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Macquarie University Law Society
Clerkship Guide 2015
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Dean’s Welcome I am delighted to have the opportunity to introduce this guide to the summer clerkship program. Students study law for
With thanks to...
many reasons, going well beyond the desire to practice as a lawyer as a career path: the intellectual pursuit, the desire to make a difference in the world, and the chance to build a set of skills that can be used in diverse professional contexts. Your education at Macquarie is an important first step in developing the great knowledge and many skills you will use throughout your working life.
Platinum Sponsor
The summer clerkship program provides a valuable opportunity to see the operation of the legal profession first hand. It can further enable you to create important networks and provide you with a personally challenging, but rewarding, experience. The summer clerkship is often seen as an important rite of passage for law students, as it provides exposure to the daily operation of the law in key commercial settings. The learning that comes from working with law firm partners, senior associates and other law staff provides a unique insight into the interpretation and application of the law. You will return to your studies with new insights not only about the law
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and its operation but also about yourself, your skills and capabilities and your character. We have found that students who undertake clerkships are also wonderful ambassadors for Macquarie Law School, and you may well have the opportunity to see how our alumni spend their professional lives. While competition for clerkships can be tough, it is an opportunity that is well worth pursuing. Irrespective of the career path you ultimately follow, the experience from the clerkship should serve you extremely well. You all have a lot to offer and the advice in this guide will provide you with great tips and advice on how to prepare and work your way through the process. My congratulations to the Macquarie University Law Society, especially the Editor and Publications team, for their hard work in putting together this excellent guide. Professor Natalie Klein Dean, Macquarie Law School
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Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
22
CONTENT
PART III - THE INTERVIEW 23 Interview Process 24 Question Types
5
27 Cocktail Evening and Networking
PART I - INTRODUCTION
28 Offer Etiquette
26 Style
6 Clerkships
29
7 An Overview of the Clerkship Application Process 8 The Essentials: Clerkship Week
PART IV - THE EXPERIENCE
9
30 Q&A with the Clerks
10 How Not to Apply for a Clerkship
35
12 Getting Ready to Apply
PART V - THE FIRMS
13 Writing an Outstanding Cover Letter
36 Common Practice Areas
15 How to Write Your CV Whilst Staying Sane
38 - 68 Firm Profiles
20 Online Applications and cvMail
69 Index: Participating Law Firms
PART II - THE CV
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
DISCLAIMER The views expressed in this publication do not necessarily
EDITOR Brendan Lord
reflect those of the Editor nor Macquarie University and
DESIGNER Nathan Li
are in no way associated with Macquarie University. Best
CONTRIBUTORS Nicola Amys, Nick Larkin,
efforts have been made to ensure that all information in this
David Mullan, Olivia Nunn, Meena Muthuraman,
guide is correct as of 30 April 2015 but is subject to change
Pavitra Raja, Benjamin Roe, Valiant Warzecha
without notice. The advice is merely advisory and should not be relied upon as professional advice. This publication
Special Thanks: Tim Grellman, Emma Grimley,
is distributed free of charge with the understanding that the
Matt O’Connor, Angela Voerman and Valiant Warzecha for
authors, Editor and any persons related to this publication
their time, effort and counsel in the production of this guide.
are not responsible for the results of their actions or omissions on the basis of any information provided
Thanks to the UNSW Law Society for allowing the
within this publication. The user of this guide, therefore,
reproduction of their question bank.
acknowledges that he or she will take responsibility for his or her actions and will under no circumstances hold
Other acknowledgements: I would like to thank
the Editor, authors or Macquarie University Law Society
Nathan Li (NXL Design) for his truly remarkable
responsible for any damage resulting to the user or anyone
talents. His fantastic design and vision has been
else from use of this publication.
integral to delivering this publication. MULS encourages all summer clerkship applicants to obtain confirmation of all information from the firms themselves.
Macquarie University Law Society
Clerkship Guide 2015
[3]
PRESIDENT’S WELCOME
EDITOR’S NOTE The legal sphere is broad and diverse. There comes a time where every law student stares
Dear Law Students,
down the abyss of possibilities. A Clerkship can help shape those future ambitions by
It is an honour to welcome you to the 2015 Clerkship Guide.
offering a unique opportunity to learn from highly experienced practitioners and gain
All law students – every one of us – feel both excited and
exposure to a variety of different practice
uncertain of what career path we seek and to where the future
areas. The clerkship process is ultimately
will take us. We feel excited and uncertain of what a clerkship
designed for your benefit, providing you
and a commercial law career may entail. This Clerkship Guide
with the invaluable experience of exploring
captures that excitement and addresses these uncertainties.
a career within Commercial Law in some of
The Guide describes the exciting opportunities available to you
the largest firms in Australia. This guide is
at commercial law firms and equips you with knowledge that will
designed to assist you with all stages of the
guide you through the application process.
Clerkship process, from helping you develop a professional CV to preparing for the types
The competitive nature of the clerkship process may tempt us
of questions you may be asked in interviews.
to believe we should project the perfect image when applying to firms. We may think that only a “perfect” student lands a
In the preparation of this guide, I’ve received
clerkship. These thoughts however, are inaccurate depictions
numerous insights from previous clerks and
of what the legal profession is targeting in potential clerks.
what they believed to be the key to their
The profession is made up of people stemming from diverse
success. In short, enthusiasm, curiosity
backgrounds. This means your unique background, experiences
and dedication will go a long way. So I
and goals are not a liability, but are your greatest asset. As
encourage you to not fret about whether
you will see in this Guide, the key challenge of the application
your marks satisfy the requisite threshold,
process is to show how those unique traits will be valuable to a
or whether your extra-curricular pursuits
law firm. This Guide equips you with all the information needed to
have been diverse enough, or whether you
successfully meet this challenge.
have sufficient work experience. Show the firms how you can be a unique and valuable
On behalf of the Macquarie University Law Society I thank
investment opportunity, as your individual
the many students and legal professionals for their valuable
talent will differentiate you from the crowd.
insights into the Clerkship process – your contribution makes this Guide possible and assists our members greatly. The Society
This guide has been prepared with the goal
also thanks our 2015 Sponsors for their contribution to the
of maximising Macquarie University law
Clerkship Guide and enduring commitment to being a part of the
students within the 2015 Summer Clerkship
professional and personal development of every Macquarie Law
programs. I hope given this Guide you will
student. Finally, we thank the innovative and hard-working MULS
have the best opportunity to realise your
Executive Officer (Editor), Brendan Lord, for this picture-perfect
clerkship potential.
publication that he has produced. Brendan Lord | Executive Officer (Editor) I wish all applicants every success for the clerkship process and
Macquarie University Law Society
future career endeavours, Tim Grellman | President Macquarie University Law Society
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Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
: I t r a P n o i t c u Int rod
Macquarie University Law Society
Clerkship Guide 2015
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demonstrate this. What is important here is to show any relevant work experience that emphasises skills that translate into a legal environment. •
Remember, clerkships are designed as work experience within the legal sector, so having
CLERKSHIPS
prior legal work experience is not essential, but helpful! 3. Varied extracurricular activities - Whilst excellent academic results can enhance you application’s credibility, firms look beyond this for evidence
WHAT IS A CLERKSHIP?
of teamwork, communication skills, planning and
Clerkships are paid employment programs at large law
organisation skills, problem solving, commercial
firms that take place over the summer holidays, typically
awareness, and a commitment to a career in law. It is
running for 10 weeks. These coveted positions provide
here where you can address gaps in your academic
an opportunity to experience life in a commercial firm, gain
results or work experience.
practical legal experience and potentially lead to graduate
•
Even abstract extracurricular activities can
employment. To be eligible to apply for a seasonal
emphasise inherent characteristics that firms are
clerkship, students should be in their penultimate year
searching for!
of study within an LLB course (commencing their final semester in 2016), or 2nd year if they are a JD student.
HOW CAN YOU IMPROVE YOUR CHANCES OF
Students that fall outside of this criterion, particularly those
GAINING A CLERKSHIP?
already in their final year of study, should check with
1. Work on your academics – it’s never too late to do
each law firm if they are accepting candidates outside the desired year group before submitting their application.
better in your subjects! 2. Get involved at University – sign up for a mentoring program, write for The Brief, compete in a MULS
WHAT ARE THE REQUIREMENTS? There are no set requirements for attaining a clerkship.
competition or help out with a charitable cause 3. Get legal work experience – it is always possible to
Provided you correspond to the appropriate year level,
gain experience by:
you are able to apply and you are encouraged to do so!
•
Volunteering at a Community Legal Centres
As firms receive hundreds of applications from various
(CLC’s) – help out on a regular basis (one day
Universities during the application process, there are
a week). This experience is highly attractive to
three general factors that firms look for in prospective
firms as it shows you recognise the importance
applicants, with varied emphasis on each quality;
of social justice initiatives are important!
1. Strong academic records – Firms understand that
•
Undertaking PACE/work placement units
your transcript says a lot about your work ethic and
(LAW488 or 551) – these placements can be in a
the areas of law you have excelled in. Spectacular
commercial or public interest context.
marks are not a pre-requisite for gaining a clerkship, but they can enhance your application’s credibility •
•
Volunteer at your local law firm or barrister’s office.
4. Start honing your CV and Cover Letter early
Almost all firms will require a current academic
– practice makes perfect! MULS Careers and MQ
transcript, which is available from your
Career and Employment Services are able to provide
Macquarie E-student profile. If you’re unsure
assistance with editing your CVs and Cover Letters.
of your GPA this can be found at the bottom of your transcript. 2. Work Experience – Time management is crucial for
5. Consider purchasing corporate attire if you do not already have it – even if you don’t get an interview it is always good to have clothing for a professional context.
working in a commercial environment, showcasing your ability to manage work and study can easily [6]
Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
AN OVERVIEW OF THE CLERKSHIP APPLICATION PROCESS 1. Applying – Most firms will require you to submit
3. Second Round Interviews & Cocktail Evenings –
a cover letter, resume and an official transcript,
If firms are further impressed by your performance at
and some firms will require you to fill out an online
the interview they will invite you to attend a second
questionnaire.
round of interviews and possibly a cocktail evening (the hors d’oeuvres are always exquisite). 4. Offers – Based on your application and your
Applications can be submitted via: •
CV Mail;
interviews/cocktail evening experience, you may be
•
A custom online application on the firm’s website; or
offered a summer clerkship position!
•
A ‘Student Application Form’ downloadable from the NSW Law Society Website.
5. Accepting or declining offers – You can accept or decline an offer. It is always courteous to thank your interviewer via email and call the HR representative
2. First Round Interview – Firms will invite you to attend
at each offering firm.
an interview if they are impressed by your application
KEY DATES
APPLICATIONS OPEN Wednesday 17 June 2015
APPLICATIONS CLOSE Sunday 19 July 2015
OFFERS MADE Friday 25 September 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
INTERVIEWS COMMENCE Monday 17 August 2015
OFFERS ACCEPTED OR DECLINED BY 5pm Tuesday 29 September 2015
Clerkship Guide 2015
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a first-hand insight into what a law firm interview is like. This is the best time for you to find out how your interview skills shape up, and what areas might need improving.
THE ESSENTIALS: CLERKSHIP WEEK
5. Clerkship Fair 6:00 - 8:00pm 21 May C10A Atrium The Clerkship Fair is the main event of Clerkship Week. Here, you will have the opportunity to gain valuable insights from firm representatives and speak to previous clerks about their experiences. This is a fantastic
WHAT IS CLERKSHIP WEEK?
opportunity to gain a greater understanding of the
Clerkship Week is the Career portfolio’s biggest event!
Australian legal landscape, and the nature of the work
You will have the opportunity to meet with, and gain
within a commercial law firm.
invaluable information from, representatives of many of Australia’s biggest and best law firms right here at
WHAT IS EXPECTED OF YOU DURING
Macquarie University. The following events will be held
CLERKSHIP WEEK?
throughout Week 11 (18-21May) to prepare you for
•
clerkship applications:
Come to as many of the events as you can! The best insights you can get into the Clerkship process come from those who have experienced it, and from
1. Networking Skills Workshop
those who ultimately run it. The Clerkship week
5:30 - 7:00pm E7B T2 18 May
brings together past clerks and firm representatives to
The most underutilised skill of most law students is networking.
give you a greater understanding of what is involved,
This event will help you brush up on the right ways to expand
so it is for you benefit to attend as many of the events
your professional network and will cover the following:
as possible.
•
How to approach a law firm’s representative;
•
What law firm representatives want to know about
professional attire! First impressions count, and
you; and
you never know who you will meet at the Clerkship
What questions you should be looking to ask in order
event – you could be meeting the person deciding
to make yourself memorable.
whether you’re fit for a clerkship position or even a
•
•
Dress to impress. Make sure you dress in
future employer. Wear a suit, polish your shoes and 2. Clerkship Q&A
come as though you were starting the first day of your
12:00 - 1:00pm E3A 244 19 May
legal career. [A detailed style guide is provided in this
Get the inside scoop on what happens during a clerkship
Clerkship guide for your reference.]
from some of our past Macquarie Law Clerks! They have
•
Bring your CV: Make sure you bring an updated
graciously given up their time to answer your questions and
version of your CV that outlines all your achievements
provide you with personal insights into the application process.
and skills to the Interview Roulette. •
Do your Research: Make sure you do your research
3. Interview Skills Workshop
about all the firms in attendance at Clerkship Week to
10:00 - 11:00am E6B 136 20 May
make a good impression.
Nervous about interviews? Not sure how to prepare? This workshop is designed to help you lock down the basics,
For more details make sure you check out the MULS
so you can be prepared for all types of questions.
website and the MULS Facebook page closer to Week 11.
4. Interview Roulette
Wishing you all the best for Clerkship season,
3:00 - 5:00pm 21 May W6B 282
Pavitra Raja | Executive Officer (Corporate Careers)
Firm representatives have given up their time to give you
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Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
: I I t r a P V C e h T Macquarie University Law Society
Clerkship Guide 2015
[9]
HOW NOT TO APPLY FOR A CLERKSHIP
The only thing that these two sentences have in common is that they both fail a very basic test. If an application causes the reader to think “what?!” it’s probably a nonsensical application. Let’s have a look at why these two sentences are so
By David Mullan – Former HR Recruiter and current
nonsensical. First, the felicity and aporias of justice one.
Tutor, Macquarie University Law School The following words do not belong in an application: Each year law firms receive hundreds of applications
“felicity”; “galvanise”; “paradigms” (whether model or not);
– many of these applications are terrible. Years ago I
and “aporia”. Including all of these words in the space of
decided to start keeping record of the bad applications I
two sentences gives the impression that the applicant has
received. I pulled out quotes from atrocious cover letters
a creepy vibe.
and stated emailing them to friends. They forwarded the email to their friends and soon I was receiving replies from
It appears that the aporias of justice comment is a
all over Sydney. Human Resources managers and angry
reference to Jacques Derrida’s Deconstruction and
lawyers had been keep their own list which they were only
the Possibility of Justice. As an absolute rule, Jacques
too happy to share.
Derrida should not be alluded to in an application to a professional services firm. In fact, avoid references to
My book covers the most common errors in cover letters:
any post-modern jurisprudential or philosophical scholar.
arrogance, entitlement, eroticism, nonsense, providing too
Discussing philosophy is great, but your professional
much information and carelessness. What follows is the
services firm application is not the place to do it.
chapter on nonsense. Now lets look at the not-a-n00b one. Nonsense “Grappling with the nature of lived experiences through
This was widely discussed. No-one who reviewed
text requires intellectual, ethical and visceral engagement.
application in 2011 knew what a “noob” was. If we don’t
Literature provided metanarratives, the archetypal
know what you’re saying, you are definitely not off to a
metaphors that provide quiddity to form to our daily lives.
good start.
Literature is a war on cliché…” Law Clerkship Application, 2011
Upon asking our previous interns, we discovered that a “noob” was someone who was new at something. This led
A few words on nonsense
us to question why the applicant bothered synthesising
It’s hard to properly define a nonsensical application. It
the data for us. If you have four year experience, just
can take many forms. It ranges from applications that
leave it at that – we understand that if you’ve worked at
include sentences like this:
something for four years you aren’t new at it.
“a disposition and candour that balance felicity and warmth, with professionalism and consultancy.
Never in applying to a professional services firm (or
Through this I am able to galvanise model
anywhere for that matter), use number in the place of
paradigms of justice…and articulate the aporias of
letters. We had a good long chat to our interns. We no
justice.”
understand that writing like that is “1337” and thus epically non-n00bish. Unfortunately seeing this type of nonsense
to ones that include sentences like this:
just make us feel old. That makes us hate you.
“I have 4 years work experience in the accounting
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industry, so I’m not as much of a n00b as a lot of
Even ignoring the weirdness of youth today,
other people applying.”
slang shouldn’t be included on application.
Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
Neither should lolcats, proclamations of “yolo” or
“I enjoy good music, wine and fromage du
references to the wambulance.
excellent”
In the end, it doesn’t really matter why your application
Spot the problem? The applicant switches to French
makes us question your sanity. If our first reaction is a
half way through that sentence. I think he wants to say
confused “what?!”, you aren’t getting an interview.
“excellent cheese”. Why didn’t he? Liking excellent cheese is something that we can all agree on. Instead he
More examples of nonsense
chose to be pretentious. To add insult to injury, his French
Let’s look at more examples of nonsense. Not because it
doesn’t make sense.
will be much help, just because it’s entertaining. “I have travelled to every state in Australia, “I bring the following qualities to the firm:
including Victoria.”
(a)
a thirst for excellence;
Spot the problem? No, its not that he’s talking about travel
(b)
a thirst for learning;
in an accounting job application. It was in the “interests”
(c)
a sense of commitment; and
section of an application form, so discussing this type of
(d)
a thirst for followship”
thing was perfectly acceptable. It’s the weird “including Victoria” bit. Why was it singled out?
Spot the problem? There are two. Key Points The excessive thirst. If you bring four things to a firm, only
Unless you understand a word, don’t use it. By its very
one of them should be a thirst.
nature, most nonsense is completely unpredictable. If we can’t predict what the nonsense will be, it’s almost
Followship. What the hell is followship? This type of self-
impossible to devise a strategy to avoid it.
improvement-seminar-buzz-word crap might fly on an application to management consultancy firm, but those
The thesaurus is your enemy. Don’t use it when writing
applying to other profession service firms should stick to
your application.
real words. Don’t use words that you never hear other people use. “Dear Sirs and Mssrs” Don’t write anything that your grandmother wouldn’t Spot the problem? The applicant seems to have assumed
understand.
that Mssrs is the plural of Mrs. This seems kind of sensible. Mssrs looks like Mrs but with a couple of extra
Try to be normal. Stand out with your clarity. Inject some
“s”. Unfortunately the applicant relied on this logic, and
personality into your application, but don’t show us your
didn’t search the World Wide Web. As a consequence, the
weird side – we’re not ready for it yet.
letter is addressed to all of the males and French males in the firm.
For more advice and unique insights into what not to do in your clerkship application, the book ‘Why
“I seek to excellencise all that I do…
We Didn’t Hire You’ by David Mullan can be found on
Premiumisation is the cornerstone of my product”
Amazon.com
Spot the problem? Again, weird business jargon. Don’t include jargon. If you’re applying for a management consultancy position, ignore this advice – premiumise your excellence quotient with vigourization.
Macquarie University Law Society
Clerkship Guide 2015
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GETTING READY TO APPLY PREPARATION
RESEARCH
1. Read the job criteria and application requirements to
The firms you are applying for will no doubt receive
make sure you are eligible. 2. Find out about each individual firm’s application process.
hundreds of applications, so its important that you do not just copy and past the names of the firms on the same cover letter and send it off to the relevant HR. The key to
3. Analyse the job by deconstructing the selection
writing an attention grabbing cover letter is to know the
criteria and assessing how your skills would
firm you are applying for inside and out - information to
address them.
research may include:
4. Research the firms and their practice areas – why do you want to work for them? 5. Create a short list of ‘evidence’ for how your experience and skills address these criteria and conform to the firm’s culture.
1. Firm’s practice areas and strengths; 2. Organization structure and partners; 3. Firm’s culture and values; 4. Firm’s recent transactions (or mergers), business affairs and clients; 5. Structure, activities and rotations of the clerkship offered; 6. The HR Representative and addressee for the letter; and, 7. Present market condition of the legal industry. This information can be ascertained from: a) The firm’s website – pages that deal with culture, people and the clerkship program. b) Former clerks, graduates and HR representatives – as employees and successful applicants, these people will be the best source of information. c) Look up firm rankings – the best source is http://www. chambersandpartners.com d) News sources such as the Australian Financial Review and Lawyers Weekly. Start your research as early as possible - this knowledge is also applicable for the Clerkship Fair and Interviews
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Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
WRITING AN OUTSTANDING COVER LETTER GENERAL TIPS:
SUGGESTED STRUCTURE AND CONTENTS:
1. Use a business letter format. 2. It should be one page maximum. 3. Know and double check your recipient – make sure you address the letter to a person not a generic ‘Dear
Orientation State why you are writing to the company and a general overview of what is your letter/application.
Sir/Madam’. 4. Be enthusiastic and positive – make your letter read this way.
Why me?
5. Sell yourself and your experiences!
Highlight the details of outstanding achievement / leadership
6. Add to your CV using the cover letter, don’t
that you may have and why these make you attractive.
reproduce it! 7. Link your skills and experience to the role – use wording of the employer’s advertised criteria to show your suitability 8. Tailor your application for each firm – they are all unique 9. Demonstrate commercial awareness - don’t name drop firm clients or employees unless they are relevant, talk about recent transactions and you would like to be a part of them.
Why the firm? This is the most difficult paragraph - you need to demonstrate commercial awareness and an understanding of the firm whilst relating this information to why you want to work with them. You can cite recent matters the firm has advised on which relate to your interests. It is also helpful to mention firm representatives or relevant people you have spoken who have inspired you to apply.
10. Convert the final product to PDF.
Conclusion A final paragraph thanking the firm for considering your application and indicating your eagerness to work for them.
Macquarie University Law Society
Clerkship Guide 2015
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[Name] [Address] [Suburb, State, Postcode] [Email Address]
[Title, Recipient] [Position] [Firm] [Address] [Suburb, State, Postcode]
[Date]
Dear [Title Recipient],
RE: APPLICATION FOR 2014/2015 SUMMER CLERKSHIP I am in my penultimate year of [Degree] at Macquarie University and [Firm] is my priority firm for a Summer Clerkship in 2014/2015. I am particularly attracted to [Firm] for its reputation as an industry leader in a number of areas of commercial law in which I am very interested. In [Practice Area] Partner [Partner’s name] has advised leading clients on headlining transactions, reflective of the strength and expertise of its [practice group]. Being extremely interested in [area of law], the chance to sit within a leading [group] in Australia, with exceptional solicitors who would be great mentors, makes [firm] an ideal place to begin my career. My experiences to date have further provided me with the skills and knowledge that would make me a strong candidate for a summer clerkship position at [Firm]. My diversity and motivation is best seen through my current work as a [legal assistant/paralegal] at [firm/place of work], which has provided me with an appreciation of some of the commercial considerations underlying [legal sectors]. In my work as a [legal assistant/paralegal] I have engaged in diverse tasks that have provided me with experience in undertaking research, drafting discrete legal advices, and exposure to [specific legal task(s)]. To complement my legal experiences, I am involved in a range of volunteer and co-curricular activities, such as [position]. My ability to solve problems and achieve results is evidenced through my [Organisation of Events/ Initiatives + Explanation]. Finally I have substantially benefited from my involvement in [hobbies/volunteer work] has helped hone my communication skills, whilst at the same time being an immensely rewarding experience. My average law mark to date is [LAW WAM] and I am looking forward to graduating with [Class] Honours. I am passionate about the law above all else, and have committed to excelling at [Degree] which is indicative of my commercial way of thinking. This is reflected by the fact that I have recently finished writing my Honours thesis on [subject matter], as well as the High Distinctions I received in [Subject] (Grade) and [Subject] (Grade). I would greatly appreciate the opportunity to discuss my application with you further. Thank you for taking the time to consider my application.
Yours sincerely
[Name]
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Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
HOW TO WRITE YOUR CV WHILST STAYING SANE
Having written an outstanding cover letter, firm representatives should want to know more about you - in other words, a brief summary of your work experience, extra curricular and achievements in the form of a CV.
GENERAL TIPS
STRUCTURE
1. Be honest – if you are given an interview, you need
Whilst the exact structure of your CV is a personal choice,
to be able to discuss the CV content in depth (if this is
it should definitely include the following information:
not possible, don’t include it).
1. Your Details: Name, Address, Phone Numbers and
2. Use professional language a. Use action verbs i.e. achieved, delivered, attained (firms can filter through applications using such keywords 3. Keep it up to date – generally it shouldn’t have any content older than 4 to 5 years. 4. Be as brief as possible – it is a summary of your highlights, not a personal history!
Email Address (even Linkedin profile IP address) 2. Education a. Tertiary i. Achievements b. High School i. Achievements 3. Work/Professional Experience a. Company and Job Title
a. Use short sentences and bullet points.
i. Responsibilities
b. It should not be longer than 3 pages.
ii.
5. Tailor the information – relate your experience and achievements to the professional criteria in the job description. 6. Use a simple, consistent and easy to read format: a. Use headings to sign post your information. b. Use dot points to highlight information. c. Use a consistent theme and fonts such as Times New Roman or Arial for a professional look and
4. Extra Curricular Activities a. Society/Activity/Sport i.
remain uncluttered. 7. Spell and grammar check – thoroughly proofread your CV even for punctuation. 8. Convert it to PDF for submission – it is the professional standard!
Position Titles
ii. Achievements iii. Participation 5. Community a. Organisation i.
size 12 point to ensure legibility. d. Narrow your margins to fit more content but
Key Achievements
Brief explanation of the organisation if it isn’t well known
ii.
Positions held
6. Hobbies or Other Qualifications a. Hobbies – things that you interested in b. Other Qualification – such as a First Aid Certification or RSA Certificate 7. References – most people do not provide these and state that they are ‘available upon request’. However, firm usually like them to be included – give their Name, Job Title, Company and a contact phone number.
Macquarie University Law Society
Clerkship Guide 2015
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Format used by a successful
[NAME] [Address] Tel: [number] Mobile: [number] Email: [email]
applicant in the 2014 Clerkship Program – content is only used to illustrate the formatting:
EDUCATION Macquarie University 2011 – 2015 (expected) Bachelor of Commerce (International Business) with a Bachelor of Laws • 3.825 Law GPA Killara High School 2005 - 2010 • 97.25 ATAR. • Band 6 (over 90) scores in Extension English, IPT, Ancient History and Chemistry. LEGAL EXPERIENCE Legal Department, Miscellaneous Law Firm February 2012 - Present Research Assistant/Paralegal (16 hrs p/w) • Drafting advices for Senior Associates and Partners. • Researching key areas of firm practice and updating firm intranet, wikis and databases. Commercial Law Firm November 2012 – February 2013 Records Management Assistant (38 hrs p/w) • Identification of files, barcoding case files, preparing files for Access off-site storage, delivery of files retrieved from off-site to lawyers, file location and retrieval, updating databases. OTHER EMPLOYMENT EXPERIENCE Killara High School February 2011 – August 2012 Swimming coach (20 hrs p/w) • Running race days for up to 50 swimmers from four schools. Coaching up to 15 swimmers (age 13-18). Coaching involves analysing the relative strength and weaknesses of swimmers for technique, confidence and fitness and overseeing a training regimen to resolve them.
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Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE Macquarie University Law Society December 2013 – Present Executive Officer (Careers) • Liaising with the Director of Firm Engagement and firms for Clerkship Week. • Disseminating careers related information. • Proof reading CVs and Cover Letters. Key achievement: • Created consistent format for disseminating careers information and event. • Successful organisation of the 2014 Clerkship Fair. The Brief December 2011 – December 2012 Editorial Sub-Committee • Sourcing and editing contributions; • Coordinating graphic design and printing; and • Ensuring adequate distribution of the magazine. Key achievements: • Substantially increased student contributions; and • Published a “40 Years of Macquarie Law” special edition, in conjunction with the Macquarie Law School and its Alumni. EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES 2013: • Member of the Editorial Review Committee for The Brief. • Member of the MULS Basketball and Touch Football teams. • Paper Presentation Competition Winner. 2012: • Member of Social Basketball and Touch Football teams. • Faculty of Business and Economics Merit Scholar Mentor • Faculty of Business and Economics Team Leader
HOBBIES AND INTERESTS • Academic and non-academic writing and editing. • Playing Rugby League, Swimming and Netball. • Playing guitar. REFEREES (Available upon request)
Macquarie University Law Society
Clerkship Guide 2015
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Format used by a successful
[NAME] [Address] Tel: [number] Mobile: [number] Email: [email]
applicant in the 2014 Clerkship Program – content is only used to illustrate the formatting:
EDUCATION Bachelor of Bachelor of Arts (Media) and Bachelor of Laws Macquarie University, Sydney
2011-2015 (expected)
Achievements: • Grade Point Average: 3.5 • Global Leadership Program • Faculty Award for Meritorious Performance 2014 Higher School Certificate Killara High School UAI: 95.5
2010
Achievements: • School Captain 2010 • Inter-School Mock-Trial Champion Team 2009 • Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award • School Exchange Program 2008 WORK EXPERIENCE Legal Department, Miscellaneous Law Firm Legal Assistant/Paralegal (part time) • Researching and advising on developments the law • Drafting Advices for Senior Associates and Partners
February 2013-Present
Company December 2013-Janurary 2014 Legal Intern (full time) • Preparing settlement folders and attending to court filings Killara High School February 2011 – March 2012 Swimming Coach (Part time) • Running race days for up to 50 swimmers from four schools. Coaching up to 15 swimmers (age 13-18). Coaching involves analysing the relative strength and weaknesses of swimmers for technique, confidence and fitness and overseeing a training regimen to resolve them.
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Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
SKILLS SUMMARY Professional and Legal • Legal research, editing and writing Communication and Interpersonal • Leadership and organisational experience from school captain duties Community/Extracurricular Macquarie University Law Student Society Careers Officer (elected) Committee Member, Governance Reform Committee
December 2012 – November 2013 2012
Achievements: • Created consistent format for disseminating careers information and event • Responsible for organising the annual Clerkship Fair in 2014. Participation in Mooting & Skills Competitions • Senior Client Interview Competition National Representative, 2012 • Kirby Contract Moot Quart-finalist, 2012 • Negotiations Competition, Runner Up, 2013 • Paper Presentation Competition, Winner, 2013 Australian Law Students' Association Careers Officer December 2013 - present Councillor December 2012 - present National Negotiation Championship, Semi-Finalist July 2013 Student Representation Faculty of Business and Economics Representation Academic Senate, (campus wide election) Other Qualifications • Responsible Service of Alcohol • Responsible Service of Gambling • Senior First Aid (2013) REFERENCES [Name] [Position] [Place of Employment] [Number]
Macquarie University Law Society
[Name] [Position] [Place of Employment] [Number]
Clerkship Guide 2015
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ONLINE APPLICATIONS Firms often require you to submit your applications using cvMail or equivalent application portal through their website. GENERAL TIPS: 1. Make sure you have already done your research about the firm and the position. 2. Pre-prepare responses to question that may be asked
4. Read all the portal FAQs and instructions before starting your application. 5. Provide relevant information from all relevant aspects
on the online portal, the most common include:
of your life (part time job, work experience, volunteer
a. Discuss your university activities and
work, sport etc..)
achievements b. Discuss any further interests, activities or c.
6. Avoid referring to the same example more than once. 7. Don’t rush your application and pay attention to detail
achievements
– applications can be discarded for small careless
Indicate your career objectives – may include fields:
errors.
i. Interest ii.
Job preferences
iii. Reason/s why you chose your course of study d. Talk about any other relevant skills you may possess (foreign language, computing or computer work-related skills). e. Provide additional information – elaborate on factual material already presented and how it related to the position that you are applying. 3. The application portals such as cvMail have time limits
8. Be honest – all the information provided will be subject to academic transcript checks, refer confirmation. Don’t get caught out! 9. Proof read your answers and get someone else, preferable who works in the legal industry, to check your answers. 10. Keep a copy of any answers you submit – they may be referred to in interviews. 11. Make sure you submit a scanned copy of your official academic transcript (it is also a good idea to bring a copy to your any interviews you may get).
of 90 minutes before it automatically logs you off.
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Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
CVMAIL cvMail is a law student portal that provides information about law firms, the legal industry and enables law students to apply for the jobs and schedule interviews online. GETTING STARTED:
SUBMITTING A COVER LETTER?
For first time log in, follow the following steps:
Cut and paste your ustomized cover letter into the
1. Go to http://www.cvmail.com.au and register as a
appropriate field in the online application form, ensure
first-time user.
your cover letter is in plain text formatting.
2. Create your personal profile by clicking on the ‘Personal Profile’ button on the left hand side of the
5 KEY TIPS TO HELP YOU MANGE WITH PLAIN TEXT
screen and filling in your personal details.
FORMATTING
3. Complete your academic profile by clicking on the ‘Academic Profile’ button, also on the left hand side. You will need to enter information about your educational background (university degree(s) and their starting and finishing dates) and also your academic results according to the online instructions. 4. You can now apply to the firms via the Application Manager. To do so, click on the ‘Apply Here’ button next to the firm you wish to apply for.
