal for those who want the following from a career in the law:

ed, you still have to manage a decent file load and do written work; (2) Variety – in terms of the types of matters and the different Courts in which we do our work. You will inevitably appear as counsel in the Magistrates, District and Supreme Courts, on cases involving (for example) serious violent assaults, sex assaults, home burglaries, robberies and even homicides (which you will assist on as a junior prosecutor); (3) The fulfilment and sense of purpose that comes from serving the community as well as helping victims find their voice within the justice system; and (4) Opportunities to travel outside of Perth (the ODPP conducts regular circuit trials across the State, from Broome down to Esperance). As a woman in the law, I think particular mention needs to be made of the fact that the workplace itself fosters equality and inclusivity, and indeed is headed up by women – both the Director and Deputy Director are women (as well as being Senior Counsel), as are many Senior State Prosecutors. Ultimately, as a junior practitioner, you will have the opportunity to work with skilled and talented lawyers of all backgrounds. It is a testament to the quality of lawyers the ODPP produces that our prosecutors are regularly appointed to the bench (Magistrates, District and Supreme Courts).

Being a State Prosecutor at the ODPP is challenging and sometimes emotionally exhausting, but in my experience the rewards and job satisfaction make it entirely worthwhile. If you are considering being a prosecutor, or are just interested in criminal law more generally, then joining the ODPP will be the first step in a very rewarding career.

(1) The thrill of being an advocate and actually doing court work and jury trials – although don’t get too excit-

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 135

DEFENCE N ATA L IE S INT ON S O L I C I T OR AT L EGA L AID WA

never actually wanted to be a lawyer of any kind - even after I graduated from law school and got admitted as one. I studied forensic science, then law, then went on to work as an Associate at the Supreme Court for two years. In that two years, I studied with College of Law and was admitted. Legal Aid advertised for restricted practitioners just as the judge I was working for retired and, having no other idea what to do, I applied and was successful in obtaining a position on the duty lawyer team. That was more than eight years ago now, and I have practiced exclusively in criminal law ever since, first as a duty lawyer then, for the last six years, as a solicitor in the criminal appeals team. Despite essentially falling into the profession by accident, I wouldn’t go back and change a thing. Being a duty lawyer is by far the best way to gain criminal law knowledge experience. A duty lawyer gives advice, applies for bail, and presents pleas in mitigation for clients facing charges from fine only disorderly conduct to burglaries carrying mandatory imprisonment – often for clients they have only met that day. The duty lawyer team are an amazing group of lawyers with an amazing collection of often humorous war stories.

Despite essentially falling into the profession by accident, I wouldn’t go back and change a thing. As a solicitor in the appeals team, I provide advice to clients about the prospects of appealing their sentence of conviction, and if there appear to be grounds, representing them in the appeal. I also appear at sentencings and trials in the Magistrates, District and Supreme Courts on a wide variety of matters. Working as a criminal lawyer can be hectic and stressful – dealing with drug affected and/or mentally unwell clients, appearing in court (often multiple courts in one day), visiting prisons – but it is also incredibly rewarding working with those disadvantaged clients who, without Legal Aid, might be left to try to navigate the legal system on their own.

136 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

I was lucky to gain employment as a criminal lawyer without ever really meaning to, but things have changed a lot in since I graduated from law school. My advice to students wishing to pursue a career in criminal law would be to volunteer and apply for clerkships at relevant agencies such as Legal Aid, prosecuting agencies, community legal centres or with criminal barristers. Show you are keen and be prepared to start as an unpaid volunteer or doing data entry or admin work to get your foot in the door. Like all areas of law, it is not easy to get into, but it is definitely worth it.

COMMUNITY LEGAL CENTRE

NOT-FOR-PROFIT

C O NSUMER CREDIT LEGAL SER VICE WA

Roberta Grealish - Senior Solicitor â&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve been a solicitor at CCLSWA since April 2016. I relocated to Perth with my family from Ireland in 2011 and originally worked for top-tier corporate and commercial law firms in Perth before moving to CCLSWA. I was promoted to Senior Solicitor in June 2017. Working at CCLSWA gives me the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of clients and law student volunteers. I also enjoy flexible working arrangements that enable me to balance working & having three young children. One of the biggest challenges I face daily is allocating time and resources across the broad range of services that CCLSWA provides. I am looking forward to exploring and implementing new strategies in a changing regulatory framework (in the shadow of a Banking Royal Commission and the establishment of the Australian Financial Complaints Authority). I enjoy working with CCLSWAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s law student volunteers who will be pivotal in the implementation of our new strategic plan.

Working at CCLSWA gives me the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of clients and law student volunteers. I also enjoy flexible working arrangements that enable me to balance working & having three young children.

Georgia Turco - Volunteer Paralegal have recently graduated from UWA with a Bachelor of Laws. I take time out of my schedule to volunteer as a paralegal at the Consumer Credit Legal Service (WA) (CCLSWA). CCLSWA is a Community Legal Centre that provides free legal advice to consumers in the areas of banking, finance, and related consumer disputes. As a volunteer I work on the Telephone Advice Line, providing advice to clients over the phone. My role at CCLSWA involves taking detailed instructions about their financial matter and then drafting advice. After this advice is checked by a solicitor I deliver the advice to the clients over the phone. My experience at CCLSWA has helped me to develop not only my legal reasoning skills in drafting client specific advice, but also fundamental communication skills and other interpersonal skills. I have also had the opportunity to give presentations to the community and draft memorandums of advice for the solicitors working at CCLSWA. Volunteers also work on other projects of importance to CCLSWA such as social media and website posts. The skills that I have developed through volunteering at CCLSWA are invaluable and I believe they have helped me to become not only a better student, a better legal thinker but also better member of the community. My advice to others interested in volunteering is to ask for help when you need it, but also have the confidence to back yourself. You know more than you think you know! Whilst it is a steep learning curve to understand the various aspects of the services that CCLSWA delivers, the supervising solicitors, and other volunteer paralegals are always willing to steer you in the right direction. I have decided to stay on at CCLSWA and do my Practical Legal Training through College of Law. I am looking forward to the new challenges this will present to me.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 137

ACADEMIA S A RAH M U RRAY A S S O CIAT E P ROF ESS OR AT U WA

ACADEMIA

remember a student asking me once if all law academics did was read textbooks all day. I hardly knew how to answer this question as the life of an academic is very diverse. For me, no day is ever the same. Some weeks carry more constitutional law teaching, marking and meeting with students, while other weeks can be spent in the archives, interviewing people or writing lengthy papers or grant applications. While conference presentations are a part of the job, so are media interviews and appearing before parliamentary inquiries. Academic research has shifted very much towards ‘research impact’ which means that projects don’t stop with the publication of a piece of scholarship but often extend to finding ways to disseminate and implement research findings to help bring about tangible changes in society. This has meant that in the last few years rather than just researching Community Justice Centres, I have been examining the feasibility of setting up a pilot Centre in Western Australia.

I love the fact that it is always interesting and that you always feel like there is more to learn. For me, academia truly satisfies the saying ‘if you love what you do, you will never have to work a day in your life’. I wasn’t always an academic though. After the Federal Court judge I was to be an Associate for sadly passed away, I commenced as a first year law graduate at Allens Arthur Robinson and did PLT (while also tutoring in Constitutional Law at UWA). I worked as a Corporate/Commercial and a Tax lawyer at the firm in Perth and in Melbourne for a few years (and as a volunteer Lifeline counsellor) and found that I learnt key legal and practical skills from some excellent lawyers. Eventually, I went part-time at the firm to work the rest of the week as a community lawyer at the

138 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

Mental Health Legal Centre in Melbourne. My role as a mental health lawyer was predominantly to give general advice, conduct law reform activities and to represent involuntary patients before the Mental Health Review Board. I really enjoyed working with clients to find solutions to legal problems but found that I missed having the time to properly explore legal issues and trace their development. Ultimately it was my love of the law that led me back to university to teach. I returned to Perth to teach constitutional law full-time while a parttime PhD student at Monash University. It was a tough few years juggling these two roles but it cemented for me how much I enjoyed academic research and getting to work closely with students to tease out the intricacies of constitutional law. I love the fact that it is always interesting and that you always feel like there is more to learn. For me, academia truly satisfies the saying ‘if you love what you do, you will never have to work a day in your life’. So yes, I guess I do get to read lots of law textbooks, but definitely not all day!

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY

INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY M ARIE W ONG P R I N CIPAL AT W RAY S L AW Y ERS

am an intellectual property lawyer with 15 years’ experience assisting clients with intellectual property protection, commercialisation and enforcement. A typical week’s work can include: meeting with a new blockchain technology client to understand their start-up business and identifying the various intellectual property rights that might need to be searched and cleared (to ensure no infringement of third party rights) or protected (eg, through filing relevant trade mark, design or patent applications) in advance of use and launch; drafting a non-disclosure and IP ownership deed for a client looking to engage a third party to create a prototype for their improved fencing product; preparing legal submissions in support of a client’s opposition to registration of a competitor’s trade mark which is too similar to their existing cosmetic brand; learning about the intricacies of a client’s manufacturing process, in order to draft a letter of demand to a client’s former employee alleging copyright infringement and unlawful use and disclosure of a trade secret; liaising with overseas counterparts about the progress of a client’s trade mark applications for its wine labels in China and Europe, including appropriate local translations for these markets; advising an artist on his proposed contract with a local council to create a new sculptural public artwork. It seems I was destined for a career in intellectual property from an early stage – although I didn’t know much about intellectual property or what a career as an IP lawyer would mean at the time. Going through school, I focussed my high school studies on mathematics and science (I found the developing fields of biotechnology discussed in biology class particularly exciting), but also enjoyed creative writing and learning foreign languages. I distinctly recall conducting a career aptitude test with the school careers counsellor in Year 11 and the results predicting “Patent Attorney”. I had no idea what a patent attorney was at the time, but I do have a better idea now.

Whilst referred to as “attorneys” (which would suggest a lawyer to those accustomed to watching US legal dramas), registered patent attorneys in Australia do not actually follow a path of legal studies, but instead undertake degrees (and, in many cases, also masters and doctorates) in science or engineering, before completing further studies “on the job” as a technical assistant, to become a registered patent attorney. For law students who have also completed a science or technical degree, becoming dually qualified as a registered patent attorney is an available option for those pursuing a career in intellectual property.

It seems I was destined for a career in intellectual property from an early stage – although I didn’t know much about intellectual property or what a career as an IP lawyer would mean at the time. Patent attorneys use their scientific expertise, combined with skills in drafting and analysis, to prepare detailed patent specifications (which define the scope of a monopoly provided to an invention), prosecute applications in Australia and elsewhere, and provide advice on the interpretation, validity and infringement of patents (among other things). Most patent attorneys also practice in the field of registered designs (another form of registered IP which protects the overall visual appearance, shape, configuration and pattern of a product) and trade marks (indicators of origin for goods/services to assist consumers to identify them – most typically a brand name or logo, but also sometimes a distinctive smell, shape or even a sound). A couple of decades on, I am not actually a patent attorney (as I didn’t end up pursuing science

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 139

studies at university), but I work closely with many of them as my colleagues at Wrays, which is comprised of both an incorporated law firm and an incorporated patent and trade mark attorney practice. As head of the Brand Protection team at Wrays, the focus of my work is primarily now in the trade mark, copyright and brand space - leaving the detailed scientific analysis and patent drafting to the patent attorneys! However, I often assist clients with assessing trade secret, design and patent infringement claims and ownership disputes, and so often need to learn about and understand (in general terms) the processes and general functional aspects associated with different technologies and products. As a practitioner in the IP field (whether as a lawyer or patent attorney), keen analytical skills and attention to detail is critical (sometimes a single word can make every difference in the interpretation of an infringement claim!), as well as a probing, inquisitive and often creative attitude. I assist clients on a daily basis with trade mark clearance and filing strategies, prosecution and enforcement, as well as with a broader range of contentious and non-contentious intellectual property related matters, including in copyright, designs, protection of confidential information, and related areas such as domain name disputes, passing off and consumer law, advertising, website and product labelling reviews. I have assisted clients in bringing their disputes before the Federal Court of Australia and State Supreme Courts, Australian Trade Marks Office and World Intellectual Property Organisation, as well as resolving them through alternative dispute resolution processes. I also assist clients with the drafting and review of commercial documents related to the transfer, protection and commercialisation of IP, such as IP assignment, licence and distribution agreements, as well as in the preparation of software App and website terms and conditions and privacy policies. As an IP lawyer, I work with a range of clients, spanning from individual artists and designers, small business owners and App developers, to SMEs and multinational corporations across the pharmaceutical, beer brewing, wine and dairy, fashion, clothing and cosmetics, property development and mining industries. My IP experience has also allowed me to work in-house on secondment at a multinational pharmaceutical company, providing legal advice and support in a range of areas including in relation to intellectual property and consumer law issues. Wrays has an active Pro Bono Committee which has allowed me to contribute my IP skills to assisting individ-

140 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

uals and community organisations who might not otherwise have access to this assistance. Through the Wrays Pro Bono program, we have been able to assist a number of creative industry and charitable not-for-profit organisations with their intellectual property protection needs over the years.

