2013 Pre-Penultimate Guide

PPG PRE-PENULTIMATE GUIDE

PPG

PRE-PENULTIMATE GUIDE

2013

EDITOR & UTS LSS CAREERS (PUBLICATIONS) DIRECTOR Katherine RICKARD

SUB-EDITOR Nicola COOPER

DESIGNER Courtney FAY

CONTRIBUTORS Loki BALL Georgina BARRATT-SEE Nicholas BENTLEY Laurie BERG Katheryn CROSSLEY Chris CROESE Rojda DAG

James DARCH Jerome DORAISAMY Isabelle DUGGAN Greg JOHNSON Nesha JEYALINGAM Christopher MURPHY Hannah RUMBLE

Michelle SMERDON Kate TAYLOR Fiona TSCHAUT Lloyd WOOD John WU

DEAN OF LAW Lesley HITCHINS

ASSOCIATE DEAN OF LAW (TEACHING & LEARNING) Bronwyn OLLIFFE

UTS LSS PRESIDENT Katherine AGAPITOS

UTS LSS VICE PRESIDENT (SPONSORSHIP & CAREERS) Emma WHITE

WITH THANKS TO Kwik Kopy Neutral Bay UTS Law Students’ Society C/-Faculty of Law UTS PO Box 123 Broadway NSW, 2007 Australia Copyright & Disclaimer © 2013 UTS Law Students’ Society This publication is copyright. Except where permitted under the Copyright Act, no part of this publication may in any form or by any means (electronic or otherwise) be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted by any process, without specific written consent of the UTS Law Students’ Society. Enquiries are to be addressed to the publishers.

Disclaimer: The articles and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Law Students’ Society, the Editor, or the UTS 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 uses or relies upon it. The editor, authors and UTS Law Students’ Society accept no responsibility for any damage, injury or loss occasioned to any person or entity, whether law student or otherwise, as a result of a person relying, wholly or in part, on any material included, omitted or implied in this publication.The user of this guide acknowledges that he or she will take responsibility for his or her actions and will under no circumstances hold the editor, authors or UTS Law Students’ Society responsible for any damage resulting to the user or anyone else from use of this publication.

CONTENTS

04

Message from the Editor

05

Message from the Associate Dean (Teaching and Learning)

06

LSS President’s Welcome

07

Student Career Opportunities

08

Legal Practice Areas

10

Working Whilst Studying - Survive Law’s Top 5 Tips

11

Paralegal Experience at a Boutique Law Firm

12

UTS: LAW Career Seminars

13

Working for a Barrister

14

Working as an In-house Paralegal

16

Being a U:PASS Leader

17

Research Opportunites at UTS:LAW

19

Working for the Crown

20

Volunteer Opportunities

21 22

Volunteer Legal Centres in Sydney

23

Considering a Clerkship?

24

What is a Clerkship?

26

How to Walk, Talk, Eat, Drink and Sleep like a Future Clerk

28

UTS Accomplish Program

29

Corrs Chambers Westgarth Firm and International Secondments Profile

32

Student Extra-Curricular Opportunities

33

The Importance of Extra-Curriculars

35

The Law Society of NSW Young Lawyers

36

Law Competitions

40

The Brennan Program

41 42

The Community Ambassadors

43 44 44 46

The Student Volunteer Committee

The Merits of a Non-Legal Industry Job

UTS BUiLD

Writing for a Publication Achieving a Balance Study Techniques

48

The Mental Health of a Law Student

50

Mentoring Programs

52

Exchange Opportunities

03

I would like to welcome you to the

future colleagues), other law students

inaugural Pre-Penultimate Guide. The

and academics.

concept for this Guide was developed last year after the UTS LSS witnessed

Luckily for you there are various

an increased desire by younger law

opportunities for you to get involved

students to be informed and engaged

in university life while enhancing and

with the commercial legal sector. Many

developing the skills that will be applica-

pre-penultimate students want to know

ble to your future career. I signed up to

what a clerkship is, how they can best

the UTS LSS in my first year, and since

prepare for this period and in what ways

this time I have found law competitions,

they can engage with the industry prior

mentoring programs and social justice

to applying for their clerkships.

events such as running the City2Surf for the Child Rights Taskforce to be invalu-

I found this mirrored my own experi-

able. Employers have made clear that a

ence as a pre-penultimate student: eager

sense of balance between law and other

MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR KATHERINE RICKARD

to enter the legal industry but unsure

activities is an important indicator of a

where to start. In my first year, career

well-rounded student, and I have found

decisions seemed like a matter for the

that activities such as these enabled

UTS LSS CAREERS (PUBLICATIONS) DIRECTOR

distant future. The first three years flew

me to balance my degree with other

by and before I knew it, I was at the

interests and hobbies.

end of my third year – one year before clerkship applications opened and two

A law degree opens the doors to a wide

years from graduating. Such an experi-

variety of career paths such as work-

ence makes one realise the limited time

ing as a lawyer (either domestically or

that students have to get involved at

internationally), becoming a Barrister,

university and in the work place to make

or working in corporate advisory, public

their CVs stand out.

service or social justice organisations.

The only way to discover the career path

Although five years seems like a long

you want is to gain as much exposure to

time, it is never too early to start think-

the industry as possible through volun-

ing about your future. The earlier you

teering, work experience or mentoring

get involved in extra-curricular activities

programs. I urge you to get involved in

and programs such as the Brennan

as many opportunities as you can before

Justice & Leadership Program or the

it’s too late.

Student Volunteer Committee, the better. Not only do these extra-curricular

I hope that this Guide helps you find

activities make your CV look impressive,

law-related career and extra-curricular

but they also give you an opportunity to

opportunities while at uni, or at least

meet a variety of people, including cur-

stimulates thoughts about where your

rent legal professionals (potentially your

law degree may take you – wherever that may be!