1. Left align as much text as possible and adhere to a single column layout; 2. Underline major headings using the equal (=) character; 3. Underline minor headings using the hyphen (-) character; 4. Start bullet points using the hyphen (-) character; and 5. Use white-space to give the text a spacious feel (i.e.two lines before each heading etc.)
5. For each firm, choose the State, Territory or country you wish to apply to, and select the type of
Note: make sure the firm you are applying to is receiving
application you wish to submit (vacation or graduate)
applications through cvMail.
from the tabs.
Macquarie University Law Society
Clerkship Guide 2015
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Part III: w e i v r e t n The I
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Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
INTERVIEW PROCESS Interview Process involves two rounds of interviews: •
•
4. Body language – use open body language (face,
The first round is a more structured and formal,
gestures and hands) to show you are receptive to
usually conducted by a partner or HR rep; it will
what the interviewer is saying. When seated you
contain a mixture of questions to get to know you.
should be sitting back in the chair with your lower
The second round is more informal, focusing on
back supported. Moderate your eye contact should
whether you will fit into the firm’s culture.
(approximately 80% making contact and 20% looking away) and actively listen to the interviewer, giving
You will be notified by email prior to the interviews who will be conducting your interview – do some research on their backgrounds and the clients they have worked with.
appropriate acknowledgement for what is being said. 5. Responding to questions – listen to the questions asked and don’t be afraid to clarify the question if you are unsure what is being asked. A useful way to
WHAT TO BRING TO THE INTERVIEW?
structure complex answers to difficult questions is to
Be sure to bring a few copies of your:
break it down into a STAR:
a) CV;
•
b) Cover Letter; and c) Official academic transcript, not only as a point of
Situation – describe a scenario or issue you have faced.
•
Task – describe the tasks that needed to be
reference for yourself, but also if your interviewers do
performed and the ideas you had to remedy the
not have a copy spare.
scenario. •
DYNAMITE INTERVIEW TECHNIQUE 1. Beginning confidently – be mindful of your tone, body language and facial expression. It is always useful to
Action – describe what you did and how you dealt with challenges.
•
Results – outline the results achieved.
6. Concluding strongly - end the interview with a
have a strong opening phrase, for example: ‘Hello, I
phrase that thanks the interviewer indicating a
am Alan Shore, it’s nice to meet you!’. However, be
genuine desire to work at the firm, prompting future
spontaneous and open to other opening conversation.
contact with them. For example, “Thank you for your
2. Shaking hands – a firm but gentle handshake is the best way to communicate enthusiasm. Allow the
time, I’d love to work at your firm and I look forward to hearing from you soon”.
interviewer/s to initiate or lead the handshake, face the them and lean into the handshake whilst relaxing
After the second round interviews, it is likely that you will
your upper body. Practice makes perfect – shake
be assigned a buddy (graduate lawyer at the firm) who
hands with 10 different people in the days leading up
will give you a tour of the firm’s office and take you out for
to the interview!
coffee. This is an opportunity to ask any questions that
3. Rapport building – have some form of topical
you may not have felt confident asking the interviewer
conversation prepared to break the ice (ensure it is
and/or pick the graduate’s brains about life at the firm.
appropriate for the interview/ interviewer). Be aware of
Though this is not a formal part of the interview, it is
the interviewer’s body language, mirror their movements
important to be on your best behaviour – the graduate is
in a subtle way to help build rapport. It is also polite to
likely to directly work with one of the interviewers.
wait until you are offered a seat before you sit.
Macquarie University Law Society
Clerkship Guide 2015
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QUESTION TYPES When firms interview you there are several general styles
QUESTIONS FOR THE INTERVIEWER
of interview questions that can be asked of you (they are
At some stage of the interview, the interviewer is likely
likely to mix these different types).
to ask you if you have any question - it is essential that you have at least a couple of questions prepared for the
1. Conversational/ straight forward questions – these
interviewer. General ones could include:
type of questions will usually be asked if you are being
•
“What do you do within your practice group?”
interviewed by a lawyer at the firm - they will be trying to
•
“What will I do as a clerk at your firm?” (projecting into
ascertain if they would be able to work with you and you
the role is always positive)
would fit into the firm’s culture. Such questions may be
•
“What is the work/life balance like at Firm X?”
sourced from unusual parts of your resume. For example:
•
“Why did you decide to work for this firm?”
•
Q: “Tell me about yourself.”
•
Q: “Why do you want to work for us?”
GROUP INTERVIEWS
•
Q: “What is your greatest accomplishment?”
A group of 5 or 6 applicants can be indirectly interviewed at once through the discussion of a problem scenario
2. Behavioural questions and analysis – these
under the observation of a ‘ghost interviewer’ who
questions ask you to reflect upon past experience as a
witnesses the group dynamic and traits of the individuals.
means of ascertaining how you would react in the future.
These problems are usually open-ended and may cover
For example:
ethics or an aspect of the firm’s sphere of operation. The
•
Q: “Tell me about a time when you displayed…
purpose behind these interviews is to see how you would
leadership; initiative; or, teamwork.”
interact in a team environment.
•
Q: “Tell me about a time that your initiative affected change.”
There are five main types of people in a group interviews: 1. The Talker – dominant member who tends to be in
3. Hypotheticals – these questions test your competency
control of the situation, usually overbearing and may
in certain situations to ascertain how you would respond in
impose their ideas on other members.
reality; these questions are usually the most difficult. The best way to answer this type is to remain calm despite any urgency the interviewer may place on the situation and
2. The Quiet person – reluctant member who tends to go with decisions of other group members. 3. The Complainer – over reflective and pessimistic
think in a clear and logical manner. For example:
member who may divert discussion away from the
•
topic at hand.
Q: “It is late in the day, everyone in the office has gone home except you (because you are a dedicated
4. The Terminator – a ruthless cyborg assassin sent
paralegal) and a client calls up the office needing
from the future for one purpose: destruction. You can
immediate advice regarding a matter the firm is
easily find this person as each question they ask will
representing them. You are extremely confident
relate to John Connor.
about the answer and the client needs the answer immediately, what do you do?”
5. The Mediator – the unifying member who wants to find a compromise between the various factions i.e. drawing out the opinions of the quiet person to contrast the talker. This is the optimum style to adopt!
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Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
QUESTION BANK Questions reproduced with kind permission of the UNSW Law Society.
•
Where in your previous job have you demonstrated commerciality?
HOBBIES •
What are your outside interests?
•
Who is your favourite novelist?
•
Do you like/dislike football?
GENERAL •
Tell me about yourself.
WORK ETHIC
•
How would you describe yourself?
•
How do you work under pressure?
•
What are your strengths and weaknesses?
•
How do you balance work priorities and those of your
•
What are your long term and short term goals and objectives? How are you preparing yourself to achieve them?
personal and family life? •
Give me an example of when you had to work to an
•
What do you see yourself doing five years from now?
important deadline. What did you do to ensure that the
•
Why did you choose the career for which you are preparing?
deadline was met?
CAREER RELATED QUESTIONS
COMMUNICATION
•
Why do you want to be a corporate lawyer?
•
Have you ever had to persuade people to your way of thinking?
•
Do you have a geographical preference? Where would you
•
Describe a situation when you had to explain a difficult
like to work? Why?
concept to someone. Tell me about your approach. How do
•
Will you relocate? Are you willing to travel?
you know they understood?
•
Why should we consider you for this position?
•
In what ways do you think you can make a contribution to
LEADERSHIP
our company?
•
Have you been in any situations where you have been
•
What others skills would you like to develop in the future?
required to perform as part of a team? What was the
•
Is there anything else we should take into account to help us
situation, what part did you play in the team and what was
make a decision?
the outcome of the exercise? •
ORGANISATIONAL COMMITMENT
Can you describe a time when your team fell apart. What was your role in the outcome?
•
Why did you decide to seek a position with this company?
•
What kind of people do you find difficult to work with? Why?
•
What do you know about our company?
•
Tell me about a difficult situation when you pulled the
•
What do you understand is the current climate of the legal industry?
•
How do you keep informed professionally?
•
Tell me about a time when you took a leadership role of a group.
•
Give me an example in your career where you felt like giving
•
What is your style of influencing / leading people?
team together.
up but managed to keep going. CLIENT FOCUS EDUCATION
•
What is your definition of “excellent” client service?
•
Why did you choose to study law?
•
Tell me about a time when you went beyond the call of duty
•
What university subjects did you like best? Least? Why?
•
Do you have plans for continued study? An advanced degree?
•
What courses have you taken that prepared you for this position?
•
What part of your education do you see as being most
•
to help a client. •
positive relationship with a client.
relevant to this position?
PROBLEM SOLVING
Is your academic performance any indication of how you will
•
do this job? •
What do you like about your discipline of study?
•
Why did you fail / perform poorly in this subject?
•
How would you deal with a problem you had not encountered before?
Do you have any vacation employment or previous experience in the legal context?
UNUSUAL SPECIFIC QUESTIONS
Most jobs have their frustrations and problems. Describe
•
How would you feel about working for a tobacco company?
some that have been particularly dissatisfying to you
•
What was your favourite album of this year?
What have been the most satisfying aspects of jobs that you
•
How would you deal with a problem you had not
have held? •
Tell me about a time when, despite careful planning, things got out of hand.
WORK EXPERIENCE
•
Here is a problem that we faced recently ...How would you have dealt with that?
• •
•
Describe a situation that illustrates how you developed a
encountered before?
What has been the value of your previous work experience?
Macquarie University Law Society
Clerkship Guide 2015
[ 25 ]
MEN’S STYLE
WOMEN’S STYLE
First impressions matter. Ask any interviewer how long it
When dressing for a clerkship interview, keep in mind
takes them to decide whether a candidate is proceeding
that your image is the first thing that will form your
to the next round - the answer is invariably less than 5
interviewers’ impression of you. The key thing to
minutes. Your visual appearance is the first indicator to
remember is to dress modestly.
your interviewer of whether or not you will 'fit in'. This style guide won't land you on the front cover of Vanity Fair - it
Here are a few tips to achieve this:
will probably make you look like the person interviewing
•
you - we make no apology for that - after all don't you want to do the same job as the person interviewing you?
If you’re going to wear a skirt, make sure it falls just above or below the knee.
•
If you are more comfortable in pants, make sure they are suit pants and are not too tight.
I'll start with a qualification. Yes, there is a chance that
•
you can disregard some of these rigid prescriptions and still land a clerkship - indeed a minority of interviewers
In terms of shirts, collared or modest blouses are appropriate, but avoid bold prints, which are distracting.
•
If you’re going to wear a dress, it should also fall just
may not care what you look like - but why take the
above or below the knee and not fit too tightly. Dark
chance? The following prescriptions will guarantee that
colours are the safest option – think black, blue or grey.
your appearance will never be counted against you. •
•
Shoes: Black leather - well polished. Lace ups are more
You should always have a matching blazer with you and neutral stockings are best.
conservative than slip ons, but both are acceptable.
•
All of your clothes should be freshly laundered.
•
Belt: Black leather with a silver coloured minimalist buckle.
•
You should wear black court shoes with a small heel.
•
Cuff links: Must match your belt buckle. You should
However, if you are not comfortable in them, wear
opt either for a plain silver colour or plain silver with a
closed-toe black flats.
coloured enamel that matches your tie. • •
•
Watch: If you choose to wear a watch, it should
studs are best for ears, necklaces should be dainty
match your cuff links and belt.
and watches are fine.
Compendium: A plain black leather compendium
•
For hair, a low pony-tail or bun is common to draw
containing copies of your CV, cover letter, academic
attention to your face, but don’t be afraid to wear your
transcript and passport sized photos. Avoid attending
hair out so long as it is neat. If you are going to be
interviews with a bag. Placing your phone, wallet and
distracted with it out it is best to put it up.
keys inside the compendium will ensure your suit
•
pockets do not look bulky. •
Any jewellery worn should be understated. Small
Make-up should look natural and professional, keep to neutral tones for eyes and lips.
General Tips: Dry clean your suit, be clean-shaven
•
Perfume should be faintly applied.
(no modest stubble) and wear a light cologne. You
•
Your fingernails should always be cut short, clean
don’t want to start smelling something funky halfway
and neat. Avoid dark nail polishes and fake nails.
through the interview and realise it is you! At the end of the day, it comes down to what you’re comfortable wearing and what you feel is appropriate!
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Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
COCKTAIL EVENING AND NETWORKING
b. Hone your ‘elevator pitch’ - a 30 second to 2 minute spiel about who you are and what makes you tick; c. Use open body language and smile - be friendly and approachable; and, d. Be humorous and engaging within the bounds of good taste and professionalism. 5. Working the room – only conduct a conversation as
Most law firms hold a cocktail night as part of their
long as the conversation remains fresh and do not
Interview Process to observe prospective clerks in a
limit yourself to friends.
more social environment. This is often found the be a
a. Never remain attached for a group for an
large stumbling block for prospective clerks because
extended period of time unless the conversation
professional networking is a skill set that is rarely taught
is strong, it is likely that conversation can
or developed.
become stale and strained if you run out of things to say.
Commercial law practice (and any law practice for that matter) is strongly driven by the ability to build relationships with colleagues and clients and networking
6. Hold your drink in your left hand – no one likes to shake a cold clammy hand. 7. Remember why you are there - most of these
is an ongoing process of relationship building. Cocktail
events will have an excellent selection of food and
evenings are an excellent opportunity to learn more
alcohol. Be mindful of your manners and don’t
about the firm and the lawyers that work there, the career
over indulge.
opportunities that may be available and to gain advice for attaining long term goals.
8. Always politely exit a group or conversation – wait for a dip in conversation and excuse yourself for example:
NETWORKING AT COCKTAIL NIGHTS 101 1. RSVP etiquette - if you have two cocktail evenings
a. One on one - ‘It was lovely meeting you Person X, I think will grab another drink. I hope you enjoy
on the one night, it is always courteous to email the
the rest of the evening!’
HR representative for the second cocktail evening
(If the person is by themselves it is always polite
you will attend and let them know that you will be late.
to integrate someone else in the conversation
2. Politely entering a conversation a. For one on one conversations - begin by introducing yourself, make eye contact and firmly shake hands. b. In group conversations, the best way to break the ice is to chime in or alternatively asking if you may join the conversation. c. If canapés and drinks are circulating, this can be an excellent icebreaker.
before you leave so you don’t alienate the person). b. Group: ‘Well it was fantastic meeting you all, I must use the bathroom – I hope to see you all soon!” 9. Exiting the Cocktail Evening – on your way out, it is always a good idea to thank the HR representative for the evening. 10. PRACTICE! PRACTICE! PRACTICE! – Networking
3. Have prepared conversation starters - it is always
can always be improved, attend the Cocktail Evening
best to talk about something current whether it be
as part of Clerkship Week and other similar nights run
the news, sport or an occurrence at the firm (the best
by campus groups such as the Economics Finance
source for this is the firm’s Facebook page).
and Commerce Society.
4. Make a unique impression – leave the person you are speaking to with something that makes you memorable: a. Develop a personal brand – have something that makes you stand out;
Macquarie University Law Society
Clerkship Guide 2015
[ 27 ]
OFFER ETIQUETTE Firms will make their offers on the same day to ensure that each applicant has a fair chance to decide which firm they would like to work at. If you are lucky enough to be made multiple offers, it will be a difficult decision to make, the best way to make this decision is to: 1. Seek the counsel of HR reps, buddies or partners at the firms. 2. Consider if the firm’s strengths and practice areas match your interests? 3. Are there structural benefits of working at a firm i.e. graduate positions or paralegal work afterwards? It is always courteous to thank the interviewing partner/ solicitor via email and call the HR representative at each offering firm irrespective of whether or not you accept a position at their firm. TIP: If you reject an offer, it is likely that the HR representative will ask you why you have chosen to reject the offer - it is always wise to have a well thought out answer, you don’t want to burn bridges anywhere!
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: V I t r Pa s e c n e i r e p x E The Macquarie University Law Society
Clerkship Guide 2015
[ 29 ]
Q&A
Benjamin Roe - Clayton Utz
How do you think your application stood out? Any tips? My advice would be to spend as much time on your applications as possible. This process is more time consuming than most candidates anticipate. Research the firms you wish to apply for and genuinely understand why you want to work for that firm. If you take the initiative in researching and thinking deeply about why a firm like Clayton Utz is the right place for you to start your legal career, chances are that will resonate strongly in your application.
Meena Muthuraman - DLA Piper
How did you go about tailoring your application (both the Resume and cover letter) for the firm/s that you got offers? I tailored my resume by emphasising my skills and characteristics that aligned with the “culture” and “values” of the firm and referring to these key values in my resume. I applied for firms that had strong practices in the areas of law in which I was interested.