My IP experience has also allowed me to work in-house on secondment at a multinational pharmaceutical company, providing legal advice and support in a range of areas including in relation to intellectual property and consumer law issues. I enjoy the fact that Wrays is an end-to-end full service IP practice (comprising a law firm, patent and trade mark attorney practice, and also an IP management arm), so I have the privilege of working with extremely bright colleagues in various technological and business fields, which enables us to collaborate in servicing and understanding the technical, commercial and legal needs of our clients in depth to provide a streamlined and holistic IP service.

NATIVE TITLE

JEREM IAH RIL EY O P E R AT I ONS M ANA GER AT COD ES W IT CH

hen I was a Law Student in UWA, there was one other indigenous student who stayed in the same class as me throughout our degree. I remember us saying to each other that we just wanted to be regular lawyers, who practiced regular commercial law, without having to be all social-justice-y for the mob. Funny that. Ten years later, and I have dedicated all my work to Native Title, mostly in the remote Kimberley, and with my own mob in the Gascoyne. And my colleague has dedicated his time to Criminal and Family law with the Aboriginal Legal Service. I guess we couldn’t fight our roots. And that doesn’t mean that you’ll need those same roots to work in these fields. Firstly you’ll need a kind heart for the mob and the ability to persevere through severely unfair opposition.

I guess we couldn’t fight our roots. Native Title is a limited game. There are only so many native title claims that can be made, before all the land is determined. And right now is just passed the half-way mark. Which is why, if you want to get into this field, you should focus on the ‘Post-Determination’ legal side. By all means, learn what Native Title is, read the main cases like Mabo No 2, Ward, Wik and Yorta Yorta, and also force yourself to cold-read the entire Native Title Act. But if you’re expecting to ‘fight for the land’ for indigenous people, you are unfortunately late to the party. ‘Post-Determination’ is what happens after Native Title has been determined for a group. And this is personally what I find the most interesting and where I have spent all my time, as this is the next step. This is about ‘re-building tribal governance’. The Native Title rights are vested into a corporation, known as a ‘PBC’ or ‘RNTBC’ (Prescribed Body Corporate or Native Title Body Corporate), and that PBC is now like a de-facto government for the tribal group.

This is now the front-line of conflict between indigenous law and western law. How are a group’s traditions and culture shaped by placing them into a corporation? How are traditional cultural leaderships translated into a board of directors who are bound by director’s duties, equal democratic voting, and equal participation of female members? Be prepared to buckle in for a wild ride. A good book that foresaw all these problems is ‘Native Title Corporations’ by Mantziaris and Martin. You will absolutely need to know Corporations Law (especially CATSI Act and ORIC), Meetings Procedures (Joske has a good book), and all the various land titles under the Land Administration Act (WA). You should probably know a healthy dose of Mining and Petroleum law, as most groups interact with those tenements. And a lot of groups have ‘Rangers’ that work under ‘Indigenous Protected Areas’ and state environmental protection legislation. You will also need to understand the crazy way that the Aboriginal Heritage Act 1972 (WA) interacts with all of these things when it was made before Native Title. Have fun. But lastly, you should be business-minded. There are already enough people with bleeding hearts who want to help, but who lack the grit to help these corporations to be corporations. ‘Business Development’ is the next step after ‘Good Governance’, and you will need to be there, to help the groups become independent from Government support. If you are truly interested in getting into this field, then I strongly suggest signing up with ‘The Aurora Project’, who give internships to law students with Native Title Representative Bodies. At the very least, it’s an avenue of law that will see you thrust into: insane levels of responsibility that no-one in the regular firms will get; knowing a very broad set of laws that interact with Native Title; and experiences in remote Australia that you can only dream of.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 141

TECHNOLOGY AND THE LAW AL EX COOK JD S T U D ENT

TECHNOLOGY

ou don’t need to leave Perth for your studies to take you somewhere interesting. For me, that interesting place is the intersection of technology and law. It’s been a great experience and I have never learnt so much so quickly – not even under the wise tutelage of Jim in Constitutional Law. More specifically, my experience of working with a Swiss financial technology company and with Legal APPtitude at UWA have taught me that a law degree does not have to end up with working at a commercial firm on the terrace. Financial Technology I leveraged my JD studies into a position at a financial technology company based in Switzerland. I am responsible for managing our engagement with regulators and counsel around the world. A large part of my job is acting as a translation layer between those who build technology and those who regulate it. Working at a small company means you have more responsibility than you get as a junior in a large law firm. Over the last six months I have represented the company in commercial discussions across Gibraltar, Switzerland and the United States, and made submissions to the financial market regulators here in Australia. It has been terrifying at times, but I would not change a thing. Opportunities such as these probably do not happen so early in your career if you are working in law. Importantly, opting for a commercial pathway means you cannot do legal work because, well, you are not a lawyer. I made the decision to follow a commercial (rather than legal) pathway, but I would still like to be admitted in the future. It has been interesting to gain exposure to the client perspective of the legal industry, and I know that when I return to law I can take these skills with me.

142 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

Legal APPtitude Closer to home, I’ve been involved in setting up the Legal APPtitude program at UWA. The program pairs law students with legal technologists, leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to reduce the justice gap (the gap between society’s demand for legal services and its ability to provide them). Apart from delivering a benefit to Perth community legal centres, the program aims to introduce UWA law students to the way in which technology will impact their working lives.

Before I started my legal studies, I had very little idea about what I would do as a lawyer, or where I’ll end up. Frankly, I still have little idea. However, wherever our legal studies take us, technology will always play a huge part. You don’t need to be a computer expert to work with technology: I do not know how to code, and I had to ask a colleague to set up my email account. However, my lack of specialised technical skills hasn’t stopped me (and shouldn’t stop you) from exploring how technology can benefit you and your career. The commercial world is all about specialisation: you don’t need to be a technical specialist, but you do need to know how to work with them. Before I started my legal studies, I had very little idea about what I would do as a lawyer, or where I’ll end up. Frankly, I still have little idea. However, wherever our legal studies take us, technology will always play a huge part.

TRE NDS I N T HE PROFESSION Entering any profession there are many important things that are outside of your study which still have a big impact on your day to day life. How you present yourself, your wellbeing and an understanding of the broader professional landscape are all as important as the lessons you learned in the classroom and the work that you will do in the office. The following section contains articles ranging from advice pieces with small tips and big benefits to insights about the way the law, along with other professions, is evolving. The articles contained in this section are as follows: A foreward by The Honourable Justice Mazza with advice for young lawyers A discussion on Australia-China relations from KWM An article about how the legal landscape is changing with technology Information about Super Annuation provided by legalsuper Mental Health Tips from the Blackstone Wellness VP, Lauren Jackson

TIPS FOR YOUNG LAWYERS T H E H O N O U RA BL E JU S T ICE M AZZA S U P R E M E C O U R T OF W EST ERN AU S T RA L IA

he question of what is success in the law, as in life, is incapable of a universal answer. But as neophyte lawyers looking for your first real job, it is natural, and I think necessary, to ask the question, ‘What do I want from a career in the law?’ Answers to this question will vary widely, if not wildly, between you. In this brief article, I want to put something to you which I hope will form, at least part, of the answer to that question. I believe that all lawyers starting their careers should have in mind the aim to be the best lawyer they can be. I have expressed the answer in this way, to recognise that all of us have different abilities and opportunities. Not all of you can achieve high office or be the senior partner in a multinational law firm. However, I firmly believe that all of you, whatever your talent, at whatever stage in your career, wherever you are working, should strive to be the best at what you are doing or you are about to do.

you leave the office at the end of the day. It also extends to your personal life. You will be perceived as a hypocrite if you profess integrity in your professional life, but not in your life outside the law.

I am lucky to have the benefit of hindsight. It has been 38 years since I left UWA with my undergraduate degree. In that time, I have seen the best lawyers and the worst. The best lawyers are not necessarily the smartest, nor the richest, and they are certainly not the ones who attract the most publicity. Here are some of the qualities of the people that I regard as the best lawyers.

3. Be competent Be honest with yourself about your areas of competence and, within those areas, how competent you are. Do not take on something which is beyond your expertise. There is no embarrassment in telling a client or a colleague that something is not in your experience or skill set. Embarrassment will surely result when you take on something you don’t know anything about. Do not ever think you can ‘wing it’ or bluff people into thinking you are competent in an area when you are not. You might think you sound good, but more likely you are fooling no one apart from yourself. Competence requires staying up to date. As you know, there are mandatory CLE (Continuing Legal Education) requirements for all practising lawyers. This is a minimum requirement. Those who aspire to be the best do better than the minimum.

1. Strive for professional and personal integrity Beyond all else, the best lawyers are completely honest, truthful and trustworthy in their dealings with everyone they come across. Plainly, a lawyer must be completely honest with the court, their clients, their partners or employers, their colleagues and their staff. A reputation for integrity is the greatest asset you can have. It can be easily lost. One blemish can be enough to lose a reputation for integrity. Once lost, it doesn’t usually come back. Integrity is not something which gets turned off when

146 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

2. Know where your loyalty lies Lawyers have different loyalties. The fundamental loyalty is to the court, that is, to the system of justice, but there are additional important loyalties that a lawyer might have. The most prominent of these is loyalty to your client. Never put your loyalties to the court and your client in jeopardy. Sometimes they can conflict. If they conflict, your duty to the court overrides your duty to your client. You must never put yourself above the court or your client. You owe a fiduciary relationship to your client. As the saying goes, you ‘do not have the option of looking out for number one’. You must act in your client’s best interests.

4. Develop good judgment Technical legal knowledge and competence is necessary, but alone does not make the best lawyers. The best lawyers develop good judgment. By good judgment, I mean the ability to look at a legal problem, synthesise the law and facts, and advise as to a course of action which will, in a practical way, most benefit the client. This process will almost always involve the identification of the real issues, the jettisoning of hopeless or unlikely arguments and some prediction of the outcome. It will also involve a calculation as to the cost of achieving this outcome. I use the word ‘cost’ in its widest sense to convey not just money, but to include emotional and reputational costs. I wish I could write more about this and how to acquire good judgment. Space does not permit me to say more than good judgment comes with time and experience, and learning from people who are known to have good judgment. 5. Be fiercely independent The best lawyers are those who render legal services objectively. It is very difficult, if not impossible, to be objective without being independent. Independence requires some distance from the client. Do not act for friends. Be careful of accepting hospitality extended to you by clients. Never get into any situation which may lead you to feel inhibited to give advice that your client may not wish to hear. If you become an advocate, independence is especially important. It is for you to decide how the case will be run, what witnesses to call, what arguments are to be put and what questions are to be asked. These are not matters for the client to dictate to counsel. Do not do anything which compromises your independence. Guard it jealously. 6. Have a life away from the law The practice of the law, in whatever form it takes, is demanding and time consuming. For some, all their time is taken up with legal practice. Many who take this approach burn out. It worries me that young practitioners are being made to work unreasonable hours by firms that, essentially, take a

‘sink or swim’ attitude. For the sake of your mental health, if not your physical health, don’t stay in the office too long. Pulling an ‘all nighter’ might make you sound like a hero, but it is rarely productive and never good for you. Work/life balance is a goal that is hard to achieve in the law, but that does not mean you should not do your best to get to that point. Don’t neglect the interests you have away from the law or your friends who are not lawyers. Legal practice is only one part of your life. As important as it is, do not let it consume you. 7. Stay fit There are few more sedentary occupations than legal practice. Move whenever you can. Instead of emailing or messaging a colleague, walk to his or her desk and talk. Do some kind of exercise regularly - it doesn’t matter what kind or how good you are at it.

Beyond all else, the best lawyers are completely honest, truthful and trustworthy in their dealings with everyone they come across. Look after your mental health. If you are anxious, worried, have feelings that you’re not coping, or cannot sleep, speak to someone you trust and, where needed, seek professional help. Do not suffer in silence. 8. Be courteous Back in the day when I was a young lawyer, there were lots of face to face meetings. It was expected that lawyers would, at all times, treat each other courteously. Letters were formal and the language in them was almost always civil. Now there are less face to face meetings, more emails and other electronic communications. Standards of courtesy have, I suspect, dropped. Professional courtesy is important because it promotes better communication and shows respect. The best lawyers are sticklers for it. Don’t fall into the trap of sending rude, sarcastic or accusatory emails or letters. Do not ever send an

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 147

email or a letter in anger. If you are tempted to do so, leave it to the following day. I bet you will bin it. Treat your work colleagues, court staff and your administrative staff as you would have them treat you. Harassment, discrimination and bullying have no place anywhere, but most especially not in the practice of the law. 9. Learn from your mistakes All lawyers make mistakes. It goes with the territory. It is how you deal with your mistakes which counts. When you make a mistake, don’t bury it or lie about it, ‘fess up’ to it. The bigger the mistake, the more you might be tempted to hope it goes away. That rarely happens. As young lawyers, the process of fixing a mistake begins by telling whoever it is that is supervising you what you have done. The best lawyers deal with their mistakes and learn from them. They don’t repeat them.

