ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
PREFACE
EDITOR IN CHIEF
We are proud to present the 2022 Private Law Careers Guide. We hope that this guide will provide readers with an insightful window into what a career in private legal practice might look like in 2022.
Aryan Jani
VICE PRESIDENT (PRIVATE LAW CAREERS) Bianca Tolic
CO PRESIDENTS Christina Ienco Harrison Zheng
SECRETARY Benjamin Zhang
PRIVATE LAW CAREERS DIRECTORS
For UNSW Law students in their penultimate year, we wish you the best of luck in your clerkship applications and hope that this guide will be of some use in finding the path and firm that best suit you. We give our sincere thanks to all the private law careers directors who made the production and publication of the 2022 UNSW Law Society Careers Guide possible. On behalf of the UNSW Law Society, we would also like to extend our gratitude and thanks to our sponsors for their continued support.
Aileen Lin Annika Drego Aryan Jani Dylan Cooke Jasper Choi Jasmin Valentine Jessica Cassimaty Zackery Alyward
ARYAN JANI & BIANCA TOLIC Editor in Chief & Private Law Careers Vice-President 2022
DOMESTIC SPONSORSHIP DIRECTORS Matthew Wu Rachel A
PUBLICATION DIRECTORS Maha Rauf Musa Musa
This Student Club publication is proudly supported by Arc.
WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING CONTRIBUTORS Alana Tarrant Chelsi Williams Ciara Murphy Noah Solomon Rohan Indap Sarah McKenzie
© 2022 UNSW Law Society Inc. This publication is copyright. Except where permitted under the Copyright Act 1968 (Cth), no part of this publication may be reproduced or stored by an process electronic or otherwise, without the specific written permission of the UNSW Law Society Inc. DISCLAIMER The articles and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the UNSW Law Society Inc., the editors or those of the UNSW Faculty of Law. Although the editor and authors have taken every care in preparing and writing the guide, they expressly disclaim and accept no liability for any errors, omissions, misuse, or misunderstandings on the part of any person who use or relies upon it. The editors, author and the UNSW Law Society Inc. accept no responsibility for any damage, injury or loss occasioned to any person or entity, whether student or otherwise, as a result of a person relying, wholly or in part, on any material included, omitted or implied in this publication
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SPONSORS This guide would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors:
ARNOLD BLOCH LEIBLER ALLEN & OVERY ALLENS ASHURST BAKER MCKENZIE CLAYTON UTZ CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH DLA PIPER GILBERT + TOBIN GADENS HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS JOHNSON WINTER & SLATTERY JONES DAY K&L GATES KING & WOOD MALLESONS MADDOCKS MCULLOUGH ROBERTSON MINTERELLISON NORTON ROSE FULBRIGHT SPARKE HELMORE THOMSON GEER 4
TABLE OF CONTENTS MESSAGES
DOMESTIC LAW FIRMS
Message from The Dean....................................................6 Message from Careers Service.........................................8 President's Address..............................................................9
China........................................................................................22 Hong Kong.............................................................................23 United Kingdom...................................................................26 United States of America..................................................28 Singapore...............................................................................30
Arnold Bloch Leibler...........................................................60 Allen & Overy.......................................................................64 Allens.......................................................................................70 Ashurst....................................................................................74 Baker McKenzie....................................................................80 Clayton Utz............................................................................84 Corrs Chambers Westgarth...............................................90 DLA Piper................................................................................96 Gilbert + Tobin......................................................................100 Gadens.....................................................................................104 Herbert Smith Freehills.....................................................108 Johnson Winter & Slattery...............................................114 Jones Day................................................................................120 King & Wood Mallesons...................................................124 Maddocks...............................................................................130 Mcullough Robertson........................................................134 Minter Ellison.......................................................................138 Norton Rose Fulbright......................................................142 Spark Helmore.....................................................................146 Thomson Geer......................................................................150
THE APPLICATION PROCESS
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF LAWYERS
Cover Letters.........................................................................36 Sample Cover Letters.........................................................38 Sample CVs............................................................................40 CV Mail....................................................................................44 The Selection Criteria........................................................46 The Interview........................................................................48 Commercial Awareness.....................................................54 Mental Wellbeing................................................................55 Clerkship & Trimesters......................................................56
K&L Gates..............................................................................156
THE PRIVATE SECTOR The Private Law Landscape.............................................10 Common Entry Pathways..................................................12 Areas of Practice..................................................................14
QUALIFYING TO PRACTICE NSW Admission to Supreme Court................................18 NSW Admission as a Barrister.........................................19
INTERNATIONAL ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
INTERNATIONAL LAW FIRMS Clifford Chance Hong Kong.............................................160
STUDENT TESTIMONIALS Alana Tarrant.........................................................................166 Chelsi Williams......................................................................167 Ciara Murphy..........................................................................168 Noah Solomon.......................................................................169 Rohan Indap...........................................................................170 Sarah McKenzie.....................................................................171
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MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN
UNSW LAW SOCIETY
UNSW LAW SOCIETY
The private legal landscape has emerged from the pandemic strongly with record numbers of clerkships and graduate positions offered in 2021 and planned for 2022. Technological innovation and the emergence of new business practices continue as the primary drivers of growth and change, but other developments have emerged to create opportunities for students, including in the areas of insurance, legal operations, and mediation. Following the Royal Commission into Banking, funds and institutional investors have increasingly committed to ethical investing, which has created in-house legal positions across multiple industries for students and graduates.
The global pandemic has created the greatest workplace disruption in generations, but the opening months of 2022 have signalled a shift to living alongside COVID and embracing the positive workplace changes that emerged from the last two years. In addition to greater flexibility in most workplaces, perhaps the most significant lesson of the pandemic is that ‘work life balance’ is a motto to live by, not a hollow slogan. As you look to exploring the right career for you, it is important to know that success will depend not only on excellent academic performance, but also your ability to point to other experiences and activities that distinguish you and highlight your enthusiasms, initiative and commitment. These will speak a lot to the type of lawyer you want to be. 6
Considering your career goals and how the cultural and ethical values of potential employers might align with your own will guide you towards a career pathway for personal and professional success right from the start. Private sector practice has long been the starting place for many a legal career. And while working in a legal firm may be your goal, other opportunities may beckon along the way: the Bar, government, and community sector, in-house commercial roles, to name a few. You must be prepared for and ready to embrace change, both as your personal occupational goals change and the market continues to evolve, particularly in the private sector.
These changes, amongst many others in the last five years and as a consequence of the pandemic, mean you will graduate into a very different private sector jobs market from that experienced by your predecessors. Pivoting to the market will be an important consideration for those planning to start their legal career in the private sector.
UNSW Law & Justice is committed to helping students chart their own unique career course – our dedicated Careers Service aims to help students best position themselves to secure a rewarding job at the end of their studies. And as always, your Law Students Society is an invaluable source to keep you up to date with market news and connected to potential private career employers. The Law Society also provides you with opportunities to develop and demonstrate skills of collaboration and leadership – across a range of worthwhile, fun and fulfilling activities! This Guide is a critical resource as you plan your career. Read it, reflect on it, and discuss it with your peers and others as you start to consider the path that is right for you.
Professor Andrew Lynch
Dean - UNSW Faculty of Law & Justice
Academic achievement is not the sole determinant for employment. The emphasis at UNSW Law on experiential and international learning in the LLB and JD programs is heavily influenced by advice from employers. The law graduate who stands out, can think critically and solve problems, communicates effectively, and works collaboratively will have an edge and this is why we place so much emphasis on these skills throughout our degree programs. Private practice employers will seek out the candidate who brings both breadth of experience and character. So, take advantage of what’s on offer in the Law & Justice School and, more generally, at university and in the community. 7
MESSAGE FROM THE CAREERS SERVICE
So far, 2022 sees a continued rising trend in the number of immersion opportunities offered by P A G Eand 1 a commercial law firms and justice agencies, commitment to diversifying their talent pool. International opportunities also continue to increase, most particularly for internships in the legal sector. Your Law Students Society is the best source of information for these opportunities, as well as the faculty Jobs Board.
UNSW LAW SOCIETY
The Careers Service at the UNSW Law & Justice Faculty strives to optimise your chances of finding and securing a fulfilling job. We believe that you should begin ‘forward planning’ your career the moment you commence your studies to identify what type of career role best suits your skills and personality, rather than focussing only on traditional pathways. The Careers Service provides you with resources and opportunities that improve your employability including advice on navigating the jobs market and how to put your best foot forward in terms of your resume, cover letter, on-line profile, and interview skills. Our aim is to support you in securing employment both while you are a student at UNSW and when you graduate. Check out the MyLaw Careers online resources and our faculty jobs board to keep up to date with new opportunities and resources. Our E-book is targeted to early year students, bringing together everything you need to know and more! In 2022 we plan to generate a similar resource to support our Justice students. The specialised services we offer complement UNSW Employability include:
which
MyLaw Jobs Board Career Resources One-on-one careers counselling with an advisor experienced in law and justice Panel Discussions on Career Pathways Pilot Projects Partnerships with stakeholders to offer exclusive job opportunities 8
PRESIDENT'S ADDRESS
UNSW LAW SOCIETY
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In 2022 your Careers Service will focus on expanding opportunities for in house counsel which continues to be a growing market for graduate roles and a new career pathway which previously recruited lawyers with varying PQE. And we will also be increasing awareness of private and public sector roles through panel discussions, most particularly targeted at our justice students. We believe that by exploring all your career options, you will be better informed to decide the right career pathway for you! Ranked 14th law school in the world, UNSW Law & Justice provides you with an exceptional educational foundation. We encourage you to use your Faculty Careers Service to support and help you realise your dream job. Siobhan Ryan Manager - Law & Justice Faculty Careers Service
On behalf of the UNSW Law Society, we invite you to peruse this carefully crafted Guide that was prepared by our incredibly passionate team. Regardless of whether you are in your first or final year of your studies, we hope that this Guide will be of great use to you in preparing you when thinking about a future after law school. This Guide has been created to provide you with information regarding the array of opportunities available to you, and to provide some guidance when approaching the application process for these opportunities. It is important to note that while this Guide aims to provide you a strong understanding of the many opportunities in the Private Law sector, every career looks different and there are many career paths that individuals experience along their journey. Your careers will span many decades and the opportunities listed in this guide is not an exhaustive list of all the fantastic opportunities available to you.
We recognise that applying for roles is stressful and at times, can be overwhelming. Please do not hesitate to seek support from your friends and family. Take time to reflect and recuperate throughout the application process. It will be an undoubtedly challenging, albeit rewarding time for you. Perseverance and reliance are paramount and remember that the strength of the UNSW Law Student Community is drawn from our willingness to encourage and help one another during such times. There are also a range of services available, including CAPS on campus, if you need someone to talk to. These exist to support our students, so don’t be afraid to make use of them. Finally, we would like to extend a sincere thank you to Bianca Tolic, our Vice-President (Private Law Careers) and Benjamin Zhang (Secretary) who have led their Directors for their hard work and diligence in preparing this guide. Harrison Zheng & Christina Ienco UNSW Law Society Co-Presidents 2022 9
THE PRIVATE SECTOR
PRIVATE LAW LANDSCAPE PROFESSIONAL SERVICES LAW FIRMS
WORKING INTERNATIONALLY
IN-HOUSE LEGAL COUNSEL
Large commercial law firms offer a plethora of legal services across a range of practice areas to diverse client bases made up of predominantly larger corporations. They employ students from a range of academic backgrounds outside of simply commerce-related degrees.
Lawyers working in multinational law firms or firms with strong global partnerships are often afforded the opportunity to work overseas on secondments. In an ever globalising world, having a global perspective and international experience is essential as a new age lawyer. If you are interested in applying to work overseas, it must be noted that international law firm clerkship applications tend to close earlier in the year. Some firms can recruit up to two years in advance!
In-house lawyers are employed by corporations. Unlike lawyers in commercial law firms who work for numerous clients, in-house lawyers are solely responsible for legal advice to their business. The work of an in-house lawyer is incredibly varied, and one can expect to be working on a variety of matters from contract law, to dispute resolution or even business development.
Although large law firms commonly practice in a number of commercial law sectors such as banking and finance, mergers and acquisitions, intellectual property, and dispute resolution, they also offer numerous specialised practice sectors such as information technology, environmental law and infrastructure. For many, starting in the litigation team of a commercial law firm can begin the path to becoming a barrister and taking the bar later on. Starting off at a law firm can also provide a foundation from which you can progress to a career in-house or into any commercial, strategic, and/or management role.
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BOUTIQUE & MID-SIZED COMMERCIAL LAW FIRMS Smaller law firms are able to specialise more in their practice areas. Working in a firm with smaller teams will mean that you are often given more responsibility earlier on in your career. With this, junior lawyers are given more client exposure than they would otherwise get in a larger law firm. Many also find that there is more room for growth, and, because of their communal culture, junior lawyers have more interactions with senior lawyers and partners, making it easier to professionally develop and gain recognition.
Unlike lawyers in private practice, in-house lawyers can propose solutions and receive the satisfaction of witnessing the complete lifecycle from idea conception to implementation and post-launch. Inhouse counsels also have the opportunity to manage their company’s projects, branding and business development, getting to deeply understand one client.
The demand for in-house lawyers is continuously growing as larger corporations from various sectors ranging from pharmaceutical, construction and multimedia are expanding to include an internal legal team. As a result, in-house lawyers currently make up around 25% of all legal practitioners in Australia. Lawyers working within in-house teams may develop specialised knowledge of the particular industry in which the business operates. In-house lawyers need to be attuned to the commercial needs of the business and supplement their legal expertise with an understanding of their company’s business goals, liabilities, obligations and assets.
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COMMON ENTRY PATHWAYS DOMESTIC CLERKSHIPS Domestic clerkships provide students with the opportunity to experience the world of corporate and commercial law. Summer clerkship programs are the most common and are typically offered from late November and early December through until early February. Some firms offer winter clerkship programs that begin in June/July; however these are rare and conflict with UNSW trimester two. The application process for most firms is conducted through the law Society of New South Wales. Those firms which do not go through the NSW Law Society typically abide by their guidance with regard to dates. Clerkships are open to penultimate year law students, and in some cases available to final year students finishing in the middle of the year. During a clerkship, students will perform rotations through multiple practice areas, in order to gain experience in the many different disciplines of commercial practice. In most cases, successful clerks will be offered graduate positions to begin after their graduation. The majority of mid and top tier law firms offer formal clerkship programs. Domestic clerkships are an important and popular pathway for those looking to enter the ranks of large commercial law firms. However, it is not a prerequisite to working in private practice.
INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIPS Applications for international law firms tend to close earlier in the year than domestic summer clerkship programs. You must be aware of the respective deadlines for each firm you are interested in applying for, as each will have different deadlines and may recruit up to two years in advance. International clerkships provide students with the opportunity to experience foreign legal jurisdictions. International opportunities are highly competitive. Be prepared for commercially oriented questions in the
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application process, particularly as it relates to the landscape of commercial law in the country you wish to work in. Given the evolving nature of COVID, we highly recommend that you consult with each individual firm regarding their clerkship opportunities. Become informed of any requirements additional to the application process, including travel procedures, visa applications, and clerkship dates to ensure no conflict with trimesters.
GRADUATES Most boutique firms will offer internship or volunteering opportunities for Practical Legal Training (PLT) students, from which a graduate offer may be made. Additionally, the changing Australian corporate landscape means that some firms are beginning to hire graduates outside their clerkship programs. Your first year as a graduate is often completed in conjunction with your PLT, after which you will be fully accredited as a practising solicitor in New South Wales. Just like clerkship programs, graduate lawyers typically perform a number of rotations, the completion of which allows them to choose a specialisation in whatever field they find most interesting. Some of these specialisations include finance, real estate, M&A, employment, and information technology.
LATERAL HIRES
DATES FOR DOMESTIC CLERKSHIP PROGRAMS MONDAY 06 JUNE 2022 APPLICATIONS FOR SUMMER CLERKSHIPS OPEN
SUNDAY 3 JULY AND SUNDAY 10 JULY 2022 APPLICATIONS FOR SUMMER CLERKSHIPS CLOSE
WEDNESDAY 14 SEPTEMBER 2022 OFFERS FOR SUMMER CLERKSHIPS CAN BE MADE
THURSDAY 15 SEPTEMBER 2022 OFFERS FOR SUMMER CLERKSHIPS MUST BE ACCEPTED OR DECLINED BY 5:00PM Information regarding clerkship programs can be found on the NSW Law Society's website here.
Lateral hires are another option to beginning employment at your first choice firm. Lateral hires are typically made by firms looking to fill vacancies by recruiting practitioners who are in a similar role at another firm. However, sometimes your role does not need to be similar, but instead possess a leverageable skillset which can transferred over. Large firm lateral hires may come from other larger firms, in-house counsel, the public sector, or boutique firms. Additionally, it is not uncommon for solicitors in large firms to transfer to inhouse counsel or boutique firms. However, this transfer typically occurs later in a solicitors career.
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AREAS OF PRACTICE BANKING & FINANCE The Banking and Finance practice involves representing clients in the financing of large and complex transactions, either from the borrowers’ or the lenders’ side. This includes the financing of property development, projects and infrastructures, and M&A transactions. The graduate experience in a finance team is very hands-on and interesting, with many transactionspecific tasks including managing condition precedents, due diligence, drafting security documentations. It is a fast-paced practice area that allows for amazing learning opportunities!
COMPETITION LAW Competition and consumer law are linked by the Competition and Consumer Act 2010. Competition law aims to ensure that markets operate fairly and efficiently by encouraging competition and increasing outcomes for consumers. Consumer law also protects consumers’ rights and protects against unfair contract terms. Competition lawyers may assist clients in responding to any investigations by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC), usually in the context of mergers and acquisitions.
CONSTRUCTION LAW Construction law is one of the building blocks of the built environment we all live in. When you see a skyscraper or a new train line, many hours of extensive legal drafting, advice and sometimes dispute resolution has been spent. Broadly there are two ‘types’ of work in construction law: ‘front end’ and ‘back end’. ‘Front end’ refers to the early life of a project - so the drafting, negotiation and execution of contracts to appoint contractors, designers, engineers and certifiers. ‘Back end’ often refers to disputes; so when parties do not agree on price or scope, the construction lawyers step in to resolve.
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Unlike some practice areas, the lifetime of matters in construction law can vary vastly - whilst some projects last years (the ‘big ticket’ infrastructure work like skyscrapers and train lines), you also have more day-today work (such as minor renovation work). As a junior, the breadth and scale of work in construction law makes it a great training ground where you can get technical drafting experience in the big matters or run your own matters with the minor works. Moreover, with some teams also having a ‘back end’ embedded, you can also often get some disputes work under your belt.
INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY Intellectual property (IP) law involves protecting the rights of people who hold intangible assets like technology, writing, and art. These lawyers advise clients on using predominantly patents, trademarks, copyrights. and licenses to protect their work. In a disputes sense they represent clients whose intellectual property rights have been infringed upon. Front end IP teams advise on transactions to protect the IP interests of their client. This sector sees numerous high-profile cases like the Apple and Samsung disputes and is a rapidly evolving area of practice.
EMPLOYMENT LAW Employment law is concerned with relations between employers and employees on various matters such as wages, compensation, harassment, and discrimination. It is largely governed by the Fair Work Act 2009 and often involves collective bargaining, unions, and industrial relations. Employment lawyers may represent individual clients, government agencies, employers or a union. Modern Slavery is an additional area of practice in many firms’ employment law teams which is expanding. Modern slavery may take the form of forced labour, debt bondage, servitude, and deceptive recruiting for labour or services.
LITIGATION & DISPUTE RESOLUTION Litigation and Dispute Resolution are key areas of practice which seek to resolve ongoing legal conflicts. Dispute resolution attempts to resolve issues while avoiding the expense of going to court. When this fails, parties will often litigate and resolve their conflicts in court. Litigation lawyers must document evidence and provide relevant sections to the other party. They inform their clients of defences the other party may try to use as well as potential pitfalls.
To be a good M&A lawyer, you need to have a solid grasp of the law as well as a strong understanding of the client’s commercial goals and motivations for the transaction and how you can achieve the client’s business goals. Excellent project management skills are also required to coordinate the different processes that are happening (especially with transactions that occur across borders and may require lawyers from different countries and time zones).
They also assist the client in selecting the right barrister and work with them to create the strongest legal argument. Litigation lawyers are responsible for finding an acceptable solution and potentially negotiating a settlement with the other party.
Junior lawyers and graduates can be involved at any stage in the process! Since M&A transactions are often fast moving, junior lawyers often have the opportunity to work on different aspects of the of the transaction and learn new commercial and legal skills. M&A lawyers develop broad and highly valuable skillsets because the work requires them to not only be legally competent but commercially savvy.
MERGERS & ACQUISITION
TAXATION LAW
Companies and corporate entities are typically driven towards maximising profits and will often merge with or acquire other companies to do so. By combining their business activities the two companies may be able to operate more efficiently than they can on their own. Acquiring a company may also help the merging company grow faster or the object may simply be to eliminate competition in the market.
Taxation law is a specialised area where lawyers are concerned with helping clients navigate complex tax codes and minimise tax risks. There are numerous forms of taxation including income tax, capital gains tax, customs duties and inheritance tax.
As an M&A lawyer, your job will be to facilitate this transaction by: Negotiating the key commercial points of the transaction to determine what the deal will look like and what both parties want to get out of it; Performing due diligence for example checking that there are no surprises or issues that may be fatal to the transaction, such as a pending litigation); Drafting the transaction documents including determining what the structure of the new merged entity will look like and how it affects each side’s respective shareholders; and Setting out the operational details for how the transition will take place, e.g. merging technology systems and databases.
Tax lawyers need to conduct extensive research, identifying all legislation that concerns a specific transaction. Whilst a taxation lawyer primarily spends their time in office, they may also be engaged in off-site meetings or meet with barristers representing clients in litigation.