Don’t just spend time on the CV and cover letter – spend time on the different discreet aspects of the application such as the questions. Login to CV Mail several weeks (or at least a few days) before you plan to submit your applications to see what questions the firms are asking of you. Spend time on your answers to these questions and make your answers personal. These questions are a chance for you to show your character and interests to the firm. How did you go about tailoring your application (both the Resume and cover letter) for the firm/s that you got offers? I made sure that I kept my CV to two pages. I think it is important for candidates to make it simple and ensure that their major achievements are highlighted. Whilst the CV is important, the cover letter is critical and in my opinion the most important component of the clerkship application process. In my cover letter, I outlined why I decided to
When I tailored my cover letter, I made sure to acknowledge their strength in these areas of law, and any recent interesting cases/transactions that the firm had been involved in when I outlined why I wanted to work for the firm. On a day-to-day basis, what was you experience as a clerk – what did you actually do during the typical day? My experience as a clerk was different in each team that I rotated through. For instance, I did a rotation in Tax and most of my daily work involved doing legal research and writing research memos that would be used in advices to clients and drafting some of these advices. I also typically spent some time sitting in on meetings between the Tax team and other teams (to learn more about how tax
apply to the specific firm I was writing to. I would also recommend that candidates do not simply use the ‘control + F’ function and replace the firm names in a vein attempt
On a day-to-day basis, what was your experience as a
to save time. This lack of effort definitely shows in the
clerk – what did you actually do during the typical day?
final product. Instead, candidates should read through
Every day was different. I was fortunate enough to be
publications like Lawyers Weekly or the website of the firm
intimately involved in major transactional and litigious
to see what some of the major litigious and transactional
work in both of the rotations I completed. This ranged from
matters the firm they are writing to has worked on.
completing work directly for my partner on high profile litigious matters to shadowing a partner to meetings with
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Additionally, before the clerkship applications, I would
clients. The type of work that clerks can typically expect
recommend that candidates attend events at the firms
to work on include drafting memos, working on contracts
such as the Clayton Utz Senior Mooting Grand Final event
and even attending court. It is also common for clerks to
to socialise with members of the firm and get to know staff
attend seminars and CLEs addressing emerging areas
at the firm.
of the law. For example, I attended two seminars on the
Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
with Clerks advice relates to other practice groups) and sitting
to be the most challenging interview event as it was
in on client meetings.
the event I was least able to prepare for.
My second rotation was in the Litigation & Regulatory
Before attending, I did some research on the different
team and my work here was a little more varied as
practice groups in each firm and in some cases, had
I worked on Insurance, pro bono and commercial
a few people in mind that I would like to speak with if
arbitration matters. Again, I did a lot of legal research
they attended. I also prepared some basic questions
tasks. I also helped in discovery for a number of
to begin a conversation and specific questions for the
matters and created/updated chronologies for cases
teams in which I was most interested. I found that the
based on the documents available to us. I was lucky
more questions that I asked, the more I engaged the
enough to be able to draft; articles for publication,
person I was speaking with. I also wasn’t afraid to ask
advices to clients, affidavits and a submission to an
what was involved in a practice group or team that I
Arbitral Tribunal. I also prepared briefs to Counsel and
wasn’t familiar with.
attended court dates whenever I had the chance. I also tried to strike a balance between capitalising What was the most challenging aspect of your
on the opportunity to network with the people present
clerkship?
and have a conversation that would leave a lasting
Casual Friday. How casual is casual Friday?!
impression.
If there is one thing that you could choose for us
Lastly, I always kept a hand free to shake hands with
to remember about you after this interview, what
greet people.
would it be? Remember that I am open to embracing new experiences and look forward to developing my practical legal skills in all teams, especially those I am unfamiliar with. Did you attend a cocktail evening? How did you approach these events? I attended a number of cocktail evenings through the clerkship interview process. Personally, I found these
Personal Property Securities Act 2009 (Cth) and another
What was the most challenging aspect of your clerkship?
seminar on the Future of Financial Advice.
Firstly, I found that the most challenging aspect was transitioning from the university lifestyle of begrudgingly
My overall advice would be to approach each day with
‘rocking up’ to a 10am lecture to working full-time. This
a proactive, willing and humble attitude. Be willing and
transition can take a few people by surprise. Secondly,
prepared to accept work from anyone in your team, not
unlike university, when you are asked to complete a task,
just from your designated partner or ‘buddy’. Of course as
particularly a research memo, the lawyer or the partner
a Summer Clerk there are many events to attend, which
does genuinely not know the answer. Lastly and most
make the ordinary day extraordinary, whether it is attending
importantly, remember that this is the first step of your
the inter-firm trivia event, the cruise or even attending after
legal career. Make the most of it.
work drinks with your new friends from the clerkship.
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Q&A
Olivia Nunn - Gilbert & Tobin
“Which television drama do you think most closely resembles a law firm What was the most difficult question you were asked
How did you go about tailoring your application (both
in the interview? How did you respond to the question?
the resume and cover letter) for the firm/s that you
I was asked how my interest in social justice issues would
got offers?
be compatible with my desire to practice in a commercial
By asking friends who worked in the legal industry, I was
law firm. I answered honestly and admitted that I had
able to get a ‘general feel’ for how each firm distinguished
personally grappled with this question, though I felt that
itself from other firms. I then used the brochures I had
Gilbert + Tobin’s renown commitment to pro bono work
collected at the Macquarie clerkship fair and the firm
would provide me with opportunities to satisfy both of
websites to fill in the gaps in my knowledge. I also looked
these pursuits.
on the BRW 2014 Client Choice Awards and Chambers and Partners awards to get an idea for which sectors
If you had one piece of advice to give to hopeful
each firm excelled in. I used this information in my CV to
clerks, what would it be?
demonstrate why I was eager to work for the firm. I did not
The firms are not necessarily looking for High Distinction
tailor my resume for any of the applications.
average students or someone who has set up their own charity in Uganda. You may think that you’re not
What do you wish you knew when you were applying
impressive enough to secure a position but don’t be
to the firms that you know now?
intimidated and don’t underestimate yourself. Try to relax,
I was overly anxious about the inadequacy of my
smile and be yourself.
commercial acumen, though this turned out not to be an issue. It is helpful to read the Financial Review,
On a day-to-day basis, what was you experience as a
particularly in the lead up to interviews, but the firms don’t
clerk – what did you actually do during the typical day?
expect you to know all about the nuances of the legal
Each day on the job was significantly different depending
industry or financial sector. They also don’t expect you to
on who I was working for and the nature of the work. On my
know a great deal about the realities of commercial law –
first day I attended court to observe a proceeding involving
it is okay to acknowledge that your experience is limited
one of our largest clients, and that night I was fortunate
but that you are eager to learn.
enough to attend a client dinner. Another day I travelled to Ashfield with my ‘buddy’ lawyer to assist in the MOSAIC
What were some of the question that were asked in
pro bono sessions held there. I later took carriage of a
the interview?
pro bono matter, under the guidance of that lawyer. Other
Gilbert + Tobin conducted the interview in a very relaxed
days would be less eventful, involving legal research and
format, so I didn’t encounter anything too terrifying:
writing. The social aspect of the clerkship also dominated
“Why Gilbert + Tobin?”
many of my days; the clerks were invited to the Christmas
“Why commercial law?”
lunches and dinners for their respective practice groups,
“Do you have an interest in a particular practice
played weekly clerk sport, participated in a number of
group?”
rehearsals for the firm’s talent quest, enjoyed lawn bowls
“Tell us about x on your resume”
and scavenger hunts, and helped the staff at Redfern
Some of the other firms asked curlier questions
Community Centre prepare for their Christmas event.
such as:
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“Tell us about a time you were given negative
How do you think your application stood out? Any tips?
feedback. How did you react?”
My previous legal experience helped my application to
“If you were stranded on a desert island with 5 other
stand out, and this became a significant talking point
people, what role in the group would you assume”
in my interviews. Including interesting non-law related
Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
with Clerks things in your application is also a great way of generating
questions that every student thinks they are supposed to
discussion topics and providing the firms with a taste of
ask. I also did some research on the firm to see whether
your personality.
there were any current events that would make good conversation topics. At the cocktail evenings themselves,
What was the most challenging aspect of your clerkship?
I would avoid the mob of prospective clerks that tended to
The clerkship was my first real encounter with full time
form around partners, and take the opportunity to speak
work, so at times I found it challenging to make that
with grads or lawyers. When a conversation was drawing
adjustment. Throwing myself into work, social events, and
to its natural close, I would ask to be introduced to a
trying to fit it all within general life was incredibly fun but
lawyer in the practice area I was interested in. I always
could also be exhausting.
made sure to have no more than two drinks, and hold the glass in my left hand to avoid clammy handshakes. These
Did you attend a cocktail evening? How did you
nights were also a good opportunity to befriend other
approach these events?
prospective clerks – they were mostly very genuine and
I had a good think about the questions I wanted to ask
interesting, not at all as intimidating as I had expected.
before the events. The evenings are more useful for you and less tedious for the lawyers if you have something original and real to ask, rather than asking the same
Nicola Amys
speak with my tutor to discuss feedback. I then applied
- Minter Ellison
better mark.
What were some of the questions that were asked
Did you attend a cocktail evening? How did you
in the interview?
approach these events?
I was asked questions about why I wanted to work at
Attendance at cocktail evenings is an effective way
the firm I was interviewing with, and what corporate
to demonstrate your social skills. These skills are
law meant to me. I was also asked to provide specific
important because corporate law is a client focused
examples of where I had demonstrated skills such as
industry that seeks to build long-term relationships. I
teamwork, time management, and organisation. Some
asked questions about the people that I was speaking
firms were also interested to find out something about
to (rather than questions that were only about the firm
me that you wouldn’t know from reading my CV.
or the legal profession) in order to demonstrate my
that feedback to the next essay, in which I received a
ability to build relationships. My lame puns tended to Later interviews were more relaxed and involved
lighten up some of the conversations and made me a
questions about my experience on exchange, my
memorable candidate!
opinion on the criminal justice system, courses I wish
If you had one piece of advice to give to hopeful
I had studied, my trip to Paris and whether I liked the
clerks, what would it be?
food on Emirates.
Think about what differentiates you from other people and highlight that in your application and/or interviews.
What was the most difficult question you were asked in
It shouldn’t necessarily be related to the law as firms are
the interview? How did you respond to the question?
looking for people that will be more than just lawyers.
I was asked ‘when was a time that you had received
It could be your witty puns, your enthusiasm, your
negative feedback, and how did you respond to that?’
sporting abilities or your musical talent. Tie this into how
I gave an example of a poor essay mark that I had
it can benefit the firm, its clients or your colleagues.
received. I explained that I made an appointment to
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Clerkship Guide 2015
[ 33 ]
Q&A
Valiant Warzecha - DLA Piper
1. Make a genuine effort to understand the firm’s history, culture, recent matters and aspirations. The majority of the old domestic firms have merged with international firms, several are moving towards
On a day-to-day basis, what was you experience as a
open-plan office spaces and they are constantly honing
clerk – what did you actually do during the typical day?
their business to focus on practice areas that they have
I was fortunate enough to have rotated through DLA
competitive advantage. These moves are intentional and
Piper’s Real Estate and Intellectual Property and
you need to demonstrate that you understand why they
Technology practice groups in the Sydney Office.
are doing this and more importantly how you would fit into their future. The best way you can do this is to comb
There was never a typical day. Each team ensured that
each firm’s websites, read about their history, subscribe
the clerks were exposed to the full spectrum of current
to industry news sources, talk to people who work there
matters and clients. A few notable matters that I worked
and most importantly, listen to why they choose to work
on included: assisting with due diligence for a property
for that firm.
with complex encumbrances; attending a commercial property settlement; researching indirect legal methods
2. Everything you include in your application
to resolve a supply chain issue; updating a well-known
should matter.
food chain’s franchise agreement; writing several pieces
The extracurricular or curricular activities/achievements
for internal publications; drafting a letter of demand for
that you include should demonstrate how you fit within
a misleading advertisement; and, assisting with the
the firm’s culture or reflect attributes that the firm wants
drafting of standard internal documents for a major
in its employees.
financial institution. 3. Project into your role at the firm. A regular feature was weekly ‘Lunch and Learn’ sessions
In your research, you should be able to identify which
where each practice group leader briefed the clerks about
specific lawyers you would like to work with and/or which
the firm’s major clients and matters in that area. Given
practice area you would like to sit. If you excelled in, or
that the clerk program only allowed for two rotations, this
are interested in a particular area of law this is usually a
was particularly valuable for understanding each practice
good starting point.
group in preparation for our graduate rotations and in the long term to find our niché.
4. Demonstrate commercial awareness. This is the hardest thing to convey in a cover letter or
There were also plenty of social activities to offset the full-
resume. Commercial law firms are as much a business
time hours including: weekly inter-firm sporting matches,
as they are a law firm. It is assumed that all applicants
the highly competitive inter-firm trivia night, the clerk
are intelligent law students but to stand out, you need
cruise and regular social events hosted by each practice
to show that you have the ability to think strategically in
group. I also particularly appreciated ‘Chocolate Biscuit
a business context. You don’t have to be a commerce
Fridays’, having lunch with the other clerks each day and
student with expertise in the latest vogues in business
the ability to have kitchen conversations with everyone
strategy but you do need to understand the firm’s market
from the hospitality staff to the Chief Operating Officer of
and that of its clients.
the DLA Piper International LLP. A good starting point is to think about how your How did you go about tailoring your application (both
experience working in retail or any role that involves a
the resume and cover letter) for the firm/s that you
business could be applicable.
got offers? The following are a few general pieces of advice for writing your applications: [ 34 ]
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Macquarie University Law Society
with Clerks 5. Make sure your application is well rounded and
If you had one piece of advice to give to hopeful
memorable.
clerks, what would it be?
Firms want individuals who demonstrate that they have a
Cultural fit is everything. You should spend more time
decent academic record, relevant employment experience
researching and understanding the firms that you are
and diverse involvement with extracurricular activities.
applying for than writing your application. If you are
Being chosen from 600 applications involves having
not genuinely interested in that firm, it will show in
something distinct that catches the recruiter’s attention
your application.
and/or that they would want to discuss in an interview. This isn’t a prerequisite but it does increase the probability
Best of luck for your applications.
of progressing to interview.
Nick Larkin - Herbert Smith Freehills
What did you actually do as a clerk? In my clerkship I rotated through the commercial litigation and private equity teams. Litigation involved some administrative work along with more exciting
Do you have any advice to make an application
tasks, like preparing a brief for senior counsel. In
stand out?
private equity I undertook ASIC searches and drafted
State your value proposition. You might be an avid
shareholder deeds. I also got to sit in on several client
sportsperson, heavily involved in the medieval society,
calls and meetings.
help run a small business, or the manager of a fast food restaurant. Whatever it is this individual talent is one of
In addition to work I attended a host of training and
the best things you can put in your CV or cover letter.
development activities to familiarise myself with the
It helps differentiate you from the pack. However you
firm’s systems and practice groups.
should be able to demonstrate how the interest or passion has enhanced your skills that are relevant to the legal
On top of all that there are a myriad of social events that
profession.
are put on. There is weekly inter-firm sport, an inter-firm trivia night and cruise as well as Christmas parties to
What were some of the questions you were asked
name but a few.
in the interview process? The types of questions I was asked in my interviews can
What was the most challenging part of your
be loosely grouped as; CV checking, behavioural based
clerkship?
questions and questions to determine fit.
Learning to manage expectations. Although firms try to
i.
CV checking questions were asked by partners
avoid burdening clerks it is possible that at some point
to gain some more information about my past
you could become overwhelmed with work as many
experiences be it about exchange, at university or
senior lawyers have forgotten what they did not know
work.
when they were a clerk and can underestimate the time
Behavioural questions required me to recall an
will take you complete a task.
ii.
experience in which I demonstrated a particular trait. A common question of this type was, ‘describe
It was something I brought on myself in the first weeks
a time you have shown resilience’.
of the clerkship as I, being eager to please, took on
iii. Fit questions focussed on finding out whether I
more work than I could realistically complete in a
would enjoy working at the particular firm.
reasonable timeframe. I quickly learnt the value in managing the expectations of those who are giving you (continues next page)
Macquarie University Law Society
Clerkship Guide 2015
[ 35 ]
Q&A with Clerks (Q&A with Nick Larkin continues) work as it decreases your stress levels and also gives you more time to deliver a polished product. Did you tailor your application to each firm you applied to? I think others would probably be better suited to answering this question as I did not tailor my cover letters significantly for each firm. The only point I would add is make sure you spell the name of the firm and the HR representative’s name correctly. It is surprising how easy it is to forget to make these simple changes to your cover letter when you are applying to multiple firms. In hindsight what did you wish you knew heading into the application process? If I could I would tell my former self not to worry so much about my lack of legal experience. Although looked upon desirably a lack of legal training will not inhibit you from gaining a clerkship. Enthusiasm, curiosity and dedication go a long way. Any last advice? Be yourself. Apologies for pointing out the obvious but you have to be genuine. The firms are good at weeding out those pretending to be something they are not. More importantly the clerkship process is as much about determining which firms you would like to work for as it is the firms deciding whether you are the best fit for them. If you are not yourself then you limit your ability to find a place that matches your personality. Finally remember to keep things in perspective. Getting a clerkship does not, in any way, define who you are. The application process is stressful enough without thinking that this is your only option to begin a career in law. Good luck!