Don’t neglect the interests you have away from the law or your friends who are not lawyers. Legal practice is only one part of your life. As important as it is, do not let it consume you. 10. Don’t be afraid to ask for help Inevitably, you will encounter some circumstance or situation which you cannot solve on your own. It may be an ethical dilemma, a legal problem or a personal matter. When any one of these situations occur, seek help. Where it is an ethical or legal problem, speak first to a trusted colleague or, especially in the case of an ethical dilemma, seek the advice of Senior Counsel. They are only too happy to help. 11. Stay involved in the profession Participate in the life of the legal profession. Join the Law Society or the Piddington Society. Get on a subcommittee. Coach or judge the school mock

148 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

trial competition. Go to the occasional drinks function. Get to know other lawyers. It is not just about networking in the sense of trying to attract work. It should be more about collegiality, friendship and putting something back into the profession. If you can, stay in touch with and support your law school friends. I congratulate you for your achievements in the law up to date. I look forward to welcoming you to the practice of the law. I wish each and every one you well. I have loved being a lawyer. I can think of no better profession.

AUSTRALIA-CHINA RELATIONS N ATHA N COL L INS R EC RU I T M E N T PA R T N E R AT KING & W OOD M A L L ES ONS

1. Can you speak to Australia-China relations from a legal standpoint? E.g. provide an overview on the Australia-China relationship and what it means for lawyers. To understand Australia – China relations from a legal standpoint, one needs to understand that practitioners are working together from very different legal traditions. In the case of Australian lawyers, we’ve been trained and practise in the combination of the Westminster parliamentary and common law traditions brought to Australia from England and which underpin not only Australian law but, especially in the case of the common law approach, international cross border transactions. In the case of Chinese lawyers, they’ve been trained in a more modern tradition: since the late 70s and the reforms under Deng Xiaoping, modern PRC law has developed and evolved but there remain some Confucian and even civil law influences. There is also an overlay of common law approaches since many of China’s leading lawyers have practised in common law jurisdictions like Australia, England and the United States. Therefore, there is a “common language” that is spoken by Australian and Chinese lawyers, at least in commercial transactions. However, despite the common language, there remain a lot of differences in the approach to the practise of law by Australian and Chinese lawyers and any Australian lawyer embarking on a Sino – Anglo legal transaction needs to be conscious of these differences. Frankly, there’s still a lot to learn on both sides. What we bring at King & Wood Mallesons is an advanced perspective and understanding of how each jurisdiction practises law.

2. Why should law students in particular pay attention to China and Australia-China relations? China is an economic titan and it exerts a powerful influence globally. That is even more noticeable in our region. It is impossible to ignore China’s influence on economies and trade and, therefore, law students in Australia need to spend more time understanding Australia / China relations. Without that understanding it will become increasingly difficult to work on certain transactions in the region. 3. How does KWM’s professional relations with Chinese firms influence the type of transactions and deals KWM works on? KWM holds a unique position in the market. We work with our Chinese partners on many of the market-leading transactions in the Asia-Pacific and our collaborative approach means that we bring superior insight to executing transactions under Chinese and / or Australian law. As a result of that, our clients look to us to provide guidance on both inbound and outbound China transactions because we can give advice in that space that most other law firms struggle to deliver. For example, KWM was appointed by the International Swaps and Derivatives Association to deliver the legal opinion in relation to the validity of close out netting under PRC law (recently updated in 2017). This opinion influences all derivative transactions that are subject to the laws of the PRC.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 149

THE FUTURE OF LAW GU Y GREER S E N I O R A S S O C I AT E AT GIL BER T + T OBIN

he law has a reputation as resistant to innovation. That reputation is probably fairly earned, but things are changing. Increasingly, lawyers are expected by clients to apply technology to legal processes to achieve increases in speed and efficiencies (but not at the expense of quality). Sophisticated consumers of legal services use technology in their business (probably more than law firms do), understand the benefits that it can bring and expect their lawyers to do same. From the perspective of a law graduate entering the market, this creates challenges and opportunities. The challenge - what is happening right now Technology has changed (and will continue to change) the way in which law is practised. Processes that used to take a junior lawyer or graduate hours to manually complete are now, either wholly or in part, automated. In addition, artificial intelligence has reduced the time required to complete a range of tasks. At least, that is the position in some firms â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but there is a capital cost to implementing this. The classic example is the discovery process in litigation. Where previously each document provided by the client had to be manually reviewed for relevance and privilege by teams of paralegals and junior lawyers, now electronic databases and associated programs can be utilised which de-duplicate, predictively code documents and visually display a dataset so that important documents can be easily and quickly identified. A process that previously required 1000 junior lawyer hours may now only require 50 of those hours.

150 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

Similarly, due diligence processes are now in large part managed electronically with computers doing things like flagging and extracting change of control provisions, and generally making the challenge of navigating large databases of documents easier and faster.

The best law graduates will approach established processes with curiosity and an open mind. They will suggest alternative ways of doing things. There are countless other examples of technology being applied to change the processes that lawyers use to complete work. The practical upshot of it all is that less hours of paralegals and junior lawyers are required to complete the task. That is good for a junior lawyer (because things like discovery and due diligence can be a bit dull at times) and bad (because less work means less or different experience for a junior practitioner and/or fewer junior lawyer positions). The opportunity - what can you do about it The obvious advantage for a law graduate of 2018 is that they are likely to be more familiar with recent technology and technological concepts than someone that graduated from law school some time ago. A graduate will be more adept at navigating technological systems and understanding associated concepts. But there is a deeper point. If someone has performed a task the same way for 5, 10, 20 years and has seen positive results from

that process, then there will be an inevitable level of inertia associated with any changes to that process. That, in essence, is the challenge facing law firms when incorporating technology into legal services. Law graduates are free from those restrictions – you are essentially a clean slate with no inherent bias towards any particular process. The best law graduates will approach established processes with curiosity and an open mind. They will suggest alternative ways of doing things. The best lawyers will listen to them and seriously consider the suggestions. They will involve law graduates in the decision making process. Some lawyers will not, and that will be a mistake. As you take the step from law student to prospective law graduate, try to take advantage of the fresh perspective you can bring to new things, like the application of technology to legal services. Volunteer for innovation committees and pilot programs. Get to know your Technolegal team and the systems that they use. Create value for your firm and for your clients in ways that go beyond simply hours on the tools completing document review. And don’t be concerned that computers are coming to take your jobs. The more clerical work that is done by computers, the more ‘proper’ work that will be able to be done within the same or a smaller overall budget. It’s just that now clerical tasks are done a bit differently, and in the future will be done differently again.

“

Increasingly, lawyers are expected by clients to apply technology to legal processes to achieve increases in speed and efficiencies (but not at the expense of quality). Sophisticated consumers of legal services use technology in their business (probably more than law firms do), understand the benefits that it can bring and expect their lawyers to do same.

”

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 151

SUPER FOR LAWYERS L EGA L S U P ER IN DUS T RY S U P E R F U ND F OR T HE L EGAL COM M U NIT Y

It’s Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! Even though the sound of it Is something quite atrocious If you say it loud enough You’ll always sound precocious Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious! (“Mary Poppins”)

’m not sure if “Mary Poppins” is the best way to get the attention of university students but if you are reading this, so far so good. Why then such a desperate attempt to gain your attention, and, in this case, on the topic of superannuation? Truth be told, despite superannuation being the financial cornerstone of almost every Australians’ plans for life after they retire, not many people like to think about it. This most probably goes double (or triple) for you, seeing as you may well not have entered the full-time workforce as yet. Before we proceed, as is the case with every well-written secondary school and tertiary level essay, let’s define our terms. What is superannuation? Like it or not, when you enter the workforce, your employer, by law, must take 9.5 per cent of your annual salary and place it into a superannuation account set up by your chosen super fund. It’s like a bank account, but one that you cannot make a withdrawal from until you are . . . wait for it . . . at least 60 years of age. (There are a few exceptions to this rule, such as new laws which allow people to access part of their super to buy their first home, but overwhelmingly, superannuation is a long-term investment.) It is understandable that being unable to immediately access money you have earned is an unap-

152 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

pealing concept for many people when they first start working. However, the sole purpose of superannuation is to help people save for retirement, and no-one gets close to the end of their working career and wishes they had less money in their super account. What looked possibly unfair and irritating in your 20s suddenly seems like a brilliant idea when retirement beckons and you find you might just have the funds you need to support your post-work wish-list of adventures. Super alone is not the retirement silver bullet. You will also need to have savings and possibly property and other investments, but a sizeable super balance will go a long way to ensuring you enjoy the retirement you hope to have. Them’s the tax breaks As a way of softening the blow of being unable to access part of your pay until retirement, and as a way of increasing the value of your super balance over time, superannuation accounts benefit from a range of incredibly favourable and unique tax advantages. These tax advantages apply at different stages of the lifespan of your super account. For example, if you decide to make voluntary additional contributions to your super on top of the amount your employer contributes from your salary, you receive favourable tax treatment. Similarly, there are tax advantages when you begin to access your super later in life. There are also tax advantages attached to the compound interest you earn on your super account on the way through. Did Albert Einstein have super? Did Albert Einstein have super? I don’t know, but it is often said that the great man described compound interest as the “8th wonder of the world”.

For those who are wondering, the Australian Securities & Investments Commission (ASIC) MoneySmart website defines compound interest as “interest paid on the initial principal [sum of money] as well as the accumulated interest on money you have borrowed or invested. Compound interest is like double chocolate topping for your savings. You earn interest on the money you deposit, and on the interest you have already earned - so you earn interest on interest.” [1] Most readers of this article will have a superannuation account for something in the vicinity of 40+ years. For all this time, your super balance will benefit from the power of compound interest, all the while attracting super’s unique tax benefits. Super fund studs and duds For many people, the super fund they choose to join will constitute one of the biggest financial decisions they make in their life. For that reason, it’s really important to choose the right super fund.

it, whether they are law students, graduates, barristers, employee solicitors or the managing partners of small, medium or large law firms. To find out more about superannuation in general and the benefits of becoming a legalsuper member in particular, please contact one of our legalsuper experts: Sue-Ellen Soulie Client Service Manager ssoulie@legalsuper.com.au 0429 577 328 Helen Hermans Client Service Manager hhermans@legalsuper.com.au 0475 999 122 Endnote [1] See https://www.moneysmart.gov.au/managing-your-money/saving/compound-interest

If you do not nominate a particular super fund to join when you begin work, your employer will choose one on your behalf (although you can change your super fund at any time). Now, there’s no way of sugar-coating the fact that while some super funds have deservedly excellent reputations in terms of service, the fees they charge and the returns they earn for your super contributions, other funds have equally deserved poor reputations. Speaking of reputation, the legal profession, which you are considering joining, has a deserved and proud reputation for high standards, high expectations, integrity, ethics and an eye-for-detail. It is in this rigorous and demanding environment that legalsuper has thrived as the industry superannuation fund for Australia’s legal community. Legalsuper, which holds assets of over $3.5 billion on behalf of its more than 44,000 members, knows the legal sector and the needs of those who work in

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 153

MENTAL HEALTH TIPS L A U REN JA CKS ON B L A C K S T O N E WEL L NES S VICE PRESID ENT

1. Surround yourself with good people Spend time with people you care about. Sometimes that can be difficult to do. Chances are you’ll experience at least one negative person a day. But, that doesn’t mean you need to listen to them or pay them any attention. Instead, look at the people who empower you, encourage you, and see the greatness in you. Give your Mum a call, or have lunch with a friend you haven’t seen for a while.

5. Learn how to deal with stress Like it or not, stress is a part of life and especially part of law school. Practice good coping skills: Try ‘One-Minute Stress Strategies’, do Tai Chi, exercise, take a nature walk, play with your pet or try journal writing as a stress reducer. Also, remember, sometimes there’s nothing you can do to make the situation better, so learn to just go with the flow when you need to.

2. Value yourself Treat yourself with kindness and respect, and avoid self-criticism. Sometimes you will get a grade or mark that wasn’t what you’d hoped for, and that is okay. You can’t be perfect all of the time! Make time for things you like doing, whether that’s gardening, or taking a dance class, watching AFL or even Netflix. It’s important to take some time out for ourselves.

6. Get help when you need it Seeking help is a sign of strength — not a weakness. Everyone needs help sometimes, so please know that you are not alone. If you are unsure of who to contact, you can always get in contact with myself at wellnessvp@blackstone.asn.au or Student Assist (who offer free confidential counselling!) who are available over the phone, or drop in at the Guild Village. Remember, you do not have to fit DSM criteria to be ‘allowed’ to seek help - everyone has the right to some extra support. If you are struggling, please reach out.

3. Take care of your body Taking care of yourself physically can improve your mental health. Be sure to eat nutritious meals (a great, free app is ‘Mealime’ – it’s perfect for meal planning!). Try to drink plenty of water and get enough exercise. Maybe join in on Interfaculty sport which runs 12-2pm most Wednesdays and is an easy way to get exercise in. Lastly, it’s important to try to get enough sleep (which isn’t as easy as it sounds). 4. Give yourself Volunteer your time and energy to help someone else. You’ll feel good about doing something tangible to help someone in need — and it’s a great way to meet new people. Maybe you want to walk dogs at the shelter, or help underprivileged kids with their schoolwork. There is plenty to get involved with both on and off campus.