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QUALIFYING TO PRACTICE
NEW SOUTH WALES
NSW ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
GRADUATE
BAR EXAMS
Complete a Bachelor of Law (LLB), or a Juris Doctor (JD) degree.
After being admitted as a lawyer by an Australian Supreme court, a person must obtain a 75 percent pass mark for all three bar exams, including 'ethics for Barristers', 'Aspects of Evidence' and 'Practice and Procedure for barristers before commencing the Bar Practice Course
PRACTICAL LEGAL TRAINING (PLT)
PRACTICISING CERTIFICATE Prior to admission, the Legal Professional Admission Board (LPAB) provides a list of proposed admittees to the Law Society of New South Wales who will send you an application form for a Practicing Certificate. You will need to submit the form alongside a payment to the Law Society Registry by the specified date.
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BECOMING A BARRISTER
Must undertake PLT coursework from approved providers (including UNSW) which trains you in a wide range of practical skills, including problem solving, civil litigation practice, and ethics and professional responsibility.
Barristers are lawyers who provide specialist services and advocacy to represent clients before courts and tribunals. Barristers work on their own and are not permitted to work in partnerships or in corporations. They are usually briefed by a solicitor before commencing work.
READING PROGRAMS After passing the bar exams, a person must complete a period of 'reading' for at least 12 months under the supervision of a Barrister with not less than 7 years standing. The program also includes a month long bar practice course, which involves the study of advances advocacy and barrister related skills.
PRACTICISING CERTIFICATE
ADMISSION AS A LAWYER After meeting the eligibility and suitability requirements for admission, you must submit an application for admission to the Supreme Court of NSW via the LPAB, unless you have already been admitted in another Australian jurisdiction. This is a one time only application.
At the end of the reading period, readers must apply for an unconditional practicing certificate when the Bar Association has received a Satisfactory Completion of Reading form from their tutors.
ADMISSION AS A BARRISTER After passing the bar exams, a person must complete a reading program, involving a period of ‘reading’ for at least 12 months under the supervision of a barrister with not less than 7 years’ standing. The program also includes a month-long Bar Practice Course, which involves the study of advanced advocacy and barrister related skills.
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INTERNATIONAL ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
CHINA
HONG KONG
To become a practicing attorney in the People’s Republic of China (PRC) you must have: PRC, Taiwan, or Hong Kong/Macau citizenship; Completed an undergraduate degree in any field; Passed the National Judicial Examination; Completed a one-year internship in a law firm; and Proof of recruitment by a law firm.
NATIONAL JUDICIAL EXAMINATION Since 2004, the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA), has allowed permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macau, with Chinese nationality, to take the National Judicial Examination and register to practice on the mainland. The practice areas are limited to nonlitigation issues and litigations in marriage and succession relating to Hong Kong and Macau. The National Judicial Examination is administered by the Ministry of Justice. It is a unified legal examination and unlike judicial examinations of most other countries, candidates sit the 17 subjects at the same time. Usually, the exam is scheduled for a weekend in September. The Examination is a closed book exam mainly designed to test the legal knowledge of the candidates and their suitability to join the legal profession. Questions are divided into four categories: (1) Theoretical legal science (2) Applied legal science (3) Provisions in current laws (4) Legal practice and ethics
HONG KONG / MACAO RESIDENTS Since 2004, the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA), has allowed permanent residents of Hong Kong and Macau, with Chinese nationality, to take the National Judicial Examination and register to practice on the mainland. The practice areas are limited to nonlitigation issues and litigations in marriage and succession relating to Hong Kong and Macau. However, a Hong Kong or Macau permanent resident who is a practicing barrister or solicitor in their respective jurisdictions, can be hired as
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QUALIFYING AS A SOLICITOR There are two avenues to qualifying as a solicitor in Hong Kong: as a trainee solicitor, or via the overseas lawyer route.
(1) THE TRAINEE SOLICITOR ROUTE ‘of counsel’ in a mainland law firm to provide legal advice relating to practice in Hong Kong, Macau or other foreign jurisdictions.
This is the easiest pathway to qualification for university graduates. To be admitted, prospective solicitors are required to complete the Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or a Juris Doctor (JD) from a common law jurisdiction, the Postgraduate Certificate in Laws (PCLL) in Hong Kong, and a two-year training contract with a law firm.
NON-CHINESE CITIZENS
Students must complete a law degree, including the Priestly 11 units:
Foreign lawyers cannot provide legal services in person in the PRC. Foreign lawyers cannot represent clients in court unless they obtain LLM or other graduate degrees and pass the Chinese bar exam. Likewise, Chinese lawyers may work in foreign firms operating in China, but may only work as assistants due to restrictions on foreign law firms.
(a) Land Law (b) Business Associations (c) Commercial Law (d) Criminal Law (e) Criminal Procedure
Foreign law firms are able to establish representative offices and can: Provide legal advice concerning the legislation in its admitted jurisdiction and the application of international treaties and practices; and Represent clients from their admitted jurisdiction in transnational cases. The chief representative, the representative and the resident foreign lawyers of the firm all need to register with the All China Lawyers Association (ACLA).
(f) Equity (g) Torts (h) Civil Procedure (I) Evidence (J) Contract
POSTGRADUATE IN LAWS (PCLL) The PCLL is a one-year full-time legal education programme provided by three universities: Hong Kong University, City University and the Chinese University of Hong Kong. Other than securing a training contract, the requirements for admission into the PCLL are the most challenging barriers to admission in Hong Kong. These are: Completion of your LLB/JD before PCLL commencement Demonstration of competence in 11 core and 3 topup subjects A score of at least 7 from the IELTS (International English Language Testing System) test
their overseas office as part of the training programme. Internships are generally for penultimate year students and last between two weeks to a month. They are available in June, July, December, January and February, although not all firms run schemes in these months. Please note that due to trimesters, some internship dates will run through the Term 2 and Term 3 study periods. In order to complete mid-year internships running through June/ July, students will have to take Term 2 off. Interns at top-tier firms can be expected to be remunerated at the market rate and may even receive a living allowance. For Australian students, interviews for internships in Hong Kong are conducted over the phone, Skype, Zoom, Google Meets, or through the firms’ Sydney or Melbourne offices
Moreover, competition for places in the PCLL programme is intense and usually based only on academic merit. A high credit or distinction average in your law degree is generally recommended.
TRAINING CONTRACTS Training contracts are special employment contracts with law firms. During the two-year period, trainee solicitors are exposed to work from at least three practice areas. Many top-tier firms send their trainees to
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HONG KONG (1) THE OVERSEAS LAWYER ROUTE Practising solicitors in an overseas common law jurisdiction (including Australian States) with at least three years post-admissions experience can seek admission through this route. In order to be admitted, the solicitor must sit and pass five Overseas Lawyers Qualification Examinations (four written and one oral). There are also additional certain residency requirements that must be satisfied. An overseas lawyer, pending qualification, can also be registered as a foreign lawyer with the Law Society of Hong Kong. Experience gained as a registered foreign lawyer can count towards the three years post qualification experience requirement. However, registered foreign lawyers must work from within a law firm. The formal requirements are: (1) Have at least three years of post-admissions experience (2) Be a person of good standing in the jurisdiction of admission (3) Pass the Overseas Lawyers Qualifications (4) Examinations as well as either; Lived in Hong Kong for 3 months prior to application; or Be a resident of Hong Kong for at least 3 years; or Be in Hong Kong for at least 180 days in each of the last 7 years.
QUALIFYING AS A BARRISTER The pathways to admission as a barrister are largely similar to that of a solicitor. Prospective barristers in Hong Kong can either seek ad hoc admission, if they have been admitted overseas or general admission after completion of the PCLL. For those who elect to take the PCLL, certain electives must be taken within the PCLL programme and you should check with the relevant Hong Kong universities. Instead of a training contract, a pupillage is required.
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General admission is also available to practising solicitors in Hong Kong or overseas practising lawyers, provided they have completed a pupillage. For more information regarding admission requirements, it is strongly recommended that those interested in qualifying as a barrister in Hong Kong visit the website of the Hong Kong Bar Association at http://www.hkba.org
VACATION WORK AND PUPILAGES / TRAINING CONTRACTS Practising solicitors in an overseas common law jurisdiction (including Australian States) with at least three years post-admissions experience can seek admission through this route. In order to be admitted, the solicitor must sit and pass five Overseas Lawyers Qualification Examinations (four written and one oral). There are also additional certain residency requirements that must be satisfied. An overseas lawyer, pending qualification, can also be registered as a foreign lawyer with the Law Society of Hong Kong. Experience gained as a registered foreign lawyer can count towards the three years post qualification experience requirement. However, registered foreign lawyers must work from within a law firm. The formal requirements are: (1) Have at least three years of post-admissions experience (2) Be a person of good standing in the jurisdiction of admission (3) Pass the Overseas Lawyers Qualifications (4) Examinations as well as either; Lived in Hong Kong for 3 months prior to application; or Be a resident of Hong Kong for at least 3 years; or Be in Hong Kong for at least 180 days in each of the last 7 years.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT THE PCLL AND HONG KONG CONVERSION EXAMS WHAT IS IT? The Hong Kong Conversion Examinations are preparatory exams for non-Hong Kong students to meet requirements for admission to Postgraduate Certificate in Laws (PCLL) in Hong Kong. Entry requirements for PCLL require demonstration of competence in 11 core subjects: Australian students with non- Hong Kong law qualifications must also demonstrate competence in three top-up subjects for the purpose of PCLL admission, namely: (1) Hong Kong Constitutional Law; (2) Hong Kong Legal System; and (3) Hong Kong Land Law.
HOW DO I GET EXEMPTIONS FOR THE 11 CORE SUBJECTS THAT HAVE BEEN ALREADY COMPLETE OR WILL BE COMPLETED AT A UNIVERSITY OVERSEAS? To apply for exemption from any Conversion Examination(s), students must submit an application for Evaluation to the Conversion Examinations Board.
DO ANY OF MY UNSW COURSES EXEMPT ME FROM ANY OF THE POLL EXAMS? he UNSW LLB/JD programme, when completed, will exempt you from at least 10 of the 11 core subjects required for the PCLL conversion exams. You will need to complete the 3 top up subjects and commercial law (you may be exempt from a part of the exam if you take commercial law as an elective). For more information please visit www.pcea.com.hk
WHAT IF MY LAW DEGREE DOES NOT INVOLVE A COURSE LISTED ABOVE OR IF I DO NOT GET AN EXEMPTION? You must satisfy all 14 subjects before you begin the PCLL programme, which is a necessary step to qualifying as a solicitor in Hong Kong. If your law degree does not require you to complete certain subjects listed above or PCEA does not grant you an exemption, you must sit the Conversion examinations. These are administered by PCEA and obtaining a pass in these examinations demonstrates ‘competence’ in the relevant subject. Another way of demonstrating competence is to complete the relevant subjects as a visiting ‘internal’ student at either the University of Hong Kong, City University of Hong Kong, or the Chinese University of Hong Kong
WHEN ARE CONVERSION EXAMINATIONS OFFERED? Conversion exams are usually offered in January and in June/July. Students should check the PCLL Conversion Examination website www.pcea.com.hk for specific dates.
HOW LONG DOES THE PCLL COURSE TAKE? The Postgraduate Certification in Laws (PCLL) can be completed in 1 year full time or 2 years part time study.
DO I NEED TO HAVE ANY CHINESE LANGUAGE SKILLS? Having Chinese language skills is definitely an advantage. Whether it is a requirement will depend on the firm itself. If you do not have the prerequisite Chinese language skills, it is important that you are able to demonstrate that you are willing to learn as it is becoming a stronger focus.
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UNITED KINGDOM THE STEPS
ADMISSION AS A BARRISTER
If you have a law degree from an overseas institution, you can apply to the Solicitors’ Regulation Authority (SRA) for a Certificate of Academic Standing. This will qualify you to apply for entry into the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) (if you want to become a solicitor) or the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) (if you want to be a barrister).
The first step to becoming a barrister in the UK is to satisfy the academic requirements. This mean a law degree (LLB or JD) followed by a Graduate Diploma in Law. Questions of transfer eligibility of Australian degrees to satisfy LLB/ JD requirements should be directed to the Barrister Standards Board (BSB). While LLB/ JD and GDL are prerequisites for moving onto the vocational stage, it however does not guarantee admission.
ADMISSION OF A SOLICITOR
SOLICITORS QUALIFYING EXAM
You must be willing to undertake further training and study if you wish to become an accredited solicitor in the UK. As a law graduate, training will take at least three years. This includes studying for and passing further exams beyond law school.
Overseas law degrees are not recognised by the SRA as qualifying law degrees (nor are most LLMs completed in the UK). If you have a law degree from an overseas institution, you can in some circumstances apply to the SRA for Equivalent Means, which can grant exemption from qualification and training requirements such as the LPC, Common Professional Examination (CPE) and Period of Recognised Training (PRT).
The Solicitors Regulation Board oversees the requirements of becoming a solicitor, known in the UK as being admitted to the roll of solicitors. As a law graduate, there are four components to being admitted to the roll of solicitors in the UK: A Law Degree (LLB or JD) – including successful completion of Contract, Restitution, Torts, Criminal Law, Equity and Trusts, Property Law, Public Law, Constitutional Law, and Administrative Law; Legal Practice Course (LPC) (1 year) – similar to Australia’s College of Law; Practice-based training contract incorporating Professional Skills Course (2 years full time); and Admission to the roll of solicitors As an overseas applicant, there is an alternative pathway to becoming an accredited solicitor that avoids the difficulties of using Australian University law courses to satisfy UK requirements (for example, European Union Law, one of the requirements, is not taught here at UNSW). This involves becoming accredited in Australia through the College of Law, applying for a Certificate of Eligibility from the UK’s Solicitors Regulation Authority, applying for the Qualified Lawyer Transfer Scheme, and thus becoming a qualified lawyer in England and Wales.
Bear in mind that from September 2021 everyone wishing to qualify as a solicitor in England and Wales, including overseas candidates, will be required to take the new SQE instead of the QLTS.
The second stage of training to become a barrister is the vocational stage. This takes the form of the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC), which can either be taken over one-year full time or two years part time; the latter of which allows time for students to carry out paid work and gain useful legal experience. Prospective barristers must also pass the Bar Course Aptitude Test: https://www.barprofessionaltraining.org.uk/s4/oa/candid ates/start.asp
You will need to show that your non-UK qualification is equivalent to either a UK degree or equivalent UK qualification through a UK NARIC Statement of Comparability, and complete the two-year period of qualifying work experience like all other domestic candidates who pursue the SQE route. The work experience can be obtained in England and Wales or overseas.
The final stage of training to become a barrister is a one-year pupillage. This is usually undertaken in a set of barristers’ chambers, although it can also be undertaken with certain other organisations. Being a pupil is similar to being an apprentice where you will gain practical training under the supervision of an experienced barrister or barristers. At the end of the year you will be a fully qualified barrister.
THE TRAINING CONTRACT
Pupillage is divided into two parts: the “first six” which is a non-practising six months and the “second six” which is a practising six months. During the first six, pupils generally shadow their pupil supervisor, do legal research, draft opinions and other court documents, read their pupil supervisor’s paperwork and observe him or her in conferences and in court. During the second six, pupils can take on some work of their own, under supervision. For more information visit this website:
You must complete training with a law firm for two years. Most training contracts are taken on a fulltime basis and last two years.
BAR PROFESSIONAL TRAINING COURSE You must complete the Bar Professional Training Course in order to be admitted as a barrister. The full-time course lasts for a year, while the part-time option is spread over two.
FURTHER INFORMATION Chambers Students UK This website is for anyone considering a law career in the UK. There are thousands of interviews with trainees, pupils and market sources, as well as interesting and informative articles. There is also a newsletter which you can sign up to for free. http:// www.chambersstudent.co.uk/ The Law Society of the UK The Law Society of the UK also offers support for those working towards becoming a qualified solicitor other legal professional in the United Kingdom. http://www.lawsociety.org.uk/ Solicitors Regulation Authority To find out more about becoming a qualified solicitor in the United Kingdom, please contact the Solicitors Regulation Authority, which oversees the requirements for admissions. http://www.sra.org.uk/
http://www.barcouncil.org.uk/becoming-abarrister/
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UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Whilst there is a large legal market in the US, to practice law in the US, all lawyers both foreign and domestic must be admitted to the bar association for the state they wish to practice in. Each US state establishes its own rules for bar admission.
NEW YORK New York has traditionally been the most receptive state to lawyers who have qualified in Australia and is home to one of the nation’s most attractive legal markets. Unlike many other states, New York does not require a law degree from a school accredited by the American Bar Association. To qualify to practice in New York: (1) Applicants must have a “qualifying” law degree that satisfies the educational requirements to practice law in a foreign country. (2) The qualifying degree must be from a law school accredited by the government of the foreign country and must be deemed qualified and approved. (3) The applicant must have successfully completed a legal program of equivalent length to the Juris Doctor legal education provided by American Bar Association (ABA) Legal education in the US is traditionally a fulltime, three-year course of study - foreign lawyers, accordingly need similar credentials. (4) Similarly, the program and course of study successfully completed by the applicant must be substantially equivalent to that of the Common Law education provided by an ABA-approved law school in the United States. New York is common for lawyers who practice in areas such as mergers and acquisitions, capital markets, and banking and finance.
(1)(a) Obtain from a credential evaluation service approved by the Committee of Bar Examiners a certificate that the applicant’s first degree in law is substantially equivalent to a Juris Doctor degree awarded by a law school approved by the American Bar Association or accredited by the Committee or; (1)(b) Obtain from a credential evaluation service approved by the committee a certificate that the applicant’s first degree in law meets the educational requirements for admission to practice law in the foreign state or country in which it was obtained. (2) They must also show that they have successfully completed a year of law study at an ABA approved law school or a law school accredited by the committee. Law students in this category seeking to qualify to take the California Bar Examination must provide the following to the State Bar’s Office of Admissions in Los Angeles: (1) A completed “Registration as a Foreign Educated General Applicant” form with the required registration fee of $119. (2) An evaluated law degree equivalency report and a “Foreign Law Study Evaluation Summary” form, which must be completed by a credential evaluation agency approved by the Committee.
WASHINGTON DC Washington DC is another possible location, but it is harder for Australian qualified lawyers to break into practice in this area because the Washington legal market has a significant US government focus. Those interested in working here are advised to enter through New York and then move after gaining US experience and a US Bar qualification or Masters. These are currently the only three US jurisdictions in which Australian lawyers can work. This is because in the US, being admitted to a state Bar only permits the barrister to practice in one state - i.e. being admitted to the New York Bar only permits the individual to practice in the state of New York. Only these three Bars do not require certain units of study which can only be taken in the US. US firms do not usually recruit out of Australia at graduate level as they traditionally take their first year lawyers from the US university JD programs.
Please note that the information provided above is by no means definitive, and is meant to merely provide general background information. We advise students to do their own research on US admission requirements. Below are a list of useful resources and links: AMERICAN BAR ASSOCIATION http://www.americanbar.org/ AMERICAN SOCIETY OF INTERNATIONAL LAW http://www.asil.org/ CALIFORNIA BAR WEBSITE http://www.calbar.ca.gov/ NEW YORK BAR WEBSITE https://www.nysba.org/ UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS http://www.utexas.edu/law/career/LLM_ Licensure. pdf/
It is important to note the practice areas within firms that are able to be translated across borders. The lateral hire move is usually around the two to four year level. Many Australian lawyers who move over to the US also practice Australian law for clients with a US presence. Most US firms do not require Australian lawyers to already have US Bar qualifications. However, they will require Australian lawyers to sit the Bar Exams within 12 months to become fully qualified US attorneys.US firms will generally provide assistance in the preparation for Bar Exams. This includes giving lawyers study leave as the pass mark is 75%.
CALIFORNIA California is also quite a receptive state, but in a more narrow sense. Australian lawyers who move to California tend to practice in areas such as project financing, intellectual property, and technology. If an applicant wants to practice law in California as a foreign-educated applicant not admitted to practice law in any United States jurisdiction they must:
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SINGAPORE Singapore is a common law jurisdiction but the legal profession is fused, meaning that lawyers can act as both a solicitor and a barrister. To qualify as a lawyer in Singapore, one must fulfil the requirements of being a ‘qualified person’ and then sit the Singapore Bar. Examinations, which is divided into Part A (for overseas graduates) and Part B (a five month practical course).
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS Applicants must: Have attained the age of 21 years; Be of good character; Have satisfactorily served the practice training period applicable to you; Have attended and satisfactorily completed such courses of instruction as the Board of Directors of the Singapore Institute of Legal Education (SILE) may prescribe; and Have passed such examinations as the Board of Directors of the Institute SILE may prescribe.
QUALIFYING TO PRACTICE AUnder Rule 9 (1) of the Legal Profession (Qualified Persons) Rules, you are a “qualified person” if you fulfil ALL the following requirements: (a) That person is a citizen or permanent resident of Singapore; (b) That institution of higher learning is an institution of higher learning in Australia or New Zealand specified in the First Schedule; (c) That degree is a degree of Bachelor of Laws or degree of Doctor of Jurisprudence specified for that institution of higher learning in the First Schedule;
(i) the highest 70%, in terms of academic performance, of the total number of graduates in the same batch who have been conferred the degree or degrees of Bachelor of Laws specified in the First Schedule in respect of that institution of higher learning; or ii) the highest 70%, in terms of academic performance, of the total number of graduates in the same batch who have been conferred the degree of Doctor of Jurisprudence specified in the First Schedule in respect of that institution of higher learning (f) that person has passed Part A of the Singapore Bar Examinations; and (g) after that person has passed the final examination for that degree, for a period of not less than 6 months within a continuous period of 8 months, that person has received relevant legal training, has been engaged in relevant legal practice or work, or has received relevant legal training and been engaged in relevant legal practice or work.