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: V t r a P s m r i F The
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COMMON PRACTICE AREAS This list of practice areas is not exhaustive, it is advisable to research each firm’s practice groups and areas of specialization.
in size from extremely large corporate restructures to relatively small debt recovery matters. Work in this area of law may include drafting court documents and other transactional documents, court appearances and advocacy, company searches, drafting
CORPORATE LAW
advice for clients on the verge of insolvency or those that
Corporate law firms often have a practice group dedicated
have already become insolvent, negotiating with creditors
to pure “Corporate Law”. This can confuse students, as
to resolve a company’s debts, negotiations with appointed
the firms are corporate law firms, so what are all the other
manager of company’s assets once it is insolvent, and a
departments doing? This group deals with corporate litigation
wide variety of other tasks.
and transactions that are purely commercial in nature. The group is often divided into smaller sub-sections, such as
LITIGATION AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION
Mergers & Acquisitions, Private Equity, Company law and
The Litigation and Dispute Resolution team in a firm can
Governance, and Superannuation Funds Management.
expect to deal with litigious matters referred from other departments of the firm that do not wish to deal with the
In this area you may encounter work such as dealing with
litigation themselves, as well as matters that are brought
contractual arrangements between companies, advising
straight to the team. This practice group deals largely
clients about the administration and governance of their
in managing litigious matters, but also provides advice
company or providing advice about the legality of mergers
and assistance with conflict mitigation and preventative
and acquisitions. Whilst the work may be complex and
strategies to avoid situations before they occur.
challenging, you will likely be dealing with some very big-named transactions with large companies, a busy
Work may include drafting or considering pleadings,
workflow and large variations in the type of work that you
particulars, evidence and subpoenas, attending settlement
will be dealing with.
discussions or alternative dispute resolution discussions, preparing for trial and court attendances, drafting advice to
EMPLOYMENT AND INDUSTRIAL RELATIONS LAW
clients, attending to discussions with clients and opposing
This practice area covers a number of areas of
legal representatives, assisting with evidence and discovery,
law, including (but not limited to) unfair dismissal,
meeting with witnesses and taking legal statements, or
discrimination and equal opportunity, occupational
general research to assist in preparation for trial.
health and safety, trade practices and contract. In this group you may be involved in work such as
PROPERTY LAW
employment litigation (as corporations are often sued by
Property law covers a range of practice groups, often
employees for discrimination, unfair dismissal, and other
including Construction and Infrastructure, Environment,
grievances), client meetings, legal research on client’s
and Property. Within a Construction team, you may face
issues, drafting letters of advice or corresponding with
work such as negotiating, drafting, and advising clients on
the Industrial Relations Commission and other courts
contracts for large-scale infrastructure work and building
and tribunals.
construction or providing advice in relation to the financing of infrastructure developments.
INSOLVENCY LAW
[ 38 ]
Insolvency law is an area of law legislated primarily by the
The Property group is a very extensive and important area
Corporations Act. This area deals with the deterioration
of legal practice. Property lawyers deal with a range of
of companies, as well as the relationship between the
legislation and have skills that are high in demand.
company, its shareholders, and creditors when the
They deal with everything from large-scale matters
company can no longer pay its debts. Insolvency law
to minor transactional negotiations. Typical property
covers both litigious and transactional matters, ranging
work includes things such as advising on commercial,
Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
industrial and retail property matters, reviewing property
Preparing for and coordinating signings and completions,
contracts, advising on the due diligence process during
researching and preparing advice on various legal issues,
the sale and purchase of real estate and businesses,
and corresponding with clients and team members.
completing complicated tenuring and titling arrangements or undertaking negotiations for variations of leases. This
COMPETITION AND CONSUMER PROTECTION
area often has a high level of contact with clients as
This is a specialised group within the firm that essentially
each property deal is unique and requires a thorough
deals with breaches of the Competition and Consumer
understanding of the wishes of clients.
Act 2010 (Cth). This Act is divided into two main parts – sections dealing with regulating the level of competition
TAXATION LAW
between businesses and companies, and sections
Firstly, it is important to note that the tax lawyers are
regulating levels of consumer protection.
rarely involved in detailed analysis of financial accounts. It is not strictly necessary to have a background in
Competition work will likely involve advising companies prior
accounting or finance to become a tax lawyer, but some
to proposed mergers whether the ACCC will accept such a
firms do encourage you to undertake further accounting
change in their industry, advising clients how to restructure
based study if you settle in the group. However the focus
mergers to ensure a healthy level of competition remains
is on the legal analysis of tax based issues and the
within the market, advising with respect to the development
practical application of the law.
of facility infrastructure and access agreements, and liaising with the ACCC on behalf of clients.
In tax, perhaps more than in other areas of practice, a need exists to constantly maintain and update your
ENERGY AND NATURAL RESOURCES
knowledge of the law. Tax work requires constant
Energy and Natural Resources is a relatively new,
reference to both statute and case law, and tax is the
fast-paced and ever growing group within the industrial
subject of a continuous stream of legislation and much
sector. More and more top tier firms are expanding their
litigation. Tax lawyers must also maintain their knowledge
energy and resources area of practice, both on a national
of other areas of commercial litigation such as property,
and international scale. It is recognised as an extremely
contract, trust and company law as tax issues are usually
important area of law, which is underpinned by both
linked to other commercial issues.
economic and environmental concerns, and captures a wide range of transactions from oil and gas mining to
BANKING AND FINANCE
renewable energy and power supply.
The Banking and Finance group deals mainly with the debt component of corporate transactions. Teams are generally
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY
broken down into more specialised sub-teams, such as
This group revolves around intellectual property (IP)
finance (focusing on financing developments or exploiting
services, including the registration, commercialisation
assets), debt capital markets, consumer financial services
and enforcement of intellectual property rights. The
(drafting contracts and arrangements for financial service
team develops legal strategies to protect the commercial
providers and large corporations), securitisation, or property
potential of brands, as well as engaging in litigious work if
finance (assisting in managing the finance of commercial,
there is a breach of IP rights.
residential and retail properties). Work in this group may involve drafting advice on the Work in this group may include preparing and coordinating
identification, protection and management of patents and trade
conditions precedent, drafting and reviewing various
marks, drafting agreements relating to licensing, franchising,
types of securities, drafting various other documents,
and transferring rights, advising on copyright, confidential
including board minutes, powers of attorney, short
information and unfair competition issues, enforcing all IP
form loan agreements, legal opinions, deeds of release
rights using dispute resolution or litigious methods, advising on
and documentation in relation to financial assistance.
marketing agreements and many other aspects of IP law.
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Careers at Allen & Overy Visit us at www.allenovery.com/careers
Get connected to the rest of the world Be part of something exciting
Allen & Overy means Allen & Overy LLP and/or its affiliated undertakings
[ 40 ]
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Macquarie University Law Society
Get connected to the rest of the world Be part of something exciting. Allen & Overy was the first global elite law firm to commence operations in Australia. Our practice comprises hand-selected, top-tier partners, each leaders in their field with an average of 20 years’ experience. Allen & Overy Australia offers comprehensive legal services in the Australian and international market. Much of the work performed by lawyers in Australia involves cross-border deals including inbound investment by international clients and outbound investment by Australian clients; international disputes and regulatory reviews; project financing for projects both in Australia and around the world; and international bond programs. Allen & Overy Australia offers the best of both worlds: the expertise and resources of a global elite law practice coupled with a leading group of senior domestic practitioners. We provide our clients with instant access to the firm’s regional and global resources, enabling the Australian team to deliver innovative, timely and cost effective legal solutions. Our Australian operations in Sydney and Perth are fully integrated into Allen & Overy’s global network. The offices offer has three core Practice Groups offering a full suite of corporate, finance (debt and equity) and litigation services. Within these, the practice areas are diverse, including International and Debt Capital Markets, Mergers & Acquisitions, Private Equity, Projects, Structured Products,
Macquarie University Law Society
Allen & Overy means Allen & Overy LLP and/or its affiliated undertakings. © Allen & Overy 2015
Funds, Competition, Asset Finance, Tax, Energy & Resources, Litigation and International Arbitration. Clients increasingly need global service providers and we are currently one of the only firms in Australia able to provide a fully integrated domestic, regional and global offering. As a Summer Clerk, you will be exposed to premium quality domestic and international work and will also participate in various exercises that simulate real transactions from beginning to end, providing a valuable insight into the role of an Allen & Overy lawyer. For further information about our offering please visit our website: allenovery.com/careers/australia/en-gb/ students-and-graduates Applications for our Summer Clerkship program in 2015/16 open on 17 June 2015. The website also contains details of our Clerkship program in Perth.
For further information please contact us at australianrecruitment@allenovery.com
[ 41 ] allenovery.com Clerkship Guide 2015
[ 42 ]
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Possibility in everything Allens is a leading international law firm with partners, lawyers and corporate services employees across Asia and Australia. We work with many of the world’s leading organising including 55 of the world’s top 100 companies and more than 75 of Australia’s top 100 companies. Our integrated alliance with Linklaters mean we are able to share resources and offer our clients a seamless service through a global network of 40 offices across 29 counties.
Future proof your career In a rapidly changing world, those who are agile, resilient and innovative will thrive. Starting your career at Allens will give you every opportunity to build a sustainable and fulfilling career, wherever you end up. You’ll develop the skills and capabilities you need to meet the increasing expectations of clients and the market in a supportive and collegiate environment, with global opportunities from your graduate program and beyond.
> At Allens, you’ll always know where you stand. Performance-based assessment and progression gives you control over the pace at which you develop and progress. Clear expectations at each career stage ensure you understand what we expect and what you need to focus on to progress. Year-round coaching, feedback and development support allows you to drive your own growth. And clear career milestones give our lawyers greater client and people management responsibilities earlier in their careers.
> In return, we’re asking you to really take control of your career and development. You’ll need to tell us where you want to go, and proactively pursue the development experiences, relationships and skills you’ll need to get there. You’ll need to be willing to experiment, take risks and try new things to achieve your goals. And you’ll need to think more broadly about what great looks like, seeking to grow your commercial and leadership skills alongside your technical capability, whatever your role.
When you join Allens, you’ll learn from partners and lawyers who can help you take your career all the way. Learn more and meet our people at www.allens.com.au/graduates.
Allens is an independent partnership operating in alliance with Linklaters LLP. Macquarie University Law Society
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Possibility in everything ABOUT ALLENS
CLERKSHIP PROGRAM
Allens is a leading international law firm, with partners, lawyers and corporate services employees across Asia and Australia. We work with many of the world’s leading organisations, including 55 of the world’s top 100 companies and more than 75 of Australia’s top 100 companies.
We recruit most of our graduates through our clerkship program, which gives first-hand exposure to life as a lawyer at Allens. Get involved in work as soon as you set foot in the firm. Work alongside lawyers and partners. Learn from their experience and enjoy their support.
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT
WHAT WE LOOK FOR
It begins with our people
Initiative
It’s our people who make us great. It is our priority to ensure they are constantly challenged, recognised, rewarded and empowered throughout their careers.
A curious mind is vital, as is plenty of initiative. The more adaptable you’re prepared to be and the more energy you bring, the more you’ll get out of your career at Allens. You’ll be able to steer a path that turns possibilities into realities.
Our unique way of working We adopt a flexible approach to the way we work, which builds strong and diverse teams, and is one of the reasons our lawyers tell us a career at Allens is so rewarding. You won’t be limited to working with a particular partner or group. Instead, you will have the opportunity to drive your career by working with a range of lawyers and partners across the firm.
Excellence
We make the complex simple
Successful lawyers understand that law is more than an academic pursuit. It’s about understanding the client – their objectives and the challenges they face – as well as the wider commercial environment in which we operate.
Allens is known for the quality of its legal minds. That’s why we attract some of the most complex legal work, and why our firm and our lawyers are recognised as the best in the profession.
Our strategic alliance
Excellence is essential; it’s a guarantee we give our clients. Intellectually rigorous, driven and eager to learn, you’ll set the highest standards for yourself and strive to be the best you can be.
Commerciality
Resilience
Our integrated alliance with Linklaters means we are able to share resources and offer our clients a seamless service through a global network of 40 offices across 29 countries. When you join our firm, you are joining a global network, with opportunities across Australia, Asia, Europe and the US.
Positive people thrive in our environment. We look for people who can build sustainable careers with us; people who successfully juggle a busy life and varying commitments while maintaining their wellbeing. Like us, you’ll believe that leading a full, active life outside the law can make you a better person to work with.
Life-long learning
Well-rounded
The learning never stops at Allens. It’s woven into our culture, and makes our people better leaders as well as better legal practitioners. Along with formal technical training and development, we offer a mentor program, a buddy program, and support to pursue further education outside the firm.
Our clients often tell us we have ‘great people’. And it’s true. We look for diversity – people who bring a fresh perspective and energy to everything they do, with the ability to create strong relationships with each other and with clients.
HOW TO APPLY www.allens.com.au/careers CONTACT Lisa Millar, Graduate Resourcing Consultant EMAIL Student.Careers@allens.com.au [ 44 ]
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Allens is an independent partnership operating in alliance with Linklaters LLP.
Macquarie University Law Society
16693
make your presence felt You’ve worked hard. You have ambitions. You want to make your presence felt Ashurst is a premier global law firm, with premium clients, premium work and outstanding people. Working at Ashurst will allow you to encounter a wide range of challenges, to get close to different types of business and to experience different cultures. A truly international firm where you can make your presence felt. Find out more Margot Kindley Senior HR Manager T 61 2 9258 6000 margot.kindley@ashurst.com
Level 36, Grosvenor Place 225 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000 Australia T 61 2 9258 6000 F 61 2 9258 6999 www.ashurst.com/graduates
Connect with us on
Australia Belgium China France Germany Hong Kong SAR Indonesia (associated office) Italy Japan Papua New Guinea Saudi Arabia Singapore Spain Sweden United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States of America Macquarie University Law Society
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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 knowledge and network – through an International Clerkship. Become a world-class lawyer. Join the firm that was born global.
Ready to explore our world? Natalie Brunton +61 2 8922 5747
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Find us at @BakersAUS
www.bakermckenzie.com/careers/australia/sydney/ Macquarie University Law Society
CAN’T WAIT TO CU!
Want the inside scoop on landing a role at Clayton Utz? Find it on Facebook! www.facebook.com/ClaytonUtzCareers
Macquarie University Law Society
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A reputation for standing out, And for being outstanding.
For over 180 years, our confident approach to complex transactions and litigation has seen us grow into one of Australia’s leading law firms. Now, with 186 partners and over 1,200 employees across six offices, we continue to build our reputation for innovative and incisive advice. With a genuine commitment to client service, we are trusted advisers to a range of government departments and agencies, as well as leading Australian and international corporations.
If you have an unshakeable sense of what’s possible, Clayton Utz is the perfect place to build your career. It’s not just about wearing a suit No matter how good your law degree, there’s always a gap between theory and practice, and finishing university can be daunting. How do you make the jump to working in a commercial law firm?
That’s where we come in If you’re a law student in your penultimate year, our Clerkship Program will expose you to the fast pace of a full-service commercial law firm and show you the law in action. You’ll be working under the guidance of some of the sharpest legal minds in Australia, on challenging, complex and high-profile transactions and matters. You’ll be mentored by partners and lawyers who are leaders in their fields, in a firm where individuality is embraced and innovation actively encouraged. Once you’ve completed your studies, our Graduate Program gives you the perfect foundation for your legal career. You’ll hit the ground running by working on complex and sophisticated legal issues, and our rotation program means you’ll discover different areas and find the right fit. And with our tailored mentoring, you’ll get the support you need to become the best you can be. With our programs you’ll get… ►mentoring from some of the best lawyers in the country ►a buddy who’ll give you the inside information ►meaningful performance feedback so you know you’re on the right track ►continuing legal education programs and professional development support, so you can become the lawyer you want to be ►involved in our Pro Bono Practice, which is fundamental to who we are as a firm ►the chance to participate in our Community Connect and Pro Bono programs and really give back ►social and sporting activities, because we know it’s not all work and no play.
The Clerkship Program
23 November 2015 – 5 February 2016
Aimed at penultimate year law students, this 11-week week program gives you a week orientation and two rotations in different practice areas. You will also be able to take part in additional training, networking sessions, and social/sporting activities. Applications open 17 June 2015 Applications close 19 July 2015 First round interviews conducted week commencing 17 August 2015 Final round interviews conducted week commencing 7 September 2015 Offers made 25 September 2015.