154 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

M AN AG EMENT C O N S U LT IN G Graduating with a law degree opens doors to a wide range of careers. An increasing career pathway that law graduates are pursuing is management consulting. As a management consultant, you work with clients to resolve their business issues. This is an increasing career path as many of the skills developed through law school can be transferred and reflected in a career in management consulting. The following section includes articles from professionals and students reflecting on their experiences in management consulting and how a background in law has assisted them in this career pathway.

WHY MANAGEMENT CONSULTING? M ARK BOS NICH A Z U RE CONSULTING PA R T N ER

anagement consulting is a fascinating, stimulating and challenging career, and one that I encourage law students to consider as an alternative to a legal career. Why Management Consulting? Management consultants work with clients to resolve their most important business issues. This may be through the provision of analytically driven insight and advice, or working alongside management to drive change in their organisations. I pursued a consulting career out of university, and have never regretted my choice. Simply put, a consulting career has a number of advantages over other career choices:

The work is enormously varied: Over the course of a career, your projects may range from setting strategic priorities, identifying the most feasible growth options, improving operating and financial performance, or delivering a more effective and efficient organisation. The work is inherently interesting: Consulting engagements involve solving complex problems – if the underlying problem was trivial, it is unlikely the client would be seeking external advice and problem solving is inherently challenging and interesting. You gain insight into a variety of business issues, and industry issues: You gain real insight into what drives value across a variety of companies and industries. Broad skill development: Effective consultants develop a toolkit of both “soft skills” (such as how to engage and influence clients) and “hard skills” (such as how to interrogate complex data sets). Additionally, the basic “building blocks” of consulting - clarifying the underlying problem, deconstructing it into its various components, robustly solving each component, and then communicating the options and recommendations in a coherent manner are useful skills in any corporate environment.

158 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

Law Graduates and Management Consulting Consulting firms generally look for four attributes in their appliants: intellectual smarts, curiosity, motivation and passion. Accordingly, the application screening process biases towards applicants with strong academic results, a history of work experience, and extra-curricular interests. The desired applicant attributes – smart, curious, motivated and passionate – are degree agnostic. As a result, consulting firms recruit across a wide variety of degree disciplines; for example, within our firm, we have staff with law, engineering commerce, economics, computer science and arts backgrounds. That said, I believe that law graduates demonstrate many attributes that are particularly useful in consulting, and that applicants should seek to highlight in their applications:

Confident verbal communications: Law graduates often are strong and confident speakers, honed through debating, mooting, trial advocacy or negotiation experiences. Strong written communications: Law students have years of essay writing, and are well practiced in using simple language to communicate complex issues efficiently. Ability to present a structured point of view: Law graduates are taught to prosecute a strong and structured point of view, in both their written and verbal communications.

A WEEK IN CONSULTING H E C T OR W IL L IAM S ON A S S O C I ATE- THE BOSTON C O N S U LT ING GROU P

raduates of law thrive at The Boston Consulting Group. A career in consulting offers real intellectual challenges and you will use many of the skills you honed in your law degree including concise communication and reasoning skills, structured, logical thinking and the ability to extract and synthesize facts and insights from a variety of sources of information. From day one, you will have access to clients and be responsible for delivering tangible modules of work. You will experience a huge variety of projects across a range of different industries. Because of the diversity of our project work, there is no such thing as a ‘typical’ week at BCG, and here is a taste of what you can expect. Monday Early wake up to catch the 7am flight to Sydney, and taxi to the client’s offfice- a packaged foods retailer. We have been asked to review and simplify their portfolio of products and have a critical meeting on Wednesday with senior executives to share the initial recommendations. I meet the project team at the office and we go through the plan for the week identifying outstanding data necessary for Wednesday. We also run through PTO (Predictability, Teaming, Open Communication), our tool for establishing working norms and agreeing time-on time-off goals for each team member. We spend the rest of the day working to put together the slides for the presentation on Wednesday. Tuesday Early run to start the day, before heading to the client site. We have analysed each of the products against quantitative (sales, cost of goods, profit) and qualitative (“niche” appeal, growth prospects) measures. Overnight, our project leader spoke with an FMCG expert in the BCG office in Rome, which prompts a slight rethink of our approach. I run the changes past a client analyst to make sure they make sense. We have a working dinner, and put the finishing touches on the slides.

Wednesday The project leader has asked me to present some of the recommendations to the executives (including the CEO), so I spend the half hour before the meeting preparing for any likely questions. In 2 years as a lawyer I barely spoke at client meetings, but 3 weeks into the job and I’ve been thrown into the deep end! The executives are happy with our progress so at 6.00pm we head to a local pizzeria to celebrate. Thursday I fit in a quick surf at Bronte (no wetsuit required) before heading to the client. We spend the morning brainstorming potential approaches to implementaton, particularly which products the client should stop selling and operational improvements they could make. We discuss prioritisation of the recommended changes and the investment required. The project leader asks me to prepare a few different options for discussion on Monday. It’s 4.00pm and time to head to the airport; if I’m lucky I’ll be home in time for a pub meal with my housemates. Friday Fridays are often pretty relaxed and are typically reserved for training and catching up with everyone in the office. I chat with a Principal I have worked with previously to see what projects are coming up, and a former colleague who is thinking of making the switch from law to consulting. I tell her it’s like cherry picking the best bits of law - helping key people making decisions but based on opportunity, not just risk. She says she’ll give it a crack. I spend most of the morning developing prioritisation recommendations. After lunch, we have a presentation on tech disruption, including a BCG alumnus who now works at Uber. He gives some interesting insights into how traditional industries are being shaken up; with a few valuable lessons for some of our bigger clients. Before long, the drinks trolley is making the rounds and it’s the end of another week!

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 159

LIFE AS A CONSULTANT G A RRET T BRAY M C K I N S E Y E NGA GEM ENT M A NA GER

cKinsey is a top tier global management consultancy serving leading businesses, governments, NGOs and not-for-profits. Part of McKinsey’s stated core mission is to create an unrivalled environment for their staff, and since joining in 2014 my experience would support this claim. An extremely diverse group of people work at McKinsey. My colleagues range from lawyers, to doctors, to musicians, to mathematicians, to political scientists and economists. My own background is engineering—I was a UWA undergrad before spending 6 years designing bridges, buildings and infrastructure at a specialised consultancy. I had not heard of McKinsey until I went back to study my MBA part time, when I started to learn about the possibilities involved in working at a top tier management consultancy. I had three reasons for wanting to work for McKinsey. First, I wanted to experience a broer range of industries and functions; I enjoyed being an engineer but I wanted to know more about what I don’t know. Second, I wanted to be involved in high-level decisions, the ones that executives and boards have to make. Third, I wanted to work alongside the exceptional level of talent that McKinsey attracts. If I reflect on my original criteria, I consider all three have been met. In the space of 18 months I have worked across industries as diverse as mining, healthcare, utilities, infrastructure and agriculture in different parts of Australia and New Zealand, and even automotive in Ger- many. Functionally, I have gained experience across strategy development, service operations, industrial relations, organisational design and transformational change, with billions of dollars of bottom line impact for our clients.

160 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

In my role, I work closely with members of executive leadership teams and their senior managers, even presenting to their CEOs. Our internal team rooms make for a dynamic environment; highly accomplished individuals from all corners of the world coming together to crack challengng problems. I have heard McKinsey described as a roller- coaster and a leadership factory, and I think this is accurate. It is certainly a high-pressure job and with that comes highs and lows, however the development opportunity is truly remarkable. Apprenticeship and learning by doing are central, however the structured learning through week long, world-class executive training courses around the globe demonstrate the priority investment that is your professional development. As for beyond consulting, the countless executives, members of parliament and successful entrepreneurs that make up McKinsey’s alumni are a shining example of where these opportunities can take you. For those finishing their course, it is hard to go past McKinsey as the ultimate graduate destination. However, it also presents an exciting career option for those who, like me, first want to apply their primary profession. This article was kindly provided by McKinsey & Co in 2017.

BEING A STUDENT CONSULTANT S HA RON HO 1 8 0 D E G REES CONSU LT ING

any people go into the Juris Doctor knowing that at the end of the degree they are going to be a lawyer. Others, including myself, had absolutely no idea if law was the profession they wanted to end up in. Therefore, it was important for me to keep an open mind and steer away from the common misconception that law is the only available path. Management consulting was always something you heard of and the lack of available information within the law school made it all the more intriguing. When the opportunity arose to join 180 Degrees Consulting, a student run organisation supporting non-for-profits, I immediately jumped at the chance to get first-hand experience on what consulting was like. During my time as a Consultant at 180 Degrees, it was my teamsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; role to work with a not-for-profit in order to resolve important operational issues facing the organisation. In particular, it was my role to determine how a nonfor-profit could use their funds more efficiently and create a long-term plan to raise money in a consistent manner. Under the guidance of many management consultancy firms in Perth, our teams received real world experience on the approach consultants take to solve a difficult issue. Beginning with breaking down the issues to hypothesising possible solutions and testing these hypotheses, we were given real responsibilities to solve the problem. Over the course of a semester, my tasks included interviewing CEO and board members of other charities, researching financial performance of comparable non-for-profits and analysing financial data. This culminated in the presentation of our final recommendations to the board of esteemed professionals.

Consulting provides a great variety of work with no two projects being the same. It allows individuals to develop a range of soft and hard skills, from learning how to engage with clients to analysing complex data and transforming such data into simple, easy-to-understand solutions. Many law students go on to a career in management consulting, aided by the fact that many skills developed in law school are utilised in consulting. Similar to law, there isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t always one correct answer in consulting but rather a structured thought process when approaching a clientâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issue. Therefore, it requires the ability to research, gather information and think creatively. Secondly, much like law, consulting relies on strong communication skills and the ability to present a persuasive case to the client. For those wanting to get a taste of management consulting, the UWA Consulting Society provides some great information as well as tips to tackle case studies and interviews. For those looking for hands on experience, 180 Degrees Consulting and Western Australia University Consultants are both run by students to assist non-for-profits by redeveloping their operations and driving transformative change. This article was kindly provided by Sharon in 2017.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 161

G OV ER N MENT DIRECTORY Working in the public sector is one of the most rewarding positions available. The work is diverse, varied and always exciting. One of the key distinguishing factors why professionals choose a career in Government departments rather than commercial law, is the more-structured working hours. This gives rise to a better work/life balance, especially for those that are after a 9-5 working life. While there may be comparatively fewer opportunities for advancement in the public sector, there is greater flexibility between government jobs and departments at the senior levels. Contrary to popular belief, starting salaries at the junior and mid levels are just as competitive as commercial law firms, if not more so. In this section, we have compiled articles from both professionals and students who have experienced working in the public sector. We hope these articles provide insight into a career working for the Government. Additionally, we have put together a directory with various Government departments that students should consider applying to if they are interested in working in the public sector.

ACCC AUSTRALIAN COMPETITION AND COSUMER COMMISSION

Level 3, East Point Plaza, 233 Adelaide Terrace, Perth WA 6000 Competition and Consumer Law

Perth Office (08) 9325 0600 National Info Line 1300 302 502 recruitment@accc. gov.au www.accc.gov.au

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is an independent Commonwealth statutory authority whose role is to enforce the Competition and Consumer Act 2010 and a range of additional legislation, promoting competition, fair trading and regulating national infrastructure for the benefit of all Australians. Competitive markets increase the prosperity and welfare of Australian consumers. Our role is to protect, strengthen and supplement the way competition works in Australian markets and industries to improve the efficiency of the economy and to increase the welfare of Australians. This means we will take action where this improves consumer welfare, protects competition or stops conduct that is anti-competitive or harmful to consumers, and promotes the proper functioning of Australian markets. What does a career at the organisation involve? A career with the ACCC will give you the chance to work on a wide variety of key industry issues, consumer protection matters and significant public interest issues of the day. Be part of a

164 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

high profile, professional public service agency with city offices in each state and territory across Australia. People looking for interesting and challenging work, who want to do something in the national interest, who want to work in a collegiate and professional environment should consider a career at the ACCC. Does the organisation offer any opportunities to students still studying? Yes, our internship program provides interns with the opportunity to apply and develop the skills and knowledge they acquire at university in a professional workplace. ACCC interns gain exposure to a Commonwealth Government agency with work that has far-reaching consumer, economic, industry and legal implications. Regular training and seminar events are included in the program. What does the organisationâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s graduate program involve? Our graduates enjoy applying and expanding their existing skills and knowledge to their work with us. They form an important part of a small, high-performing agency that is committed to promoting comptition and consumer protection and

fair trading in the Australian marketplace. Our graduates also work with the Australian Energy Regulator. As a constituent part of the ACCC, the AER operates as a separate legal entity. As well as other duties, the AER is responsible for the economic regulation of the wholesale electricity market and gas transmission networks. Graduate rotations are a key element of our program, with graduates taking part in three 14week rotations. They work in a range of areas to gain a broad understanding of the work of the ACCC and the AER. Graduates may undertake an interstate rotation as part of their training, which gives them the opportunity to work in another office, meet and learn from different staff and gain a greater understanding of the ACCC and the AER. Our graduate program is professional and responsive. We focus on ex panding our graduatesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; experience and developing their knowledge through on-the-job learning, a series of formal training events and other learning and development activities designed to meet their individual needs.