04

2013 UTS LSS Pre-Penultimate Guide

Welcome to the inaugural edition of

Becoming involved in programs such

the Pre-Penultimate Guide (the ‘Guide’).

as The Brennan Justice and Leadership

This Guide for law students is designed

Program, or the UTS LSS Competitions

to give an overview of the career options

will bring you much fulfilment and

which await you on the completion of

enjoyment. These are also the types of

your law degree. Knowing about these

activities which develop those graduate

possible options may influence you

attributes which employers are looking

in your choices of electives or it may

for on a CV when considering potential

inspire you to investigate more fully

employees.

those career paths that interest you most.

I think that you will find the Guide to In addition to career options, the Guide

be very informative and helpful and that

includes information about the many

it will enjoy the fine reputation of other

exta-curricular activities that are avail-

UTS LSS publications.

able at UTS. Research shows that those

MESSAGE FROM BRONWYN OLLIFFE UTS:LAW ASSOCIATE DEAN (TEACHING & LEARNING)

students who become involved with

Above all, be inspired and get involved!

student activities at university have a much more satisfying student experience. Best wishes With such a great range of programs

Bronwyn Olliffe

and activities available at UTS there is surely something for everyone. If you like the sound of one of the activities, give it a try.

05

Thank you for picking up or download-

and most certainly beneficial whilst

ing a copy of the inaugural UTS LSS

studying law. In doing so, the Guide

Pre-Penultimate Guide for 2013.

specifies a comprehensive range of extra-curricular activities that both the

Amongst many purposes, our role as a

University and the UTS LSS specifi-

Law Students’ Society is to assist you

cally offer their students. Some of these

to prepare for and undertake legally

initiatives include actively participating

related employment opportunities. As

in the Brennan Program, competitions,

a law student, you are fortunate to have

the UTS Accomplish Program, UTS

a diverse range of career opportuni-

BUiLD and the UTS LSS Community

ties available to you whilst studying

Ambassadors Program.

and upon graduation. Tertiary legal education is about equipping students

The Guide also provides a foundation

with strong research, writing, time

for enlightening younger students as to

management and analytical abilities; a

the nature of clerkships and the type of

consciousness of ethics and the pursuit

attributes that firms look for in a poten-

PRESIDENT’S WELCOME

of justice; a strong work ethic; and a

tial clerk. Further, it exposes students

KATHERINE AGAPITOS

wealth of legal knowledge and technical

to an array of different firms that offer

skills sufficient to place you in a position

the clerkship and graduate programs.

where you may excel in whatever disci-

However, the focus of this Guide also

pline you choose. In saying this, prepar-

extends to an array of employment

ing for clerkships and graduate positions

opportunities in other practice areas and

across many types of legal firms and

firms that are not necessarily commer-

practice areas certainly requires develop-

cially focused.

UTS LSS PRESIDENT

ing the necessary extra-curricular skills that demonstrate a candidate’s capacity

I trust that you will enjoy the first

to be what is often described as a well

inaugural edition of the Pre-Penultimate

rounded graduate.

Guide and I wish you the best of luck in your career ahead, along whichever path

This Guide aims to promote the range

you choose.

of extra-curricular opportunities available to students as well as expose

Best regards,

them to the multitude of areas of law

Katherine Agapitos

and career options that are available

06

STUDENT CAREER

OPPORTUNITIES

LEGAL PRACTICE AREAS Isabelle Duggan (UTS LSS Secretary)

When deciding which area of the law you wish to practice

Family Law

in there are many factors you must consider such as which

Family law issues include divorce and the subsequent division

subjects did you enjoy at university and what legal work

of assets and liabilities, pre-nuptials, child custody, spousal

experience have you enjoyed? You must also consider the type

and child support, adoption, termination of parental rights,

of work environment you would prefer to work in since some

paternity, child neglect and protection from abuse. Family law

areas of law are more commonly practiced in different types

is very focused on the rights and obligations of the parties

of firms such as large global firms or smaller boutique firms,

and may involve advocating on behalf of a child, de facto

or even in-house counsel for a company.

or same-sex partner’s rights. Day-to-day work involves legal research, drafting contracts, writing letters of advice, meeting with clients, drafting court or tribunal submissions as well as

Criminal Law

opportunities to practice both alternative dispute resolution

Criminal lawyers represent defendants facing criminal charges

and litigation.

in state, federal and appellate courts. Their scope of practice includes bail bond hearings, plea bargains, trial, revocation

Conveyancing/ Property Law

hearings (parole or probation), appeals and post-conviction

Conveyancing law deals with the transfer of property or real

remedies. The day-to-day work of a criminal lawyer involves

estate and the legal issues in relation to transferring property

meeting with clients, interviewing witnesses, compiling and

title from one party to another. Day-to-day work involves

cross-checking evidence, attending court, researching case law,

drafting the legal documents necessary for the transfer of real

statutes and procedural law, building defences and develop-

property and ensuring the buyer legally secures title of land.

ing case strategies, negotiating with the prosecution to plea bargain to lesser charges, drafting, filing and arguing motions

Criminal law, family law and conveyancing are most com-

on behalf of their client. Criminal law can offer a fast-paced

monly practiced in small to medium sized law firms both in

work life filled with advocacy, creativity and continuous

metropolitan and regional areas.

thinking on your feet.

08

2013 UTS LSS PRE-PENULTIMATE GUIDE

Commercial law

Due to the multitude of practice areas a large commercial

Commercial law is practiced in large domestic and interna-

law firm offers, many graduates aim to start their careers with

tional firms as well as medium-sized and boutique firms.

these legal firms. However, many medium-sized or smaller

The largest commercial law firms have some of Australia’s top

boutique firms specialise in only a few areas of the above list,

clients and largest revenues. They are called upon to advise

and these firms also offer positions to graduates and casual

on some of the most significant transactions or to act for

paralegals. In large commercial law firms graduates are often

ASX200 listed companies. The large commercial law firms

involved in a rotation program where they are placed for a few

have a multitude of practice areas including:

months in an area of expertise before moving through other areas, typically running through a 1-2 year rotation program.