ALTERNATIVES PATHS TO LEGAL PRACTICE IN SINGAPORE Practicing as a Foreign Lawyer Individuals who are admitted to practice in another jurisdiction can apply to the Attorney-General’s Chambers’ Legal Profession (International Services) Secretariat to work as a ‘Foreign Lawyer’ in Singapore under Part IXA of the Legal Profession Act. Applicants will not need to take any courses or examinations.
FOREIGN PRACTITIONER EXAMS The Singapore Institute of Legal Education (SILE) conducts the Foreign Practitioner Examinations (FPE). Lawyers admitted to practice in other jurisdictions who pass the FPE can apply for a Foreign Practitioner Certificate from the Attorney General. This certificate permits them to practice in limited areas of Singapore law.
THE SINGAPORE BAR EXAMINATIONS PART A Part A is a conversion examination for eligible overseas graduates from overseas universities. These examinations are held in November each year and applicants are able to take Part A even if they have not fulfilled all the “qualified person” requirements graduates. PART B A compulsory 5-month practical law course and examination for both local and overseas graduates.
Areas permitted include intellectual property law, banking and finance, and mergers and acquisitions. Foreign lawyers must have at least three years of relevant Legal experience (either in Singapore or overseas) before they can apply to sit for the FPE. For more information, please visit: http://www.sile.edu. sg/eligibility-to-register-to-sit-for-the-fpe Practicing as In-House Counsel Individuals may be able to practice as in-house counsel at an organisation in Singapore. Please visit the Singapore Corporate Counsel Association website for more information: www.scca.org.sg
(d) that person —i) commenced reading on or after 1 January 1994 a course of study as a candidate for that degree, if that degree is a degree of Bachelor of Laws; or ii) is conferred that degree on or after 1 December 2017, if that degree is a degree of Doctor of Jurisprudence; (e) that person has been ranked by that institution of higher learning as being amongst:
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THE APPLICATION PROCESS
APPLICATION PROCESS
OFFERS MADE
MEET FIRMS
ONLINE APPLICATION
ROUND 2 INTERVIEW
COFFEE CHATS
INFORMATION EVENTS
ROUND 1 INTERVIEW
COCKTAIL EVENINGS 34
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COVER LETTERS The cover letter is where you as a student can stand out to a prospective employer. In it, you should highlight your strengths, experiences, skills, and passions that make you the best fit for the working environment you are applying for. A wellwritten cover letter is just as important as a resume. Where a resume lists experiences, a cover letter allows you to describe how those experiences make you a well-rounded, suitable candidate.
PREPARING TO WRITE Get Researching The best way to stand out from other applicants is to research the firm you are applying for. To get started, have a look at their website. This should give you some insight into the values and strategy of the firm. From there, consider news articles, LinkedIn posts, and media announcements. It is really important to get a sense of the culture of the firm, so that you can consider why you are a good fit to be a part of that culture. Reflect on your Experiences Once you have conducted some research into the firm, reflect on your skills and experiences and consider whether they are transferable to the position you are applying for. Try not to just list your skills and experiences. That is what your CV is for! Rather, reflect on how your experiences and achievements have shaped you as a person. Write! Although it may seem daunting, the best way to write a cover letter is to just throw yourself into it. Refer to the cover letter samples to get yourself started. Just remember, try not to copy the language of the sample cover letters exactly. You want to stand out! 36
THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN WRITING
FINALISING YOUR COVER LETTER
Clarity of Expression Make sure your writing is concise, clear, and flows logically. Remember, this is a display of written communication skills. You want to demonstrate a capacity to write persuasively and eloquently. Think of your cover letter as if it was a university assignment, where the marker is the firm.
Headings Cover letters should be one page maximum. Remember to include your full name, address, email, and phone number in the top right corner of the page.
Attention to Detail Ensure that there are no spelling or grammatical errors. Although this seems self-explanatory, many students fail this small step. A single error can reduce your chances in this highly competitive process. Read it out loud to yourself to catch any potential errors or ask a friend to read over it. Additionally, make sure the experiences and skills described in your cover letter correlate with your CV. It is no use describing an experience in your cover letter if it is contradicted by your CV, or vice versa.
Also, you should include the date on the top left hand corner of the page, followed by the name of your contact person, their position within the firm, the name of the firm, and the address of the firm. If confused, refer to the sample cover letter for guidance. Addressing Your Contact Try to get hold of the contact information of the recruitment officer of the firm. This will personalise your cover letter. However, don’t fret if you cannot find this information.
(4) Don’t be afraid to briefly describe your interests and hobbies. This can be a good interview icebreaker and will give the firm a good insight into who you are. (5) Use alternative resources for tips and tricks on cover letters, CV’s, and interviews. These resources can include UNSW Careers & Employment, LinkedIn articles, and even social media influencers. (6) Don’t be afraid to mention events where you met firm representatives, drawing on specific aspects of the firm you head or talked about. (7) Don’t abbreviate terms, especially not the name of the firm!
It is ok to begin your cover letter and address your contact as “Dear Sir/Madam”. Try not to use the phrase “To whom it may concern”. Refer to the sample cover letter for guidance on formatting.
TIPS & TRICKS (1) Your cover letter should be tailored to the firm you are applying for. You should not be able to swap the name of the firm out for another firm and have it still make sense. Do your research and apply what you learn. (2) Don’t restrict your description of skills and experiences only to those relevant to the legal field. Non-legal experience and skills are very important and will differentiate you from other applicants. (3) Show don’t tell. Steer clear from simply stating your skills. Instead, explain how you gained these skills and how you have applied them at relevant moments in your life.
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SAMPLE COVER LETTERS Mike Smith 1234 567 893 Mike.Smith@unsw.edu.au Donna Johnson Talent Acquisition Consultant Pearson, Spector & Litt 222 Smith Place, Sydney NSW 2000 19 February 2022 Re: Application for Pearson, Spector & Litt’s Summer Clerkship Program Dear Ms Johnson, I write to express my interest in Pearson, Spector & Litt’s Summer Clerkship Program. I am a current 4th year Bachelor of Laws/Bachelor Commerce (Finance) student at the University of New South Wales (UNSW). I have a strong distinction average, which I achieved whilst working part-time as a paralegal at Rand, Kaldor & Zane, and actively participating in extracurriculars, such as the UNSW Law Society. My attraction to Pearson, Spector & Litt, began when I had the opportunity to meet firm representatives at the Private Law Careers Fair earlier this year. As a finance major, I was able to appreciate your role in the merger between Hardman Pty Ltd and the Bruno Organisation. This demonstrated the strength of your M&A department, which I am interested in and believe is extremely important considering there is currently a boom in M&A. I have a keen interest in commercial law and specifically M&A, and I believe I would be a good fit for Pearson, Spector & Litt’s Summer Clerkship Program. I am a highly motivated and dedicated individual as demonstrated through my excellent academic record, and I have developed a broad range of analytical and research skills through both of my degrees. As a paralegal with Rand, Kaldor & Zane, I enjoyed the dynamic nature of commercial law and assisted in preparing legal documents and researching issues of M&A. I hope to further develop these skills at Pearson, Spector & Litt, especially as a leading firm in M&A law as seen in your Chambers’ bank 1 ranking. My personal values and interests suggest I would be an ideal cultural fit for Pearson, Spector & Litt. I actively participate in volunteer work with UNSW Arc Wellness Warriors and Shack Tutoring programs and would be keen to contribute to Pearson, Spector & Litt’s pro bono program. I share the social culture of Pearson, Spector & Litt as reflected through being a UNSW Law Society Private Law Careers Director in 2022. My drive for success and commitment to excellence is evidenced by having spent the 2021 winter break preparing for and ultimately winning the Intermediate Mooting Competition. I would appreciate the opportunity to meet with you to discuss my application at an interview. Yours Sincerely, Mike Smith 38
Elle Wilson Mobile: 1234 567 890 Email: Elle.Wilson@unsw.edu.au Emmett Richmond Graduate Resourcing Manager Callahan & Huntington 584 Main Street, Sydney NSW 2000
19 February 2022
RE: Application for Callahan & Huntington Summer Clerkship Program Dear Mr Richmond, I am a penultimate year student undertaking a Bachelor of Arts / Bachelor of Laws at the University of New South Wales, with a major in Politics and International Relations. For me, a position at Callahan & Huntington offers an unrivalled foundation to a rewarding career in commercial law. In turn, I thoroughly believe that I represent a promising candidate who embodies the values at the core of this firm. I am drawn to Callahan & Huntington for your expertise in Banking and Finance, as illustrated by advising Woods Enterprise in their recent IPO, and would love to be at the forefront of such projects. My interest in Finance was developed through my experience as a law clerk in a boutique commercial law firm and further reflected in my attainment of a Distinction in Contracts and Business Associations. My dedication and passion in engaging with disruptive thinking align with Callahan & Huntington’s values of creative and innovative thinking, a point of conversation discussed with Banking and Finance lawyer, Vivian Kensington on the night of my firm visit. I believe my experiences have allowed me to develop skills highly transferable to the Summer Clerkship Program at Callahan & Huntington. As a Food and Beverage Attendant, I assisted with various customer service requests in a fast-paced, high-performing environment, which strengthened my ability to engage effectively with clients from all walks of life. Further, it allowed me to develop my verbal communication and teamwork skills. In my capacity as Junior Mooting Director with UNSW Law Society, I am responsible for facilitating and organising junior level moots. Like Callahan & Huntington, I recognise the fundamentality of human relationships and the importance of client satisfaction. I consider myself as someone who is easy to get along with while maintaining my professionalism. I have developed these interpersonal skills as LawPLUS mentor which required me to create a fun and supportive environment while I maintained a professional boundary between myself and my mentees. For this reason, I believe I would readily embrace the client-centric culture and would thrive in the friendly and open working environment that your firm promotes. Thank you for considering my application. Kind regards, Elle Wilson
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SAMPLE CV Lawrence Law Email: lawrencelaw@student.unsw.edu.au | LinkedIn: lawrencelaw.linkedin.com | Mobile: 1234 567 890
I. Education Bachelor of Commerce (Management)/Bachelor of Laws , University of New South Wales (2019 – 2024) Distinction Average: 79.73 WAM Law Dean’s List 2021 North Sydney Boys High School (2013– 2018) ATAR: 99.35 Distinguished Achiever (90+) in Five Courses. Senior Prefect, Head of SRC, Executive Treasurer, Peer Mentor, State Chess.
II. Professional Experience Paralegal, Law Firm LLP (2021 – Current) Primarily responsible for drafting legal research memorandums and analysis. Further administrative duties include document management, file archiving, and receptionist duty. Responsible for sending client and court correspondence. Developed familiarity with court electronic filing and lodgement systems, as well as the E-Discovery software Relativity Undertake drafting of court documents. Flagship Sales Consultant, Hugo Boss (2018 – 2020) Provided exceptional customer service and styling expertise to clients in premium menswear. Maximised sales opportunities by developing a strong returning client base and exceeded average daily sales quotas of $4,000 during FY21. Volunteer, Redfern Legal Centre (2019 – 2020) Assisted with preparing advice and letters for clients attending the centre. Met with clients and wrote file notes/minutes regarding the meeting for supervising lawyers. Gained experience in file management and experience in a wide range of legal matters, including employment law, housing regulations and discrimination law. Audit & Assurance Summer Vacationer KPMG (Dec 2020 – Feb 2021) Performed detailed audit procedures and audit tests to verify client financial statement compliance in accordance with Australian Accounting Standards Board (AASB) Accounting Standards. Prepared work papers and financial statements for FY20, in collaboration with corporate clients like Qantas, as well as KPMG partners, managers and senior accountants.
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High School Tutor (2018 – 2021) Teaching weekly classes of up to 6 students, each with differing academic skills and needs. Constantly keeping up to date with ever-changing HSC course content as well as developing familiarity with a wide range of topic areas that I may not have studied myself in High School. Taught general class content, as well as providing guidance and feedback on assessments. Greatly improved student results, with examples including from 50%-85%. Provided weekly progress reports to parents.
III. Extra-Curriculars and Interests Law Competitions UNSW Law Society Senior Mooting (2021) King & Wood Mallesons Senior Witness Examination (2021) Sydney University Law Society Multilateral Intervarsity Client Interviewing Competition (Grand Finalist) (External Competition); Leadership Senior’s Witness Examinations Director (2020) – Elected to run the Senior stream of the witness examination competition offered by the UNSW Law Society. Responsible for administrating, timetabling and judging the competition, as well as liaising weekly with external volunteer judges, including solicitors and barristers in the industry, as well as law firm representatives. North Sydney Boys Prefect (2018) Public Speaking (2015 – 2017): reached regional final in 2015, speaking on contentious cultural and political topics. School Debating (2013 – 2017) Mock Trial (2017): progressed to the second knockout round of over 60 schools, gained a basic understanding of legal advocacy and the processes of Court proceedings. St Vincent DePaul Op Shop (2016 – 2017): volunteer responsible for organising clothing and homeware item donations and communicating with senior volunteers to assist with the general operations of the donation store.
IV. Interests & Skills Interests: Pianist and Band Member, UNSW Law Society Law Band and Runner with UNSW RunSoc Languages: Native Proficiency in English and Mandarin, Beginners in Spanish Recreational Interests: Kickboxing, archery, food and travelling
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SAMPLE CV Sally Student https://www.linkedin.com/in/sally-student/| 0405-555-555 | sallystudent@bigpond.net.au
EDUCATION Bachelor of Commerce (Marketing) and Bachelor of Laws, University of New South Wales
Jan 2018 – Nov 2022
Jun 2019 – Dec 2019
2012 - 2017
ACHIEVEMENTS Negotiations, Australian Law Students Association National Competition (Melbourne), 2019 Best Delegate, UNSW Model UN (Thailand), 2019 Finalist, Senior Witness Examination Competition, 2018 Runner Up, Intermediate Negotiations Competition, 2018 Finalist, UNSW Law Hackathon, 2017
PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE Dec 2020 – Feb 2021
Assisted in the creation of a market overview analysing the key trends in the Australian cheese industry worth $3.5bn Researched and analysed the industry value chain, recent consolidation trends, market segmentation and underlying drivers of demand for Australian cheese
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Assisting with preparing advice and letters for clients dropping into the Centre Drafting and proofreading correspondence and legal correspondence
Vice-President (Administration), UNSW Marketing Society
Nov 2020 - Present
Overseeing a group of 4 students in order to ensure the cohesion and effectiveness of the society Liaising with Arc in order to source internal funding and to ensure compliance with university guidelines and policies Ensuring society meets re-affiliation requirements by preparing motions for general meetings, making changes to the constitution and maintaining all documents and reports
ATAR: 99.6 School Prefect and School Trophy for All-Round Excellence and Service Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award
Summer Vacationer Deloitte Consulting, Sydney
May 2018 – Aug 2019
EXTRACURRICULAR EXPERIENCE
1st Place Consulting Case Competition 2019 University of NSW International Exchange Scholarship Higher School Certificate, Sydney Girls High School
Jan 2019 – May 2019
Conduct legal research into different commercial law areas Document review using relativity for litigation Volunteer, Kingsford Legal Centre, Sydney
Distinction Average (78.64/100) Marketing Exchange Student, Overseas University, Singapore
Paralegal, Australian Law Firm, Sydney
Music Director, UNSW Law Society
Nov 2019 – Oct 2020
Overseeing a group of 4 students in order to ensure the cohesion and effectiveness of the society Liaising with Arc to source internal funding and to ensure compliance with university guidelines and policies Ensuring society meets re-affiliation requirements by preparing motions for general meetings, making can changes to the constitution and maintaining all documents and reports Entertainment Coordinator, UNSW Arc (Yellow Shirts)
Nov 2018 – Oct 2019
Organised and produced a major live entertainment line up across five nights for all first years on UNSW campus during O-Week Sourced live acts, negotiation of entertainment contracts, promotion of events and overseeing technical production requirements
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CV MAIL OVERVIEW
HOW TO USE CVMAIL
APPPLICATION TIMING
MY CVMAIL
CVMail is a centralised law student portal run by Thomson Reuters. It provides information about the legal industry and enables law students to apply and schedule interviews online. Most law firms use CVMail for summer clerkship applications but ensure that you check with each firm first.
(1) The ‘Application Manager’ displays which firms are taking applications. Click the ‘seasonal’ tab for the summer clerkship and ‘NSW’ for law firms in this state;
(1) The ‘Application Manager’ displays which firms are taking applications. Click the ‘seasonal’ tab for the summer clerkship and ‘NSW’ for law firms in this state;
This section of the website allows you to view submitted applications, correspond with law firms regarding your applications, and schedule interviews once the firms have contacted you.
(2) At the top of the list of firm names, you will see ‘Practice Firm’. This allows you to fill in a mock application in order to familiarise yourself with the process;
(2) At the top of the list of firm names, you will see ‘Practice Firm’. This allows you to fill in a mock application in order to familiarise yourself with the process;
(3) You can also click ‘Resources’ towards the top of the page to access a range of useful material about each law firm;
(3) You can also click ‘Resources’ towards the top of the page to access a range of useful material about each law firm;
(4) When the applications are open, CVMail will walk you through the process of entering your details;
(4) When the applications are open, CVMail will walk you through the process of entering your details;
(5) Depending on the firm, there may be a number of interview-style application questions to answer. It is recommended that you prepare answers to these in a word processor, and then copy/paste them into CVMail;
(5) Depending on the firm, there may be a number of interview-style application questions to answer. It is recommended that you prepare answers to these in a word processor, and then copy/paste them into CVMail;
(6) This same method can be used to insert your cover letter; 7. Your CV can be attached to your application by uploading the relevant file from your computer.
(6) This same method can be used to insert your cover letter;
HOW TO USE CVMAIL (1) Go to www.cvmail.com.au; (2) Click ‘register’ at the very top-left-hand corner of the page, and enter your details; (3) You will then be asked to complete your ‘Personal Profile’, which includes contact details (4) Return to ‘Application Manager’; and complete your academic profile, which records your degree, subject and mark details.
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(7) Your CV can be attached to your application by uploading the relevant file from your computer.
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THE SELECTION CRITERIA OVERVIEW Using the selection criteria will help ensure you have met all of the employer’s key requirements. The selection criteria are a list of the essential and desirable skills, attributes, experiences, and education deemed necessary for a position. Selection criteria are used to help select the most capable, suited, and qualified person for the job. Applicants must demonstrate and prove the ways in which they will be of value for the job and the organisation. Your application may not be shortlisted if it fails to establish how you meet any one of the criteria. Applicants who are able to successfully and competitively demonstrate that they meet each of the selection criteria will usually be offered an interview.
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From the organisation’s point of view, selection criteria can help standardise the recruitment process. They serve as a guide for employees and recruiters to help look for essential and desirable requirements in applicants, which can help reduce personal and social bias in selection decisions, and to ensure that the most suitable candidate is selected. Selection criteria common to many graduate jobs include: Organisational and planning skills; Accuracy and attention to detail; Written and oral communication skills; Ability to work independently and as part of a team; and Problem solving and data analysis skills.
FINDING THE SELECTION CRITERIA
TIPS
When holistically considering an individual’s characteristics, law firms (and companies in the private sector as a whole) generally have a loose selection criteria they hire candidates based upon. However, they may not be as clear or rigidly followed as selection criteria in the Public Service. Selection criteria for jobs in the private sector may be available from the manager of a work unit or the recruitment consultant who is working to fill the position.
When addressing the selection criteria, it is important to be precise and explicit. It is not enough to simply state that you meet the selection criteria; you need to tie your skills and experiences directly to the criteria at hand. A good way of addressing selection criteria is by using the STAR formula. The STAR formula is structured as follows: Situation: where, when and context of your example Task: the task or problem to be solved Action: how you solved the problem, achieved the goal, or handled the dispute Result: the outcome achieved as a result of your actions Clarify the selection criteria by either requesting a recruitment package, analysing the job advertisement, or speaking to the contact officer or recruitment consultant. Research the position and the organisation further. Alternatively, attend firm presentations and speak to firm representatives when they are on campus.
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THE INTERVIEW OVERVIEW An interview is the culmination of your research into the firm and your personal ‘sales effort’ represented by your cover letter and CV. Reaching the interview stage is an achievement, as partners are willing to give up time and high billable hours to meet and get to know you.
TYPES OF INTERVIEWS Interviews can vary significantly depending on the particular organisation. You can even experience very different styles of interview between particular interviewers at the same organisation. Given that you might not be able to predict what kind of interview situation you will be walking into, it is useful to be aware of the different varieties. In the instance you do know something about how the interview will run, this is a great opportunity to practice what you might say. The number of candidates in the room may also vary; you may be interviewing with other applicants for the job. In these interviews you have the opportunity to demonstrate that you are able to listen to others in the room, whilst clearly conveying your own responses. Bounce off the ideas of others in the room and try to help everyone feel included. Take initiative with your responses without being too authoritative. Remember that in this kind of situation it is important that the group achieve its assigned goal and that to stand out, one does not always have to be the leader of your group. Observers will assess your contribution to discussion, expression, reaction to others and contribution towards reaching group goals. To perform successfully you should consider your position before contributing, listen to and support others, show courtesy and tact, remain composed and keep a focus on the goal and on time limits. 48
Another variable in the interview process is the structure of the interview itself. Some have set questions to be answered, while other interviews have no structure and may take the form of a conversation. Remember this is a sliding scale and interviews may be a blend of the two, with some requisite questions asked with casual conversation in between. A top tip is to do a quick search of people’s interview experiences at the organisation or similar organisations , so you can be prepared for the interview environment you will be heading in to.