AAT ADMINISTRATIVE APPEALS TRIBUNAL

Level 13, 111 St Georges Terrace Perth WA 6000 Child support; Commonwealth workers’ compensation; Family assistance; Paid parental leave; Social security and Student assistance Migration and refugee visas and visa-related decisions; Taxation; Veterans’ entitlements. 1800 228 333 recruitment@aat. gov.au www.aat.gov.au

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Administrative Appeals Tribunal (AAT) conducts independent merits review of administrative decisions made under Commonwealth laws. We review decisions made by Australian Government ministers, departments and agencies and, in limited circumstances, decisions made by state government and non-government bodies. We also review decisions made under Norfolk Island laws. How does the organisation seek its employees? Members of the Tribunal are statutory office holders appointed by the Governor-General. From time to time the AAT seeks to have appointed persons with professional skills or knowledge in areas including aviation, actuary, social work, specialist or general medicine, compensation law and so on. The AAT also employs staff under the Public Service Act 1999. Staff are Commonwealth public servants and are employed as either on-going or non-ongoing to perform a range of duties including management of the AAT’s Registries, conducting conferences, legal research, provision of

client services and support services to Members. The AAT has offices in all states of Australia and in the Australian Capital Territory. The AAT is an equal opportunity employer which upholds the APS employment principles and actively encourages a diverse and inclusive workplace.

any specific application instructions. You will also need to attach a current resume. Please check the individual job advertisement for any specific job requirements.

How do you apply to work at the organisation? The tribunal uses a web-based e-recruitment system for lodgment of job applications. When applying online via the e-recruitment system for the first time you will need to register and provide a valid email address. This will then generate an automatic email that will be sent to your nominated email address and contains a password that allows you to resume or review your job application. When submitting an online application you will be required to provide a written statement of claims against selection criteria. Your statement against each criterion should be clear, concise, relevant and generally no longer than half a page (approximately 400 words). It is recommended that you check the job advertisements via the link on this page for

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 165

ASIC AUSTRALIA SECURITIES AND INVESTMENTS COMMISSION

11 Mounts Bay Road, Perth WA 6000 Corporate goverance, regulation of financial services

(08) 9261 4000 careers@asic.gov.au www.asic.gov.au

What is the main focus of the organisation? ASIC is Australia’s corporate, markets and financial services regulator. We contribute to Australia’s economic reputation and wellbeing by ensuring that Australia’s financial markets are fair and transparent, supported by confident and informed investors and consumers. We are an independent Commonwealth Government body. We are set up under and administer the Australian Securities and Investments Commission Act 2001, and we carry out most of our work under the Corporations Act. We regulate Australian companies, financial markets, financial services organisations and professionals who deal and advise in investments, superannuation, insurance, deposit taking and credit. As the consumer credit regulator, we license and regulate people and businesses engaging in consumer credit activities (including banks, credit unions, finance companies, and mortgage and finance brokers). We ensure that licensees meet the standards –including their responsibilities to consumers – that are set out in the National Consumer Credit Protection Act 2009.

166 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

What does the organisation look for in an employee? ASIC seeks a range of graduates who can contribute to ensure that Australians have trust and confidence in our financial system. Importantly, you’ll have an enquiring mind and enjoy working with others to solve complex problems. You’ll be a person who seeks out new challenges and experiences to help build your career and knowledge. What does the organisation’s graduate program involve? You’ll be involved in some high profile cases, protect Australian consumers and ensure a meaningful difference from the moment you walk through the door. The work is interesting, challenging and personally rewarding. You’ll enjoy working for a values driven organisation where we balance opportunities to take responsibility with support and mentoring from experienced professionals. You will be rewarded for your efforts with a balance of financial and non-financial benefits. We never forget the importance of getting your work- life balance right.

What does the organisation look for in a graduate? We appreciate those who have sharp analytical minds. If you’re a motivated high achiever with a genuine interest in the vital work ASIC does, then you’re the kind of graduate we’re looking for. It is vital that our graduates have the attributes required to analyse trends and summarise raw data and information. Your understanding of the significance of data analytics to financial regulation will be a key element to your success.

AHRC AUSTRALIAN HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION

Level 3, 175 Pitt Street, Sydney NSW 2000 Law, human rights, policy, education

Marie-Claire Muir, Online Communications Manager (02) 9284 960 www.humanrights. gov.au/

What is the main focus of the organisation? The promotion and protection of human rights in Australia. What does the organisation look for in a potential employee? A mix of relevant work experience, qualifications and personal qualities.

sionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s administrative law requirements â&#x20AC;&#x201C; such as the Information Public Scheme requirements and FOI legislation; advice on discrimination law and human rights matters; and conducting AHRC complaint processes (relating primarily to ILO conventions and the ICCPR).

What does the work at the organisation involve? This varies from investigation and conciliation of complaints under our laws to policy/research, education and corporate roles such as HR, Finance, IT and legal.

What advice would you give a student applying to the organisation? Provide relevant examples of how your knowledge, skills and experience applies to the job you are applying for.

Provide broad-ranging legal advisory services to the Commission. This includes: intervention and Amicus Curiae litigation legal analysis for our policy work; support on contracts and tenders; administering the Commis-

Does the organisation offer any opportunities to students still studying? We have two intern intakes per annum.

What is an interesting piece of work the organisation is currently working on or has recently completed? The Australian Human Rights Commission is undertaking a major project on the relationship between human rights and technology. The Project will develop innovative ways of ensuring the rapid rise of new technology protects and promotes human rights.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 167

ALRC AUSTRALIAN LAW REFORM COMMISSION

Level 40, 19 Martin Place Sydney NSW 2000 Federal law reform

Marie-Claire Muir (02) 8238 6333 web@alrc.gov.au www.alrc.gov.au

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Australian Law Reform Commission is a federal agency operating under the Australian Law Reform Commission Act 1996 (Cth), and the Public Governance, Performance and Accountability Act 2013 (PGPA Act). The ALRC conducts inquiriesâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;also known as referencesinto areas of law at the request of the Attorney-General of Australia. Based on its research and consultations throughout an inquiry, the ALRC makes recommendations to government so that government can make informed decisions about law reform. What does the organisation look for in a potential employee? Excellent legal research and writing skills, experience in policy development, the ability to synthesise complex information, and the capacity to contribute to and work within a team. What does work at the organisation involve? Undertaking legal research, analysis, writing and legal policy development, attending stakeholder consultations, providing support to other legal officers, supervising interns.

168 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

Does the organisation offer any opportunities to students still studying? The Australian Law Reform Commission provides opportunities for current law students in their penultimate or final year to work alongside Commission members and legal staff as legal interns. Interns work on a voluntary basis, and may work with the ALRC for a day a week for one semester, or for three weeks over the summer break. Internships provide an opportunity for students to increase their awareness of law reform issues while also allowing the ALRC to benefit from studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; research and writing skills. Interns are supervised by a staff member, and undertake research work determined by the needs of the ALRC. What does the organisation look for in an intern applicant? The ALRC will only consider applications that address the selection criteria: strong legal research skills; ability to analyse and communicate complex information; excellent written communication skills, including the ability to write clear and concise docu-

ments, including research briefs and memos; ability to work independently with professional guidance; and work experience, or interest in, law reform and/or social policy development. What is an interesting piece of work the organisation is currently working on or has recently completed? The Government announced in 2017 its intention to direct the ALRC to conduct the first comprehensive review into the family law system since the commencement of the Family Law Act in 1976, with a view to making necessary reforms to ensure the family law system meets the contemporary needs of families and effectively addresses family violence and child abuse.

ATO AUSTRALIAN TAXATION OFFICE

Level 15 770 Hay Street, Perth WA 6000 Taxation

1300 720 092 taxofficecareers@ ato.gov.au www.ato.gov.au

What is the main focus of the organisation? Our role is to effectively manage and shape the tax and superannuation systems that support and fund services for Australians, including: Collecting revenue; Administering the goods and services tax (GST) on behalf of the Australian states and territories; Governing a range of programs which result in transfers and benefits back to the community; Administering the major aspects of Australia’s superannuation system; and Custodian of the Australian Business Register. We aim to be a leading tax and superannuation administration, known for our contemporary service, expertise and integrity. We are committed to advancing our strategic direction. Our mission is to contribute to the economic and social wellbeing of Australians by fostering willing participation in our tax and superannuation systems. We aim to achieve taxpayer confidence of the Australian tax and superannuation systems by helping

people understand their rights and obligations, improving ease of compliance and access to benefits, and managing non-compliance with the law. What does the organisation look for in a potential employee? We are one of Australia’s largest public service employers, with over 20,000 people across the country. We strive to have a workforce that reflects the diversity of the Aus- tralian community, and we offer dynamic and rewarding careers. We employ people in a range of roles, from accounting, finance and auditing to law, administration and customer service to human resource management, information technology and marketing. What does the organisation’s graduate program involve? Our Graduate program offers you the opportunity to develop your career in a dynamic and high-profile national organisation. We offer diverse work experiences that will prepare you for exciting career paths. Join us as we become a more contemporary and service-orientated organisation, known for expertise and integrity. Our legal team establishes and

maintains the ATO’s view of existing tax and superannuation laws, and oversees processes that ensure consistency and timeliness of tax technical decisions. We also help shape the development of new laws by working with Treasury, providing high quality advice on policy proposals and implementation of new law. As part of a team, your work opportunities will include: Managing interpretative advice and guidance; Having an influential role in shaping tax law, policy and design; Managing our litigation cases and clarifying the law; Enhancing our relationships with professional bodies, consultative forums and the community; and Working with other business areas across the ATO to provide advice and clarity on law. During your work rotations, you will build networks and identify work types that interest you. Over 12 months, you will complete: two different work rotations a client-contact component to

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 169

•

give you exposure to different facets of the organisation.

Does the organisation offer any opportunities for university students? Yes, our University partnership employment program (UPEP) provides opportunities for motivated university students to do work they can’t do anywhere else – work that is meaningful, diverse, and challenging – on a casual basis in their field of study. Applications are open throughout the year and vacancies on the program occur at various times in various locations, according to our business needs. Supported by your manager, you would work to established priorities and procedures while exercising some autonomy. You may undertake procedural, clerical, administrative support and operational tasks.

170 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

“

We provide opportunities for motivated university students to do work they can’t do anywhere else – work that is meaningful, diverse, and challenging – on a casual basis in their field of study.

”

CDPP THE OFFICE OF THE COMMONWEALTH DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS

Level 1 226 Adelaide Terrace, Perth WA 6000 Criminal Law

(08) 9264 7264 recruitment.cdpp@ cdpp.gov.au www.cdpp.gov.au/

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Office of the Commonwealth Director of Public Prosecutions (CDPP) is an independent prosecution service established by Parlia- ment to prosecute alleged offences against Commonwealth law. We aim to provide an effective, ethical, high quality and independent criminal prosecution service for Australia in accordance with the Prosecution Policy of the Commonwealth. We will provide an effective and efficient independent prosecution service that contributes to a fair, safe and just Australia where Commonwealth laws are respected, offenders are brought to justice and potential offenders are deterred.

prosecutors, youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll have the opportunity to actively participate in shaping our organisation and work with our partner agencies to deliver services that contribute to a safer Australia.

What does the organisation look for in a potential employee? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re looking for people who value integrity, honesty, impartiality and who want to make a difference. Working alongside our experienced

All vacancies are advertised on www. cdpp.gov.au. Should you wish to apply for a job at the CDPP, a summary addressing the competencies (selection criteria) will form a crucial part of any application. You are en-

What advice would you give a student applying to the organisation? We are looking for graduates with a strong record of academic achievement, who have a genuine interest in criminal law issues and understand the important contribution our work makes to society. Core skills include excellent written and verbal communication skills, integrity, ethical practice and a motivation to provide an effective prosecution service.

couraged to set out why you have the right aptitude, skills and experience based on these competencies. You may wish to include examples that demonstrate and substantiate your claims against the competencies that can be verified by your referees.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 171

CTH. OMBUDSMAN 489/469 Wellington Street, Perth WA 6000 Administrative decision making and practices in public authorities

1300 362 072 recruitment@ ombudsman.gov.au www.ombudsman. gov.au

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Commonwealth Ombudsman exists to safeguard the community in its dealings with Australian Government agencies by: Handling complaints and conducting investigations; Performing audits and inspections; Encouraging good administrative practices, and Carrying out specialist oversight tasks. Our complaints and investigations role The Ombudsman can investigate complaints about the administrative actions of Australian Government departments and agencies. If a complaint raises matters that we can and should investigate, we will do so as quickly as practicable, acting fairly, independently and impartially. If we cannot assist with a particular complaint, we will explain why, and suggest other avenues for resolving the matter. Our menotiring and inspection roles The Ombudsman has statutory responsibility for inspecting the records of certain law enforcement

172 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

and agencies in relation to: covert controlled operations; telecommunications interceptions; stored communications; and the use of surveillance devices. We are responsible for inspecting and reporting on some immigration detention matters, and for reviewing the exercise of coercive informati gathering powers by the Director of Fair Work Building & Construction. Our public interest disclosure roles The Ombudsman promotes and maintains the Commonwealth public interest disclosure scheme and undertakes a specific defined role for the whole of the Australian Government. What does the organisation look for in an employee? Our staff have a wide range of skills, qualifications and experience. We value integrity, impartiality, honesty and service. Our staff are expected to maintain the strictest confidentiality. Each advertised position will specify relevant selection criteria and each applicant should provide a statement of claim against each of the criteria, along with any other information they think is useful and ap-

propriate. Generally speaking, desirable attributes in an applicant would include: excellent communication, research, analytical and/or investigative skills; and abilities to prioritise and work independently or as part of a team. What opportunities are there for students/graduates at the organisation? The Ombudsman does not operate a graduate recruitment program, but encourages graduates to apply for advertised vacancies. From time to time we can accommodate unpaid work experience placement requests, resources permitting. Any request for a work experience placement should include a statement of support from the university.