Banking & Finance

Conversely, as smaller firms tend to specialise in a select few

- Acquisition Finance

areas, graduates will gain experience across the range of the

- Asset Finance & Leasing

firm’s matters.

- Corporate Finance - Property Finance

Day-to-day work involves drafting advice, articles and letters,

Capital Markets

attending meetings with clients, associates and partners,

- Debt

tracking legal and regulatory developments and engaging in a

- Equity

range of legal research.

- Securitisation Competition/Antitrust

There is also the opportunity to work in a range of areas

Construction

of commercial law by working in-house for a company or

Corporate/M&A

organisation. In-house legal teams are generally a support

Dispute Resolution

function to the operational and commercial aspects of the

Employment

business. Day-to-day work involves handling legal issues

Energy & Natural Resources

that come up in the course of doing business. As a result,

Environment

lawyers become more specialised in the industry in which

Financial Services Regulation

their employer is engaged.

Insurance Intellectual Property

As a pre-penultimate year student, talk to your peers, lecturers

- Patents

and those with an established legal career in order to get some

- Trade Mark & Copyright

understanding of the opportunities and experiences available

International Trade/WTO

to you, and to discover what type of firm or area of the law

Investment Funds

you would enjoy working in.

Native Title Private Equity Projects Real Estate Restructuring/Insolvency Tax Technology, Media & Telecoms - IT & Telecommunications - Media

09

WORKING WHILST STUDYING: SURVIVE LAW’S TOP 5 TIPS Kat Crossley writes for Survive Law

1. Start early

3. Be realistic

Many law-related jobs require prior experience, so it’s a good

Work experience can have obvious career benefits, but full-

idea to get a head start early in your degree by picking up

time work combined with full-time study is often difficult to

some part-time work. This can also be the perfect opportunity

manage. It is worth remembering that uni is about more than

to road test the areas of law that you’re interested in and to

just landing a good job, and it is important to remember that

see if it’s as good in practice as it was in class. If you’re not

if you are enrolled in a full-time uni course, you need to treat

sure how to get started, ask a law student or lawyer working in

it like it is full-time and not neglect your grades or your wellbeing.

an area you’re interested in to find out how they got there.

4. Extra-curricular activities and internships 2. Don’t worry if it’s not law-related

Internships are a great way to learn new skills and try new

It is easy to make the mistake of thinking that all work you do

areas without an ongoing commitment. They’re also great for

while studying must relate to the law. Students too often ne-

your CV. There aren’t many opportunities to test your career

glect to realise that the skills learnt in other industries such as

options once you’ve graduated, so make the most of your time

retail and hospitality are applicable to the legal industry. After

at university to explore areas you’re interested in.

all, law is a customer-orientated industry so learning customer services skills whilst waiting on tables may be more

Many employers are also looking to hire people with interests

applicable to your law degree than the paralegal photocopying

outside of the law, so don’t think you have to scrap your extra-

all day long. Working in a different industry will also provide

curricular activities and hobbies just so you can study.

a sometimes well- required break from the law. You’ll often be surprised how those random weekend jobs and activities can

5. Make your own opportunities

be relevant to job applications you’ll find yourself submitting

Job-hunting isn’t just about heading to Seek or MyCareer. Just

in the future.

because an organisation that you like isn’t hiring doesn’t mean they wouldn’t be happy to hear from you. They might even

Survive Law is a website for Australian law students. We started at

take you on for work experience! Remember, if you ask for

UTS and publish daily updates about study, careers tips, wellbeing, legal

help the worst they can say is no. If nothing else, you’re likely

news and job opportunities. Check us out at survivelaw.com, and follow

to be at the top of the list for future roles.

us on Facebook (facebook.com/survivelaw) and Twitter (@survivelaw).

If you’re a budding wordsmith who loves writing about all things law school related, join our team of more than 50 law student writers! Email the editor at editor@survivelaw.com

10

2013 UTS LSS PRE-PENULTIMATE GUIDE

PARALEGAL EXPERIENCE AT A BOUTIQUE LAW FIRM Chris Murphy

During my time at university, I did not try and attain a sought-

Spend a week assisting the principal lawyer in

after and coveted position at a large commercial law firm.

Queensland on a commercial litigation in the Supreme

Rather, I spent two days a week working in a small boutique

Court of Queensland;

law firm. Working as a paralegal in a smaller firm is an experience that I would recommend to all young law students

Attend numerous court hearings in the Supreme

out there looking to develop their skills and understanding of

Court of New South Wales, District and Local Courts;

the law. It is a fantastic way to start your career as a lawyer.