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Nichole Soo
Why did you choose Clayton Utz? I came away from each stage of the clerkship process more certain that I wanted to work at Clayton Utz. The buddy I was matched with was helpful and sincere in sharing her experiences and the other Clayton Utz people I met at the cocktail evening (and afterwards, during the entire clerkship) were friendly and welcoming. One graduate was even kind enough to meet me for a coffee to answer the 101 questions I had! I felt that during the interviews there was a genuine desire to get to know me as a person, beyond what appeared on my academic transcript. What is the best thing about working at Clayton Utz? The best thing about working at Clayton Utz is the variety of interesting and engaging work you do and the diverse and supportive colleagues you work with along the way. What pro bono matters did you work on during your clerkship? I was fortunate enough to work on a few pro bono matters during my clerkship. One matter was a workplace sexual harassment case in which we worked together with the Australian Human Rights Commission on behalf of the victim, a woman from rural Victoria. Another matter involved attempting to locate and effect service upon a woman who had employed an international student but cheated him out of wages by assuming a fake name and later vanishing. Interestingly, through our enquiries we found that the woman had scammed a number of other people (including the landlord of the place she had been residing at). What was your most memorable experience with Clayton Utz? The summer clerks together with Community Connect (Clayton Utz’ community involvement program) arranged a number of fundraising activities for the Cerebral Palsy Alliance including a lunch where two inspiring young boys living with Cerebral palsy came to speak. To raise money to support the boys (and others) to climb Mount Kosciuszko for the “Krazy Kosci Klimb” we requested Clayton Utz staff to wear some “Krazy” gear to the lunch and make a donation. The Partner in Charge, Geoff Hoffman attended the lunch in the craziest (yet coolest) madhatter-esque costume. Seeing someone like Geoff Hoffman embrace our fundraising efforts really reinforced how genuinely committed Clayton Utz is to the work it does for the community. Tips to students applying for Clerkships this year. Apply! There are a lot of false rumours circulating around law schools in Australia, particularly around clerkship time - that applications without a HD aren’t even looked at, that if you aren’t a champion mooter you don’t have a chance at securing a clerkship etc. Don’t let these rumours stop you from applying if you are genuinely interested in working at Clayton Utz. Put effort into your application and have faith in your abilities. There is such a diverse and dynamic range of people at Clayton Utz and you could be one of them, but first you have to apply!
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Think ahead
Fast-track your career with Australia’s most progressive law firm. To find out more visit us at me.gtlaw.com.au Download the Gilbert + Tobin Careers App from the App Store or the Google PlayTM Store
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Google Play is a trademark of Google Inc.
Macquarie University Law Society
Melbourne Perth Sydney
Think ahead.
Success begins with the ability to think beyond tomorrow. Gilbert + Tobin’s clerkship program gives you direct access to marketleading transactions and matters. You’ll work with partners and lawyers in an informal setting, allowing you to challenge yourself and develop your legal skills. At Gilbert + Tobin’s office in Park Street Sydney our clerks complete a 10-week placement that consists of two five-week rotations across the firm’s practice areas. As well as becoming immersed in their areas of interest, our clerks have the opportunity to contribute to the Pro Bono group and Knowledge Management practice. During the rotation each clerk is assigned a supervising partner, mentor and buddy to assist with on-the-job training. We also have a tailored learning and development program to ensure our clerks are building on their legal knowledge and business acumen. Macquarie University Law Society
The G+T clerkship experience is open to students in their penultimate year of study. We’re looking for ambitious, bright, friendly and enthusiastic individuals who will thrive in an environment of integrity and respect, innovation and legal excellence.
“
Applications for 2015–16 clerkships in our Sydney office are open from Wednesday 17 June. For more information about applying for a clerkship or for program dates please visit me.gtlaw.com.au, or contact Kristie Barton on 02 9263 4575 or at clerkships@gtlaw.com.au.
G+T offered the right environment for me to start my legal career: an ambitious, values-driven firm with a flat structure and the highest aspirations for both its people and their work. I was most impressed and surprised by the real responsibility which junior lawyers have at G+T. It’s been refreshing to see the quality of work and leadership over a matter which junior lawyers exercise. It’s made me excited for the next stage of my career.” Jack Coles, 2014 Sydney Summer Clerk
You can also download the G+T Careers App from the App Store or the Google PlayTM Store.
Google Pay is a trademark of Google Inc.
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TODAY’S TALENT TOMORROW’S LEADERS DLA Piper is a global law firm with 4,200 lawyers located in more than 30 countries throughout the Americas, Asia Pacific, Europe and the Middle East.
IT’S IN OUR DNA
We are a law firm with momentum. Over the past decade, DLA Piper has undergone rapid expansion, responding to global markets and helping our clients deliver on their business strategies. In doing so, we are uniquely placed to provide our people with the global career opportunities they are looking for.
#1 M&A volume: DLA Piper has retained its number one ranking globally for overall deal volume in 2014 by mergermarket for the fifth consecutive year.
In Australia we are trusted legal advisors to approximately a third of the ASX 100 companies and all levels of government. We have offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Canberra.
At its heart, DLA Piper is an entrepreneurial and dynamic firm. We have a supportive and performance based culture founded on the diversity of our people, the communities we operate in and the clients we work with. WINNING #1 law firm in the world: DLA Piper has been recognised as the world’s largest law firm by revenue in 2013 & 2014 by “The Am Law 100”.
#4 Global brand: DLA Piper ranked fourth on the Acritas Global Elite Brand Index. In Australia, we are recognised as an Employer of Choice for Gender Equality by the Workplace Gender Equality Agency. YOUR OPPORTUNITIES We provide cutting-edge learning and development programs, and an opportunity to work alongside some of the best legal minds around. As a seasonal clerk, you can expect to have a varied experience both in and outside the office. You will gain first-hand experience in the practice of law by doing real legal work. Joining us as a seasonal clerk is your path to a Graduate position. At DLA Piper we recruit to retain and once you qualify, we will continue to offer you exceptional career opportunities, in an environment that is challenging, rewarding and, we believe, truly different from our competitors. We are also committed to supporting our people’s desire to experience working life in other parts of the world. For our Graduates we offer the opportunity to apply for a six month rotation to one of our offices in Asia. We believe our secondment program fosters a global mind-set and is critical to our success. WHAT IT TAKES Being an excellent lawyer requires more than just comprehensive technical knowledge. Every aspect of our approach is tailored carefully to our clients, their business needs and industry. Successful applicants are not only bright, as demonstrated through strong academics, but they also bring unique life experiences and insights to the table. Our lawyers are excellent communicators, collaborative team players and commercially minded, because our clients are the core of our business. For more information about our clerkship opportunities, please visit www.dlapipergraduates.com.au
Copyright © 2015 DLA Piper. All rights reserved | MAR15 | 2902786 [ 52 ] Clerkship Guide 2015
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GADENS NEXT GENERATION CLERKSHIP We’ve redefined our clerkship program to give your future the head start you’re looking for.
ELITE INNOVATION M GRAMENTORING O R P G PROJECT ORIN T N E M PROGRAM ELITE M RA
ROG P T N E DM
ON C E S T N SCHOOL OF CLIE
CLIENT TORY A R O B EXCELLENCE SECONDMENT AL LA G E L S N E GAD PROGRAM
FUTURE PROOF YOUR CAREER WITH REAL EXPERIENCE Macquarie University Law Society
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summerclerks
aspire. what are your hopes and ambitions for the future? contribute. how will you make a difference to HDY, our profession and our community? thrive. what do you need to reach your full potential? Who are we?
What’s it like to be a summer clerk at HDY?
Henry Davis York is an independent Australian law firm with talented lawyers and other professionals. Our clients are primarily from the financial services and government sectors. We are also proud to work alongside an impressive list of clients from other sectors to achieve their objectives. We do this in a way that clients and staff alike enjoy the HDY experience and choose us as their preferred legal services provider. Our clients include the big four Australian banks, global investment banks, insolvency & accounting firms, fund managers, property developers, manufacturing companies, regulatory bodies and government agencies.
OUR PROGRAM
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR YOU
Comprehensive orientation program during which you will attend training sessions and meet the people you will be working with.
You will be ready to hit the ground running from day one and be given the opportunity to contribute and make a difference.
Rotations through 3 practice groups of your choice.
You will enjoy hands-on experience in the areas of law most relevant to helping you with whatever you aspire to achieve.
Supervision, advice, training & feedback from partners, senior associates and a mentor.
You will be well supported and developed throughout your time with HDY to help you thrive.
What are we looking for in a summer clerk?
Why should you apply for our program? We understand what you are looking for in a summer clerk program. We listen to what our summer clerks tell us about their experience with us and how we can build on it each year. This means we know what’s most important to you and our program delivers this for you:
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Banking & Finance
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Construction & Infrastructure
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Corporate/ M&A
The quality of our people is the key to our success. Recruiting the right people at every level is therefore a critical part of our strategy. Our summer clerks become part of the HDY team and contribute to our growth and culture from day one. So, they must be:
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Dispute Resolution
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Environment & Planning
Self-driven, highly motivated and eager to develop and take on responsibility.
Exposure to high quality, meaningful work.
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Government
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Insolvency & Restructuring
Energised by being part of a team and focused on “we” rather than “I”.
The opportunity to contribute and take on responsibility as part of a team.
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Investments
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Property
Respectful of others and respected by others.
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Technology & Intellectual Property
A supportive, collaborative environment where your contribution matters and which fosters your development.
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Workplace Relations & Safety
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The chance to work with motivated and talented lawyers and have fun too.
We offer our clients a wide range of legal services from the following practice areas:
A successful candidate will have an excellent academic record, some relevant work experience, demonstrated leadership skills and a keen interest in commercial law.
visit our website to apply and start your career with HDY
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17 June – 19 July 2015 www.hdy.com.au/summerclerks Macquarie University Law Society
aspire. contribute. thrive.
…there is no better way to learn about the type of work each group does than by actually doing it. Hi I’m Michael Fitzpatrick and I just completed a clerkship with Henry Davis York in the summer of 2014/15. I had only positive experiences with HDY right from the beginning. The clerkship application process is undoubtedly stressful for all students, but HDY made the process as painless as possible. HDY was the first firm to respond to my application, the interviewing process was clearly set out, interviewers were professional yet friendly, and importantly, they were always in contact with me when they said they would be. At the firms cocktail evening I had the chance to interact with a range of lawyers, senior associates, partners and people and development staff in a much more relaxed setting. It was the people I met, and the passion that they clearly had for the firm, that gave me the strongest feeling that HDY was the firm where I most wanted to clerk. The first week of my clerkship was dedicated to training, where we learnt all about the firm – its people, its clients and its values – as well as about the programs and processes that we would be using once we hit the practice groups. HDY is unique in providing such a thorough induction for clerks, and I found the training hugely beneficial in
enhancing the contribution I was able to make throughout my rotations. As a clerk at HDY I had the opportunity to rotate through 3 practice groups. Having an extra rotation is a hugely beneficial component of the HDY clerkship program as there is no better way to learn about the type of work each group does than by actually doing it. In each group I had the chance to work with lawyers, senior associates and partners, all of whom were willing to assist with my development in these early stages of my legal career. I had the opportunity to work on a huge range of tasks for an equally broad spectrum of clients – from top-tier corporations to pro bono organisations. I was provided with an amazing level of access to clients through my clerkship, exemplified when I was seconded to one of our clients – a big 4 bank. The HDY clerkship was a truly enjoyable experience, which provided me with an opportunity to make a meaningful contribution to matters involving top-tier clients within an extremely supportive, professional and importantly, a fun environment.
Michael Fitzpatrick Summer Clerk - HDY 2015
Lena Ristevski Graduate Recruitment Officer 61 2 9947 6532 summerclerks@hdy.com.au Macquarie University Law Society
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DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO BECOME AN EXCEPTIONAL LAWYER?
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We understand that becoming an exceptional lawyer takes more than technical ability, because at its heart, the business of law is based on human relationships. For us this means a culture built on creating exceptional working relationships with clients and colleagues. From the start of your career you will get to know our clients, understand their perspectives, and develop your ability to deliver insightful and commercially astute advice. Wherever you go in the firm, we’re confident you’ll be working with people who share the values we have worked together to define: a commitment to excellence, a collaborative approach, a desire to lead, and a focus on creating strong connections with colleagues and clients. Visit our website to meet some of our people and see what we mean herbertsmithfreehills.com/careers/ our-careers-film
YOUR DEVELOPMENT Our success depends on the knowledge skills and unique perspectives of all our people. That’s why we have always placed such a high value on diversity. It’s also why we will invest heavily in your development. Through formal training, pro bono opportunities and the chance to work with inspiring people who are leaders in their fields, we will help you grow personally and professionally.
INTERNATIONAL GRADUATE SECONDMENT PROGRAMME Our international network means that we can offer opportunities and experiences that are unrivalled in scope.
GLOBAL REACH
24 offices, including associated offices across Asia-Pacific, EMEA and North America
In 2014 we launched our international secondment programme for Australian graduates. To hear about Ben and Mia’s experiences on international secondment go to our website: herbertsmithfreehills.com/ careers/meet-our-people
OUR GLOBAL PRACTICE GROUPS • COMPETITION, REGULATION AND TRADE
WHAT WE LOOK FOR We are interested in who you are and the strengths you can bring. We recruit employees from a wide range of backgrounds who possess the qualities we look for in our lawyers: intellectual curiosity, confidence, clarity of thought, the ambition to grow personally and professionally, and the ability to develop exceptional working relationships with clients and colleagues. We have prepared some more detailed information on our website: herbertsmithfreehills.com/careers/ australia/graduates/applications
• CORPORATE • DISPUTE RESOLUTION • EMPLOYMENT, PENSIONS AND INCENTIVES • FINANCE • PROJECTS AND INFRASTRUCTURE • REAL ESTATE
JOINING US We offer a range of summer and winter clerkships in each of our Australian offices. If you have queries about graduate or vacation clerk positions, please visit our website: herbertsmithfreehills.com/careers/ australia/graduates or contact one of our graduate recruitment team.
KEY DATES AND DEADLINES
CONTACT
BRISBANE
MELBOURNE
PERTH
SYDNEY
20-27
60–70
40-50
30-35
2 SUMMER
2 SUMMER 1 WINTER
2 SUMMER 1-2 WINTER
1 SUMMER
APPLICATIONS FOR ALL 2015/16 PROGRAMMES OPEN
2 MARCH 2015
13 JULY 2015
20 JULY 2015
17 JUNE 2015
APPLICATIONS CLOSE
23 MARCH 2015
16 AUGUST 2015
7 AUGUST 2015
19 JULY 2015
11 MAY 2015
13 OCTOBER 2015
23 SEPTEMBER 2015
25 SEPTEMBER 2015
APPROXIMATE NUMBER OF POSITIONS CLERKSHIP PROGRAMMES
OFFERS MADE
Carly Miles
Graduate Recruitment Consultant Direct +61 2 9322 4410 graduates.sydney@hsf.com
Please note: Applications will only be considered for one office of Herbert Smith Freehills, this includes globally. Please only make an application to the office where you intend to start your career as a graduate.
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Macquarie University Law Society © Herbert Smith Freehills 2015 NOF146213_advertorial_v3_sydney 010415
MY CLERKSHIP AT HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS Arnica came to Herbert Smith Freehills as a vacation clerk in 2014-15. She is currently a paralegal in our Finance, Real Estate and Projects group and will soon be joining us as a graduate. WHY HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS It can be a difficult process trying to determine where you should start your legal career. I knew that I wanted to work at a firm that would provide me with the opportunity to work on exciting and complex matters, while also having fun.
ARNICA MULLINS PARALEGAL, FINANCE, REAL ESTATE & PROJECTS
I made the right choice to clerk at Herbert Smith Freehills. I worked on interesting and high profile matters with brilliant lawyers in a supportive and fun environment, which is why I would recommend Herbert Smith Freehills to other Macquarie University students.
MY SUMMER AT HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS During my clerkship I rotated through the Competition, Regulation and Trade team in the Disputes practice group and the Energy & Resources team in Corporate.
“I thought that I would be spending hours photocopying and delivering documents, but I discovered that I was considered a valuable member of the team.” ARNICA MULLINS PARALEGAL
My experience as a clerk at a large firm exceeded my expectations. I thought that I would be spending hours photocopying and delivering documents, but I discovered that I was considered a valuable member of the team. Over the course of the summer I assisted with preparing an advice to a client in relation to trade sanctions, considering the competition issues in relation to a client’s potential merger and preparing a due diligence report for a potential wind farm acquisition. Everyone I worked with took the time and effort to explain tasks to me and no question was too silly, in fact questions were always encouraged. The training and information sessions provided by the firm and each practice group gave me a better understanding of the many different areas within the firm. In addition to working in the practice groups, the clerks were given the opportunity to attend court with the Shopfront Youth Legal Centre (a joint project of Mission Australia, The Salvation Army and Herbert Smith Freehills). This opportunity provided valuable insight into the pro bono work that many
HERBERTSMITHFREEHILLS.COM Macquarie University Law Society
lawyers at the firm undertake.