CCC CORRUPTION AND CRIME COMMISSION

Level 5, 45 Francis Street, Northbridge, Western Australia 6003 Criminal law

(08) 9215 4888 info@ccc.wa.gov.au www.ccc.wa.gov.au

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Corruption and Crime Commission is an anti-corruption agency that was established on 1 January 2004 to investigate allegations of serious misconduct by Western Australian public officers. It also assist the WA Police to investigate organised crime by authorising the use of investigative powers not ordinarily available to them. What does the organisation look for in a potential employee? The Commissionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s work culture is based on trust and respect and empowers our people to act with integrity and transparency. We look for people who abide by these values. What does the work at the organisation involve? Commission lawyers work as part of multidisciplinary teams that include investigators, analysts, and assessment officers.

rants, telephone intercepts, surveillance devices). Does the organisation offer any opportunities to students still studying? All employment opportunities can be viewed at www.jobs.wa.gov.au. What is an interesting piece of work the organisation is currently working on or has recently completed? You can read more about the work of the Commission at www.ccc. wa.gov. au/news. What does the organisation look for in an employee? Our staff have a wide range of skills, qualifications and experience. We value integrity, impartiality, honesty and service. Our staff are expected to maintain the strictest confidentiality.

Lawyers engage in a wide variety of work including general advice, advocacy, drafting parliamentary reports and submissions, and preparing a range of complex documentation relevant to legal process (e.g. applications for notices, summonses, war-

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 173

DFAT THE DEPARTMENT OF FORIEGN AFFAIRS & TRADE

Level 25, Exchange Tower, Sherwood Court, Perth WA 6000 International law, trade & development policy advice

(08) 9231 4499 dfat.wa@dfat.gov.au www.dfat.gov.au

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade’s (DFAT) purpose is to help make Australia stronger, safer and more prosperous by promoting and protecting our interests internationally and contributing to global stability and economic growth. The department provides foreign, trade and development policy advice to the government. We work with other government agencies to ensure that Australia’s pursuit of its global, regional and bilateral interests is coordinated effectively. What does the organisation look for in a potential employee? The department operates in a complex and highly dynamic international environment. We look for and value in our employees: responsiveness, especially to the Government we serve, but also to a wide range of other clients, such as parliament, business and individual members of the Australian public; knowledge of the international environment and issues relevant to the promotion and protection of Australia’s national interests; the capacity to operate with sensitivity in many distinct cultural environments, while projecting

174 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

clearly and confidently our Australian identity; vigilance in the protection of sensitive information handled in the department, both in Australia and abroad; high standards of ethical and personal conduct, especially abroad where, in representing Australia, officers have a real impact on our international reputation; comprehensive and contemporary management approaches, encompassing best practice, family friendly policies, continuous improvement, performance evaluation, strict accountability and a strong commitment to training and development, and personal and corporate flexibility, versatility and adaptability, all of which are demanded in a portfolio characterised by a uniquely diverse agenda and an often demanding and unpredictable environment.

ties and the department’s financial and corporate context. You will also complete five work placements, giving you firsthand experience of the department’s diverse range of priorities, including: Bilateral economic and political relations International trade negotiations, investment and economic analysis Humanitarian assistance Development and aid program management International security Public diplomacy Commercial, administrative and international law Multilateral and global issues Financial, human and asset management Consular and passport services.

What does the organisation’s graduate program involve? Our two-year graduate program will kick-start your career in the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT). During the course of the program, you will undertake a tailored learning package delivered through the Diplomatic Academy. You will develop a broad knowledge and understanding of the Government’s foreign, trade and aid policy priori-

After you have completed the program, you will have an ongoing APS 4 position in Canberra. You will also be eligible to apply for positions in one of our overseas posts, although it can be a few years before graduates take up overseas positions.

What opportunities does the organisation offer for lawyers? You will have opportunities to undertake specialised legal work in commercial, administrative and international law, as well as to use your legal skills and experience in other areas across the organisation. You may provide advice on contracts, employment law and diplomatic privileges and immunities and manage litigation in Australia and overseas, or work on a wide range of bilateral and multilateral legal issues, including on international trade matters, law of the sea and international human rights.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;

The department operates in a complex and highly dynamic international environment. You will have opportunities to undertake specialised legal work in commercial, administrative and international law.

â&#x20AC;?

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 175

DPC THE DEPARTMENT OF PREMIER & CABINET

Level 25, Exchange Tower, Sherwood Court, Perth WA 6000 Administration of Executive Government services and Government policy management

(08) 6552 5222 hrrecruitment@dpc.wa.gov.au strategichr@dpc. wa.gov.au www.dpc.wa.gov.au

What is the main focus of the organisation? Our role is to provide quality policy and administrative advice and support to enable the Premier and Government to serve the WA community well. What does the organisation look for in a potential employee? Our Department has a diverse workforce and looks for people with a broad range of experience in various fields of study. In particular, the Department’s annual Graduate Program aims to recruit people who are energetic, enthusiastic, looking for a challenge and are interested in a career in government. We are interested in smart people, with good social skills, who have original ideas, can problem solve and are intellectually curious. What does the work at the organisation involve? The Department delivers the following key services: Providing administrative support to the Premier and his Cabinet Providing administrative policy advice and support to the Ministerial Offices and the Executive Council

176 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

The promotion of Western Australia’s interests overseas The communication of Government policies and activities The administration of parliamentary electorate offices on behalf of the President of the Legislative Council and Speak- er of the Legislative Assemby Management of the State occasions and official visits program Providing a secure, confidential and time-critical printing and publishing service for Parliament and Government Management of exhibitions and programs at the Constitu- tional Centre. What advice would you give a student applying to the organisation? If you are looking for a challenging and rewarding career, and are interested in working at the centre of Government in Western Australia, then the Department of the Premier and Cabinet will be able to assist you in your professional development. Working in the Department will give you a broad overview in areas such as public policy formulation, public administration and state administrative matters.

What is the structure of the organisation’s graduate program? The Department of the Premier and Cabinet (DPC) offers an exciting and challenging Graduate Development Program with a focus on promoting your personal learning, developing your career and giving you a chance to make a difference in Western Australia. We provide passionate and committed graduates with the skills and experience they need to be future leaders in the public sector. At the centre of Government in Western Australia, the Department of the Premier and Cabinet gives you a chance to work on big and small, critical and contentious issues relating to the economy, transport, education, health, the environment, and law and order - just to name a few. Graduates have worked on topics including the National Disability Insurance Scheme, the State Science Strategy, a special inquiry into the January 2016 Waroona Fire, and the Dirk Hartog anniversary celebrations in Shark Bay. In 2016, our Graduates have worked on: The development of the Square Kilometre Array science project. The South West Native Title settlement.

“

Working in the Department will give you a broad overview in areas such as public policy formulation, public administration and state administrative matters.

”

•

Public consultations concerning the Government’s approach for dealing with future population growth in Perth and the Peel region.

As a Graduate Development Officer you will work with senior officers and meet with people from other government agencies, the community and private sector companies, as they try to shape the development of answers to public policy problems across the State. What is an interesting piece of work the organisation is currently working on or has recently completed? The Department conducts wide ranging work including providing policy advice and support on key government priorities through promoting the State’s interests at the national level, strengthening regulatory reform, investing in the State’s natural and cultural heritage, promoting collaboration in policy and planning and providing strategic, crossport- folio advice on land, State and Commonwealth approvals and Indigenous issues.

cluded: • Working with relevant agen• cies to develop a State-wide Methamphetamine Strategy, including cross-government initiatives to combat supply, demand and use of the drug in the community. • Providing oversight for the second year of the comparative trials of the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). • Building Western Australia’s scientific expertise and capabilities including leading the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) project and the Premier’s Science and Agribusiness Connect Program (SAC). • Leading the Dirk Hartog 400thnniversary Commemorations.

Key highlights of work undertaken during the 2015/16 financial year in-

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 177

ICWA INSURANCE COMMISSION OF WESTERN AUSTRALIA

221 St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6000 Insurance law, motor vehicle claims/ insurance

(08) 9264 3333 hr@icwa.wa.gov.au www.icwa.wa.gov.au

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Insurance Commission of Western Australia is a statutory corporation and Government Trading Enterprise owned by the Western Australian Government. We are the State’s insurer, providing injury assistance to motorists, an self-insurance to Government. We provide motor vehicle injury insurance for more than 1.8 million drivers and 2.8 million vehicles in Western Australia. We also provide self-insurance arrangements for the Government, covering over 169 WA public authorities for workers’ compensation, property and liability.

178 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

What does the organisation’s graduate program involve? The Insurance Commission actively seeks graduates and young professionals to join our organisation. We offer training and professional development to build your career and help you achieve your goals. Working with us will provide you with public sector experience and a skill set that is transferable to the global financial service and insurance industries.

What opportunties are available to students at the organisation? The Insurance Commission offers opportunities in a dynamic, flexible and innovative work environment for talented people. We value innovative thinking from people who are team players committed to delivering excellence to our customers and stakeholders.

LEGAL AID 32 St Georges Terrace Perth, WA 6000 Various areas of law.

(08) 9261 6222 positions@legalaid. wa.gov.au www.legalaid. wa.gov.au

What is the main focus of the organisation? Legal Aid WA is an independent statutory body set up by the Legal Aid Commission Act 1976 (WA). We provide information, advice and other legal help. The type and amount of help you will get depends on your finances, your legal problem and our resources. Information services: through our telephone information line, community legal education, this website and a range of publications and kits. Legal advice: through our duty lawyers at court or legal advice sessions, either face to face, over the telephone or by video conference to people in remote areas. Minor assistance: through solicitors or paralegal advisors who can help you negotiate, write let-

ters, draft documents or prepare to represent yourself in court. Legal representation: through lawyers working for Legal Aid WA as well as private lawyers. Only people with incomes and assets below a certain level get their own lawyer. We also provide specialist services through our: Dispute Resolution Unit Family Court Services (Duty lawyer) Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Court (Protection) Services Domestic Violence Legal Unit Child Support Civil Litigation Assistance Scheme Immigration Service Social Inclusion Program Youth Law Team

How would you describe the working culture at the organisation? Working for Legal Aid WA means making a real difference to the lives of legally disadvantaged people in our community. At the same time you will experience being part of a diverse, supportive and vibrant work environment that delivers excellent professional development opportunities to all staff. Legal Aid WA is committed to enhancing the mobility and multi-skilling of its staff. Does the organisation hire graduates directly? Yes.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 179

ODPP THE OFFICE OF THECOMMONWEALTH DIRECTOR OF PUBLIC PROSECUTIONS

Level 1 International House 26 St Georges Terrace Perth WA 6000 Criminal law

(08) 9425 3999 dpp@dpp.wa.gov. au www.dpp.wa.gov.au

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is the independent prosecuting authority for the State of Western Australia, responsible for the prosecution of all serious offences committed against State criminal law. The ODPP acts independently of the Government in decision making on criminal prosecutions. The Direc- tor is however responsible to the Attorney General for the operation of the Office. The ODPP does not investigate crime that is the role of investigating agencies such as the WA Police and the Corruption and Crime Commission.

180 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

Does the organisation accept vacation clerks? Yes. What is the structure of your clerkship program? The ODPP actively contributes to the training and development of future lawyers by running a vacation clerkship program. The ODPP offers a number of vacation clerkships during the mid-year (winter) and end of year (summer) university semester breaks. Vacation clerkships are offered to law students who are typically in their last, or second last year of study.

During the two week clerkship period, students will be provided with an opportunity to learn about the nature of the work that the ODPP performs. Does the organisation hire graduates directly? Yes.

OMBUDSMAN WA PO Box Z5386, St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6831 Administrative decision making and practices in public authorities.