GENERAL INTERVIEW TIPS If you are asked to answer behavioural questions (e.g. “tell me about a time when you demonstrated leadership”), use the STAR model (Situation, Task, Action, Result). This allows you to support your answer with concrete evidence. What action did you undertake and what was the result of the action? Be yourself, be calm and try not to show your nervousness. Small talk is good to break the ice before and after the formal part of the interview. Make sure you re-read your cover letter and resume before the interview to remind yourself of what you wrote. Know your CV and cover letter like the back of your hand! Your CV and cover letter have created a positive impression, so you now have an opportunity to reinforce this opinion. The interview should be seen as a two-way process: the firm will ask you to expand on elements of your cover letter and CV, and you will be expected to ask questions of the interviewer(s), which allows them to find out more about you and ensure you are the ideal candidate for the job.
RESEARCH As you did for the cover letter, you need to research the firm in more detail for the interview. Aside from preparing for likely interview questions, you will also be expected to have done some research into each law firm. You should research: The firm’s practice areas and particular strengths; The organisational structure, rough number of partners/lawyers/directors etc. (briefly); The name(s) of key people in the organisation. Mention this only if you have something interesting to say (e.g. admire a Partner’s leadership style); The firm/organisation’s culture, values, atmosphere (crucial and should be incorporated into your responses); The organisation’s recent work, deals, cases or transactions; Business affairs, such as a recent or intended merger; Brief understanding of the firm’s reputation; The structure, activities, number of rotations etc of the position you are applying for; and, The current issues facing the legal industry, e.g. competition from overseas firms. Don’t forget to revise any personal knowledge or familiarity with current employees of the firm/ organisation. You may have met them at the various cocktail evenings, or you may also know recent UNSW clerks or graduates. Research methods include:
Speaking with employees of the firm/organisation at various events held in the lead-up to the interview period.
ON THE DAY What to Bring In order to feel confident and well prepared you will want to take a copy of your CV, cover letter, and the official copy of your academic transcript available from Student Central. Presentation You have the firm’s attention, and they already value your skills and experience. The interview is your chance to continue to impress them. You need to create a positive and professional impression to give yourself the competitive edge. Clothes Generally, formal business attire is most appropriate. However, dressing standards might differ depending on the firm or organisation. Choose styles and colours that do not distract others or yourself. They should fit well, be in good repair and be neatly pressed. Make a Good First Impression Your relationship with the interviewers, especially your non-verbal communication is crucial in the success of the interview. If you appear to be confident and enthusiastic from the outset, your answers are more likely to be reviewed positively.
The firm / organisation’s website, particularly pages such as ‘Our People’, ‘Our Culture’ and those dealing with the clerkship and graduate programme. Media (Australian Financial Review (Friday legal affairs section); Lawyers Weekly) 49
THE INTERVIEW DURING THE INTERVIEW Starting the Interview Confidently The impression you create will weigh upon the tone of voice you use. Attempt to communicate positive emotions (interest, enthusiasm or confidence) rather than negative emotions (anxiety, uncertainty or boredom). Modulate your voice to maintain the attention of your interviewers and use hand gestures where appropriate to reinforce an image of confidence Introducing Yourself Preparing an opening line may assist you to exude an air of confidence. Use a simple phrase such as, ‘Good morning, pleased to meet you. I’m Isaac Dela Torre’. Choose something you feel comfortable saying and say it instinctively. Smile and talk to, not at, the interviewer. Show the interviewer that you are glad to meet them, and you are enthusiastic about the job. Remember, you do not have to use this opening - another conversation may take place - but it can be reassuring to have a backup opening line. Building Rapport While having canned small talk on the weather or news may help ease initial nervousness, the most important aspect to building rapport is being genuine. Coming off as artificial can be just as damaging as a slight bit of awkwardness. During the interview take into account their language, body language, and consider their perspective to form your responses effectively. Body Language Maintain appropriate eye contact throughout the interview (do not stare or look away too much). Listen carefully to what the interview is telling you about the organisation and your likely role within it in order to ask informed questions in response. Use appropriate listening cues such as nodding in order to look engaged at all times. 50
Answering Questions Listen to the interviewer and clarify the question if you do not understand it to allow yourself to answer the question adequately. The bucket approach (i.e. throwing everything that you know about the question) will not effectively answer the question. Try to relate your answers to the requirements of the position and the organisations.
TYPES OF INTERVIEW QUESTIONS There are many types of interview questions, and while the underlying intent of the interviewer may be self-evident with some, for others it’s important to understand what the interviewer is trying to find out about you. Regardless of the question asked, remain calm and confident in your answer Introductory/Background Questions These questions are designed to find out a little bit more about you. It is a chance for you to explain what you have done, your attitudes and values, and the choices you’ve made in your life. It is often a good idea to address the question in a reverse chronological order and also to start with a brief synopsis. Remember that you need to be informative without going into so much detail that you bore your interviewers. Such questions may be as follows: Tell me about yourself. How would you describe yourself? What are your strengths and weaknesses? Is there an achievement of which you are particularly proud of? What is it and why is it significant? Objectives With these questions, you need to demonstrate to the interviewer that you have thought about what it is that you want from working at the firm and what you hope to achieve. At the same time you need to assure them that you are flexible and
and would be prepared to work in a range of areas. Some example questions include: What are your long term and short term goals and objectives? How are you preparing yourself to achieve them? What do you see yourself doing five years from now? Behavioural Questions To address these questions apply the STAR model and consider various scenarios, such as a time you were a good leader, resolved a problem, or adjusted to a last minute change. Questions: ‘Tell us about a time you resolved a conflict’. Give me an example in your career where you felt like giving up but managed to keep going. Career Interests Employers are often keen to find out what your major areas of interest are so that they can better assess how well you will fit into their organisation, both now as well as your potential to develop within the organisation in the future. Questions: Why do you want to become a corporate lawyer? What kind of positions are you interested in? Do you have a locational preference? What is your understanding of the current legal climate here in Australia? Are you willing to travel or relocate? Your Contribution to the Organisation Why should we consider you for this position? In what ways do you think you can make a contribution to our company? What other skills would you like to develop in the future?
Commitment to Work and to the Organisation An employer is interested in how your values are aligned with their firms. This is one area where you will shine if you have done thorough research. What do you know about our company? How do you keep informed professionally? Why did you decide to seek a position with this company? Education With these questions, interviewers hope to gain more insight into your educational background. Most importantly, they are interested in the reasoning behind your decision to study the course you did and what you think you have attained from your studies. Follow-up questions include: Why did you choose to study law? What university subjects did you like the best and least? Why? Do you plan to continue studying? What part of your education do you see as being most relevant to this position? 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? As for this final question, it simply demands honesty: the firm is likely to be satisfied if you can cite extracurricular commitments, employment or something similar. The benefit of such a response is that you are simultaneously outlining a strength, namely your involvement in activities outside university and your work experience.
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THE INTERVIEW Work Experience Do you have any vacation employment or previous experience in the legal context? Most jobs have their frustrations and problems. Describe some that have particularly dissatisfied you. What have been the most satisfying aspects of jobs that you have held? What has been the value of your previous work experience? Other Interests With these questions, employers are trying to gain a better understanding of you, and thereby better assess how well you are going to fit in with the company. There are no right answers to these questions, but it is important to think about how your interests and goals fit in with what the company does and how it hopes to develop in the future. What are your outside interests? Who is your favourite novelist? Do you like/dislike football? Approach to Work Employers are often interested in knowing how you manage different responsibilities, particularly how you prioritise your time. They are also interested in knowing how you cope in stressful situations involving tight deadlines and large amounts of work. How do you work under pressure? How do you balance work priorities and those of your personal life and family? Give me an example of when you had to work to an important deadline. What did you do to ensure that the deadline was met? Have you ever had to persuade people to your way of thinking?
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Describe a situation when you had to explain a difficult concept to someone. Tell me about your approach. How do you know they understood? Problem Solving/Analytical Skills Here is a problem that we faced recently, how would you have dealt with that? Tell me about a time when, despite careful planning, things got out of hand. Teamwork/Leadership Have you been in any situations where you have been required to perform as a part of a team? What was the situation, what part did you play in the team and what was the outcome of the exercise? Can you describe a time when your team fell apart. What was your role in the outcome? What kind of people do you find difficult to work with and why? Tell me about a difficult situation when you pulled the team together. Tell me about a time when you took leadership role of a group. What is your style of influencing/leading people? Creativity/initiative Have you ever been responsible for the generation of a new idea or suggestion? Describe and explain. Tell me of a time when you generated a creative solution to a problem. Client Focus What is your definition of ‘excellent’ client service? Tell me about a time when you went beyond the call of duty to help a client. Describe a situation that illustrates how you developed a positive relationship with a client.
QUESTIONS YOU MAY ASK
AFTER THE INTERVIEW
At the end of the interview you will be given the opportunity to ask questions of your interviewer(s). This is not a mere formality, it is expected that you ask some questions, which at the very least will reflect your interest in the organisation or firm. Be judicious in your choice of questions. Asking questions with an obvious answer would reflect inadequate thought and preparation. Always prepare a list of potential questions to ask in advance. Examples of such questions include:
Be sure to follow up and write a thank you letter to the HR from the firms you receive an offer from.
Why did you choose to work here? What was the ‘clincher’ in your decision? What did you find unique about this firm? How is a work/life balance encouraged in this firm? How do you achieve this balance? How often is feedback provided, both to summer clerks and to full-time lawyers? What sort of induction and training do you normally offer? What is the firm’s policy on taking leave for further study or associateships? What long-term career opportunities are available at the firm? What do you enjoy about your practice group? What led you to work in it? What sort of work would I be doing in your practice group? Are there any secondment opportunities for lawyers at this firm? What ‘extracurricular’ activities are available for clerks? What is your usual retention rate between summer clerks and graduate lawyers? How many years of service does it tend to take for a lawyer to be promoted to a senior associate or partner? What other factors are relevant in such a promotion? How do the various practice groups communicate and collaborate with each other when a matter requires it? 53
COMMERCIAL AWARENESS WHAT IS IT? Commercial awareness is staying frequently informed of the developments occurring in the business world. It encompasses considering the potential implications of an event and how it will affect the commercial space. These events could include geopolitical developments, changes in economic policy, or even the current financial climate in which we live. Regularly seeking news on significant deals, transactions, and issues in the industry places you in a position to consider the interests of firms you apply for, and the clients they represent.
WHY IS IT IMPORTANT? The corporate workplace is highly competitive, and employees are expected to have awareness of the space they are operating in. Having knowledge about matters affecting firms and the clients they work with is therefore crucial. Establishing meaningful relationships with clients and avoiding poor business decisions You also need to consider that commercial awareness takes time to develop; it cannot be developed overnight. Building knowledge on events and news over time is crucial to developing comprehensive commercial awareness. Major law firms are deeply embedded into the commercial space and thus look for applicants that understand the realities of business and how financial news affects the legal and corporate industries.
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HOW TO STAY COMMERCIALLY AWARE? Read the business pages from key news providers and follow the stories and trends they report over time – connect the dots. Keep an eye out for significant deals occurring in the commercial world, as these impact the industry and beyond in addition to the parties who are directly involved. If you do not understand something initially, display initiative and conduct further research. Some interesting sources to keep a tab on include, but are not limited to: Lawyers Weekly Australian Lawyer Australian Financial Review The Economist The New York Times Bloomberg News Financial Times International Financial Law Review
MENTAL WELLBEING The clerkship application period can be one of the most stressful times in a law student’s time at law school. But remember, clerkships are by no means the be-all and end-all! It is important to take care of yourself both physically and mentally during this time.
TAKE A BREAK If you have spent the day balancing university study, work and writing clerkship applications your brain is likely tired and fatigued. This is a great time to take a break! Studies say that you should take a break from studying every one to two hours. A great way to ensure you are taking enough breaks is to schedule them. On these breaks, you could go for a walk and get some fresh air or catch up with friends.
BUILD YOUR SUPPORT NETWORK AND USE IT
MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCES UNSW Psychology and Wellbeing: https://www.student.unsw.edu.au/counselling Beyond Blue: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ LifeLine Crisis hotline: 13 11 14 Contact your GP for a mental health care plan to receive up to 10 free or subsidised psychology sessions.
SELF CARE IDEAS Go for a walk Call a friend Do some baking Meditation Painting Watch the sunset Go to sleep early Clean your room
It’s no secret that law students suffer from higher levels of depression and anxiety. Add part or even full-time employment and a stressful application period into the mix & you may be left feeling seriously overextended. Don’t be afraid to reach out to your support network! Your support network could include friends, family, your GP or a psychologist. When you are stressed out, reach out to friends and family for support, even if this is just to chat with them about what is going on. If you are struggling, you can also reach out to UNSW Psychology and Wellbeing who can provide free counselling or contact your GP who can provide you with a mental health care plan and receive up to 10 free or subsidised psychologist visits.
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CLERKSHIP & TRIMESTERS CLERKSHIP DATES 3+ Under the UNSW3+ academic calendar, students now annually enrol in courses for each Term of the coming year from October. Students are able to apply for a Summer Clerkship in T2 and will be notified of the outcome by early T3. Students apply for a Summer Clerkship from early June in T2 and will be notified of the outcome in week 1 of T3 by the firms. Students will have 24 hours to accept an offer from a firm. Students who do not receive an offer are advised that if they are enrolled in compatible clerkship courses in T3, it may be worth reconsidering whether to proceed with these courses or to change enrolment to other electives based on their interest or a wish to diversify assessment timelines across your T3 courses. Please make any changes to enrolment promptly, and ideally before the T3 census date! Students who accept an offer but have NOT enrolled in clerkship compatible courses should enrol into a compatible course(s) immediately. During Week 1 of T3, there is some movement as students adjust enrolment based on the outcome of the clerkships process, and students are advised to watch for places at frequent intervals. The Law Faculty advises that any student who accepts an offer can seek assistance, if needed, to enrol in a clerkship compatible course. Please contact the Faculty Careers Manager, Ms Siobhan Ryan, s.ryan@unsw.edu.au, providing your contact number on the day of acceptance. Proof of offer and current enrolment information must be provided. NOTE – the faculty does not guarantee choice of course that is clerkship compatible.
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AVOIDING OVERLAPS BETWEEN T3 ELECTIVES AND CLERKSHIPS To maximise compatibility with Clerkship programs, UNSW Law is offering a higher than usual number of electives to UG and JD students in T3 that do not feature a formal examination (or in which such assessment is optional) that would clash with the start of Clerkships. Additionally, a number of these electives are taught intensively and will commence in Week 2 of T3. This will enable students who need to alter their enrolment after receiving an offer to change into a course without having missed the first week of classes UNSW Law has reviewed current enrolment figures in T3 electives and noted that UG and JD places remain across the offerings. Further places may be opened up in some courses as required in Week 1, T3. Students who receive an offer will be assisted, as needed, to enrol in an elective compatible with undertaking a Clerkship. However choice of course is not able to be guaranteed.
ADDITIONAL SUPPORT Because students will be required to prepare applications for clerkships during Term 2 rather than in the semester break that existed under the former academic calendar, the faculty is committed to providing them with greater support so they may maintain focus on their study and still seek clerkship positions to the same extent as previously. Students should attend one of the Law & Justice Careers Services established to help students’ best position themselves to secure a rewarding job at the end of their studies.
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DOMESTIC LAW FIRM PROFILES
ARNOLD BLOCH LEIBLER WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN?
contribute to our distinctive culture and the solutions we deliver for each of our clients.
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS?
We organise our practice groups to allow our lawyers to be broad generalists, our groups are split between transactions and disputes
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY?
From the client perspective, our services cover:
We run a formal clerkship program in Melbourne, where we usually take approximately 45 clerks over three intakes that coincide with university holidays (November/ December, January/February and June/July) for four weeks each. We aim for around 15 clerks in each intake, so you won’t get lost in the crowd. Candidates from Sydney are welcome to apply for a clerkship in our Melbourne office, and would be considered for Graduate positions in Sydney for the following year. Alternatively, expressions of interests in roles in Sydney are able to be submitted year round as we may hire on an ad hoc basis.
We look for exceptional people who are seeking, and can provide, something extraordinary. We value good grades and intelligence, as well as life experience, lateral thinking, imagination and a passion for the law. Work experience and extracurricular activities show your ability to manage your time. We look for people who know how to use initiative and accept shared responsibility for their career development. The other personal qualities we consider are a willingness to learn, sense of humour and preparedness to assume responsibility.
Banking & Finance; Competition; Corporate & Commercial; Dispute Resolution & Litigation; Native Title & Public Interest Law; Property & Development; Reconstruction & Insolvency; Taxation; Technology & Intellectual Property; and Workplace Advisory.
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? Partners: 43 in total – 32 in Melbourne and 11 in Sydney. Lawyers: 100 in total – 76 in Melbourne and 24 in Sydney Law Graduates: 30 in total – 22 in Melbourne and 8 in Sydney
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? ABL is well known for being the go-to firm when it matters. We pride ourselves on providing strategic guidance and solving complex problems related to our clients’ commercial interests, legal position and reputation. This means that our legal staff are exposed to interesting and varied work where they can fully utilise their skills and potential. We do not try to be everything to everyone − rather, we strive for excellence in our chosen areas of expertise. We encourage our employees to bring their whole selves to work each day, recognising that diversity of thought, background and life experience all 60
Applications for the Melbourne clerkships open on 4 July 2022 and close on 14 August 2022 with interviews to occur in September 2022. Students are able to apply via our website and will be asked to upload their CV, transcript and a covering letter via cvMail. We keep our process very simple.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR? ABL is a proud signatory to the Victorian LIV guidelines. To ensure students are at a level that they can really get the most out of their clerkship, we only consider students in their penultimate year of study.
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? Summer One: November/December 2022, Summer Two: January/February 2023, Winter: June/July 2023
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON? Essentially, our clerkship program is a condensed version of our graduate experience − you’ll be immersed in our culture, be given real work, real responsibility and real contact with partners and clients in meetings, calls and court hearings. We offer legal advice and support to a diverse range of clients, however we are best known for advising entrepreneurial businesses (ASX-listed, family owned and international) and for our work with private clients. We also work with international corporations with interests in Australia and enjoy long-standing relationships with a select group of other professional advisors − including accountants, private equity firms, insolvency practitioners, private bankers and overseas-based specialist law firms. While you will be placed in one team for your clerkship, our teams work together fluidly, and we work closely with our colleagues in our Sydney office. You’ll also have the opportunity to try out working for other practice groups.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM? We like to know why you’re interested in us, so please tailor your covering letter to explain why you’ve chosen to apply to ABL.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS? In Melbourne, we initially use the “priority offer” system set out by the LIV to provide offers to candidates who have clerked with us, however we may also advertise market law graduate roles on our website which would be open to any final year student or recent law graduate to apply. In Sydney, we hire graduates directly from market in addition to considering those that have come through the Melbourne clerkship and are interested in Sydney.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? Yes, we have a graduate program in both Melbourne and Sydney which commences in March each year. Students are able to apply via our careers website – www.abl.com.au/careers
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM? Once graduates join ABL they will undertake either SLT in Melbourne or PLT in Sydney in order to be admitted. From here, are lawyers participate in the 1-4 year Lawyer Development Program and Senior Associate Development Program as they get more senior, and gain exposure to some of the most complex and high-profile matters in Australia. We see our graduations as the next generation of senior associates and partners at the firm.
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Key dates for Melbourne Clerkship
Great minds think differently To find out more visit: abl.com.au/careers
What can you expect from our program? Your clerkship will provide you with a unique insight into the experience you would have as a Law Graduate at Arnold Bloch Leibler. You will quickly become immersed in our culture, have the opportunity to work with partners on active matters and be given real responsibilities. What do we look for in candidates? We value good grades and a sharp intellect, as our work is complex and intellectually challenging – but our shortlisting process doesn’t end there. We value life experience, lateral thinking, commercial acumen, resilience, imagination and a passion for the law. We appreciate people who use initiative and can accept shared responsibility for their career development, with a willingness to learn and a sense of humour.
Applications open: Monday 4 July 2022 Applications close: Sunday 14 August 2022 Interviews: Late August/September 2022 Offer day: Wednesday 19 October 2022
Sydney candidates Candidates from Sydney are welcome to apply for a clerkship in our Melbourne office, and would be considered for Graduate positions in Sydney the following year. Alternatively, you can submit an expression of interest for Sydney roles throughout the year.
ALLEN & OVERY WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN? We have four overarching practice areas in Sydney – Corporate, Banking & Finance, Litigation and International Capital Markets. We focus on innovative and expert legal solutions across a broad range of areas: mergers and acquisitions; private equity; capital markets; regulatory and funds; anti-trust/competition; litigation and dispute resolution; banking and finance; infrastructure and projects; energy and resources; communications, outsourcing and technology and tax.
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? Globally we have approximately 580 partners and 2,400 lawyers. In Australia, we have 21 partners and 120 lawyers.
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? We work to attract and retain the very best people – and we support them to build their future with us. All kinds of people work at A&O, and we have a few things in common. We’re united by ambition and drive, and the restless pursuit of excellence in everything we do. We foster a working environment based on collaboration and mutual respect, where everyone is trusted to do their very best work in the way they see fit, to a standard we all share. But as important as that work is, we know that it’s also imperative for our people to have a life beyond it. Everyone at A&O is given the space and encouragement to pursue the goals, interests and passions that make them who they are. We set the trends. Our track record of thinking differently is demonstrable in both how we think and how we work. From our expansion into new jurisdictions, commitment to the environment, and our alternative resourcing options such as Peerpoint, we are setting the standard for what a global law firm should look like. We’re motivated and excited by the potential of a changing world. We challenge each other and the status quo. We’re open, honest, and never afraid of change. We expect you to own your career, and in turn, we will provide you with the support you need to seize every opportunity.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? Our online application form will be available on our website between 6 June and 10 July 2022. You will be require to provide your CV, current transcript and answer 10 questions (with a 50 word limit). Please do not submit a cover letter.
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DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR? Our Summer Clerkship is aim at penultimate students as we are ultimately looking to recruit our 2024 graduates. However, final year students are welcome to apply but please state clearly in your application the reason that you are applying outside of your penultimate year and what year you intend to commence as a graduate.