Help develop numerous training seminars for both I came into my job as a paralegal with no idea of what I was

internal and external client use; and

getting myself into. I thought I had a pretty good understanding of the law after two years of study, however this illusion

Help run in conjunction with a senior lawyer my own

was quickly shattered on my first day of work. There is a sig-

piece of small-scale litigation.

nificant gap between what it is to study law at university and what it is to practise in a firm. Learning this relatively early on

Further, I have been able to work on my drafting and legal

in my degree has been incredibly valuable in my progression

writing skills, as well as research and oral communication

as a law student.

abilities. I have been able to apply these skills to my studies and have a greater ability to pinpoint and assess the legal issue

Working in a small law firm may not have the big name

and look at the ‘bigger legal picture’.

branding of a corporate law firm, but it does have an immeasurable range of benefits. Paralegals in smaller firms are

The other significant benefit of working in a small law firm

expected to aware of everything and ready to take on any op-

is the relationships that you foster and develop. The nature

portunity. You could be drafting a letter of advice one day and

of the small firm allows you to quickly meet and work closely

spending your day in court the next. You need to be adapt-

with more experienced lawyers who often impart invaluable

able and ready to jump into any task that you are given. I was

advice and guidance. The lawyers at my firm not only became

incredibly fortunate during my time as a paralegal, and had a

great mentors to me, but also developed into close friends.

tremendously broad range of experiences such as:

11

It is important not to forget that working in a small firm, as

My tip for all law students is to begin looking for a job in a

with any firm, will at times be challenging. Smaller firms tend

small law firm as soon as possible. It will provide you with

to not have the precedent library that larger firms have, mean-

fantastic experience, and help you work out whether law is

ing that a lot of the time you will be starting from scratch

where you really want to end up. Be keen, active and always

when given a task. This can be daunting, and you will often

willing to get involved. If you are a person that enjoys being

feel like you have been thrown in the deep end. The thing

challenged and taken out of your comfort zone, then a job in

that always got me through was having the confidence to back

a small law firm is for you. The benefits you will take away in

myself, and knowing when I was out of my depth. When that

terms of your studies are immeasurable.

happens, asking questions is the easiest way to solve whatever problems you may have. Lawyers are not expecting the worldthey know you are young and still learning.

UTS: LAW CAREER SEMINARS

This year UTS:Law will be holding four interactive careers seminars where students can hear from and talk to professionals from the Bar, the community and government sectors, professional services and mid-tier/boutique firms. The aim is to invite UTS graduates, ranging from freshly graduated to long-established in their career, who will speak about how they got started, the challenges they faced finding their place after university, paths they explored, what they like about their career and tips for newly-graduated students. The events themselves will be kept small and intimate to provide for a casual, conversational atmosphere and dialogue between the students and professionals. First up, on Wednesday, 3 April, is the Bar. Register online at http://cfsites1.uts.edu.au/law/ news-events/events-detail.cfm?ItemId=34025

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2013 UTS LSS PRE-PENULTIMATE GUIDE

WORKING FOR A BARRISTER John Wu (UTS LSS Education (Internal Engagement) Director)

While legal skills and the ability to analyse and churn through

frequent trips to the Bar Library researching cases, commen-

masses of evidence are crucial at Wentworth Selborne

tary on legal doctrines or past legislation or codes of practice.

Chambers, it is equally as important to be lively, passionate

Ultimately, summaries or notes are prepared by the barrister and

and happy to meet new people. Even though barristers

the clerk as a team to condense the client’s case so that it is able to

essentially have their own practice, the whole floor is a library

be explained clearly and persuasively to the court.

of rooms where barristers share knowledge, experiences and, quite often, mentor one another.

As barristers have the freedom for their own work preference, work durations for the clerk may also vary. Personally, I am

Myself and other clerks or assistants working on the floor

currently working part time; two to three days a week, with

receive jobs from one or more barristers. Tasks can range

seven to eight hour days. However, during exams, I am able to

from legal research, reading expert reports and photocopying,

work from home with hours at my discretion as long as I get

to writing memorandums, drafting advice and position papers,

the work done. The flexibility of the arrangement allows time

and preparing notes and working on strategy for hearings.

for university studies as well as other commitments.

These tasks may vary considerably from one barrister to another as each one has their own way of preparation and

It is definitely a great and insightful experience working with

organisation. Barristers may have multiple conferences with

a barrister; especially if you have an interest in litigation and

instructing solicitors or clients and may appear in court almost

dispute resolution. Whether it be attending court hearings

every day for completely different cases. Therefore it is es-

and busily scribbling notes as the judge dictates, anticipating

sential to be organised and structured in preparation and have

various attacks from the opposing party, indulging in the

a clear, sharp mind to respond to questions from the bench

excitement of counsel examining witnesses, or even just

and when advising clients. From the very start of the brief

having a coffee with the barrister, you learn by application

to counsel, it is my job to go through the file and to provide

of your legal knowledge and by observing and questioning

an overview on the issues in the case, the arguments from the

why certain procedures were taken or why the outcome was

various parties, and the relevant law surrounding the dispute.

or was not as expected. Along with a strong commitment to your tasks, passion and willingness to engage are elements that

Depending on the matter, expert reports, correspondence and

amplify your experience working with a barrister.

various documents may be served on parties, which contain all the relevant evidence. Efficiently and carefully, both the barrister and the clerk tackle these files and gradually, the strategies to the client’s case theory emerge. Further, there may be

13

BANKING & FINANCE IN-HOUSE PARALEGAL James Darch

‘In-house’ legal teams

The dispute related work stream revolves around highly

In-house lawyers (commonly referred to as ‘in-house counsel’)

regulated (mainly litigious) processes requiring the bank to

are essentially lawyers that are ‘employed’ by organisations

follow strict protocols to ensure fairness and due process.

to carry out basic or ‘vanilla’ legal tasks, solely for those

This type of work provides the ideal experience for any

entities. This means that unlike external lawyers who act for

student seeking a career in commercial litigation. In terms of

multiple clients, in-house lawyers have only one client: the

front end advisory work, this stream involves advising the

very same organisation which employs them. Today, in-house

bank on proposed or ongoing transactions and can be divided

legal teams are commonplace and are found within almost

into three main work types:

all major Australian corporations across the broad spectrum of sectors including retail and investment banking, insurance,

Trust deed perusals – This type of transactional legal work

telecommunications, accounting, mining and energy and

generally involves the review of trust deeds which concerns

resources. The composition of these teams varies depending

a party seeking to enter transactions with the bank. These

on the organisation and sector, however they normally include

transactions predominantly relate to types of borrowings, but

a ‘general counsel’ (leader of the in-house legal team), senior

not may also encompass securities and derivatives. The main

and junior in-house lawyers, paralegals and support staff.