NOT ALL WORK There were Christmas parties, the inter-firm clerk cruise, the inter-firm trivia night, weekly inter-firm sport and the annual clerk v EPI touch football match. I found out that lawyers may work hard, but they party harder and love a good themed party. Not only does the clerkship provide you with an opportunity to develop your legal skills, it also gives you the opportunity to dress in outrageous costumes, dance all night and let off some steam on the sports field.
TIPS FOR THE APPLICATION PROCESS Give yourself plenty of time to complete your application. Your cover letter and CV are selling you. If you write it on your CV, it is more than likely an interviewer will ask you about it so know your CV. Talk to as many people as possible who have worked or currently work at the firm. Most firms will seem the same on paper, but once you start speaking to the people who have experienced the firm you will develop a deeper insight into the firm’s culture and values and whether the firm aligns with your own values. Don’t just talk to the partners and senior lawyers, also talk to junior lawyers and graduates. Know the firm. Research the firm via its website and media. It is important to understand the areas of law the firm practices and what areas of law interest you. You are more than likely going to be asked about what attracts you to working at that firm. Relax and be yourself! In my experience, the interviewers wanted to get to know me as much as I wanted to get to know them and the firm. This was especially the case at Herbert Smith Freehills where the interviews were a one-on-one chat with a genuinely friendly and down-to-earth partner.
© Herbert Smith Freehills 2014 NOF146213_Profile_AM 070415 Clerkship Guide 2015
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BE AN EXCEPTIONAL LAWYER Our clients need exceptional people to help them thrive in a world defined by change and complexity. They need people who are intellectually curious; who are able to advise with clarity and originality; people who believe that the business of law is based on human relationships. Bring those qualities, your energy and your ambition and we’ll offer you the international opportunities, challenges and responsibilities only a leading global firm can provide. We offer an environment built on support and collaboration, where high performance is recognised and rewarded, and where you’ll be inspired and mentored by leaders in their fields. We see a fascinating and exciting future for the business of global law. Do you?
#1 24 #1
GRADUATE EMPLOYER FOR LAW IN AUSTRALIA
OFFICES ACROSS ASIA, AUSTRALIA, EUROPE, THE MIDDLE EAST, THE UK AND THE US
LAW FIRM IN AUSTRALIA FOR LGBTI INCLUSION – PRIDE IN DIVERSITY
HERBERTSMITHFREEHILLS.COM/CAREERS
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CAREER, YOUR CHOICE 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 Australia’s most successful companies through close client contact. We have an established reputation for providing practical commercial solutions and outstanding client service.
THRIVE WITH NO BOUNDARIES
SHAPE YOUR CAREER
QUICK ACCESS TO QUALITY WORK
Our lawyers thrive in an environment that fosters collaboration with few internal administrative boundaries and is free from financial targets. Enjoy working across practice areas. Collaborate with diverse teams of specialists across the country.
Strong technical and client service skills are developed through structured mentoring and professional development education programs. Be mentored by Australia’s best lawyers. Get regular feedback on performance.
Our hands on and proactive approach creates an environment in which ambitious lawyers become directly involved in significant opportunities from an early stage. Work side by side with partners and play a meaningful role in strategic and complex transactions and disputes.
Law students choose our firm because we provide an excellent learning environment, and an exceptional place to begin and develop your career. Our clerkship program is a realistic snapshot of your future as a lawyer at Johnson Winter & Slattery.
Please visit our website for more information: http://www.jws.com.au/en/graduate-lawyer-careers
SYDNEY
PERTH
MELBOURNE
BRISBANE
ADELAIDE
jws.com.au Macquarie University Law Society
Clerkship Guide 2015
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MAKE YOUR MOVE ON A GLOBAL STAGE With so many law firms to choose from, join the one that really is different from the others. K&L Gates have doubled in size in the last decade. You don’t do that by waiting for someone to show you the way. We come up with big ideas and then roll up our sleeves to get the job done. We are a global community of entrepreneurs and self-starters. We are nimble and ambitious with a high level of integrity, resolve, and strength of character. We are at the forefront of the issues affecting our clients and are committed to creating tailored products that bring cross-disciplinary capabilities to our clients in order to meet emerging needs. We genuinely enjoy working with each other and for our clients. We are all in it together. Join us – Summer Clerkship Program Applications for our 2015 Summer Clerkship Program in Sydney open Wednesday 17 June 2015 and close Sunday 19 July 2015. At K&L Gates you can make a difference, lead the way and let your innovation shine. Want to know more? Visit klgates.com or follow us on Facebook. K&L Gates, Level 31, 1 O’Connell Street, Sydney, NSW 2000, Australia
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Future Focussed Press play on a forward thinking career choice • High performance culture • Competitive team spirit • Drive and passion to be #1 In Competition China Law blog Insight blog
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Clerkship Profile Melanie McLean– Clerkship Profile
The Power of Together
Year 2013/2014 Summer Clerk Areas of rotation Dispute Resolution & Banking & Finance
I chose King & Wood Mallesons because it was the firm for me that ticked all of the boxes, and yet my clerkship experience at KWM exceeded my expectations in every way imaginable. KWM has an excellent, long-standing reputation and can be appropriately described as an ambitious, forward-thinking firm with a clear focus on the Asian region. I also liked KWM because of its increasing global network providing the potential to work abroad, as well as work on cross-jurisdictional matters here in Sydney. Perhaps most importantly, I thoroughly enjoyed the recruitment process with KWM. Despite it being one of the region’s leading law firms, I found KWM to be very humble in the way they promoted the firm which appealed to me. I was also left with a genuine belief that the Partners and lawyers that I met along the way were the sort of people that I would like to learn from and work with. At a firm like KWM, you are exposed to the most interesting, ground-breaking and high profile legal work for many of the world’s leading companies, even at a junior level. All the while being supported by established training programs and a friendly team of driven individuals. My first rotation was in the Dispute Resolution (Intellectual Property) practice group and my second in the Banking & Finance group. My work was very diverse, so much so that I could not describe a ‘typical’ day as a summer clerk at KWM. My work included attending court hearings or briefings with counsel, sitting in on international conference calls with clients, conducting extensive research on interesting areas of the law, bearing the responsibility of getting a client to sign important contracts, writing online blog posts about high-profile court cases, assisting on pro bono matters and even drafting legal advice to clients. I was particularly nervous about rotating through Banking & Finance as I had no background in this area. I was however pleasantly surprised by how much time my team dedicated to explaining things and making me feel as though I was still making a valuable contribution to the team. Aside from the “on-the-job” support that my respective teams provided me, KWM has established support systems comprised of a Buddy (usually a junior lawyer), a Development Coach
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(usually a more senior lawyer), and a supervising Partner. I was very much aware that both of my supervising Partners were extremely highly regarded in their respective fields, yet I was met with two very down-to-earth and approachable people who always had the time of day to chat to me, even as the most junior member of their team. My Development Coaches provided me with invaluable tips and insights into life as a commercial lawyer and I was able to speak candidly with them about my career going forward, all of which took place over many hot chocolates and coffees. My Buddies were very personable and would always answer my barrage of what I perceived to be silly questions with a smile. In addition to informal feedback, I appreciated the formal feedback sessions the firm provided as an integral part of my professional development. Overall, it became clear very quickly at KWM that despite the size of the firm, my own individual interests were always taken care of. Away from my desk, my summer holidays were made up of an inter-firm sports competition, trivia night and weekly drinks, an amazing firm-wide Christmas party, weekly dinners with my fellow KWM clerks and many pleasant lunches and morning teas within my teams. A definite highlight of my clerkship was the numerous community and pro bono activities that I became involved in. This included spreading Christmas cheer at the Sydney Children’s Hospital, cooking hot lunches for the homeless and disadvantaged at the Salvation Army’s Street Level Mission, doing some work for UNICEF on the rights of children and participating in the summer clerk MalleMUN- which was a laughter-filled attempt at mimicking the UN Security Council’s resolution process. Although the thought of spending your summer holidays working may seem a bit unappealing, my summer spent as a Clerk at KWM was definitely one of my best. It has left me with a clearer career direction and a great group of new friends and colleagues. I could not recommend doing a clerkship at KWM highly enough.
Visit our Facebook page facebook.com/KingWoodMallesons 0515-00365 Macquarie University Law Society
King & Wood Mallesons
The Power of Together
A little about what we offer King & Wood Mallesons is helping clients across the globe to make smart choices to shape their future success. As a global law firm, over 2,700 lawyers in more than 30 international offices are cutting through the challenges facing business and providing commercial solutions that are transforming the way legal services are delivered. Our ability to connect emerging opportunities with market leading capability is pushing the frontiers of what can be achieved - connecting Asia to the world, and the world to Asia. Key statistics: n n
n n
540+ partners and 2100+ lawyers 31 offices across Asia Pacific (Australia, Mainland China including Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore); Europe; the Middle East; and North America #1 global brand in Asia, #14 global legal brand* US $1.037 billion global revenue
n
n
What do we look for? KWM distinguishes itself from other top tier law firms in the way that it grows market leaders. We recruit high achieving, client centric, learning agile people with an international perspective. We understand that technical excellence is only one success factor. We value a range of skills in our team members and recognise that a diversity of strengths leads to best results. n
n n
*Source: 2014 Acritas Sharp Global Elite Brand Index
Our clients are a mix of global financial and corporate powerhouses to the new industry-makers and all levels of government (some for over 200 years).
n n
Our seasonal clerkship program
Applications open: Wednesday, 17 June 2015 Applications close: Sunday, 19 July 2015 How to apply: Via our online application system at kwm.com/careers We offer clerkships so that you get a clear picture of what it’s like to be a lawyer at King & Wood Mallesons. You will get to know our people, the way we like to work, our culture, practice areas, clients and more. For many, the clerkship is the first stage of continuous development at King & Wood Mallesons. We’ve designed a program to help you make the most of your time with us. During your clerkship, you will learn: n The day-to-day skills to get you started – taking instructions, meeting with clients, drafting memos and documents, managing your practice and professional relationships. n The core practice teams at King & Wood Mallesons – who they are, what they do, how they’re structured, the clients they work for, and of course, your role within them. Asia Pacific | Europe | North America | Middle East |
Our culture – working within your team, you will be exposed to (and encouraged) to get actively involved in the many activities and events that help create our unique culture. Our people – you will find that people from every part of the business will help you along, sharing their knowledge, and ensuring you have everything you need to fit in, and do well.
n
We are looking for people who have an intellectual curiosity and are intrinsically motivated. Excellent marks are not necessarily a predictor of career success. Are you empathetic? Can you stand in the shoes of our client and experience the problem from their perspective? Is it more important to you to admire the problem or are you most interested in providing a practical, efficient and commercially sound solution? Are you traditional and risk averse or are you excited by a changing and fluid work environment? When you think about your career are you only focused on Australia, or do you appreciate that Australia’s closest neighbours are the new power houses of the global economy – and you would like to be part of that? We believe in teamwork and the ‘Power of Together’. We are not a collection of siloed practices, but work closely across the network to help our clients achieve their goals. Through a high performance culture our results are realised through collaboration, innovation and engagement.
Contact: Ella Burgess Graduate Resourcing Consultant T 9296 3416 ella.burgess@au.kwm.com
Visit our Facebook page facebook.com/KingWoodMallesons
www.kwm.com
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Contact information Address: Level 19, Angel Place, 123 Pitt Street SYDNEY NSW 2000 Web: www.landers.com.au HR Contact: Laura Grant, Graduate Resourcing Consultant Email: lgrant@landers.com.au Phone: +61 3 92699333 About Lander & Rogers Lander & Rogers is a leading independent Australian law firm operating nationally from Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney. We have seven main areas of practice;
Commercial Disputes Corporate Family & Relationship Law Insurance Law & Litigation Property, Projects & Infrastructure Workplace Relations & Safety WorkCover
And are a principal advisor to many publicly listed and private Australian companies, Australian subsidiaries of global companies, as well as all levels of government. We provide practical legal advice, along with exceptional client service, and we are renowned in Australia for our down-to-earth and friendly culture. We have a distinctively happy workplace, achieved through selectively recruiting people who think and act collaboratively and will strengthen our culture. The firm comprises 65 partners and more than 400 lawyers, support and business services staff. We have grown organically, resulting in a highly cohesive firm sharing a strong work and services ethic, and high staff and partner retention rates. Pro Bono & Community Support Lander & Rogers is committed to developing a culture and business which supports the undertaking of pro bono work and other similar initiatives in the community. We have a market leading pro bono program in place which focuses on matters of access to justice, social inclusion and community service work, and is driven by a dedicated pro bono partner. We treat pro bono work as equally important to the firm as paid work. What it's all about Our innovative summer clerkship program is built on learning and fun and we’ll do everything we can to show you the way by giving you a chance to have a go for yourself. Macquarie University Law Society
On joining us you’ll be teamed with two lawyers for each of your two rotations (one experienced, and another a little closer in level to you) who will immerse you in the day to day running of their practices. What that means on a practical level will vary depending on the practice group you join (we’ll ask you to indicate your preferences), and could involve
Researching points of law and summarising your findings Drafting correspondence, court documents and sections of commercial agreements Reviewing and analysing legislation and case law, Observing our lawyers in action at meetings, conferences, mediations and court Attending practice group discussions
It's not all work We value our people and understand the importance of our staff maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle and we encourage our summer clerks to get involved in life at Landers as much as possible during their time with us. Our health and wellbeing committee, LandersMax!, encourages our people to get involved in various activities, including BootCamp, Pilates, tennis, triathlon and indoor sports competitions, language classes, inhouse massage, social events and much more. What we look for We're in the business of dealing with people, whether that is each other, our clients, barristers or you. So, we aim to recruit people who are friendly, down to earth, and who can engage with a whole range of people in the workplace. You’ll also need intelligence to tackle the most interesting of legal scenarios, energy to absorb new concepts and a willingness to work productively with lots of different people. We don’t expect that you’ll be a gun at all of these things straight away, but when we meet you at interview we’ll be curious to learn more about your potential to handle these things in the future, based on the skills and experience you’ve already built through studying law (combined with other disciplines like arts, commerce and science) and any legal and non-legal part-time work, volunteer work and university activities you’ve tackled. Curious to learn more? http://www.landers.com.au/careers/law-students Clerkship Guide 2015
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Your career your canVas A leading law firm across education, government, healthcare, infrastructure, professional services and technology, Maddocks is a great place to paint the career path you’ve always wanted. Are you inspired by diversity and skill development? Our team knows the value of a vibrant, dynamic clerkship and graduate program. We love to see our clerks and grads roll up their sleeves and finesse their skills - it’s your time to create a masterpiece. Hands-on experience, training on a range of matters and exposure to various teams breeds the confidence and creativity you’ll need to take the next step. We’re committed to our clients (and our people) - in fact, our firm’s reputation is built on them. Our people enjoy a culture based on values that form the fabric of Maddocks: integrity, stewardship, collaboration, innovation and diversity. To meet our legal artists and learn how to join them, head to: www.maddocks.com.au/careers
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Exciting and challenging work, great people, and a truly supportive culture. ‘Since starting my legal career as a graduate in February 2013, Norton Rose Fulbright has given me many opportunities to gain meaningful practical experience in the areas of law that interest me. In my two years at the practice, I have been involved in a diverse range of work including a particular project where I worked directly with another Norton Rose Fulbright office overseas. It is amazing to be part of an organisation with offices all around the world. Norton Rose Fulbright has the right balance – amazing and passionate work colleagues, exciting and challenging work, and a genuinely supportive culture. I know that the practice will always support me 100 per cent in achieving my personal goals and career aspirations.’ Joshua Chan, lawyer, real estate, joined February 2013
To see how you could define your own path within our global legal practice, visit: nortonrosefulbrightgraduates.com/australia
Progress with purpose
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Minter E llison’s clerkshi p progra m W hat att ributes will I n ee d to su c c e e d We look ? for ind iv i d uals wh Our law o a re p a y e rs d i ssionate splay pl a bout fo it’s not enty of r gi n g a initiativ a bout w c a r e er h a e a nd a t u niversi tech nic in co m m passion ty you w al achie e r ci a l l for doin ent to o ve m ent aw. g t h ei r r you r b a nd co m b e s m a t. For u c i t k g m W hat lea rou nd, b ent to b s , r nin g a ut rathe ei n g p a n d d ev e rt of ou r you r s lop m ent r u p c e o l r ior l a borativ trainin We’ll eq e tea m. g will I uip you r e c t e o iv achieve e? includ i you r b e ng sessi st thro ons desi u g h a n u nd e g a n co m preh ed to de rsta nd i ensive o velop te ng of et rientati ch nical hical a on progr a bilitie n d professi Our law a m, s, resea on a l re y e rs a r rch skil sponsi b e passio ls a nd ility re leaders nate a b q u ir e m e out shar i n t h ei nts. r field, i ng t he m i nd s i ir k nowl m e a n i ng n t he b e y d o g u e get to w a nd e x p usiness. erience ork alon – they a gside so By joini re m e of th ng Minte e b est l r Ellison’s e ga l to a hig clerkshi hly succ p progra essful c m, you’l a r e er i l put yo n co m m e Is t he d urself o r ci a l l a uration n t he p w. a n d ath e x p os u r t o d e ci e provid de whet e d by t h er c o m he clerk m ercial ship eno law is f Our vac ugh or m e? ation cl e rkships you a r e ra n g e f in – giv ro m a 2 i n g you to 12 we the job a taste ek perio t ra i n i n of what d d ep en g w ill b u i it’s lik d i ng on is no b e ld your e to wor the offic tter way l k at Min e e g a l to decid skills a ter Elli e wheth n d son. On c o m m e r ci a er c o m m Find out l e r ci a l l acu m en. what a d aw is ri So ther ay in th e ght for really l e life o you! ike http: f a Minter //clerks Ellison hips.m in clerk is terellis W hat do on.co m/ our cler ks say a bout t h e Minter ‘From th Ellison e outset clerkshi a n d even b because p? efore th of its d e clerks edicatio hip com n to the menced, clerks a ‘Through Minter E nd t he e out the llison s n t c ire cler l tood out e r k s hip I ha law yers kship ex for me, ve been are and perience mainly g h e o n w ’ – Elou u i s n e ely sur p riously it was l i se Flowe rised by they tak ike to b rs e their e a cler how appr – Blake duty to k, and t oacha ble A nderson educate. hey do t t h e senior heir a bs Everyone olute be remem be st to ma ‘The flat rs what ke it a structur positive e of the position experien fir m mea s a nd h a ce’ ns that ve a bet I have w ter sens orked wit e of wha h a rang t it is e of law that cor yers in porate l differen aw yers a t ctually do’ – Ni cola A my s
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Our lawyers come from a diverse range of backgrounds and universities but they all share the key attributes we look for in our clerks and graduates: a passion for excellence, loads of initiative and superior technical achievement. They’re also full of energy, enjoy collaborating, think innovatively and are committed to their career in commercial law. About Minter ellison
FActs & Figures
We’re an Australian-based international law firm offering a full range of legal services to an impressive list of clients across Australia, in Asia and globally. Recognised for our clear thinking, our strong technical skills and ability to deliver practical solutions have led to our involvement in the Asia Pacific’s most innovative and high-profile transactions.