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? It depends on business need and the quality of the applications received. We generally hire around 10 to 12 Summer Clerks each year.
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS?
There will also be time to socialise with our lawyers, partners, other clerks and the graduate team during your placement. This will help build your network and broaden your understanding of the firm. As one of the world’s largest law firms, our lawyers are working in multi-jurisdictional teams on a daily basis and we expect our lawyers to have the opportunity to work overseas at some point during their career – cultural awareness, teamwork and a global mind-set are skills that are vital to your success as a lawyer at A&O.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM? The online application is the first opportunity to stand out, so make the most of it with thorough preparation. Understand our requirements – prepare some examples to show that you have the skills we are looking for.
When hiring in to Allen & Overy, we are more interested in where you are going than where you have been, and what kind of lawyer you can become is more important than your current knowledge of the law. We look for:
Make the most of your experience – highlight what you’ve gained from your experiences, try to show your appetite for responsibility, your capacity to influence events and outcomes, and teamwork.
Mental Agility - Applies a sharp and insightful mind to work challenges. Accurately analyses information, including numerical data.
Be commercial – show an interest in the legal industry and what’s going on in the world and how it might affect us and our clients.
Change Agility - Thrives on change and actively instigates innovative improvement. Is passionate about learning and keen to develop skills and knowledge to enhance performance.
Focus on this firm - of course we expect you to apply for clerkships at other firms, but make sure you tailor your answers to demonstrate why Allen & Overy Australia is right for you.
People Agility - Builds consistently excellent working relationships with clients and colleagues. Uses deep understanding of others, from all backgrounds, to adapt influencing style. A supportive colleague and team-player. Solutions Agility - Highly energetic with keen focus on results. Persists to overcome obstacles. Delivers work in an efficient, effective, timely and technology-savvy way. Meets deadlines and has a fine-tuned detail and quality ‘radar’. For further information, please watch our Are we right for you? video.
Be accurate, clear and concise – these are fundamental writing skills of a lawyer.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON? Joining our paid Summer Clerkship Program is a great way to experience first-hand our work and culture. During the program, you will gain real experience in our practice areas, working alongside our lawyers on real deals and cases.
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM? Being admitted as a lawyer is an important milestone, and is just the beginning of your professional development at Allen & Overy. Joining one of our practice areas as a lawyer, you will have access to a suite of Associate Development Programmes that have been designed to build the core non-technical skills that you will need to progress your career and meet the demands of your new role. These include client skills, people management, and managing deals with maximum effectiveness. As a lawyer you’ll continue to be given challenging experience on deals, and will become responsible for increasingly complex elements of the transactions on which you work. We’ll also give you the opportunity to spend time working in other offices. These short-term placements provide opportunities to increase your technical knowledge while learning more about other cultures and global markets. Knowledge-sharing and developing others are fundamental to our firm’s culture, and you will be well supported in refining the skills and behaviours necessary to help graduates to progress. After around five years as a lawyer, you will be considered for promotion to senior associate. At this stage you will take on significant new responsibility, including the supervision of graduates.Beyond that, there are many career paths you can take. We have a strong tradition of promoting our people in to partnership, and last year we promoted 30 new partners across the firm.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS? To date, all our Sydney Summer Clerks have been offered a graduates position.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? We aim to recruit our Graduates through our Summer Clerkship Program.
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IT’S TIME | SYDNEY
Face up to the challenge. Put the competition behind you. Make it to the top together.
IT’S TIME.
It’s time… As an Allen & Overy Summer Clerk, you will be a part of a team which prides itself in working on top tier Australian and international deals and cases. regulatory reviews; project financing for projects both in Australia and around the world; and During your ten week placement at Allen & Overy, international bond programs. Clients increasingly you will participate in real transactions from expect global service providers and Allen & Overy beginning to end as well as specifically designed is currently one of the only firms in Australia able to provide a fully integrated domestic, exercises that provide a valuable insight into the role of an Allen & Overy lawyer. Bespoke training regional and global offering. Our four core practice groups provide a full suite of corporate, finance is provided by some of our leading lawyers in Australia including access to international training (debt and equity), international capital markets and litigation services. Within these Groups, the sessions too. practice areas are diverse, including Mergers & In addition to gaining experience in two Acquisitions, Private Equity, Projects, Structured of our practice areas in the Sydney office, Products, International and Capital Markets, our previous summer clerks have Funds, Asset Finance, Competition, Tax, Litigation been able to spend time in one of our and International Arbitration. Asia Pacific offices during the program. What we are looking for This experience will give you a greater understanding of our global network and a Our shared culture and the values inspire taste of future opportunities at Allen & Overy. the way we work and behave: instinctively As your career progresses with Allen & Overy, thoughtful, collectively ambitious, insightfully What we can offer you
you will be given a range of choices to develop your experiences, such as taking up the opportunity to spend time working in another office, whether that’s a rotation as a junior lawyer, a longer term secondment or a permanent transfer. Top tier Australian and international work From the moment you join the firm, you’ll be involved in helping our clients to protect and grow their assets. You will get involved in cross-border deals including inbound investment by international clients and outbound investment by Australian clients; international disputes and
Visit allenovery.com/careers/gradsaustralia © Allen & Overy LLP 2022
inventive and refreshingly open. There is no typical Allen & Overy lawyer. We realise each person has their unique skills and qualities. In addition to excellent academic results, we seek penultimate year students who are team players, show resilience, are good communicators, have strength in planning and organisation, are adept at problem solving and have general commercial awareness with an overall ambition to build a career at Allen & Overy.
ALLENS LINKLATERS WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN? We provide a wide range of expertise and experience, as it pertains to commercial law, across seven practice groups: Banking and Finance Competition, Consumer & Regulatory Corporate Disputes and Investigations Funds Super Wealth Intellectual Property Projects Tax
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? Approximately 864 legal staff and around 152 partners.
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? Turning 200. We are Australia’s oldest law firm, celebrating 200 years this year. Allens has some of the world’s longest ongoing client relationships, stretching back almost 200 years. 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. Linklaters Alliance We have a significant global reach due to our alliance with Linklaters. For our clients, the alliance means access to strong teams in 39 offices across 28 countries. Our global teams act as one, sharing their knowledge, best-practice approaches and talents to help solve our clients’ most complex problems, seamlessly. For our people, the alliance means: Opportunities to work on global deals with market leading lawyers. Opportunities to work on multi-jurisdictional matters with a broader range of clients. Access to Linklaters job opportunities globally. International assignment opportunities (short and long term).
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? Yes, our clerkship applications open 6 June 2022 (9am) and close 15 July 2022 (midnight). Students can directly apply here: Graduates - Allens. The application process will include students submitting a CV, cover letter, transcript and completing an online strengths based assessment delivered by Cappfinity.
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DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR?
Students can expect to (naming a few): Attend court hearings or client meetings / briefings; Conduct legal research; Draft advice.
Dive in – for pre-penultimate year law students, applications open Wednesday, 23 March and close Wednesday, 20 April.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM?
First Nations internship – applications for 2023 will open late 2022. Learn more and keep up to date here: Graduates Allens The firm has offered clerkships to students in both their penultimate and final year
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? Approximately 55.
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS? We’re proud that there isn’t an ‘Allens’ type’. We know that diverse perspectives help solve complex problems, strengthen teams and enrich client relationships. The more you enjoy working with a diverse range of people, the greater your success will be. While we celebrate our differences, it’s important to understand what unites us, and for us, that’s our firm values. These help us to succeed as a team and individually: In it together Eyes on the horizon Courageous and creative Driven by excellence Fostering greatness Building a culture of inclusion ensures our people can reach their full potential. For us, this starts with strong leadership. Our inclusion and diversity strategy is supported by an Inclusion and Diversity Council, chaired by our Managing Partner. This council provides sponsorship, role-modelling and drives initiatives across our firm.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON? We run one summer clerkship program over a 10-week period, where you will complete two rotations in different practice groups. To allow students the flexibility they need, we also offer five week programs. During this time, you’ll gain unique insight into the kind of work we do and the range of clients we work for.
Senior Associate – Once you’ve demonstrated significant technical expertise, leadership qualities and the ability to operate at a senior level, the next step is a promotion to Senior Associate. You will be an expert in your specialist area, able to apply deep understanding and strategic thinking. You’ll proactively support and develop your team while driving your own career growth.
Be yourself throughout the process and let your genuine interest in commercial law and Allens shine through. Research and keep up to date on some of the matters our firm is involved with and what areas specifically interest you and refer to that in your application. We are looking for motivated and passionate individuals.
Managing Associate – The Managing Associate role is designed to accelerate the development of our senior lawyers towards partnership. As a Managing Associate, you’ll be more engaged in the business, contributing to firm-wide strategies and initiatives.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS?
Partner – The role of Partner recognises exceptional leadership across client relationships and people management as well as specialist expertise. You will be a trusted advisor to a portfolio of clients, advising them on their most challenging and complex business and legal issues.
Yes
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? This depends on our graduate pipeline. Students can keep up to date here: Graduates - Allens
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM? Here’s what a typical career path looks like: Clerkship – For a head start in your career, apply for a clerkship and experience first-hand the type of work you could do as a lawyer with us. Our clerkship program is a stepping stone to bigger things. Many clerks go on to become graduates with us. Graduate program – Join our graduate program and embark on a journey of lifelong professional development. As a Graduate, you’ll complete two 12-month rotations in different practice areas. We’ll work with you to build a strong foundation of skills and develop the agility needed to become an excellent lawyer and thrive in our ever-changing world. Associate – After completing the graduate program, you’ll specialise in an area of law that excites you. As an Associate, you’ll take every opportunity to deepen your legal knowledge, develop your commercial acumen, grow your business development skills and focus on your specialist area.
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ASHURST WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN? Our presence in the world’s leading financial and resource centres in Europe, Asia-Pacific, the Middle East and the USA gives us the scale to attract global mandates, with cutting-edge capabilities in four key areas: Corporate, Finance, Projects & Real Estate and Strategic Advisory. Depending on the office you work in, clerks and graduates will have the opportunity to choose from different practice areas within the four main capabilities. Including Banking & Finance, Capital Markets, Competition and Anti-Trust, Corporate and M&A, Digital Economy, Dispute Resolution, Employment, Financial Regulation, Infrastructure, Intellectual Property, Environment & Planning, Investment Funds, Projects, Real Estate, Restructuring, Insolvency & Special Situations, Tax.
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? 1552 lawyers globally (610 Australian Lawyers). 455 partners globally (169 Australian Partners).
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? Our passion to be the most progressive law firm and the way in which we go about achieving this through putting Inclusion, Diversity and Belonging at the heart of everything we do and our new law programme Ashurst Advance. Inclusion, Diversity & Belonging are an integral part of who we are as a firm and why our culture is unique. By valuing differences and creating a safe space for colleagues to be themselves and thrive in their careers, we ensure our people experience a sense of belonging. It allows us to offer exceptional service to our clients and create an extraordinary place for our people to work. 74
Ashurst Advance is our New Law division which meets our clients demand for innovative and cost effective legal service delivery. We combine alternative resourcing, process and [project management professionals and industry leading technology with Ashurst’s legal subject matter experts in an integrated quality assurance package to provide our clients with legal excellence with efficient delivery.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? Yes we offer clerkship programs across Sydney, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Brisbane. Students apply through our careers website.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR? Yes we are open to clerkship applications from final year students.
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? In Sydney we are looking for 30 clerks. In Canberra we are looking for 6 clerks.
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS? There’s absolutely no Ashurst “type”. We want to actively involve a broad range of minds with a broad range of backgrounds, all united by a common set of strengths. Excellent academic record and a passion to develop a career in a leading global commercial law firm. Outstanding communication skills. Analytical ability, motivation, determination and drive.
Commercial awareness. Teamwork and interpersonal skills.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON? The work undertaken by clerks is varied and depends on the team you are in. Tasks include case law research, drafting legal expertise updates, note-taking during meetings and contract review. There will also be opportunities to be involved in attending court, drafting advice to clients, client secondments and accompanying lawyers to a pro bono clinic.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM? Be genuine, we are really keen to get to know you better. We want you to be able to be yourself at work and during the recruitment process. Take your time to research the firms and prepare a tailored cover letter that clearly articulates why you are a good fit and why you want to join that firm. During interviews listen carefully to the questions asked and taking your time before responding this will show thoughtfulness and you’re more likely to give a considered response.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS? Yes we offer graduate positions to all Sydney and Canberra clerks on successful completion of their clerkship. In Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth it is a multiple clerkship model.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? In Sydney and Canberra we offer graduate roles to our clerks. Depending on business needs and numbers of clerks who defer we may do top up graduate recruitment. Top up recruitment will be advertised on our careers website.
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM? After successful completion of the 12 month graduate program and being admitted you become a lawyer 1. You will then work your way up to Senior Associate, Counsel and Partner. Alternative pathways include Ashurst Advance (New Law), Risk Consulting, Client secondments and Overseas secondments. As part of Ashurst Academy, the firm provides global career transition programmes that support your development as you step up to the next career milestone.
Have well researched questions to ask the interviewers which will demonstrate motivation and being well prepared. Attend as many virtual or face to face events as possible to get a better sense of the firms and their culture. Participate in our free Virtual Experience Program to gain an insight into life at Ashurst.
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BAKER MCKENZIE WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN? We have 5 major practice groups, with a number of specialised practice areas housed within those umbrella practice groups.Transactional Practice Group, Banking & Finance, Construction, Employment, Tax, Dispute Resolutions, Insolvency, Intellectual Property Technology, Communications & Commercial.
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? Partners 1,506 and Lawyers 6,662
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? Baker McKenzie is not just another global law firm. We were born Global; we have always been a global firm: Our founders shared a common vision of creating the world’s first multicultural, global law firm. We continue to grow organically, not through mergers or acquisitions of smaller firms. We have a global outlook and approach that is unparalleled. We are the largest law firm in the world are unparalleled with respect to our brand across the legal market world-wide.
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DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? Yes, directly through the Baker McKenzie website.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR? We offer clerkships to students that are either graduating in 2022 or 2023.
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? 28th November 2022 - 10th February 2022
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS? Hardworking, reliable, strong communication, teamwork, innovative and inquisitive.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON?
You will develop practical and legal skills through our national learning program and by attending workshops specifically designed for Summer Clerks, as well as firm-wide sessions. You will also begin to develop your networks and profile through a host of social and extra-curricular activities, such as inter-firm trivia and sports and our Firm-wide end of year party.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS?
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM?
We tend to fill our Graduate roles through the summer clerks.
In your application try to be Clear about your reasons why you want to work at Baker McKenzie and work in a Global Firm. To be concise. Use your Cover Letter as a Gateway to your application. Please highlight YOU and please check that your spelling and grammar is correct.
Yes.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY?
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM? In Sydney, our Graduates complete 3 rotations over 18 months designed to give graduates exposure to and experience in different areas of legal practice (generally, transactional, advisory and litigious) before settling in their preferred practice area. We support your professional development by covering the costs of your Practical Legal Training in this early stage of your career. Ongoing world class professional development training is also provided during the graduate program in line with our Development Framework.
Right from the start, our Summer Clerks get involved in real work. Our Clerks are exposed to Australian and international clients through attendance at client meetings, a one week client secondment, shadowing, research and involvement in a diverse range of work within their respective practice groups. Summer Clerks are also encouraged to get involved in our pro bono matters throughout their Clerkship.
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CLAYTON UTZ WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN?
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY?
Banking & Financial Services; Commercial Litigation; Competition; Corporate, M&A and Capital Markets; Environment & Planning; Intellectual Property & Technology; Major Projects & Construction; Public Sector; Pro Bono; Real Estate; Restructuring & Insolvency; Tax; Workplace Relations, Employment & Safety and Forensic & Technology Services.
Students are required to apply online via claytonutz.com/graduates. Students are encouraged to upload a résumé to transfer general information into the application (meaning they only have to check it has transferred accurately and fill in any blanks), followed by attaching a copy of their academic transcript and answering three questions (in lieu of a cover letter). Following submission, students will receive a separate email with a link to complete online psychometric testing via pymetrics as well as an email to participate in a voluntary RARE recruitment survey. Students must complete the pymetrics testing in order for their application to be reviewed.
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? With 170 partners and over 1,600 employees across six offices, we our services span 14 key practice areas.
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? Clayton Utz is a leading Australian law firm, known for the strength of its independent culture and its confident and engaging approach. Our culture is what sets us apart. It is founded on the behavioural values of trust, respect and cooperation and our foundation value of highest ethical standards. They underpin everything we do. It affects the way we approach each other and our work, our service to our clients and our community involvement. With over 180 years’ experience of operating in the Australian and global economy for home-grown and foreign clients, we have a track-record of getting the job done well … and without fuss. We also act for low-income and vulnerable people who cannot obtain Legal Aid, and the not-for-profits which support them, in more than 1,000 matters each year. Pro bono is a fundamental part of Clayton Utz, and every one of our lawyers, at every level of seniority, is expected to perform pro bono work.
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DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR? The clerkship program is aimed at students who are in their penultimate year of university. If you are in your final year of study, please outline in your application why you couldn’t complete a clerkship in your penultimate year by answering the relevant question. We also act for low-income and vulnerable people who cannot obtain Legal Aid, and the notfor-profits which support them, in more than 1,000 matters each year. Pro bono is a fundamental part of Clayton Utz, and every one of our lawyers, at every level of seniority, is expected to perform pro bono work.
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? 30-40 clerks.
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS?
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM?
We’re looking for people who are personable, practical, commercially-savvy, as well as flexible. Our lawyers undertake complex and innovative legal work, so it’s important that our clerks and graduates are motivated individuals who aren’t afraid of a challenge.
Clayton Utz employs people with a wide range of backgrounds, skills, interests and competencies. We look for people who can contribute new ideas, who take a creative approach to solving problems, are personable, practical, and commercially-savvy, as well as flexible.
Prospective clerks can stand out in an interview by demonstrating their knowledge of who we are and articulating why they are motivated to join Clayton Utz. Additionally, we like to hear students talk about their desire to work in commercial law and areas of interest in a clear and concise manner. Finally, students who can articulate what their strengths are, using the STAR technique with strong examples, often tend to perform better. Remember, you don’t need to always think of a positive example to share with us even if the outcome wasn’t what you were hoping for, explain to us why, and what you learned from the experience!
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS?
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON? Typical activities that clerks become involved in include research tasks, writing and drafting memos/letter, attending court and client meetings, assisting with preparation of matters for hearings and supporting pro bono matters. Each day is varied and often different from the last! Clerks who are enthusiastic and prepared to give everything a go often stand out. Having a positive attitude and being curious about the work helps showcase your abilities, and ultimately help us (and you!) determine if you’re a good fit with us. Clerks who take the time to be inquisitive by asking questions, explore options both autonomously and with their teams, and present practical solutions tend to perform to a high level. Additionally, clerks who take the time to build genuine relationships with their team, clients and other colleagues outside of their immediate teams find they have a better experience and understanding of what a graduate program could look like for them.
Our clerks will be contacted directly to apply for a graduate position. If an opportunity arises to apply for the graduate program direct from market, we will advertise these opportunities on our website.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS? Generally, all graduates will be recruited from our clerkship pool in a given year, however on occasion we will have opportunities available to join directly into the graduate program. Please refer to our website for further information on when these opportunities are available, and how to apply.
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM? From our national graduate curriculum to our leadership programs, we have a range of development programs and opportunities for every career stage to develop legal, business and personal skills that will be market leading. Your career development starts on Day 1 of your clerkship program through your orientation, and your journey continues through the graduate program and beyond. In addition to local and national orientation, you can expect to receive practice group intensive sessions during your graduate rotations and ongoing professional development courses throughout your career that expand your technical and leadership development.
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CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN? Nationally, we have practice groups which specialise in the following areas of law: Arbitration; Banking & Finance; Class Actions; Commercial Litigation; Competition; Corporate; Employment & Labour; Environment & Planning; Financial Sponsors; Intellectual Property; Projects; Property & Real Estate; Restructuring, Insolvency & Special Situations (RISS); Tax; Technology, Media & Telecommunications (TMT); and Responsible Business and ESG. We also have an established Papua New Guinea practice.
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? 141 Partners & 600 Lawyers.
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? We are the only law firm in Australia that: …. Offers an international study scholarship that provides financial support for the completion of further study at Oxford, Cambridge or a US equivalent (fulltime on campus).
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? In our Sydney office, Corrs offers a one-three month summer clerkship program each year. Applications for our seasonal clerkship will open on Monday 6 June 2022 and students can apply via our website https://www.corrs.com.au/graduates-andclerks/key-dates.
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DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR?
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM?
Students in their final year are also eligible to apply for our seasonal clerkship program.
Be prepared and be yourself.
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? 36.
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS? We look for graduates who can make a positive contribution to the firm and help us in delivering legal excellence and outstanding client service. We want people who bring out the best in those around them, work well in a team, and take pride in their work and achievements.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON? You’ll be exposed to a broad range of interesting matters. You’ll also have the chance to complete a broad range of tasks, such as conducting research, reviewing and presenting documents, attending client meetings, court hearings, mediations and settlements, as well as shadowing partners and lawyers in client meetings and business development activities. You will also work on a pro-bono project with your clerkship cohort which you will present to the client together as a cohort.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS? The majority of Corrs graduates join us after experiencing a seasonal clerkship program.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? Our graduates are generally recruited through our seasonal clerkship program and the priority offer process, but from time-to-time, we also consider applications from the open market. Any graduate offerings will be advertised via our website https://www.corrs.com.au/careers/graduates-andclerks.