task for an in-house paralegal at a bank within this work type is to peruse/review the trust deeds and identify the various

What type of work would an in-house paralegal for a

trustee powers that the bank desires to be contained in the

bank undertake?

trust deeds so that the transactions can go ahead. These

The work type will vary depending on the specific financial insti-

powers include, inter alia, powers to mortgage, grant security,

tution and internal team but for paralegals, the work-type can be

borrow, grant power of attorney and be indemnified out of

split into two main areas. The first broadly encompasses transac-

trust assets. Should a trust deed not contain various powers

tional advice or ‘front end’ legal work and second encompasses

sought by the bank, a paralegal will utilise the precedent ad-

disputes. This is also referred to as ‘back end’ legal work.

vice documents to note the deficiencies in the trust deed and advise the bank’s risk department and lead banker (the banker that has carriage of the transaction), how these deficiencies can be overcome through subsequent trust amendments.

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2013 UTS LSS PRE-PENULTIMATE GUIDE

Lease reviews – These leases concern properties that the

What are the benefits of experience as an in-house

bank is seeking to take security over and/or provide finance

paralegal at a financial institution?

for. A paralegal will review the leases with a view to identify-

Although there are a plethora of benefits which can be drawn

ing the key terms and conditions that would adversely affect

from working as an in-house paralegal at a bank, the most

the value of the property or would obligate the bank to take

pertinent include:

various courses of action, should the bank become mortgagee in possession. The types of lease terms that a paralegal

Developing a commercial mindset – For anyone seeking

seeks to identify relate to, inter alia, the duration of the lease,

a long-term career in commercial law, it will become clear

annual rent yield, permitted use, responsibility for outgoings,

that employers are seeking the development of a commercial

modification permissions and the ability to sub-lease. Any

mindset. Such a mindset includes the ability to analyse the

adverse terms and their potential ramifications will be noted

legalities of a client issue and the underlying business objec-

in the advice to the bank’s risk division and the lead banker.

tives and ramifications of any legal advice proffered. Experience as an in-house paralegal enables you to develop a broad

Land dealings – This is the most varied, challenging and

commercial skill set and the ability to approach legal issues in

relatable aspect of work for an in-house banking paralegal

a commercial manner.

(particularly if you have studied the subject of Real Property).

Manageable commitment – Working 2-3 days per week

The types of tasks which a paralegal will be assigned involve

during semester and flexible working arrangements makes

the review of proposed ‘dealings’, generally encompassing

in-house paralegals the ideal casual employment choice for

Land and Property Management pro forma documents,

any university student seeking legal experience. Although

that relate to land over which the bank has security. These

the work involves more mental engagement than some other

dealings include, inter alia, covenants, rights of carriageway,

casual jobs, it enhances the theoretical foundations provided

easements, subdivisions, consolidations and boundary

through law school.

adjustments. The overarching purpose of a paralegal review of these dealings is to identify any potential adverse ramifica-

Desired by employers – In my experience, previous

tions and how they would affect the value of the land. This

employment as an in-house paralegal is seldom something

information will then be provided to the risk department of

that potential employers have encountered. They have a high

the bank and the lead banker.

regard for this type of experience, particularly for its ability to assist in the development of a commercial mindset to legal advice and also because the work types (particularly trust deed perusals/reviews and lease reviews) are synonymous with the legal work many first year solicitors encounter.

15

BEING A U:PASS LEADER IS HARD WORK. WHY SHOULD I SIGN UP? Georgina Barratt-See

Each semester, there are about 10-20 U:PASS leaders who are

People skills: I think managing the more dominant student in one of

law students in a range of law and non-law subjects. U:PASS

my sessions taught me some important people skills. (Spring 2012)

is a facilitated study program where paid senior student leaders run weekly study classes throughout semester. High

Communication: Having 26 students in one of my UPASS ses-

achieving students (with a distinction in the subject and a

sions was extremely challenged but it was great to be able to work on com-

distinction average) are invited to apply. Being a U:PASS leader is

municating succinctly and clearly to such a large group. (Spring 2012)

hard work – why should you think about it if you’re a law student, when there are so many other opportunities? Well, rather than

Leadership and mentoring: I feel that i have improved my

me try to persuade you, let the U:PASS leaders tell you:

leadership and mentoring skills, particularly with helping to build the confidence of the student mentioned above. To see her gain confidence was

Why do you want to continue being a U:PASS leader?

very satisfying for me. (Spring 2012)

U:PASS has been a fantastic experience for to develop my communication skills. I’ve also loved the experience of helping students who are experi-

Patience: Helping others to work through their studies and to guide

encing difficulty. I’ve loved being able to help students understand concepts

them in this way is a great challenge. This also requires a lot of patience

and work on problems. It’s been a pleasure to assist students as much as

because at times they are at quite a basic level and it’s slow going. (Au-

possible, and it’s an extremely rewarding experience. (U:PASS Leader, Real

tumn 2012)

Property, Spring 2012) I’ve loved my time as a UPASS leader. To be able to engage with students in an interesting and challenging subject and to see them

Managing groups: I once again learnt how to assert control over

develop is extremely satisfying. (U:PASS leader, Criminal Law, Spring 2012)

a group (who at times got distracted and started talking about irrelevant things, such as other subjects) without sounding dominant. The students

What have you learnt in the last fortnight as a

did not in any wall feel intimidated or annoyed at my attempts to get

U:PASS leader?

them back on topic. I once again was able to revisit the course content and

Refreshing previous material: This week I actually learnt

gained educational experience. (Autumn 2012).