(08) 9220 7555 www.ombudsman.wa.gov.au mail@ombudsman.wa.gov.au,

What is the main focus of the organisation? The Ombudsman is an independent and impartial ocer who reports directly to the Western Australian Parliament. The Ombudsman receives, investigates and resolves complaints about State Government agencies, local governments and universities, initiates major own motion investigations, reviews certain child deaths, reviews family and domestic violence fatalities and undertakes inspection and monitoring functions. What does the organisation look for in a potential employee? Most positions at Ombudsman Western Australia require good conceptual and analytical skills, a high level of written communication skills, strong interpersonal skills and an understanding of the principles of independence, reasonableness and procedural fairness. People from diverse backgrounds are encouraged to apply for vacancies at Ombudsman Western Australia.

What kind of work do your employees do? The office of the Ombudsman has four principal functions, which are to: Receive, investigate and resolve complaints about State Government agencies, local governments and universities; Review certain child deaths and family and domestic violence fatalities; Improve public administration for the benefit of all Western Australians through own motion investigations and education and liaison programs with public authorities; and Undertake a range of additional functions, including statutory inspection and monitoring functions.

What advice would you give a student applying to the organisation? Contact the person in the job advertisement to get an understanding of the advertised role and information about the job, and provide a comprehensive curriculum vitae that details your qualifications and your duties and achievements in your current and previous work. The CV needs to show that you have the skills, knowledge and capacity to do the work of the advertised position. Does the organisation offer any opportunities to students still studying? Ombudsman Western Australia provides law students that have completed Administrative Law units an opportunity to apply for the officeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Clerkship program during the summer university vacation. These opportunities are advertised on the Western Australian Government Jobs Board (jobs.wa.gov.au) in early August each year and the office also informs universities when the program is advertised.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 181

What is an interesting piece of work the organisation is currently working on or has recently completed? In November 2017, the Ombudsman tabled in Parliament the report of a major own motion investigation, Investigation into ways to prevent or reduce deaths of children by drowning, that contained 25 recommendations to the Department of Mines, Industry Regulation and Safety and the Building Commissioner about ways to prevent or reduce deaths of children by drowning. In

keeping with the Ombudsman’s commitment to Parliament to ensure Parliament is informed about the implementation of the Ombudsman’s investigations, the Ombudsman will actively examine the steps taken to give effect to the recommendations and report the results of this examination to Parliament in 2018.

PERSONAL PROFILE E M M A OBS T P R I N C I PA L I NVEST IGAT ING OF F ICER I chose to work at the Ombudsman Western Australia because I wanted to build a career in public law that challenged me every day and allowed me to make a real and meaningful contribution to improving access to justice Our work requires excellent organisational, interpersonal and statutory interpretation skills, so that we can: • Work with complainants (some of whom come from disadvantaged or vulnerable backgrounds) and senior staff of state government departments and authorities to resolve complaints; • Undertake analysis of systemic issues arising in the public sector; and • Develop suggestions and recommendations for improving public administration.

182 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

New staff are supported and encouraged through mentoring and the office’s performance development program to explore their interests and build their capability to work across the office. Working for the Ombudsman is incredibility rewarding and has provided me with discipline in analysis, reasoning, creativity and fresh thinking, as well as exposure to a wide range of interesting and varied areas of law – no two days are the same! We also enjoy a fantastic working environment, with access to flexible working hours and arrangements, a friendly collegiate atmosphere (including a social club) and an exceptional Corporate Executive team.

SSO STATE SOLICITOR’S OFFICE

28 Barrack St, David Malcolm Justice Centre, Perth WA 6000 Government Law

(08) 9264 1005 http://www.department.dotag.wa.gov.au Brianna Marszal ssohr@sso.wa.gov.au

What does your organisation do? The State Solicitor’s Oce provides the West Australian State Government and Ministers, and over 120 client departments, instrumentalities and statutory corporations, with legal advice and representation across all areas of law. If you can think of it we probably do it! Our practice areas include Specialist Advisings and Litigation, Civil Wrongs, Native Title and State Lands, Commercial and Counsel. What does the organisation look for in a potential employee? While the State Solicitor’s Office looks for graduates with excellent results in their law degrees, we also want to employ people who have a commitment to public service, and understand that working in government can be different to working for private clients in a private practice. You should be able to work well with others, and at the same time work independently when required (and it is required a lot). We need graduates who are not afraid of public speaking, or who are prepared to have a go at advocacy despite the fear. We want to create an oce full of inter-

esting people who will maintain the happy working environment in which all State Solicitor’s Office employees are privileged to work. What kind of work do your employees do? Working at the State Solicitor’s oce as a graduate involves rotating through our practice areas and going to court on interlocutory matters (actually speaking not just pushing the trolley!). As a restricted practitioner you’ll have your own prosecutions to conduct in the Magistrates’ Court, your own advice les and you’ll assist on bigger matters as part of a team. You never need “settle” in one practice area if you enjoy maintaining a variety of work but you can develop expertise if you have a passion for a particular area of law. There is substantial in-house training for junior staff (including mock court sessions before you head to court on your own) and continuing professional development opportunities throughout your career.

What advice would you give a student applying to the organisation? Please only apply if you are genuinely interested in the law, particularly government law, and are prepared to work hard and spend some time going to court in the rst ve years of your career. In regards to your application; do your research before you apply, make your application stand out, proofread properly, highlight your areas of interest and ability and most importantly convince us you actually want to work at the State Solicitor’s Oce. Does the organisation offer any opportunities to students still studying? The State Solicitor’s Office offers excellent paid Vacation Clerkships each summer and winter for law students, giving them the opportunity to gain practical legal experience with a leading law office. The carefully structured vacation clerkship program ensures that participants are well mentored and gain experience in as many of the State Solicitor’s practice areas as possible.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 183

What is an interesting piece of work the organisation is currently working on or has recently completed? The State Solicitor’s Office is involved in a number of areas of law, providing a variety of work for our solicitors. We provide advice on a range of legal issues for government and Ministers, with approximately

4000 requests for advice received in 2017. Our Commercial team has been involved in a number of recent major infrastructure projects including the new Perth Stadium and Metronet. The organisation of the State Solicitor’s Office is designed to be flexible with a broad appreciation of the operations of government and the skill set required to cater to the

diverse legal demands that government generates. Consequently while every lawyer is a member of a practice team they may also be adjunct members of one of more additional teams and also members of specfic interest groups such as counter terrorism and emergency management, Hague convention or constitutional law.

PERSONAL PROFILE S T E FAN T OM A S ICH S O L I C I T O R, GRAD U AT ED 2 0 1 4

My decision to work at the State Solicitor’s Office (SSO) was an easy one. There is nowhere in Perth where you will get the same opportunities as those available at the SSO. As the primary provider of legal services to the State government, the Office is involved in a wide range of work, from commercial drafting, to formal legal advice and litigation. As a young member of the Office you are exposed to all facets of the work done by the Office. From day one you get a high level of inependence, often being asked to draft formal advice to clients (with supervision, of course). Further, you will be given your own court appearances as soon as you start. There is excellent training and support available as well, so even though you are given independence, there is always help available when you need it. The responsibility and independence that you have means that you learn a lot very quickly, as well as making it a rewarding environment to work in. The SSO is full of exceptional people – both legal and support staff – and it is an Office that I am proud to be a part of.

184 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

COM M U N I TY LEGAL CENT R E DIRECTORY Volunteer positions are a great way for students to get involved and give back to the community whilst developing their career. Volunteer positions at community legal centres (CLCs) can provide valuable insight into the provision of legal services for the socially marginalised, and can provide students with exposure to various areas of the law. The work legal volunteers are required to undertake is both challenging and rewarding. The tasks that volunteers at CLC would be required to undertake are wide ranging and include: identifying legal problems, writing memorandums of advice, conducting legal research and other administrative duties. Other positions will require volunteers to communicate directly with clients, either in person or over a telephone, as many CLC operate on a telephone advice line.

ABORIGINAL FAMILY LAW SERVICES 890 Albany Hwy, East Victoria Park WA 6101 PO Box 5452, East Victoria Park, WA 6981 Legal and community support for Indigenous women, children and men

(08) 9355 1502 Nicky Davison, Human Resources Manager www.afls.org.au

What is the focus of the CLC? To provide legal and community support for victims of family violence for Indigenous women, children and men.

What attributes do you look for in an applicant? Honesty Dedication Commitment to assist victims of family violence

What does work at the CLC involve? Criminal injuries compensation; child protection and family support; violence restraining orders, family law (childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s issues).

Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? Yes.

Do you hire volunteer paralegals? Yes. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? Understanding the impact of family violence within the Indigenous community. How do students apply? Call or email our Human Resources Manager. How many positions are there available? This depends upon the location and workload of the Principal Legal Officer.

188 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

What does the CLC look for in potential employees? Excellent experience Good support Friendly team

CITIZENS ADVICE BUREAU Level 1, 25 Barack Street, Perth WA 6000 Staff lawyers provide legal advice on family law and estate matters and can prepare court documents such as consent order, wills, enduring powers of Attorney and Guardianship, Letters of Administration and Probate. Visiting lawyers give advice on a wide range of civil and commercial issues including neighbour disputes, consumer issues, insurance, general litigation, real estate and strata, restraining orders, contract matters and Magistrates Court proceedings. (08) 9325 4217 cab@cabwa.com.au www.cabwa.com. au/

What is the focus of the CLC? Citizens Advice Bureau (CAB) is an independent, notfor-profit organization connecting people all over Western Australia with information and services so they can make independent and informed decisions. We provide information and referral, a low-cost legal advice service on a wide range of issues, and a mediation service. What does work at the CLC involve? A typical day in the life of one of our volunteers includes time on the phone, answering queries from our clients and booking appointments for our legal team.They also spend time talking to clients face to face on our reception desk, handling cash and providing information and referrals. Do you hire volunteer paralegals? Yes. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? Volunteering with CAB is an interesting and rewarding way to ‘give back’ to the Western Australian community. Our volunteers come from diverse backgrounds – but the thing they have in common is their strong desire to help others, their ability to communicate clearly and concisely, their great customer service skills and their computer skills.

How do students apply? Students can send their expressions of interest to the volunteer manager on manager@cabwa.com.au or call 9325 4217 to enquire about volunteer opportunities. What attributes do you look for in an applicant? We are looking for someone who possesses good communication and customer service skills, likes to work in a challenging and often fast-paced environment and is solution orientated. What is unique about the CLC? Citizens Advice Bureau is first and foremost an informational and referral agency staffed with around 280 volunteers in 10 branches. Regardless of people’s background and the matters they are seeking assistance with, we explore the different options available and point them in the right direction so we can assist them to resolve their own issues. Our volunteers are extremely passionate about helping the community and will never be heard saying ‘we can’t help you’ but rather use varied resources to assist clients. Additionally, we also offer low-cost legal advice and mediation services that are self-funded.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 189

CONSUMER CREDIT LEGAL SERVICE Level 1, 231 Adelaide Terrace, Perth WA 6000

Consumer credit, banking and finance, and Australian Consumer Law

(08) 9221 7066 Gemma Mitchell, Principal Solicitor hr@cclswa.org.au www.cclswa.org.au

What is the focus of the CLC? We provide advice and representation to members of the WA community in the areas of consumer credit, banking and finance, and Australian Consumer Law. What does work at the CLC involve? Volunteer paralegals operate the telephone advice line. They take instructions, draft advice and deliver advice; under the close supervision of the supervising solicitor. Volunteer paralegals also assist solicitors with case file work, in the delivery of community legal education and in drafting law reform submissions. Do you hire volunteer paralegals? Yes. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? Volunteer paralegals get direct client contact by providing front-line legal services. They also receive close supervision, mentoring and ongoing training throughout their time at CCLSWA. How do students apply? By completing the online form on our website. How many positions are there available? We recruit all year round and have approximately 20 volunteer paralegals on our roster at any one time.

What attributes do you look for in an applicant? Our volunteers are passionate about the law, and we have a strong team that works hard to assist our clients. Our clients may be having a difficult time, so resilience is a key skill that we need from our volunteers. You will also need to be in your penultimate or final year students with at least a credit average. Some legal or clerical work experience is helpful, but not essential. What advice do you have for students looking to apply? This is a great opportunity to directly interact with clients and learn how to draft advice. You will learn how to talk to clients, what questions to ask clients and inadvertently improve your client interview skills. You will have the opportunity to partake in different kinds of volunteer roles from presenting at conferences, to preparing law reform pieces for politicians. Volunteering at CCLSWA is a great way to build up the skills necessary for the legal workplace. During your time at CCLSWA, you will learn where to look for the answers and how to best research. Knowing where to look is just as important as knowing the answer. Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? Yes, although we are limited to the number of graduates we can supervise at any one time. What does the CLC look for in potential employees? Re-read your application before you submit it for spelling mistakes and bad grammar.

EMPLOYMENT LAW CENTRE WA PO Box 5603, St Georges Terrace, Perth WA 6831

Employment law

(08) 9227 0111 administration@elcwa.org.au www.elcwa.org.au/

What is the focus of the CLC? We are a community legal centre that provides free, employment law advice, education, advocacy, representation, information and referrals to vulnerable, non-unionised employees in Western Australia (WA). We assist with issues such as unfair dismissal, adverse action, unlawful termination, underpayment of entitlements, breach of contract, bullying, equal opportunity and occupational safety and health. We also work on law reform and educating the WA community to promote a better understanding of this complex area of law. Our law reform and community legal education are informed by our clients and their experiences. Do you hire volunteer paralegals? Yes, we hire paid paralegals and have volunteer opportunities for law students.