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM? Our lawyer development program is your first step towards a successful career, and gives structured learning in a high-performing and supportive environment. A graduate’s career starts on day one. In recognition of this, and to provide our graduates with a richer learning experience, our Lawyer Development Program is centred on a two year cycle with a 12 x 6 x 6 rotation structure. From day one, each Corrs graduate is assigned a dedicated partner who is responsible for ensuring a valuable and rewarding development experience. In the first 12 months graduates will undertake formal learning including our National Graduate Academy, local Graduate Orientation, practical legal training with the College of Law, practice group induction sessions and our national Legal Excellence program focused on core legal knowledge and skills. In the second year, lawyers will complete two 6-month rotations in order to build broad capabilities and relationships across different groups. Upon completion of the Lawyer Development Program, lawyers will settle in their chosen practice group. Many of our graduates and settled lawyers experience: Client and international secondments Sponsored post graduate study at Australian universities Sponsored international study scholarships Enhance their technical knowledge and expertise as part of our extensive in-house learning and development program
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Be exceptional.
At Corrs, we bring together engaging, curious, ambitious individuals to create top performing teams.
corrs.com.au/graduates
International Opportunities We invest in international experiences that help our lawyers grow their skills, cultural understanding and relationships worldwide. Through our long‑term relationships with leading law firms across the world, we advise on the most significant global matters and connect with the best lawyers internationally to provide our clients with the right team for every engagement. Our International Study Scholarship supports the continuing professional development of exceptional legal staff. The Scholarship provides financial support for the completion of further study at Oxford, Cambridge or a US equivalent (full‑time on campus).
Connect with us CorrsLawyers Corrs Chambers Westgarth
Contact us Cassandra Galea People & Performance Consultant +61 2 9210 6314 cassandra.galea@corrs.com.au
Dates for Sydney Clerkships: 6th June Clerkship applications open 10th July Clerkship applications close 14th September Offers made
@CorrsLaw @CorrsLawyers corrs.com.au/graduates
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DLA PIPER WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN? Litigation & Regulatory Corporate Intellectual Property & Technology Finance, Projects & Restructuring Employment Real Estate Tax
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? We operate in more than 40 countries with over 90 offices around the world, and over 4,300 lawyers globally.
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? We help the world’s top companies with their business-critical issues. Many of the deals we work on are complex and challenging – transcending not just practice areas, but borders, languages and legal systems. As a firm, we never stand still. We think nimbly and seize opportunities. We’re ambitious and are never afraid to innovate. So if you possess these qualities too, there could be a bright future for you at DLA Piper.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY?
DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR? Yes, final year students are also welcome to apply.
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? Approximately 35 - 40 across our Australian offices.
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS? Our people come from a diverse range of backgrounds. That’s what sets us apart. By opening up a range of different and unique perspectives, allows us to service our clients better. You will need a strong academic record, and a real passion for developing a career as a lawyer. But it goes further than that… Among other things, we’ll be looking for candidates who are naturally inquisitive, have plenty of drive, and can show a genuine commitment to their chosen career path. By bringing your authentic self to work every day, you’ll have an instinct ability to build relationships with peers, colleagues and clients alike.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON?
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS?
Our clerkship programme starts with an induction. This induction provides an in-depth introduction to the legal sector and the firms practice groups. It also builds your professional skills and workplace capability. Throughout the induction there will be opportunities to hear from and network with senior members of the firm.
Priority offers are made to candidates who participate in our Clerkship Programme.
Once you are inducted you’ll have the opportunity to complete work placements in our different practice groups. You’ll be given real responsibilities. Whether you’re attending a court hearing, contributing to a client meeting or assisting a large corporate transaction, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to reach your potential.
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM?
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM?
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? Yes, by completing our Clerkship Programme.
No two careers – or two people – are the same at DLA Piper. We want our people to reach their full potential as part of a diverse, global team that thrives on collaboration, seizing opportunities and commercial edge. Here, personal growth goes hand in hand with professional development to shape your individual career journey.
We are seeking applicants that are passionate about a career in Law and becoming a future graduate solicitor. We do not expect applicants to have had prior experience in Law. When applying, we’d encourage you to think broadly about your experiences and achievements from your recentpast and ensure these are clearly articulated on your CV. Take the time to look into who we are and the type of work we do so you can tailor your application to demonstrate why you are interested in a clerkship at DLA Piper.
Yes, apply online at: https://www.dlapipergraduates.com/au/apply/
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SHARE OUR VISION
SHAPE YOUR FUTURE
Our goal is simple. We want to create the future leaders of the firm. That means giving you the skills you need to become a successful lawyer, but also the experiences to discover where your true interests lie. Find out more at
DLAPIPERGRADUATES.COM
GILBERT + TOBIN WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN? Banking + Finance; Competition + Regulation; Corporate Advisory; Disputes + Investigations; Energy + Infrastructure; Intellectual Property; Legal Service Innovation; Pro Bono; Real Estate; Technology + Digital.
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? Lawyers: 475 nationally; 346 Sydney. Partners: 90 nationally; 70 Sydney.
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? As a young and independent firm, we’re not constrained by tradition, so we are always open tochange, new ideas and different perspectives on how to deliver the best outcomes to our clients. We work within a flat structure, which means our clerks and graduates have direct access to lawyers and partners who are experts in their fields, as well as matters that will improve their skill sets and career prospects. We offer an informal and relaxed environment, approachable partners and lawyers, diverse teams, friendly people who care about the firm and the high-performance contribution they make irrespective of their role. G+T presents a unique opportunity for you to make a name for yourself through the matters and transactions you work on, with personal accountability yet supported by those around you. “Our culture is quite unique, with its focus on innovation and change. It challenges you to do better, and to be bold and stand by the advice we give but one thing that surprised me when I joined is how caring it also is. It’s not just about getting the work done – there’s genuine empathy, and a lack of formality or bureaucracy.” Anna Sparkes, Chief People Officer
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? Complete an online application form and attach your cover letter, resume and transcript(s). Successful candidates may progress through the following selection stages: online ability test; video questions; assessment centre (includes first round interview); second round interview, with final online testing for shortlisted candidates. For a detailed overview of the 2022 process, please refer www.gtlaw.com.au/careers/students.
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DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR? We accept applications from students in penultimate and final year.
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? 25 to 30 summer clerks.
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS? There’s no ‘typical’ G+T clerk or graduate, or box you need to tick. We actively seek people from all types of backgrounds, and with very individual personalities. What we do have in common is what we hope you already possess. Intelligence. A creative, confident and thoughtful approach to solving complex problems. The ability to build positive working relationships within and between different teams. And above all, a sense of humour.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON? From your first day, you’ll be given the opportunity to test your skills and interest – you can expect to be involved in some challenging matters, and your work will be presented to clients. Often, you’ll work directly with a partner on a matter, or as part of a bigger team on larger transactions. While every experience varies, you might be asked to draft documents and memos, carry out research, attend client meetings and court, and assist with preparing for hearings or negotiations. “I’ve done a very wide range of work, but potentially my favourite was helping work on a case going to the High Court, and helping navigate all the procedural boundaries related to that (e.g., maximising our chances of getting a special leave to appeal) as well as ancillary work like researching timings regarding the onboarding of amicus curiae... Another particularly big highlight was the opportunity to work on IP matters going to arbitration, as whilst I have engaged quite heavily in alternative dispute resolution at university through competitions, it was interesting to see the parallels and distinctions between drafting mediation papers at university and seeing just how methodical and fastidious preparing for an actual arbitration was.” – Brandon Zheng, 2021 Summer Clerk.
While your most valuable learning will be the experience of working on real matters during your practice group rotations, you’ll also receive structured training – including sessions on the different practice areas, technology, how to create your personal brand, and business development. It’s a practical blend of on-the-job, workshop and online learning that covers a broad range of technical, interpersonal and leadership skills. You’ll also have access to G+T’s regular practice group training with other lawyers, as well as online resources to help you keep up to date with the latest legal developments.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM? Maintain perspective. It’s very easy to get caught up in the hysteria of clerkship recruitment, positions which are still highly coveted and therefore highly competitive. Whilst it is often the most linear pathway to a graduate position within private practice, a clerkship is certainly not the only way. A huge benefit to participating in this process, which is often overlooked by students, is the expansion of your network. Regardless of whether you obtain a clerkship offer or not, keep in touch with the people you connect with and build on those relationships; they can be invaluable in future years.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS? G+T’s clerkship programs are the primary pathway for our graduate programs. All summer clerks have the opportunity to secure a graduate offer, based on performance.
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM? Following completion of the 18-month graduate program, graduates settle into a permanent team as a junior lawyer. From there, they have access to a range of opportunities to further their career progression. Many of our lawyers choose to undertake postgraduate study. G+T offers funding assistance and study leave for masters’ degrees and other postgraduate courses as part of our ongoing commitment to continuing education. Each year we also award a number of scholarships of up to $10,000 to support our people to study at any educational institution in the world in a subject area of their choice, which aligns with the work that they are doing, or a focus area for the firm. Past scholarship winners have studied at prestigious institutions in the United Kingdom, United States and Hong Kong, including Oxford, Harvard and LSE, amongst others. G+T also offers secondment opportunities across our offices, in-house with clients, as well as with leading firms overseas. We support our people in seeking opportunities to work abroad, to expand their commercial skills in a global setting. We recognise everyone’s career aspirations are different. Working alongside the brightest legal minds in the country, on ground-breaking projects and matters whilst also having the chance to make a positive impact on the community, you’ll have the opportunity to go as far as you want.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? G+T offers an 18-month graduate program consisting of three rotations, commencing in February or August of each year. The primary pathway for graduates is currently via our seasonal clerkship programs, though occasionally we recruit graduates outside this process. Students are encouraged to register their interest throughout the year via our careers page.
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ARE YOU READY TO BE BOLD? There’s never been a better time to be part of Gilbert + Tobin. From day one, our flat structure allows you to take ownership of challenging work and cutting-edge projects. Work directly with partners and team leaders – nobody is too important to take time to explain things clearly, or give a helping hand. Our open and welcoming culture underpins our continued success in Australian corporate law. Through our pro bono practice, we are actively making a difference, every single day. If you’re comfortable being challenged, as well as challenging us on the way we think and operate – you’ll fit right in. We’re not worried about you being you. We’re counting on it.
gtlaw.com.au/careers
GADENS WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN? Our market leading expertise covers: Real Estate and Construction; Disputes and Investigations; Corporate Advisory (including Tax); Employment Advisory; Intellectual Property and Technology; and Banking and Finance.
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? Gadens has over 95 partners and 880 staff across our offices nationally.
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? The Grads@Gadens program is open to candidates who are PLT-qualified and will be admitted before commencing with us in March (or within the first 3 months of commencing the program). The program is based on two, six month rotations through different practice areas. Spending significant time in a practice area allows you the opportunity to make an informed decision about your chosen area of specialisation at the end of the program.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY?
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY?
No.
The 2023 Grads@Gadens program is open to candidates who are PLT-qualified and will ideally be admitted before commencing with us in March. Our application process is online via our website: https://www.gadens.com/gradsgadens-program/
DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR? No.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A GRADUATE EXPECT TO TAKE ON?
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM? Once you settle in your practice group, you will continue to undertake a variety of work across multiple partners and other senior lawyers who are leaders in their field. This will assist you further in your career as you continue in seniority and further with specialising. You will develop and excel at a rate where there is trust and confidence from those you are working with. In time, you will be promoted through to Associate and beyond.
Our graduates take on the responsibilities and tasks of a lawyer from their first day. It varies between practice groups and can include meeting with clients, conducting research, drafting a range of documents or even appearing in court! You will team-up with a dedicated supervisor who will work closely with you to develop your technical skills, allocate work and provide ongoing feedback through your rotations.
We offer genuine flexibility with Your work. Your way. helping you achieve balance both personally and professionally and a ‘dress for your day’ approach.
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HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN? Alternative Legal Services (ALT) Competition, Regulation and Trade Corporate Dispute Resolution Employment, Industrial Relations and Safety Finance Projects and Infrastructure Real Estate
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? 2600 lawyers globally.
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? With 26 offices spanning Asia, Europe, Australasia, and the Middle East, we can show you exactly what a world class commercial law firm has to offer, giving you the chance to work as part of an international team, on high-profile matters, for some of the most significant organisations in the market. Our focus is on the future: the future needs of existing and new clients, the future of the legal profession and investing in our future lawyers. That’s why we aim to attract the best talent from a broad range of backgrounds, ensuring we are optimising our position as a progressive, forward thinking professional services business. At Herbert Smith Freehills, you’ll be given the opportunity to develop the skills you need to help solve our clients’ most complex challenges in thoughtful and innovative ways.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? Yes, applications for the 2022/23 program open on 6 June and close on 10 July 2022. 108
Applications can be made through our website. Candidates are asked to submit a CV, Cover Letter, transcript and application form. Select applicants are then invited to attend an information evening, followed by two round of interviews both one on one with a Partner. Clerkship offers are based on feedback from our partners, and discussion among the recruitment panel.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR? Yes, final year students are welcome to apply.
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? Approximately 30-35 positions.
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS? Great lawyers are both curious and creative. We encourage you to challenge assumptions and open yourself up to new ideas. It’s this growth mindset that creates opportunities for you and your clients. So, what exactly are we looking for? There’s no single path to becoming a commercial lawyer. We look beyond your academic record and your technical aptitude. We’re focused on finding people who have the curiosity to explore all the angles and the empathy to place themselves in their client’s shoes. Building great relationships takes a certain understanding and as our global village gets ever smaller, we look for graduates who think of themselves as citizens of the world. We recognise and value the differences that make us unique. By embracing diverse views, we can provide our clients with innovative solutions.
We are not looking for the finished product and we know that gaining legal work experience is increasingly difficult. What we are looking for is your potential to become a Herbert Smith Freehills lawyer. Demonstrate the transferable skills you have gained through the experience you have, legal or non-legal.
If you are interested in broadening your skills further, you can also apply to complete an international rotation or a rotation through our Digital Law Group or our Legal Operations team.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM?
We know that life in a commercial law firm can seem daunting, and we’re here to provide you with all the support you need. Once you join, you’ll benefit from a two-week induction, ongoing practice group training throughout each rotation, a solicitor assigned as your dedicated “buddy”, regular feedback, plus extensive on-the-job support from solicitors, senior associates and partners. We support graduates on their pathway to becoming solicitors by providing Practical Legal Training (PLT) and support through the admission process. Once admitted, our Graduates will begin the second stage of their formal learning program – Advance. This program focused on the client, financial and people skills needed to take you to the next step of your career. At different times throughout your career you may feel like you need a new challenge or a change.
We recognise and value the differences that make us unique. By embracing diverse views, we can provide our clients with innovative solutions. Be yourself throughout the application process and emphasise the qualities that make you stand out.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS? Yes, we select many of our graduates through our vacation clerkship.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? Yes, our graduates are recruited from our clerkship program. Our graduate program gives you the chance to start shaping your future and hone your skills in a range of practice areas, providing you with a broad-based training and ensuring that you are ready to become a qualified solicitor. You’ll rotate through three distinct practice areas for six months each and will be assigned a partner and buddy for support. You will get the opportunity to submit practice area preferences before every rotation, including before your first rotation, enabling you to tailor your graduate program to your specific interests. You can also discuss your preferences with our dedicated Graduate Recruitment team.
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM?
This could mean developing new skills, setting a new direction or focus, starting a new role within the firm, or taking a short break. Pursuing a new path doesn’t mean you have to close off others. That is why we are committed to redefining how we invest in our people as they pursue diverse personal and professional pathways, both at Herbert Smith Freehills and beyond. Through our Career Pathways program, we will show you the countless personal and professional pathways that are available to you, both inside and outside the firm; demonstrate how you may be supported and rewarded as you develop a wide range of skills and pursue varied opportunities; and empower you to follow your own pathway, whatever that may be, with the firm’s complete support. 109
JOHNSON WINTER & SLATTERY WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN? Class actions Competition & antitrust Corporate Corporate crime & investigations Dispute resolution Employment Energy & resources Environment & planning Finance Foreign investment Funds management Information technology & communications Intellectual property Private equity & venture capital Real estate Restructuring & insolvency Tax
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? We have more than 70 partners and 150 lawyers
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? Our firm was started by three lawyers who wanted to do things differently – create a firm where lawyers could focus on the law and where people look out for each other. This vision shaped our firm, giving us a unique business model and culture in the market. We have a higher partner lawyer ratio, meaning clients receive the highest standard of commercial advice and our junior lawyers learn from working hand-in-hand with many of the industry’s best legal minds. We have a national resourcing model which means you will not be tied down early in your career, giving you the opportunity to diversify your skills and shape your own career path. We don’t have billing targets for our lawyers or practice groups, which means our lawyers can focus on delivering outcomes. 114
But most importantly, we pride ourselves on being down to earth, approachable, and simply, a better place to work. We truly care about the wellbeing of our people and will invest time in understanding your personal objectives to support your development, throughout your career. Our ethos is: “we’re in it together” and it’s what we live by.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? Eligible students can apply to our clerkship program by submitting their CV, covering letter and current official academic transcript via our website, addressed to Wilma Lewis, Senior People & Development Consultant.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR? Yes, JWS offers clerkships to final year students as well.
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? We usually take between 12 - 15 clerks in Sydney over the summer period.
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS? If you are enthusiastic, driven to succeed and want to continually develop your skills, you’ll fit right in. We’re looking for clerks who have not only excelled academically, but have great communication skills, thrive in a collaborative environment and want to deliver legal advice to create the best outcomes for our clients.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON? The day in the life of a Clerk is learning in the flow of your work – you add value to our matters from day one: There’s no limit to your exposure. You have the freedom to work closely with any partner and lawyer across all of our practice areas Be supported by a Mentoring Partner and Buddy Graduate/Associate who will kickstart your learning experience Involvement in complex and challenging matters and see how they evolve You may learn something unexpected and unusual through detailed research in those matters and writing articles Honing in your skills by reviewing, proofreading, and drafting contracts and memorandum Supporting on the ground by attending and understanding the courts First-hand exposure to the inner workings of a matter by attending and sitting in on client calls and meetings.
Of course, we’ll also have a few behavioural questions. It might help to do a little research on common interview questions and have a think about your responses before we meet.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? Yes, The best way to get into our graduate program is via our clerkship programs.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM? Candidates should be well prepared, have great communication skills and show a little bit of their personality. Interviews are a two-way street, so it’s important that you ask questions too, so you can choose the right firm for you. We are looking for candidates that have not only excelled academically, but who will fit with our people and culture. Make sure you tell us why you want to work for us and why you are a great fit. We want to know about your previous work experience, university studies, other achievements and any other experiences you want to share with us – so come prepared. 115
ACCELERATE YOUR CAREER Our flexible team structure means you will not be held back. Our lawyers take on the work that reflects their ability, not their job title. You’ll also benefit from your own structured and bespoke professional development program. There are no barriers to your success with us.
GO YOUR OWN WAY Our business model is different to other firms. We want our lawyers to focus on the quality of their legal work and client experience. That means you won’t be under pressure to meet billing targets. You will compete with your adversaries, not your peers.
IT’S A VIBE THING What truly sets us apart is our people. We pride ourselves on being down to earth, approachable, and simply, a better place to work. Our ethos is: “we’re in it together” – it’s the cornerstone of our business and and it’s what we live by.
NO.1 FOR FOR AUSTRALIAN CLIENTS We were named Best Law & Related Services Firm ($50$200m revenue) in 2021 beatonbenchmarks research – the industry’s only awards based on nothing but client feedback. In fact, we ranked #1 for Overall client service against all firms with a revenue over $50m.
JONES DAY WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN? Antitrust & Competition Law Banking, Finance & Securities Business Restructuring & Reorganization Capital Markets Energy Environment Financial Markets Global Disputes Intellectual Property Labor & Employment Mergers & Acquisitions New Lawyers Group Private Equity Pro Bono
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? Jones Day is a global law firm with more than 2,500 lawyers in 43 offices across five continents. Four of those offices are in Australia – Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Melbourne.
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? The Firm is distinguished by a singular tradition of client service; the mutual commitment to, and the seamless collaboration of, a true partnership; formidable legal talent across multiple disciplines and jurisdictions; and shared professional values that focus on client needs. The Firm’s 125 years of sustained growth—in experience, reputation and successful client interaction—have been built by its dedication to a ‘One Firm Worldwide’ philosophy, which fosters the creation of interoffice and crosspractice teams, assembled to ensure that clients receive the best possible guidance and representation, without regard to barriers conventionally imposed by geography, borders, time zones or language. 120
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? We do, we run an 8 week program between between November – February in our Sydney office where clerks gain exposure to the day to day life of a Lawyer at Jones Day and develop their legal and commercial skills. Summer Clerks enjoy the benefits of our non-rotational training program, which allows individuals to work with any practice at any time and tailor their experience with the office and work across their areas of interest. To apply, please go to: https://www.jonesdaycareers.com/en/locations/aus tralia/summer-clerks
DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR? We will also consider final year students or students that have completed their degree.
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? Jones Day will not compromise on the quality of candidates and offers will be made to those who we believe meet the standards for success at Jones Day. As such, we don’t have specific target number of offers for our Clerkship program.
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS? We are seeking candidates who have a strong desire to forge a successful career in commercial law. We don’t expect candidates to have any prior experience or to know what area of practice they would like to work in. We will provide the training and guidance, in return we are seeking individuals who are smart, hardworking, reliable, agile, driven and committed.