quite a lot from the restrictive covenants lecture that I had previously forgotten. The subject area was complex when I did it in Autumn last year

Being a U:PASS leader is a unique opportunity to develop a

and it was great to be able to refresh my memory. (Spring 2012)

range of skills, give back to other students, and really learn what you are capable of. For general information on U:PASS

Time management and improvisation skills: One class finished the exercises really early and I had to think of additional material to discuss. In the other class there was a lot more discussion so I needed to direct the class more to finish all the exercises on time. (Spring 2012)

16

and if you wish to apply, visit ww.ssu.uts.edu.au/peerlearning

2013 UTS LSS PRE-PENULTIMATE GUIDE

EVER WONDERED WHERE A LAW SCHOOL ESSAY COULD TAKE YOU? RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES AT UTS:LAW Kate Taylor (UTS LSS Vice President (Education)) & Laurie Berg (UTS:LAW Faculty)

Research involves activities that increase knowledge, answer

The tasks of the research assistant may be quite varied such as:

a question or solve a problem. These skills are fundamental

Research cases, legislation, bills and treaties,

to any career in law. Every student practices these skills

Conduct literature searches for journal articles, second

when they undertake a law school essay, but how can you set

reading speeches or relevant reports,

yourself apart in the eyes of potential employers?

Prepare casenotes or summaries of a particular area of the law, and

There are two main ways that you can get involved in research

Edit academic work for publication.

during your studies at UTS; working as a research assistant or by completing a research thesis. Both options are highly

If you are interested in becoming a research assistant, more

valued by employers. They show that you are able to work

information can be found at: www.law.uts.edu.au/careers/

independently, meet deadlines and think critically about a

researchassistant

legal problem presented to you.

Completing a research thesis/undertaking honours Working as a research assistant while studying at

If you are doing particularly well in your law degree, you

UTS: LAW

should consider undertaking the research thesis. The subjects

Becoming a research assistant to a member of Faculty is an

76040 (for LLB students) and 77740 (for JD students) involves

excellent opportunity to polish your legal research skills and

the research and writing of a supervised thesis on an approved

increase your exposure to a particular area of law. It will also

topic in law. This subject provides an opportunity for LLB and

allow you to cultivate a relationship with an academic. An

JD students to further develop and refine their legal research

academic for whom you have worked as a research assistant

and writing skills, as well as to critically engage with an area

will be well-placed to provide potential employers with letters

of law of their own choosing.

of recommendation about your talents and abilities. Research assistants also often benefit from the mentoring of their

Under the guidance of a thesis supervisor (generally a Faculty

academic supervisors, who may offer advice on employment

member who has taught you in a related topic) you will under-

opportunities and how to develop professional networks in

take independent research in order to write an 8000- 12000

the relevant field. Not only can this be a valuable experience,

words thesis. You choose the topic, so you are able to choose

but it differentiates you from other graduates when pursuing

an area of law that interests you and it also gives you the op-

employment or postgraduate study overseas.

portunity to engage in cross-disciplinary scholarship between law and your other degree, for example communications law, health law, international law, business law. Examples of past theses can be found at www.law.uts.edu.au/honours/theses

17

Successfully completing a research thesis or paper signals to

JD students

potential employers that you have gained advanced research

JD students who commenced your degree prior to 2012 may

and written communication skills, research skills that enable

attain Honours in either of two ways. First, you qualify for the

you to distil and utilise legal information, the ability to analyse

award of Honours if you have achieved a WAM of at least

the law strategically, and to evaluate legal and policy options

80 per cent across all subjects in the JD. Second, you can also

and viewpoints and a high level of independent thinking,

qualify for the award of Honours if you attain a WAM of 75

creativity and critical analysis.

(based on all the subjects in the JD) and have completed the research subject 77740: Research Paper.

Additionally, at UTS, completion of the Research Thesis allows you to complete your degree with First or Second Class

JD students who commenced your degree in 2012 or later

Honours. Completing your degree with Honours sets you

qualify for the award of Honours if you attain a WAM of 75

apart from other law graduates.

(based on all the subjects in the JD) and have completed the research subject 78102: LLM Project by Research.

The requirements to complete your degree with Honours are

For more information, visit www.law.uts.edu.au/honours/

as follows:

or contact Jennifer Burn at Jennifer.Burn@uts.edu.au

LLB students To graduate with Honours you must: Successfully complete the subject 76040 Research Thesis as one of your electives.

Not fail any subject after the first semester of study.

Successfully complete not less than 96 credit points of law subjects.

Subject to requirements below, obtain an Honours mark (WAM) of: - For First Class Honours: no less than 75.00.

- For Second Class Honours: in the range of 70.00 and 74.99 NOTE: students may discount their worst three subjects provided that at least 12 UTS Bachelor of Laws subjects are included in the calculation. However, a student’s Honours mark must include the mark obtained by the student in the subject Research Thesis even if that mark is one of their three worst.

18

2013 UTS LSS PRE-PENULTIMATE GUIDE

WORKING AT THE NSW CROWN SOLICITOR’S OFFICE Michelle Smerdon (UTS LSS Publications Director)

My life as a “public servant”

Solicitors in these teams have the ability to advise and repre-

With the focus working in large or medium-sized corporate

sent the State Minister in native title claims as well as interven-

firms, not many people consider the option of a future legal

ing in matters concerning the Commonwealth Constitution.

career in the public sector. Working at the NSW Crown Solicitor’s Office (“the CSO”) has made me realise that not only is

In the Child Protection team, I work under approximately 15

this an option for a future legal career, it is one of the most

solicitors and our main client is the Director General, Depart-

rewarding and dynamic careers an individual could have.

ment of Family and Community Services. Solicitors in the team provide advice on child protection concerns and litigate

As a paralegal in the Child Protection team at the CSO, I am

on matters where a child is at significant risk of harm and the

given significant responsibility on various matters, including

natural parents cannot provide adequate care for the child. A

assisting in difficult Children’s Court matters, District Court

large part of my job is to work on out of home care adoption

Care Appeals and Supreme Court parens patriae matters. My

matters, drafting affidavits and court documents to support

day-to-day work includes drafting affidavits, writing observa-

the adoption of a child to their foster parents – a process that

tions to Counsel, preparing briefs, drafting Court documents

ultimately changes the lives of those involved.

and corresponding with Courts, parties and agents.