200+ partners and more than 680 legal staff (a total workforce of more than 1600 people) Established in 1827 in Sydney, Australia International offices: London (opened 1974), Hong Kong (2000), Shanghai (2001), Beijing (2010), Ulaanbaatar (2012) 2013/2014 revenue: A$418 million
our business units And divisions Corporate & Regulatory • Dispute Resolution • Financial Institutions Group Human Resources & Industrial Relations • Insurance & Corporate Risk Mergers & Acquisitions • Projects, Infrastructure & Construction Real Estate, Environment & Planning • Tax
Real people achieving excellence For more information on vacation clerkships or the Minter Ellison graduate program please go to www.minterellison.com/careers
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ADVICE | TRANSACTIONS | DISPUTES Domestic & Cross Border
THOMSON GEER IS ONE OF THE TOP 10 INDEPENDENT LAW FIRMS IN AUSTRALIA As one of Australia’s largest independent firms, we currently have 80+ Partners and more than 500+ lawyers and staff operating out of our offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Adelaide. Our industry coverage is diverse, and includes clients in banking & finance, construction, energy & resources, healthcare, telecommunications, property development, wealth management, gaming & leisure, and media, broadcasting & entertainment. “During my clerkship I truly valued the opportunity to work directly with people from all levels of the firm, from partners to senior associates and my fellow clerks. My teams went above and beyond to accommodate me, and I was constantly invited to attend team meetings, client meetings and interesting court matters. The firm definitely has an open door policy and I always felt comfortable approaching someone whenever I had a question or just wanted to check whether my work was heading in the right direction.” Fiona Ho - 2012/13 Summer Clerk, 2014 Graduate
OUR CLERKSHIP PROGRAM At Thomson Geer we are looking for law students who have excelled academically, are client focused, commercially minded, and work well in a team environment. We offer a structured eight week program where clerks learn through a combination of hands-on experience, training, coaching and observation. We will do our best to match you to your preferred area of practice – it’s really important to us that the clerkship experience helps you to make the right choice for your career. Students who complete a clerkship with the firm will be eligible to be considered for a position in the firm’s next graduate program, commencing in 2017.
APPLICATIONS Applications open 17 June 2015 via cvMail or the Thomson Geer website.
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ALLEN & OVERY Level 25, 85 Castlereagh Street SYDNEY NSW 2000
INDEX: PARTICIPATING LAW FIRMS
Email: australianrecruitment@allenovery.com Contact: The Australian Recruitment Team SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit applications online via: www.allenovery.com/careers/australia/engb/students-and-graduated/Pages/default.aspx (Applications should include a covering letter, detailed CV and current academic transcript)
Firm
Graduate
Summer
ALLENS > < LINKLATERS
Employment* Clerkship
Deutsche Bank Place 126 Phillip Street SYDNEY NSW 2000
Allen & Overy
No
Yes
Phone: 02 9230 5075
Allens > < Linklaters
No
Yes
Email: Student.Careers@allens.com.au
Ashurst
No
Yes
Contact: Lisa Millar (Graduate Resourcing
Yes
Yes
Baker & McKenzie
No
Yes
Bird & Bird
No
Yes
Brown Wright Stein
Yes
No
ASHURST
Clayton Utz
No
Yes
Level 36, Grosvenor Place, 225 George Street
Clifford Chance
No
Yes
SYDNEY NSW 2000
No
Yes
DLA Piper Australia
No
Yes
Contact: Suzan Wilkinson (HR Administrator)
Gadens
No
Yes
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
Gilbert + Tobin
No
Yes
applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au
Hall and Wilcox
Yes
No
Henry Davis York
No
Yes
Herbert Smith Freehills No
Yes
Holding Redlich
No
Yes
Hunt & Hunt
Yes
No
HWL Ebsworth
Yes
Yes
Australian Government Solicitor
Corrs Chambers Westgarth
Consultant â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sydney) SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit applications online via: www.allens.com.au/careers
Phone: 02 9258 6699 Fax: 02 9258 6999 Email: suzan.wilkinson@ashurst.com
AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT SOLICITOR Locked Bag 7246 Canberra Mail Centre ACT 2610 Phone: 02 6253 7061 Email: karen.tatz@ags.gov.au Contact: Karen Tatz (Lawyer Development Advisor) GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM AND WINTER
Johnson Winter & Slattery No
Yes
Jones Day
Yes
Yes
K&L Gates
No
Yes
King & Wood Mallesons No
Yes
Lander & Rogers
No
Yes
Maddocks
No
Yes
Mills Oakley
Yes
Yes
Minter Ellison
No
Yes
Norton Rose Fullbright
No
Yes
Sparke Helmore
Yes
No
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
Thomson Geer
No
Yes
applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au
2016 CLERKSHIP PROGRAM: Submit applications online via www.cvmail.com.au or AGS website at www. ags.gov.au/employment/graduate-employment.html BAKER & McKENZIE Level 27, AMP Centre 50 Bridge Street SYDNEY NSW 2000 Phone: 02 8922 5747 Email: natalie.brunton@bakermckenzie.com Contact: Natalie Brunton (Talent Management Consultant)
* Graduate employment from the graduate recruitment process
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BIRD & BIRD
DLA PIPER AUSTRALIA
Level 11, 68 Pitt Street SYDNEY NSW 2000
Level 22, No.1 Martin Place SYDNEY NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9226 9888 Fax: 02 9226 9899
Phone: 02 9286 8520 Fax: 02 9286 8007
Email: jan.thomas@twobirds.com
Contact: Samantha Clark (HR Advisor)
Contact: Jan Thomas (Office Manager)
samantha.clark@dlapiper.com
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
Cassie Jackson (HR Coordinator)
applications online via www.cvmail.com.au or by email to
cassie.jackson@dlapiper.com
jan.thomas@twobirds.com (Applications should include a
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
detailed covering letter, CV and current academic transcript)
applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au or the firm’s website www.dlapipergraduates.com.au.
BROWN WRIGHT STEIN Level 6, 179 Elizabeth Street SYDNEY NSW
GADENS
Phone: 02 9394 1068 Fax: 02 9394 1011
Level 16, 77 Castlereagh Street SYDNEY NSW 2000
Email: hjs@bwslawyers.com.au Contact: Hazel Singh
Contact: Sherry Saliyb, Recruitment Advisor
GRADUATE PROGRAM ONLY: Submit applications
Email: sherry.saliyb@gadens.com
online via: http://www.bwslawyers.com.au/careers.aspx
Phone: 02 9035 7192 Fax: 02 9931 4888 SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
CLAYTON UTZ
applications online via: www.gadens.com/sydney/
GPO Box 9806 SYDNEY NSW 2001
joinus/summerclerks/Pages/Default.aspx
Phone: 02 9353 6111 Fax: 02 8220 6700 Email: alennox@claytonutz.com
GILBERT + TOBIN
Contact: Amy Lennox (National Graduate Recruiter)
2 Park Street SYDNEY NSW 2000
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
Phone: 02 9263 4575 Fax: 02 9263 4111
applications online via: http://www.claytonutz.com/careers/
Email: clerkships@gtlaw.com.au Contact: Kristie Barton (People Team)
CLIFFORD CHANCE
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
Level 16, 1 O’Connell Street SYDNEY NSW 2000
applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au
Phone: 02 8922 8010 Fax: 02 8922 8088 Email: debbie.mckell@cliffordchance.com
HALL AND WILCOX
Contact: Debbie McKell (Human Resources Manager)
DX 320 MELBOURNE Phone: 03 9603 3555
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
Email: Trudi.galbraith@hallandwilcox.com.au
applications online via: http://www.cliffordchance.com
Contact: Trudi Galbraith (HR Advisor) SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH
applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au or www.
8 Chifley 8-12 Chifley Square SYDNEY NSW 2000
hallandwilcox.com.au (Applications should include a
Phone: 02 9210 6687 Fax: 02 9210 6611
brief covering letter, CV and current academic transcript)
Email: sianmarie.preece@corrs.com.au Contact: Sian-Marie Preece (Human Resources Advisor)
HENRY DAVIS YORK
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
44 Martin Place SYDNEY NSW 2000
applications online via: www.corrs.com.au/careers/
Phone: 02 9947 6532
graduates/apply-now/nsw/
Email: lena_ristevski@hdy.com.au Contact: Lena Ristevski (Graduate Recruitment Officer) SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au (Applications should include a covering letter, detailed CV and current academic transcript)
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HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS
JOHNSON WINTER & SLATTERY
Level 27, ANZ Tower 161 Castlereagh Street
Level 25, 20 Bond Street SYDNEY NSW 2000
SYDNEY NSW 2000
Contacts: Wilma Lewis, Professional Development Advisor
Phone: 02 9322 4410 Fax: 02 9322 4000
Phone: 02 8247 9630 Email: wilma.lewis@jws.com.au
Email: graduates.sydney@hsf.com
Romaine Ponniah, Professional Development Co-ordinator
Contact: Carly Miles (Graduate Recruitment Consultant)
Phone: 08 8239 7127 Email: romaine.ponniah@jws.com.au
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY:
applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au
All applications must be submitted via cvMail, either at:
(Applications should include a covering letter, detailed CV
www.cvmail.com.au or through our website at
and current academic transcript)
www.jws.com.au. (All applications should include a covering letter, detailed CV and current academic transcript)
HOLDING REDLICH Level 65, MLC Centre 19 Martin Place SYDNEY NSW 2000
JONES DAY
Phone: 02 8083 0388 Fax: 02 8083 0399
Aurora Place Level 41, 88 Phillip Street SYDNEY NSW 2000
Email: kylie.young@holdingredlich.com /
Phone: 02 8272 0704 Fax: 02 8272 0599
roberta.tuckwell@holdingredlich.com
Email: kingall@jonesday.com
Contact: Kylie Young (Human Resources Manager)
Contact: Kristy Ingall (Human Resources Manager)
Roberta Tuckwell (Human Resources/Learning &
SUMMER CLERKSHIP AND GRADUATE
Development Advisor)
EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM: Submit applications
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
via email to: sydneyrecruiting@jonesday.com.
applications via email: sydneyclerkships@holdingredlich.
(Applications should include a detailed covering letter,
com.au (Applications should include a covering letter,
detailed CV and your academic transcript)
detailed CV and current academic transcript) K&L GATES HUNT & HUNT
Level 31, 1 Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell Street SYDNEY NSW 2000
Level 13, Gateway 1 Macquarie Place SYDNEY NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9513 2415
Phone: 02 9391 3031 Fax: 02 9391 3099
Email: Katharine.farnington@klgates.com
Email: cmcloughlin@hunthunt.com.au
Contact: Katharine Farnington (Human Resources Specialist)
Contact: Ciara McLoughlin (Human Resources)
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM ONLY:
applications online via www.cvmail.com.au
Submit applications, in hard copy or by email to human_ resources@hunthunt.com.au (Applications should
KING & WOOD MALLESONS (SYDNEY OFFICE)
include a brief covering letter, detailed CV and current
Level 61, Governor Phillip Tower 1 Farrer Place
academic transcript)
SYDNEY NSW 2000 Phone: 02 9296 3573 Fax: 02 9296 3999
HWL EBSWORTH
Email: mitch.barreca@au.kwm.com
GPO Box 5408 SYDNEY NSW 2001
Contact: Mitch Barreca (Graduate Resourcing Consultant)
Phone: 02 9334 8555 Fax: 1300 369 656
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
Email: NSWGraduate2015@hwle.com.au
applications online via: www.kwm.com/careers
Contact: Renee Lawton (Human Resources Coordinator)
(Complete an online application and include a detailed CV
Emma Quinlivan (Human Resources Assistant)
and current academic transcript)
GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT AND SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAMS: Submit applications, your CV, and academic transcripts online via http://www. hwlebsworth.com.au/join-us/graduate-centre.html.
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KING & WOOD MALLESONS (CANBERRA OFFICE)
NORTON ROSE FULLBRIGHT
Level 5, 7 London Circuit CANBERRA ACT 2601
GPO Box 3872 SYDNEY NSW 2001
Phone: 02 6217 6638 Fax: 02 6217 6999
Phone: 02 9330 8000 Fax: 02 9330 8111
Email: mary.costa@au.kwm.com
Email: bronwen.williams@nortonrosefullbright.com
Contact: Mary Costa (People & Development Coordinator)
Contact: Bronwen Williams (HR Advisor)
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
applications online via: www.kwm.com/careers
applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au
(Complete an online application and include a detailed CV and current academic transcript)
SPARKE HELMORE Level 15, 321 Kent Street SYDNEY NSW 2000
LANDER & ROGERS
Phone: 02 9260 2439 Fax: 02 9373 1486
Level 19, Angel Place, 123 Pitt Street SYDNEY NSW 2000
Email: nicole.garrett@sparke.com.au
Phone: 03 9269 9333 Fax: 03 9269 9001
Contact: Nicole Garrett (Recruitment Consultant)
Email: lgrant@landers.com.au
GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
Contact: Laura Grant (Graduate Resourcing Consultant)
applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au (Applications should include
THOMSON GEER
a covering letter, detailed CV and academic transcript)
Level 25, 1 Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell Street SYDNEY NSW 2000 Phone: 02 8248 5802 Fax: 02 8248 5899
MADDOCKS
Email: smoffitt@tglaw.com.au
Angel Place 123 Pitt Street SYDNEY NSW 2000
Contact: Stephanie Moffitt (People & Development
Phone: 02 9291 6215 Fax: 02 9221 0872
Business Partner)
Email: kate.chisholm@maddocks.com.au
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit
Contact: Kate Chisholm (People & Culture Advisor)
applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au MILLS OAKLEY DX 558 MELBOURNE Phone: 03 9670 9111 Fax: 03 9605 0933 Email: sfancoli@millsoakley.com.au Contact: Stephanie Fancoli (HR Advisor) GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT AND SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM: Submit applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au MINTER ELLISON 88 Phillip Street SYDNEY NSW 2000 Phone: 02 9921 4803 Email: eric.norris@minterellison.com Contact: Eric Norris (Human Resources Advisor) SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY: Submit applications online via: www.minterellison.com/careers (Applications should include a covering letter, detailed CV, current academic transcript and our online application).
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Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society
With thanks to...
Platinum Sponsor
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Macquarie University Law Society
Clerkship Guide 2015
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Clerkship Guide 2015
Macquarie University Law Society