How do students apply? If you are interested in volunteering, we encourage you to email us at administration@elcwa.org.au with your resume, academic transcript and a cover letter telling us about why you want to volunteer at ELC. What attributes do you look for in an applicant? ELC looks for paralegals and volunteers who have a demonstrated interest in social justice issues and employment law and are able to make a regular commitment each week. In general, we prefer paralegals and volunteers who have some legal background â&#x20AC;&#x201C; for example, students who are at least in the second year of a law degree. We put a lot of time and effort into ensuring that our volunteers gain tangible legal and practical skills from their experience with us.

What does work at the CLC involve? Our paralegals provide legal advice to vulnerable WA workers under the supervision of our solicitors. Some of our volunteers take phone calls on our Advice Line, determine whether callers are eligible for our services and take instructions from clients. Other volunteers assist solicitors with client appointments, do research or develop community legal education materials.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 191

ENVIRONMENTAL DEFENDERS OFFICE (WA) 18/2 Delhi St, West Perth WA 6005

Environmental law

(08) 9420 7271 edowa@edowa.org.au www.edowa.org.au

What is the focus of the CLC? EDO is a not-for-profit and non-government organisation that specialises in public interest environmental law. EDO’s commitment to the WA community and environment is at the core of its organisation. It aims to empower the community to protect and preserve the environment through understanding, applying and improving environmental laws. What does work at the CLC involve? Volunteering at the EDO gives law students and other students insight into the legal practice and the way the justice system operates. You also help protect the environment by helping the EDO to provide its legal services to people who could otherwise not afford it. The work you do will look great on your resume. Law students will learn to find their way around the Supreme Court library and undertake legal research with a real practical focus and application. You also work in a fantastic office and meet some great people, including volunteers from around the world!

192 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

What do you look for in an applicant? Volunteers are an important part of the EDO’s operations. Students studying law and related disciplines frequently volunteer their time to help meet the demand for the EDO’s services. Law student volunteers are expected to commit at least one full day per week for a university term. They must also have completed administrative law and at least 1 of the following 3 units, all with a grade of ‘credit’ or higher: Environmental law Energy/natural resources law Maritime law/ law of oceans How do students apply? Students should email their resume, academic transcript and a short sample of written work or research relevant to environmental law (3 pages or more) to edowa@edowa.org.au. Students that apply will be placed on the waitlist and will be contacted at the next available vacancy.

FREMANTLE COMMUNITY LEGAL CENTRE Level 1, Suite 31, 35 William Street, Fremantle WA 6160 Family Law, Restraining Orders, Criminal Injuries Compensation, Equal Opportunity Law, Tenancy Law, Civil, Criminal (Traffic Offences), Welfare Rights

(08) 9432 9790 Judy Mclean, Principal Solicitor and centre coordinator www.fremantle.wa.gov.au/fclc

What is the focus of the CLC? FCLC offers a range of services to disadvantaged, disempowered and vulnerable clients. Disadvantaged people are not only more likely to experience large numbers of legal problems, but they are also more likely to experience a wide range of often substantial legal problems. A variety of measures indicate that people with a disability, single parents, unemployed people, people subject to family violence and abuse, people living in disadvantaged housing and/ or homeless and Indigenous people constitute the disadvantaged group that is most vulnerable to legal problems. FCLC offers a comprehensive set of services to effectively meet the needs of its target group. What does work at the CLC involve? FCLC provides legal information, advice and assistance to the community and limited representation regarding restraining orders at the Fremantle Magistrates Court. This is provided to the most disadvantaged, vulnerable and CALD clients. Do you hire volunteer paralegals? Yes.

How many positions are there available? Between 8 and 12 depending on the number of active internships being supervised. What attributes do you look for in an applicant? Great people skills, strong research skills, ability to adjust to different areas of practice, and definitely a strong commitment to justice and equality for all people before the law. Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? Yes, we have placements through the ANU College of Law programme in conjunction with the Piddington Justice Project, but have also offer placements where the student shows dedication to our clients and the law. What does the CLC look for in potential employees? Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s more than just law, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s peoples lives so you need to be prepared to be challenged and rewarded.

What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? Gain hands on experience in an empathetic, supportive learning environment. How do students apply? Send your CV and cover letter to fclc@ fremantle. wa.gov.au

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 193

THE HUMANITARIAN GROUP 16B Sunbury Road, Victoria Park WA 6100 Migration assistance (specifically protection and family reunion) and general legal assistance (with a focus on family violence and specialist immigration issues (08) 9227 7311 admin@thehumantarian group.org.au www.thehumanitariangroup.org.au

What is the focus of the CLC? The Humanitarian Group is focused on empowering vulnerable people by providing professional and accessible migration assistance, legal advice and education. We help people new to Australia from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, including humanitarian visa holders, asylum seekers, refugees and people who are otherwise disadvantaged in their access to legal services. What does work at the CLC involve? The work at The Humanitarian Group involves providing migration and legal assistance. Volunteers assist with both legal work and administrative support. We also have a number of bilingual volunteers. Do you hire volunteer paralegals? Yes. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? At The Humanitarian Group, you will develop invaluable legal skills in an environment where you are well supported and supervised, but also have the opportunity to work independently with clients. You will also have the satisfaction of using your skills and knowledge to assist vulnerable people. How do students apply? Students should apply for volunteer positions via the online form on our website. How many positions are there available? The number of positions available depend on organisational needs at the time.

194 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

What attributes do you look for in an applicant? Legal knowledge Strong written and oral communication skills including demonstrated ability to communicate with people from culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) backgrounds Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to work independently in a fast-paced environment High level of computer literacy generally, and specifically in Microsoft products Experience in working with CALD people and interpreters Interest in social justice Also desirable: Bilingual or multilingual skills Knowledge of services available in WA for CALD people Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? Yes. We accept people at the start of the year through the Piddington Justice Project. People who are interested in starting their Practical Legal Training mid year should email kathy@thehumanitariangroup.org.au What advice do you have for students looking to apply? Make sure you tailor your application to the selection criteria and proofread your application.

MENTAL HEALTH LAW CENTRE 255 Hay St, Subiaco WA 6008 Mental Health Act 2014 & Mental Health and the Law

(08) 9328 8012 Faith Cheok, Principal Legal Officer www.mhlcwa.org.au

What is the focus of the CLC? Legal representation of people who have mental health issues in the following areas: Criminal law Guardianship & administration All matters under the Mental Health Act 2014 (WA) Criminal injuries compensation What does work at the CLC involve? The Centre provides a range of services to clients such as: Telephone advice on a range of legal matters Representation to involuntary clients under the Mental Health Act 2014 Representation to clients who are before the START Court or Magistrates Court Assistance with guardian and administration matters. Student volunteers help with: Managing the Telephone Advice Line where we provide short legal advice for clients with mental health issues Assisting the lawyers with case files & preparation for Mental Health Tribunal hearings Legal research & drafting documents Do you hire volunteer paralegals? No.

What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? Practical experience in applying the law to peopleâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s situations & legal problems Developing communication skills in speaking to people who have complex needs Developing legal skills necessary for a successful career in the law Volunteering also enhances your career opportunities How do students apply? Email your current resume, academic transcript and availability to office@mhlcwa.org.au What attributes do you look for in an applicant? An applicant must: Be in their last or second last year of a law degree Be able to commit to one day week for a period of 6 months Have strong written and verbal communication skills Have strong legal research skills Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? Yes.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 195

STREET LAW CENTRE PO Box 6236, East Perth WA 6892 Care and Protection, Housing, Debts, Bankruptcy, Criminal Law (minor charges), Discrimination, Guardianship and Administrations applications, Police complaint, Criminal Injuries Compensation, Freedom of Information applications, Fines, Violence Restraining Orders, Family Law (08) 9221 7661 Ann-Margaret Walsh, Principal Solicitor www.streetlawcentre.org.au

What is the focus of the CLC? Legal assistance to the homeless or those at risk of homelessness and legal education to the community on issues affecting people who are homeless. What does work at the CLC involve? Provision of free outreach legal services that provides information, referrals, advice and advocacy support to people who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. Do you hire volunteer paralegals? Yes. What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? Opportunity to work in diverse areas of law. How do students apply? In writing by post or through the websiteâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s online contact form. How many positions are there available? Positions arise from time to time.

196 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

What attributes do you look for in an applicant? A demonstrated interest in social justice. Attention to detail in written and verbal communication skills. Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? Yes.

SUSSEX STREET COMMUNITY LEGAL CENTRE 29 Sussex St, East Victoria Park WA 6101 Family Law, Civil, Minor Criminal, Welfare Rights, Disability Discrimination, Tenant Advocacy, Individual Disability Advocacy

(08) 6253 9500 sscls@sscls.asn.au http://www.sscls.asn.au/

What is the focus of the CLC? Sussex Street Community Law Service Inc is a ‘non profit’ non government community based organisation that provides access to accountable, non judgmental and effective legal services to low income people in the community. What does work at the CLC involve? Students can assist in two different programs – Day Service Volunteering and Night Legal Service Volunteering. The Day Service requires students to commit one full day a week for six months. It involves assisting with tasks such as: Answering phones, taking client details, performing conflict of interest checks, and booking appointments or passing on client details to solicitors or case workers for phone advice Assisting with organising community legal education presentations Drafting simple letters Taking notes during appointments

The Night Legal Service requires students to commit one evening a week for six months. It involves assisting with tasks such as: Reception work Taking notes during appointments Providing brochures and referrals to clients Completing limited research Drafting simple letters How do students apply? Email a cover letter and your resume to sscls@sscls. asn.au

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 197

TENANCY WA 2/18 Plain Street, East Perth WA 6004 Residential tenancy law

(08) 6263 8556 Kate Davis, Principal Solicitor admin@tenancywa. org.au www.tenancywa. org.au

What is the focus of the CLC? Tenancy WA is a not for profit specialist community legal centre that provides quality legal services to residential tenants anywhere in Western Australia. We are the central resource unit for the Network of Tenant Advocates across Western Australia, and we provide the state-wide telephone advice line for tenants. The Tenancy WA team is made up of lawyers, tenant advocates, support staff and volunteers, all of whom are committed to supporting the fundamental human right to safe, secure and affordable housing. Our mission is to protect the right to housing for all tenants through advocacy, advice and education. We advise a wide range of tenants across Western Australia, with issues ranging from return of bond and maintenance to inquiries about eviction and homelessness. We also provide a Duty Advocacy Program to the Perth Magistrates Court. What does work at the CLC involve? We offer advice to residential tenants on our advice line, in person and on our website to improve their capability to maintain successful tenancies and resolve their own tenancy issues. We also provide community education activities for tenants and professional development for community service workers and tenant advocates. Tenancy WA relies on volunteer students and graduates to assist our tenant advocates and solicitors with administrative and research tasks in the delivery of our tenant advisory services, community legal education programs and law reform work. Do you hire volunteer paralegals? Yes.

198 | C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K

What are the benefits of taking a position at the CLC? The clients of Tenancy WA are those who are facing injustice, whose legal problem is not profitable, and whose life circumstances are affected entirely by this problem. We also work with communities to initiate community legal education and law reform projects that are preventative in outcome and that strengthen the community. How do students apply? If you are a law student or recent graduate, and are after information, you are welcome to contact us at admin@tenancywa.org.au What attributes do you look for in an applicant? Commitment to social justice Ability to relate to and work with clients in a positive manner Willingness to undergo training Ability to accept and seek supervision Commitment to completion of agreed tasks Willingness to work in a team Are there any opportunities for graduates looking to do their practical legal training? The Piddington Justice Project matches law graduates with community legal centres for Practical Legal Training (PLT) placements. If you are looking for a placement with us please apply directly through the Piddington Society. We do not have the capacity to supervise PLT outside of the Piddington Justice Project.

WOMEN’S LAW CENTRE 890 Albany Hwy, East Victoria Park WA 6101 Family law (children’s issues), Family law (divorce applications), Family violence (identifying and responding to family violence, including restraining order advice), Care and Protection (Department of Communities, Child Protection and Family Support matters), Criminal injuries compensation (relating to family violence and/or sexual assault (08) 9272 8800 admin@womenslegalact.org www.wlcwa.org.au

What is the focus of the CLC? The Women’s Legal Centre (WLC) is a community legal centre that provides legal assistance to women who would otherwise go without. We also refer women to sympathetic lawyers and other support services, run community legal education sessions, and do research, law reform and lobbying activities regarding women’s interests.

Do you hire volunteer paralegals? Yes. How do students apply? If you are interested in assisting the Centre please complete the Volunteer expression of interest form (found online) and email the completed form and your CV to the Centre at: admin@womenslegalact.org

What does work at the CLC involve? The WLC has a number of volunteer students who work at the Centre each week day during business hours. Volunteer students undertake a range of administrative functions including answering the phones, filing, assisting with publications, photocopying, and assisting the solicitors with their work.

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 199

C A R E E R S H A N D B O O K | 203