Why work at the CSO? What type of work is involved?

The legal experience I have gained from working in a fast-

The CSO is the legal service provider to the NSW govern-

paced, competitive environment under immensely intelligent

ment, serving over 300 government agencies on a commercial

lawyers who specialise in various areas has been invaluable.

basis in litigation, legal advice and transactional work. The

The CSO provides numerous mandatory and optional

Crown Solicitor specialises in a variety of work, consisting

training courses for employees, ranging from legal research

of 11 broad teams, including Government and Commercial

workshops to general team meetings where solicitors share

Practice, Tort Law, Administrative Law, Native Title Law

their experiences at Court, information pertaining to their

and Coronial Law & Inquiries, among others. The CSO also

matters and recent advice they have provided to the government.

successfully competes against top-tier law firms for legal work.

Each member within the office is seen as an integral member CSO employees work on matters of public interest and impor-

of the team and is valued for their work and effort, whether it

tance, in areas of law that are often not offered by firms in the

is filing documents or carrying a matter as a solicitor.

private sector such as Constitutional and Native Title Law.

19

VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES Loki Ball

My values are defined by the belief that every single person has

that will put an end to homelessness in Sydney so that young home-

important skills and abilities, and that living a good life depends on

less people can enjoy their right to life and development. I have

whether those skills can be used and abilities expressed. Voluntary

always been passionate about social inclusion and connecting isolated

service gives everyone the opportunity to live a good life and help

people, and now I am able to use my strategy and policy skills to

create one for others. For law students, volunteering in the commu-

pursue my passion rather than just serving food at a shelter. This is

nity sector is an ideal place to learn about social justice issues and

just one practical example, but the principle of the using the range

pick up new skills. The community sector is ideal for personal growth

skills you possess applies to all my ongoing volunteer work.

because resources are always limited, you are placed at the centre of difficult social issues and you will be asked to do more with less.

My goal is to help create a world in which every young Australian

These challenging conditions will take you outside of your comfort

has the opportunity to realise their full potential. With a clear goal in

zone and force you to think creatively. In my opinion, creativity is the

mind, I am able to undertake strategic volunteer activities to create

source of innovation. Given the right volunteer opportunity, a well

the change I seek. I am impelled to take extraordinary action by

focused and open mind can engage creativity to disrupt the norm

my love of humanity and my profound desire to live with love in all

and innovate new solutions. With energy and persistence, you may

aspects of my life. What impels you to act?

even be able to solve unsolved social problems. What skill could be more valuable or worth learning?

About the author Loki has assumed a number of leadership roles with a variety of

To have a rewarding experience, volunteers must seek to give more

not-for-profit organisations which has seen him work throughout

than just their time. To find satisfaction in your work, you must exer-

Australia. Loki has volunteered in areas of community need ranging

cise all of your talents, skills, passions and resources. If you don’t, you

from youth services to homelessness to refugee disadvantage and hu-

will be left feeling underutilized and frustrated. So rather than trying

man rights. Loki’s contribution to the community sector was recog-

to find an interesting volunteer role, first ask yourself what skills and

nised in December 2011 when he was named NSW Youth Volunteer

abilities you possess which can be used to improve your community.

of the Year and later National Volunteer of the Year. Loki also serves

Roughly speaking, each person has three different skill categories.

as a non-Executive Director on a number of community boards and

Heart skills are things you are passionate about. Head skills are

committees, including The Centre for Volunteering, Sydney Home-

things you possess a special knowledge of. Hand skills are things you

less Connect and the Australian Child Rights Taskforce. Loki’s work

can do very well. So what are your passions? What do you know a lot

to advance the legal rights and interests of vulnerable children was

about? And what are you very good at doing? If you can help create

recognised in August 2012 when he received the National Children’s

a good life for others by volunteering your knowledge and abilities to

Law Finalist Award. In December 2012 Loki completed a scholar-

do something you’re passionate about, then you are doing very well.

ship course in social enterprise with the School for Social Entre-

My volunteer journey began when I was sixteen and started serving

at UTS. Professionally, Loki works as an Advisor to the Australian

food at Australia’s largest homeless shelter. Now aged twenty-three, I

Human Rights Commission and the National Children’s Commis-

am still volunteering with Sydney’s homeless but in a different way.

sioner. He also runs his own social enterprise to develop leadership

I now work with Sydney Homeless Connect to take strategic action

programs for high school and university students.

preneurs and in June 2013 he will complete his Bachelor of Laws

20

2013 UTS LSS PRE-PENULTIMATE GUIDE

VOLUNTEER LEGAL CENTRES IN SYDNEY Katherine Rickard (UTS LSS Careers (Publications) Director)

The following list of volunteer community legal centres has been compiled from various searches on the Internet, the main source being www.clcvolunteers.net.au. The National Pro Bono Resource Centre also provides a website with up to date social justice opportunities for law students at www.sjopps.net.au.