We want to meet candidates that have enthusiasm to learn and take on new opportunities. Our lawyers are not held back by title or years of experience, those that show the capability are provided the opportunity. This approach supports our lawyers in developing their learning and exposure at an accelerated rate. We seek candidates who will be great colleagues to our high performing and collegiate team. We are committed to a culture of team work, collaboration and respect and our internal practices ensure that this is driven at all levels of the Firm.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON? Summer Clerks work closely with Associates and Partners, engaging in a wide variety of tasks including drafting transactional and dispute related documents, conducting research, attending court hearings and client meetings, writing opinions and research memos, gaining insight into business development and building client relationships, and learning about the mechanics of closing a deal and the key steps and processes involved in a major dispute. We work with industry leading local and international clients and our Summer Clerks gain first hand exposure to the high calibre nature of the work that we undertake.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS? Jones Day hires Clerks with the intention of making Graduate offers. Clerks must however meet Jones Day’s performance expectations during their time working in the Sydney office.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? We do and applications must be made online. Please visit us at the below link and follow the link to the relevant page: https://www.jonesdaycareers.com/australia
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM? Our Summer Clerkship and Graduate programs are the most important pipelines of the Firm’s future lawyers and leaders. We invest heavily in these programs as we want all lawyers to have a long and fruitful career with Jones Day.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM? Show us your authentic self. Whilst we are looking for exceptional and independent individuals with strong analytical and communication skills, it is also important to show us who you are outside of your studies and law. Overall, we are seeking people who want to do the highest quality work in a friendly and cooperative environment, who demonstrate the ability to rise to a challenge and who are committed to constant growth in a dynamic professional environment. 121
KING & WOOD MALLESONS WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN? Banking & Finance Capital Markets Competition & Antitrust Construction Corporate & Commercial Digital Economy Dispute Resolution & Litigation Energy, Resources & Infrastructure Climate & ESG Intellectual Property International Trade Labour & Employment Mergers & Acquisitions Native Title Planning & Environment Private Capital Real Estate Restructuring & Insolvency Tax
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? Over 2,000 lawyers across 30 global locations.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? Students in their penultimate or final year are eligible to apply for our Clerkship Program. All applications are made through our recruitment system which is accessed via our careers website and are in line with the local law society recruitment guidelines. In our application we will ask a series of short answer questions, information about your employment and academic history and any extracurricular activities and volunteering work. As part of the application, you will also undertake a practical strengths-based assessment.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR?
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? 40-50.
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS? We value a range of skills and experiences in our employees and recognise that a diversity of strengths leads to best results. We are looking for people who have an intellectual curiosity and are intrinsically motivated. Excellent marks are not necessarily a predictor of career success. Intellectual curiosity - to us, intelligence is not measured by your GPA. We want deep thinkers who seek out information and diverse views to reach a practical and efficient solution to business problems. Client centricity – we work in our clients’ worlds and partner with them to achieve their business goals. We need people who can stand in the shoes of the client and experience things from their perspective. Learning agility – the international legal landscape is changing every day. We need people who demonstrate personal flexibility and an openness to dealing with change. Growth mindset – we are growing the international law firm for the future. We look for people who seek out learning opportunities and embrace challenges. Team work- we operate as one family, one firm working together and supporting each other across cultures. We want people who build relationships and empathise with others.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON? A seasonal clerk at KWM will get to know our people, the way we like to work, our culture, practice areas, clients and more.
Clerks can expect to undertake tasks such as: Researching client legal issues, including case law and legislation. Drafting memoranda setting out and summarising findings in relation to legal issues researched. Preparing documents (e.g., letters, memos, tables, draft contracts) to assist legal staff. Assisting in the administration of transactional, advicebased, and litigious legal/client matters. Attending client and internal meetings and court proceedings as appropriate. Attending KWM internal seasonal Clerkship Experience Program and information sessions.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM? To keep in mind the only thing we have before we meet you is your application, so use your application to engage us, and try not to use the same example to answer two different questions. Keep an open mind and be yourself, don’t hesitate to show this throughout the recruitment process. The interview doesn’t have to be a conversation about how much you love the law, don’t be afraid to explain your interest outside of law and what you are passionate about.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS? Yes, our graduates are recruited from our clerkship cohort. Clerkships are a great way for students to experience the firm. Successful completion of the clerkship program is a deciding factor in determining graduate offers.
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM? We encourage our people to shape their own career path, supported every step of the way with world-class training, coaching and hands-on experience. Once our junior lawyers have grown in confidence and gained on the job experience after the Graduate Experience Program, they will start to specialise in practice areas and industry sectors. Junior lawyers will be thinking about the future and which pathway to choose. Some career path examples are: Senior Lawyer Track – as capability, experience and industry knowledge develops some will become a senior associate (and some, special counsel) – with greater responsibility in leading teams and driving client matters. Some will then go on to achieve partnership. KWM professional track – some lawyers will step into the business side of KWM, into marketing, knowledge management or other professional roles. This area continues to grow in impact and importance. Alumni track – some lawyers use their KWM experience to pursue an alumni path. KWM has many successful alumni across in-house counsel, investment bank, regulator, barrister, business executive, entrepreneur, author/academic and judiciary. We offer all our people the opportunity to excel, a career at KWM is unique and challenging with clear rewards.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? Yes, KWM offer a unique future-focused Graduate Experience Program and invest heavily in the development of our graduates to support them throughout their career. Students interested to join KWM as a graduate should apply through our clerkship program in their penultimate or final year of study.
We understand some students are unable to complete a clerkship in their penultimate year due to various reasons, therefore we also accept applications from final year students.
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TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CAREER PATH
We are redefining what a law firm can be. Working for some of the world’s most innovative organisations, our people go beyond the law. They are inventors, designers, and pioneers – translating smart ideas into ground-breaking solutions. Grow and thrive with KWM.
WE OFFER
Culture of innovation, collaboration and high performance.
Multiple career pathways where you can shape your future.
World-class training and coaching to unleash your full potential.
High impact work for the world’s leading organisations.
Relationships that last a lifetime.
careers.kwm.com/en/graduates-australia
kwm.com
MADDOCKS ABOUT US
FROM DAY ONE
BEYOND DAY ONE
KEY DATES & CONTACT
Maddocks is a proudly independent Australian commercial law firm.
From Day One you will experience what it’s like to work at Maddocks.
Here are the important dates for our 2022/23 clerkship program:
Maddocks has over 80 partners, who work alongside more than 550 people across our offices in Canberra, Melbourne and Sydney.
This means you will have challenging, meaningful work, gain exposure to clients, be given a good level of responsibility, work in a supportive and collaborative team and have regular access to our partners.
You will have access to top quality work for high calibre clients. This will enable you to develop both your technical legal skills and business acumen on a diverse range of complex and interesting projects.
Our particular areas of focus are in the Built Environment, Education, Government, Healthcare and Technology sectors. We also offer specialist legal expertise in the areas of Employment & Workplace, Corporate & Commercial, Government Advisory, Property & Development, Dispute Resolution & Litigation and Construction Clients include medium to large private organisations, high net worth individuals and families, ASX200 companies, Commonwealth, state and local governments, leading tech companies, education institutions, not-for-profit organisations and high profile property developers. We are guided by our core values of integrity, stewardship, collaboration and working together in promoting the interests of the firm, commitment to doing things better through excellence, change and innovation and respect for the value of the individual and of diversity.
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The training you receive throughout your clerkship will ensure you are thoroughly prepared and ready to get involved in and contribute to client work straight away. The program begins with a comprehensive orientation which includes training and development activities. You will also meet the people you’ll be working with. During the program you will rotate through two practice groups of your preference, with support in each rotation from a buddy and coordinator. You will receive feedback from partners and others you work with, and a feedback review at the end of each rotation.
Working autonomously and collaboratively, you will be supervised, mentored and supported by recognised experts in their respective legal fields at every stage of your career progression. In addition, the firm offers a significant range of outstanding training and development programs tailored to a wide variety of needs and interests. Maddocks is very proud of and committed to its pro bono program which engages lawyers to contribute to the community in a meaningful way. Or perhaps your interests and passions will lead to your involvement in one of our Diversity, Inclusion and Innovation projects. For those lawyers with leadership aspirations, our Accelerate program is a career development program that has a focus on empowering senior lawyers to maximise their potential as individuals and as leaders.
Applications open: 6 June 2022 Applications close: 10 July 2022 Offers made: 14 September 2022 Offers must be accepted: 15 September 2022 For more information on career opportunities at Maddocks please contact: Samuel Jurd (Senior People and Culture Advisor) 61 (2) 9291 6286 Samuel.jurd@maddocks.com.au We recruit our graduates from our Summer Clerk program. Discover more about life at Maddocks at https://www.maddocks.com.au/careers/clerkshipsgraduate-program
Of course it’s important to have some fun too and you will have plenty of opportunities to experience life at Maddocks through a range of social and sporting activities.
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MCULLOUGH ROBERTSON WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN? We are a full-service commercial law firm offering services in Corporate, Construction, Litigation and Employment Relations and Safety just to name a few. We operate across multiple sectors including food and agribusiness, international, infrastructure, education and renewable energy to list a few. For more information, please visit our website on www.mccullough.om.au
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? 52 Partners. 134 Lawyers.
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? At McCullough Robertson clerks will get the opportunity to work on real clients within small teams and be supported by a partner, senior associate and junior lawyer. Our Clerkship programs will be six weeks of structured development programs with the opportunity to rotate through all of our legal teams in Sydney. You will get exposure to work on client matters in Corporate, Litigation, Employment Relations and Safety and Construction just to name a few.
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DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? At McCullough Robertson we offer a six week clerkship program over the summer period. Students can apply via our website www.mccullough.om.au
DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR? From time to time where we may require additional paralegal support, we may consider students outside of their penultimate year. These opportunities will be advertised on our website.
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? McCullough Robertson Sydney will be looking to take five clerks to commence in late November 2022.
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS? The qualities McCullough Robertson look for in our clerks are students who: demonstrates an eagerness to learn and give it a go; has an inquisitive mind, a willingness to ask questions and explore solutions; are passionate, committed and down to earth.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON? A clerk at McCullough Robertson can expect to be working on client matters from day one. They would be asked to draft correspondence, undertake legal research, attend client meetings, prepare witness statements and prepare client briefs just list a few.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM? Before applying, ensure you do some research on the company. Know our values, our clients and our people and know why you would like to work at McCullough Robertson.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS?
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? We offer an 18 month graduate program that consists of 2 x 9 month rotations. Our program is a structured development program which includes regularly professional, technical and on the job training. We also fully fund your PLT and provide study leave to support you.
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM? At the successful completion of your PLT, our graduates will be promoted to lawyer. At the end of the 18 month graduate program you will be on track to further your legal knowledge by selecting your area of law you want to specialise in. Beyond this, we also have a career pathway to Senior Associate.
Following the six week clerkship, McCullough Robertson will make graduate offers to clerks to commence the following year. We are a firm that truly believes in supporting your development, so if students want to take a year off to complete their Tipstaff we can defer your graduate program by one year.
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Real responsibilities. Real relationships. Sooner.
Launch your legal journey today. Connect with a member of our team to learn more about our 2022 Clerkship and Graduate programs.
Scan to find out more Thao Le Human Resources Manager tle@mccullough.com.au (07) 3233 8640 Patrick Tancred Human Resources Coordinator ptancred@mccullough.com.au (02) 8241 5670
mccullough.com.au
MINTER ELLISON WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN? Banking and Financial services Capital Markets Class Actions Competition Regulation and Trade Corporate Dispute Resolution Education Energy Environment and Planning Infrastructure Construction Property Insurance Mergers & Acquisitions Real Estate Restructuring and Insolvency Sustainability & climate change Tax and Superannuation TMT Workplace/Employment
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? Total Employees: 2500+ Partners: 260+ Legal: 1500+
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? At MinterEllison, we’re driven by a strong sense of purpose. We create lasting impacts with our clients, our people and our communities. We know, in a world of relentless disruption, we also need to think beyond the law. We’re driving digital transformation and embedding a culture of curiosity and innovation. We’re investing in adjacent consulting capabilities that enable us to provide seamlessly integrated solutions to our clients. And our people are committed to making a meaningful difference in the communities they live and work in. In 2020, we were the first law firm to have a float in the Sydney Mardi Gras, and 138
continued our participation with marchers in the 2021 and 2022 Mardi Gras!
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? MinterEllison offers a Summer Clerkship Program in Sydney. Application dates are set by the Law Society of NSW each year. Our online application form will ask you to submit your resume, a cover letter and your most recent academic results. Apply online at graduates.minterellison.com.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR? Yes, our Clerkship Program is most suited to students in their penultimate or final year of their law degree.
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? 30-35 clerks (Sydney).
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS? At MinterEllison, we are not looking for people to fit a mould. Academics are just one piece of the puzzle and we recognise the strength that diversity can bring to a team. Work experience, extracurricular activities, sporting participation, music and travel are all important criteria to us. We want you to bring your whole self to work - individual strengths and diversity are what build our teams up to be the successes they are.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON?
Our clerkship program offers meaningful work experience, structured by a comprehensive orientation program and learning on the job to build both technical skills and commercial knowhow. During our program you will:
If you are looking specifically for a graduate role, please keep an eye on our website.
work closely with partners and lawyers on active matters to meet deadlines produce quality and meaningful work participate in tangible learning & development activities and attend social and networking events
After the Graduate Program, you’ll settle into a practice group. Once admitted as a Lawyer, and after you’ve completed the Graduate Program, career progression opportunities can include Associate, Senior Associate, Special Counsel and Partner.
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM?
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM? Tailor your application to MinterEllison; highlight the research you have done and make sure you address why you want to work with us. Start preparing your application early to ensure you can submit it on time, and proofread your application before you submit it! Be yourself! We want you to bring your whole self to work. We are interested in learning more about you; showcase your skills, experiences and achievements.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS? The prospects of obtaining a graduate role at MinterEllison after completing a successful clerkship with us are very high. The majority of our Graduates come through our Clerkship Program.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? We offer a Graduate Program which generally consists of three, six-month rotations in different practice areas of law. We most often recruit our graduates from the clerkship program, but from time to time we do go to market for graduate roles. 139
DISCOVER
DISCOVER
EXCEL
EXCEL
ASPIRE
ASPIRE
Your future. Your choice. Choose to make an impact.
Your future. Your choice. Choose to make an impact. At MinterEllison, we provide our clerks and graduates with exceptional training, development and experiences.
Learn by working on real challenges Right from the start you’ll work on real client engagements, preparing you for any challenge. Discover new areas of practice, and learn the technical knowledge and tools you need to achieve your career ambitions.
Discover industry and market insights Our industry programs span across all of our practice groups, ensuring collaboration amongst our teams that creates real impact for our clients:
Health & ageing
Education
Financial services
Energy & Resource s
Real Estate
Infrastructure
Government
Bring your whole self to work We want our people to be exactly who they are at work by fostering an inclusive workplace. We want you to excel as a future lawyer. It’s all in your hands now.
Make an impact You’ll have the chance to work with our Pro Bono and Community Investment program and market-leading social enterprise practice:
Pro bono
63K+ hrs of pro bono services
RAP impact
Social impact
4,800+
over 100
pro bono hours supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations
new social enterprise and Indigenous business clients engaged and supported
graduates.minterellison.com For information and to apply visit
MinterEllison Virtual Internship Want to experience a true-to-life day of a MinterEllison lawyer? Our interactive virtual internship offers you an insight into the commercial work we undertake here at MinterEllison. Curious?
graduates.minterellison.com
MinterEllison has given me great exposure to different teams and access to a diverse range of experiences – from transactional, to advisory, to litigious work. That has allowed me to find out what type of law I want to do and where I want to settle.” William Vu Lawyer MinterEllison is a leading law firm. But we think beyond the law. Why? Because we have big ambitions to grow our firm in a world of relentless disruption. Because now is the time to reimagine the future so that we can create lasting impacts with our clients, our people and our communities. Never underestimate the power in you to make an impact.
graduates.minterellison.com
NORTON ROSE FULBRIGHT WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN?
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS?
We provide the world’s preeminent corporations and financial institutions with a full business law service.
We continue to look for people that embody our firm values of quality, unity and integrity. Our values are the core of everything we do and we look for people who demonstrate how they can genuinely align with them. Quality – We’re a team of the highest calibre, providing consistently high quality work, because our clients always come first. Unity – We share our knowledge and we work to support one another across teams and borders, because our team culture makes us who we are. Integrity – We’re trustworthy, open and fair.
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? We have more than 3,700 lawyers and other legal staff based in Europe, the United States, Canada, Latin America, Asia, Australia, the Middle East and Africa.
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? Our firm is based in 50+ cities across the United States, Europe, Canada, Latin America, Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Middle East. And in amongst that global network, you’ll find some of the finest minds in the legal sector – all ready to support your development. Working in a global firm means global opportunities – and that means getting the experience of working in our global offices.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? Yes – we offer an 8 week summer clerkship program, which involves rotating through 2 of our practice groups.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR? Clerkships are open to all penultimate and final year law students.
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? 5 - 10. 142
We respect colleagues and clients deeply, and we work to the highest ethical, professional and business standards. We also look for people with a passion for the law and client service, at the end of the day, that is what we’re about. We appreciate that as law students they may not know what areas they may want to practice in, and that’s completely normal, but we do expect to see a genuine interest and curiosity for the legal profession. Finally, authenticity is absolutely vital.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON? Our summer clerkship program offers you a real taste of life as a Graduate. To get the most out of our summer clerkship program, you should say yes to everything that’s offered and try to find out as much as possible about what it would be like to work here. This is your big opportunity to work out if a career with us is right for you. The work you’ll do: Successful in applying to us? Brilliant. The programme involves doing many of the things our Graduates do, including attending clients meetings and visits to court. You will also enjoy exposure to our deals, culture and practice areas.
There will also be lots of additional activities for you to take advantage of including: key skills training with our learning & development team Q&A sessions with heads of practice and our managing partner talks about practice areas and deals networking and social events. Wherever you look, you’ll be throwing yourself into new things, all with the support of your supervisor and your colleagues.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM?
six-month secondment – and you should be sure you’re ready for that kind of commitment. At the same time, you should be the kind of person who’d be happy liaising by phone and by email every day with colleagues and clients right across the world. Open mindedness The nature of our seats and practice areas mean you’ll get involved in a lot of different work here. You need to be prepared for that; ready to open your mind and to discover any number of directions for your career. It’s alright if you’ve got an interest in a particular field or secondment destination, but you shouldn’t be so wedded to it that you can’t consider anything else.
Commercial awareness. Most law firms – and indeed most global businesses – look for commercial awareness, but if you don’t know what it means, don’t panic. When we say commercial awareness, we’re looking firstly for people with an interest in the world around them – particularly when it comes to international business. How will today’s headlines affect companies around the world? That’s what we’ll teach you to interpret. At the same time though, commercial awareness means we’re also looking for people with experience of supporting a business. Before you run for the hills though, take a deep breath and think about your experience. Have you been involved in a university society’s committee? Or have you worked part-time, maybe in customer service or in a summer office job? It’s all relevant, and we want to hear about it.
Curiosity A successful career here isn’t solely about working hard on what you’re given. It’s about taking initiative to ask questions, seek new opportunities, meet new people within the firm. You’re not the kind of person to just put your head down and hide at your desk: you want to know more about the wider firm’s work, and how you can be part of it.
Global outlook Again, you might hear a lot about this from law firms and other businesses, but what does it really mean? First, it means an interest in global affairs. Second, it’s flexibility about where you work and live, and about your daily routine. You’ll almost certainly spend time abroad as part of your career with us – whether it’s a drop-of-the-hat trip or a
Long-term motivation There are so many milestones you’ll hit with us – but only if you’re committed for the long haul. You might not know exactly what field you want to go into yet, but you’ve got a long-term focus on a career in law. You want to establish lasting client relationships and build a network here amongst our colleagues. In short, you’re looking forward to where your career might take you with us.
Strength beyond academia An impressive academic record is valuable, but the best lawyers are more than just smart on paper. You need to be able to take the facts and the principles you’ve learned and apply them to real life to help our clients. That takes creative spark, agility and initiative – not to mention strong interpersonal skills as you get to know our clients and what they need.
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Full team ahead Our world is changing.
We’re embracing the new challenges facing our clients and our profession – from globalisation to emerging industries, from changes in society to advances in technology and innovation. We anticipate shifting dynamics and see the possibilities. And we understand the ever-changing needs of our people. With opportunities throughout our global community, you’ll gain exposure to matters that will define your career. You’ll learn and develop highly focussed skills and experience as you work alongside the partners and lawyers at this truly international firm. We don’t simply adapt to change. We thrive on it. Law around the world nortonrosefulbright.com/graduates
SPARKE HELMORE WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN?
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS?
Commercial Insurance, Government, Corporate & Commercial and Workplace.
“All-rounders” who engaged in extra-curricular pursuits as well as their studies (our graduates have often excelled at mooting, debating, team sports or student politics in addition to their studies).
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? Partners: 90 Lawyers: 437 Graduates: 40
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? We are proudly Australian and first opened our doors in the Hunter in 1882.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR?
Team players Clear and concise writers Confident and articulate communicators Experienced in any of the following: summer clerkships, casual paralegal positions, voluntary legal aid experience and tipstaffing
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? We recruit graduates in all nine of Sparke Helmore’s offices depending on business requirements. Where graduate positions become available they will be advertised through the ‘Join Us’ section on our Careers Page.
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM? We support progression right through from Graduate – Partnership. We have many Partners who have been with us their whole career and we hope we have many more in the future.
(https://www.sparke.com.au/join-us/) All information on our Graduate program can be found her: https://www.sparke.com.au/join-us/graduateprogram/. Our Sydney and Canberra Graduate Program applications are currently open and close at 5pm on 10 April 2022.
No, we do not offer Clerkships but do offer hands on practical experience through our paralegal positions.
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THOMSON GEER WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN? Banking & Finance Construction & Projects Corporate & M&A Employment, Workplace Relations & Safety Environment & Planning Gaming & Hospitality Insurance Intellectual Property Litigation & Dispute Resolution Media Property Restructuring & Insolvency Superannuation & Wealth Management Tax
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? 127 Partners and more than 360 lawyers totalling more than 560 people.
WHAT IS UNIQUE ABOUT THE FIRM? Thomson Geer provides an excellent opportunity for junior lawyers, being large enough to attract excellent quality work while maintaining small teams that enable junior lawyers to get exposed to all aspects of the matters they work on. Our small teams also mean that junior lawyers have excellent opportunities to work directly with, and learn from, our Partners and other senior practitioners and get to take a hands on role in the matters they work on.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? We offer one two summer clerkships each year. One in the November/December period and one in the January/February period. Applications are through our website. 150
DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR? No
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? Approximately 10
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS? Clerks at Thomson Geer are provided with meaningful work for real clients right from the start of their clerkship. The best way for clerks to stand out is to: show a real interest in the work and our clients; commit to producing high quality work; and demonstrate excellent communication skills. All of our clerks are viewed as potential graduates, and all of our graduates as potential leaders. We therefore look for the same qualities in our clerks and graduates that our lawyers need to possess. Our lawyers are genuinely interested in our clients and their businesses. They need a critical and curious mind and are passionate about developing solutions in their commercial context. Our lawyers work collaboratively in diverse teams with both senior and junior practitioners across legal disciplines and jurisdictions.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON?
attending client meetings; observing court proceedings; conducting legal research; drafting correspondence and court documents; due diligence and disclosure
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM? We like to see some of a student’s personality along with thoughtful responses that demonstrate their passion for commercial law, their understanding of the commercial environments and their dedication to self-improvement.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS? Yes. We predominantly hire graduates from our summer clerks.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY?
Our graduates are provided with considerable access to our Partners, resulting in unparalleled learning and development opportunities. You will have access to a high level of information to assist in the development of your commercial career, and will be mentored by senior lawyers and supported by junior staff. Most importantly – your supervising Partner will be genuinely interested in and committed to your success and the progression of your career towards admission and beyond.
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM? All our lawyers are encouraged to develop and progress in their career in a way that best suits them. Generally, our graduate lawyers settle into their permanent placements at the end of their 12 month graduate program and start to develop into specialist lawyers on a path to becoming Associates, Senior Associates and beyond.
First priority offers are made to those who completed a clerkship with us. If further graduate roles are available, they can be applied for through our website. All Thomson Geer graduates complete comprehensive training in-house, as well as structured external training which will support them to become well-rounded and technically competent practitioners, fully qualified to gain admission to practice.
Clerks undertake a range of tasks depending on the practice area they work with. Common tasks include:
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“ I felt included and part What it’s like to work for us The law is an incredibly rewarding profession, but we recognise it can be demanding. For this reason
of the team from day one which made me comfortable being myself, and made it a pleasure to come to work.
”
we create an environment that is flexible, friendly, personable, collegiate and professionally stimulating.
Developing you
Our clients are at the centre of everything we
We will dedicate time to your development as an up-
do; so it is not only the collaborative, supportive
Reach your potential
relationships we have with each other, but also the well-established, trusting relationships we have with our clients, which make Thomson Geer a great place to work.
maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle.
lots of opportunities to develop close relationships
We’re ready for you
Are you ready for us?
With over 560 people, including 127 partners across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, we’re one of Australia’s 10 largest law firms and its 5th largest independent one.
We’re looking for hard-working and motivated law students who have excelled academically, are customer focused, commercially minded, work well in a team environment and are ready to commence their career with a major law firm.
Our industry coverage and client work is diverse and
We are especially keen to talk to students who have, or are
we are regularly engaged on challenging, complex, commercial work.
working towards a second degree in technical fields, such as commerce, engineering and science.
We offer a flexible, friendly and professionally stimulating environment that puts both our trusting client relationships and our staff’s wellbeing and development at the forefront. From day one, you’ll be an active participant in the team, involved in all aspects of legal practice, and working directly with experienced practitioners.
Who are we looking for? All of our clerks are viewed as potential graduates, and all of our graduates as potential leaders. We therefore look for the same qualities in our clerks and graduates that our lawyers need to possess. Our lawyers are genuinely interested in our clients and their businesses. They need a critical and curious mind and are passionate about developing solutions in their commercial context.
valued clients.
approachable and happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. We encourage our clerks, graduates and trainees to get as much exposure to
We also have an active social committee, providing
Starting your legal career at Thomson Geer will offer you real, hands-on experience across a wide variety of commercial disciplines and industry sectors, in a supportive and collaborative environment.
is an investment in our future, and the future of our
You will find that our partners and staff are
Our wellbeing@work program supports employees to
Join a major Australian law firm.
and-coming lawyer in our team: an investment in you
with your colleagues.
different practice areas and ways of working as they can – this is a reflection of how we work as a fully integrated, cohesive, national team.
Our Graduate Program Students who complete a clerkship with us will be
“
eligible to be considered for a position in our next
I applied with Thomson Geer because it is a large Australian corporate law firm that is continuing to develop even further. I very much wanted to be a part of that growth and development. The depth and nature of work was also significant.
”
tglaw.com.au Thomson Geer @ThomsonGeer
Sydney | Melbourne | Brisbane | Perth | Adelaide
graduate program. This program runs for 12 months and includes rotation among different practice areas to help determine the area of law which best suits you.
We want to hear from you If your ambition is to develop a career in commercial law and you possess the drive to make your ambitions a reality, we want to hear from you! Applications for our 2022/2023 Sydney Summer Clerkships open on 6 June 2022 through our website.
A DAY IN THE LIFE OF A LAWYER
INTERNATIONAL LAW FIRM PROFILES
CLIFFORD CHANCE HONG KONG WHAT ARE THE KEY AREAS OF LAW THAT THE FIRM PRACTICES IN? Global Financial Markets (Finance and Capital Markets), Corporate, Litigation and Dispute Resolution, Real Estate and Tax; Pensions and Employment.
HOW MANY LAWYERS AND PARTNERS DOES THE FIRM HAVE? Hong Kong Lawyers: 175 Partners: 32 Australia Lawyers: 130 Partners: 15 Globally Lawyers: 3,600 Partners: 560
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A CLERKSHIP PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? We offer Clerkships/Vacation Schemes / Internships in most of our Asia Pacific offices – including Sydney, Perth, Hong Kong and Singapore. All applications can be made via our website: https://careers.cliffordchance.com/apac/home.html
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DOES THE FIRM OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR? This varies from office to office, in Hong Kong we accept final year vacation scheme applications.
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR? In Australia we will host a total of 20 clerks, in Hong Kong around 30 and 18 in Singapore.
WHAT ARE THE QUALITIES THE FIRM LOOKS FOR IN CLERKS? To be successful in your application, you will need to demonstrate your potential to become a firstclass professional, and your willingness to take advantage of the many opportunities that you encounter. You must exhibit ambition, drive and commitment; you will have the ability to clearly articulate your ideas, and the desire to build relationships and deliver outstanding service. We’re also looking for business awareness, a keen commercial insight, and a strong ability to lead and manage.
WHAT RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS CAN A CLERK EXPECT TO TAKE ON? We want you to gain a real understanding of what it’s like to work here, so you can expect to work on a wide range of tasks – from research, drafting and assisting with deal management to attending court.
DO YOU HAVE ANY ADVICE FOR STUDENTS APPLYING FOR A CLERK POSITION AT THE FIRM? Be yourself, do your research and speak to people at the firm. Don’t forget to double check your application too!
DOES THE FIRM OFFER GRADUATE POSITIONS TO CLERKS? Our Clerkships and Vacation Schemes are the primary route to our Graduate/Trainee programmes, when applying for a Clerkship/ Vacation Scheme you will be automatically be considered for a Graduate Position.
DOES THE FIRM OFFER A GRADUATE PROGRAM, IF SO HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY? In Hong Kong, we open a Direct Application process annually – applications will open in January and close in April. In Australia we will open Graduate Positions if vacancies become available.
WHAT IS THE PROGRESSION PATH OF A GRADUATE LAWYER AT THE FIRM? Graduate Lawyers at Clifford Chance can expect to be offered plenty of personal and professional development opportunities, the ability to lead on deals and work with world-leading clients. Whilst all Graduate Lawyers in our Australia offices are offered secondment opportunities, similarly Associates / Senior Associates in all offices can be given opportunities to second to other locations or clients. We listen and respect individual career ambitions and support in making these a reality.
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STUDENT TESTIMONIALS
ALANA TARRANT
CHELSI WILLIAMS
5TH YEAR ARTS/LAW CLERKED AT CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH
5TH YEAR PSYCHOLOGY (HONS)/LAW CLERKED AT KING & WOOD MALLESONS
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR FIRM?
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR FIRM?
Choosing a firm between different offers is a task that you don’t realise is actually really challenging until you face the day that you have to make the important decision. It is also a difficult task at the beginning of recruitment as students typically don’t have the time to apply to every firm. Ultimately, all top tier firms provide amazing work opportunities. Therefore, what it came down to was whether my personality fit the personality of the firm. This is something that you will pick up on during recruitment by the way they run recruitment and also the people you meet. Corrs was fairly relaxed and flexible, yet I knew it was a powerful player in the market and it was a firm that will continue to be in the spotlight. I also wanted to choose a firm that was proudly independent and Australian.
I always felt comfortable after a KWM event. During the interview rounds, the people I met were genuinely interested in my experiences –in and out of law. The recruitment process always felt like a two-way street, where I was able to learn about KWM just as must as my interviewers were able to learn about me. Everyone I met, from current clerks to partners, went out of their way to ease my nerves and answer my questions.
THE MOST SURPRISING PART OF YOUR CLERKSHIP? I was most surprised by how much time partners were willing to take out of their day to help you out! Partners often have very pressing timetables, especially at the end of the year. However, after a client meeting or task that I had been given, the partners would sit and explain the context behind the situation so that I could have a better grasp of why things were occurring commercially. I was also sent edits to my drafts which really assisted in my development.
WHAT TYPE OF WORK DID YOU DO?
ADVICE TO STUDENTS?
Similar areas of law are grouped in what Corrs calls ‘villages,’ and the clerkship requires you to rotate in each village so that you get sufficient exposure to all areas, both back-end and front-end. I rotated in Banking and Finance, Property and Real Estate, then finally Commercial Litigation. My work involved sitting in on client and team meetings, writing letter drafts, doing legal research, and checking documents such as company constitutions and leases. I found that litigious work was more research heavy, whereas my work as a clerk in the transactional rotations was more centred around drafting documents.
My biggest advice is to spend a lot of time on written applications to make sure you have a “commercial story.” This was advice that I was given, and it was what I believe landed me the interviews. People find stories captivating and therefore the most ‘captivating’ and effective cover letters are ones that narrate a story but from a commercial perspective. This entails explaining what skills you have, why they are different from other people and therefore, why you will be an asset to the firm. Feel free to include interesting facts in your cover letter that demonstrate your personality (for example, I mentioned I enjoyed running and this was a topic of interest in my interviews).
BEST PART OF YOUR CLERKSHIP? The best part of my clerkship was the overall exposure to commercial law. Prior to the clerkship, I did not have experience in a law firm. This as therefore an eye opener for me as I got to see how a commercial law firm actually operated. 166
Overall, being confident in your professional abilities but always being willing to learn and staying humble is a combination that I believe will put any law student in good stead for being a very strong clerk and future lawyer.
WHAT TYPE OF WORK DID YOU DO? I rotated through the Environment and Planning, and International Funds teams. These rotations offered a mix of disputes and transactional type work. On the transactional side, I was involved in the first draft of an investment management agreement and the final read through of a product disclosure statement. As part of the Environment team, I became very familiar with Westlaw and CaseBase – researching anything from the meaning of ‘know’ to offshore wind farms. I also attended a court-ordered mediation as part of a compulsory acquisition matter.
BEST PART OF YOUR CLERKSHIP? During my Environment rotation, I attended chambers with a partner and junior solicitor in the team. Here, I witnessed an interesting discussion between counsel, the client, and an expert witness on land valuation.
THE MOST SURPRISING PART OF YOUR CLERKSHIP? How willing everyone was to donate their time. From graduates to partners, members of both teams were always willing to explain concepts and unpack how the task I was completing fit into the broader picture. I learnt a lot, very quickly, because of how much time members of the team invested in my learning and how patient they were answering my many questions.
ADVICE TO STUDENTS? Take some time to think about what you want to know about the firm. Prepare some questions about the firm in general, rather than niche aspects of the law. I was always interested to know how people ended up in their respective practice groups and why they chose to either start or build their career at a particular firm. Also, take care of yourself. The recruitment process can be mentally draining and requires constant self-reflection. Take some time away and chat with family and friends outside the law – this fresh perspective is always refreshing.
The knowledge in the room (although intimidating) was fascinating to watch as different members of the profession bounced ideas off one another to move the matter forward. 167
CIARA MURPHY
NOAH SOLOMON
5TH YEAR ARTS/LAW (HONS) CLERKED AT MINTER ELLISON
5TH YEAR COMMERCE/LAW CLERKED AT GILBERT + TOBIN
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR FIRM?
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR FIRM?
Minter Ellison were extremely personable in the application and interview process. I found that on a social and personal level I got along really well with the interviewers and the lawyers they teamed me up with to chat about any questions I had. This was important to me as I found a similarity in work and cliental across the different firms, so seeing how I as a person could fit into the firm was an important differentiator. Minters also has a very strong LGBTQI+ community and ally support which was important to me. From a work perspective, their Australian focus and domination was significant as I hope to peruse a career in public and administrative law.
I chose Gilbert + Tobin for a two key reasons. Firstly, the firm prides itself on its meritocracy. G+T’s flat hierarchy allows young lawyers who possess desire to learn to progress fast and get involved in the very interesting work very early on in their careers. Secondly, the culture at G+T captured my interest immediately. Everyone I met during the application process, from graduates to HR to partners, were all so willing to support me, give me honest advice and answer all questions no matter how simple or complex. This gave me a direct insight into the culture at G+T, where everyone works as a team and is always willing to help one another.
WHAT TYPE OF WORK DID YOU DO? I rotated through two teams, Risk & Regulatory and Employment. Risk & Regulatory is the newly instituted consulting arm of Minter Ellison. In this team I assisted with audit reports and reviewing documents, as well as attending meetings with both clients and other teams in Minter Ellison to engage in collaborative problem solving for clients. In Employment team I was placed on a discovery task for a large class action. I was involved in all the meetings reading the class action as well as conducting a review of documents for the discovery task. The type of work I conducted as a clerk compared to a paralegal is significantly different. As a clerk there is a huge emphasis on exposing you to a variety of different tasks and demonstrating to you what the lawyers, associates, senior associates, and partners do on a day-to-day basis. As a paralegal, in the capital solutions team, I was trusted more to conduct client facing work, for example conducting Product Disclosure Statement reviews for large investment funds. 168
I found both types of work were of huge benefit to me from a learning and exposure standpoint. The emphasis at Minters for the clerkship was on being exposed to a variety of tasks and people to understand what your future graduate placement would look like.
BEST PART OF YOUR CLERKSHIP? The friends you make are incredible! Really take advantage of the friends in clerkship and also the relationships you can make with other young lawyers (go on lots of coffee catch ups!). I was also able to participate in the Mardi Gras float which was an incredible experience for me personally and also allowed me to develop really strong relationships with a variety of people across the firm – seeing your partner in glitter booty shorts really brings you to a closer level!
THE MOST SURPRISING PART OF YOUR CLERKSHIP? How welcoming and engaged the partners are in your development as a clerk and paralegal.
ADVICE TO STUDENTS? Enjoy the application process, as much as it is extremely stressful and draining, really look to how the firms treat you as a human being and consider whether you can see yourself happy and thriving in that work environment.
WHAT TYPE OF WORK DID YOU DO? I rotated through G+T’s Real Estate + Projects (REP) and Competition + Regulations teams (C+R). During my REP team rotation, I assisted by completing settlement and completion tasks in relation to two large real estate transactions, one involving an international hotel and one involving a hospital. During my C+R rotation I assisted on an ACCC investigation of our client on an ACL matter, in addition to completing research on a proposed merger.
BEST PART OF YOUR CLERKSHIP? The best part of the clerkship experience was spending time with our cohort of clerks. Whether it was interfirm sport, pizza making or a post clerkship trip away, the cohort are now not just work colleagues, but genuine friends for life. G+T did an amazing job facilitating activities in which the group could bond, from an innovation project where in groups we were tasked with designing and coding a legal application, to working in groups on meaningful pro bono matters.
THE MOST SURPRISING PART OF YOUR CLERKSHIP? I was most surprised by how willing everyone is to get to know you and help. As G+T use an open plan office, it is very easy to interact with other lawyers and partners throughout the day. I never realised how much I could learn from just having conversations with the people around me.
ADVICE TO STUDENTS? My 3 tips would be: (1) Make sure you do extensive research into the firms you wish to apply for and find a culture that suits you. Take advantage of all the clerkship events, talk to as many people as possible and really get to know the firms before applying. (2) Start the application process early. The application process is long and is in the middle of the UNSW term. The earlier you start, the less stress you will have and the better your outcomes will turn out. (3) Be yourself. Applications, interviews, assessment centres and cocktail evenings may seem daunting, but if you can really show the firm who you are and what you are all about, this will really go a long way.
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ROHAN INDAP
SARAH MCKENZIE
5TH YEAR COMMERCE/LAW CLERKED AT CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH
DEGREE IN ARTS (IR & POLITICS)/LAW CLERKED AT DLA PIPER
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR FIRM?
WHY DID YOU CHOOSE YOUR FIRM?
Corrs adopts a holistic vision in designing effective solutions for clients, and accordingly, the strong collaboration between practice groups in matters captivated me. Throughout the clerkship process, everyone from Corrs was approachable and friendly, which spoke volumes about the strength of the firm’s culture. Corrs has and will continue to provide me with a myriad of opportunities to develop my skills and I knew that I would learn from exceptional people as excellence as at the heart of Corrs.
I chose DLA Piper primarily for two reasons; we do high quality work for top tier clients, and the culture and people at the firm are incredible. Due to DLA’s position as an international firm which takes a sector group approach, we are able to attract quality clients who are looking for one law firm to provide advice over a number of jurisdictions and practice areas. Knowing that the work I would be exposed to was high calibre, it was also important to me to be part of a supportive culture. From day one I have always felt I was able to bring my whole self to work at DLA. DLA is genuinely close-knit firm that strikes a balance between undertaking quality work and enjoying spending time with your co-workers.
WHAT TYPE OF WORK DID YOU DO? During my first rotation in the Tax group, I helped the team to advise companies on their tax obligations in Australia and this was particularly interesting where offshore entities were involved. Additionally, I was also involved in pro-bono matters for charities! In Banking & Finance, I engaged in due diligence tasks for syndicated facility agreements and associated transactions as well as shadowing meetings for a Partner who was negotiating terms for agreements. Finally, in Property & Real Estate, I drafted deeds, sub-leases, shadowed meetings and had the fortune of helping a Partner advise an ASX-listed company on their obligations as a result of legislative changes.
BEST PART OF YOUR CLERKSHIP? The best part was being able to experience the ‘in’s and out’s’ of working at a top-tier commercial law firm whilst engaging rigorously in social activities . Everyone was welcoming and more than happy to share their knowledge and experience. And all team members, regardless of their level of seniority, involved me in matters and asked me to complete tasks pertinent to the matters. All the clerks had a strong bond and by the end, it felt like we had all known each other for years. 170
THE MOST SURPRISING PART OF YOUR CLERKSHIP? Definitely the degree to which I was engaged in matters. Given that we had 3 x three-week rotations, I thought that it would be difficult to be involved extensively. However, as mentioned above, team members were willing to involve me in matters whether that be by way of drafting documents or shadowing meetings, in an effort to help me learn about the type of work that they do. I acquired skills that I continue to use, even in nonlegal contexts.
ADVICE TO STUDENTS? (1) Be prepared as early as possible – spend time finalising your resume and the bulk of your cover letters early. This saves you from having to stress about it whilst applications are open. (2) Be true to yourself – convey what makes you unique and YOUR own passions and hobbies, not what you THINK should be on paper. (3) Put it in perspective – the clerkship process is going to be a very small (and I mean really small) part of your long career. Try your best, but remember getting one does not guarantee success! (4) Keep an open mind – go to firm events or information sessions! If you talk with representatives of the firm, don’t be afraid to ask if you can add them on LinkedIn. And if you have questions, send them a message. Arrange a phone call or coffee catch up if you want!
WHAT TYPE OF WORK DID YOU DO? During my clerkship I was exposed to a wide variety of work. I rotated in our Real Estate team and the Employment team, and also did work for the Restructuring team. In Real Estate I did exclusively transactional work which included legal research, completing commercial terms in commercial leasing documents and preparing epitomes (contract summary documents). In employment I was exposed to both transactional and litigious work including assisting on disputes in the fair work commission.
BEST PART OF YOUR CLERKSHIP? The best part of my clerkship was being able to build relationships with my fellow clerks, and more broadly my co-workers across the firm. From participating in clerk sports to working on pro bono projects together, having lunch together, Friday night drinks, and frequent ‘coffee catchups’ there were infinite opportunities to build relationships and be immersed into the DLA culture.
THE MOST SURPRISING PART OF YOUR CLERKSHIP? The most surprising part of my clerkship was being given meaningful legal work from the beginning. I commenced my clerkship with a university mindset that when I was asked a question, the instructing solicitor would know the answer, and that I was trying to work towards a specific answer, in a similar way to approaching a university assignment. However, I quickly learnt that if I was being asked a question - whether it be to do research or about a matter- it was genuinely because the team didn’t know and were trusting me to add value by finding the answer. It was an incredible experience to be entrusted with contributing to the team by completing meaningful work right from the beginning.
ADVICE TO STUDENTS? My key advice to students would be to make your applications personal to the firm, and to look after yourself throughout the process. In terms of personalising your application, you need to make it clear ‘why this firm’. If you’re applying for DLA Piper, it should be clear why you want to do a clerkship at DLA, not just why you want a clerkship somewhere. Try and connect with the firm such as by making reference to our values or linking your volunteering experience to our pro bono projects. That will make it clear that you’ve done your research and you think you’ll be a good fit for our culture. Secondly, make sure you’re looking after yourself. The clerkship process is long and make sure you take time to relax and recharge. 171