Arts Law Centre of Australia Woolloomolloo w: www.artslaw.com.au e: artslaw@artslaw.com.au p: 02 9356 2566

Immigration Advice and Rights Centre Sydney w: www.iarc.asn.au e: iarc@iarc.asn.au p: 02 9279 4300

Redfern Legal Centre Redfern w: www.rlc.org.au e: sophie@rlc.org.au p: 02 9698 7277

Australian Centre for Disability Law Strawberry Hills w: www.disabilitylaw.org.au e: info@disabilitylaw.org.au p: 02 8014 7000

Inner City Legal Centre Potts Point w: www.iclc.org.au/iclc_volunteer.html e: iclc@iclc.org.au p: 02 9332 1966

Refugee Advice and Casework Service Sydney w: www.racs.org.au e: admin@racs.org.au p: 02 9114 1600

Community Legal Centres NSW Surry Hills w: www.clcnsw.org.au e: clcnsw@clc.net.au p: 02 9212 7333

Intellectual Disability Rights Service and Criminal Justice Support Network - Redfern w: www.idrs.org.au e: info@idrs.org.au p: 02 9318 2887

Sydney Regional Aboriginal Corporation Legal Service (SRACLS)- Strawberry Hills w: www.sracls.org e: vikki.lennon@sracls.org p: 02 9318 2122

Consumer Credit Legal Centre (NSW) Surry Hills w: www.cclcnsw.org.au p: 02 9212 4216

National Association of Community Legal Centres (NACLC) - Sydney South w: www.naclc.org.au e: naclc@clc.net.au p: 02 9264 9595

Tenant’s Union of Australia Surry Hills w: www.tenants.org.au e: tunsw@clc.net.au p: 02 8117 3700

Court Support Scheme Broadway w: www.crcnsw.org.au e: info@crcnsw.org.au p: 02 9288 8700

National Childrens & Youth Law Centre Sydney w: www.ncylc.org.au e: volunteering@ncylc.org.au p: 02 9385 9588

The Aged-Care Rights Services (TARS) - Surry Hills w: www.tars.com.au e: tars@tars.com.au p: 02 9281 3600

Environmental Defender’s Office NSW Sydney w: www.edo.org.au/edonsw/site/volunteers.php e: edonsw@edo.org.au p: 02 9262 6989

Public Interest Advocacy Centre Sydney w: www.piac.asn.au e: piac@piac.asn.au p: 02 8898 6500

Welfare Rights Centre (NSW) Surry Hills w: www.welfarerights@org.au e: welfarerights@welfarerights.org.au p: 02 9211 5389

HIV/AIDS Legal Centre (NSW) Darlinghurst w: www.halc.org.au e: hacl@halc.org.au p: 02 9206 2060

Public Interest Law Clearing House (PILCH NSW) - Sydney w: www.pilchnsw.org.au e: info@pilchnsw.org.au p: 02 9114 1793

For further information, visit the CLC or SJOPPS website or the individual organisation’s website.

21

THE MERITS OF A NON-LEGAL INDUSTRY JOB Nicola Cooper

The TV show Suits is undoubtedly every law student’s dream.

tip jar. It is important to remember that these communication

The series follows the brilliant Mike Ross who happened to

skills are not just limited to hospitality. Sports coaching jobs,

just fall into his dream job in one of New York’s top law firms.

tutoring and retail are just as valuable.

Unfortunately, not all of us will fall into our legal careers with such finesse.

Furthermore, working in such industries exposes you to the internal management of a business, from small-scale family run

Many of us will spend our time at university juggling casual or

businesses to large retail chains. This knowledge can assist you

part-time employment with a notoriously demanding full-

in compulsory business-oriented subjects such as Commercial

time degree. Part-time or casual work as a paralegal or legal

Law and Corporate Law, thus enhancing your understanding

secretary is an ideal way to pay your bills through law school.

of all the legal issues in a problem, whether in study or real life.

However, paid jobs in our chosen field can be difficult to come

It is also essential to remember that at the end of the day, a law

by. It is important to remember that other part-time or casual

firm is a business to be run and this exposure is also essential if

positions will provide useful skills applicable to future lawyers,

you wish to work as an in-house counsel in the future.

whilst paying the bills.

Lastly, one of the most valuable skills which can be learnt from While working in a non-law job provides you with an often well-

working while at university, is time management. Balancing

needed escape from law, it provides you with skills essential

extra co-curricular activities, study and part time work is not to

to the legal profession such as communication skills, practical

be underestimated. Mastering the balance is a fine art, espe-

business knowledge and time management.

cially for law students who are often prone to being overachievers. Personally I find that having to time manage allows me to

“Frequent communication with customers, co-workers

prioritise tasks where I have a better chance of getting things

and managers will allow you to become comfortable

done. Our mothers weren’t kidding when they said: “if you

conversing with many different people, which is an

want something done, ask a busy person”. Sometimes being

invaluable skill and highly adaptable to the legal profession”

dragged away from your notes and readings for a day will refresh your mind and allow you to focus better later.

Personally, I believe that working in hospitality has contributed to the development of my customer relation skills. Whether it

Put simply, non-legal part time and casual jobs are not simply

be dealing with angry customers or dealing with your stressed

a waste of time. They can provide you with essential skills

manager, working in hospitality will certainly teach you to

applicable to the legal profession, whilst allowing you to work

communicate in a professional manner on a wide range of

in something that interests you outside of the law. The key is to

issues with a broad range of people. Working in hospitality or

undertake every task professionally and treat each hurdle, no

retail, may also enhance your legal skills by ensuring that your

matter how small, as a learning curve which can prepare you

contract is adhered to, that you receive your correct entitle-

for your later legal career.

ments to penalty rates, or your right to dip your hand into the

22

CONSIDERING A CLERKSHIP?

WHAT IS A CLERKSHIP? Hannah Rumble (UTS LSS Careers (Activities) Director)

This word ‘clerkship’ is thrown around a lot by law students.

tiring and competitive. If you consider applying for a clerk-

However, it’s often the case that before you enter your

ship it is important to have a well-prepared CV and history of

penultimate year, you actually have no idea what everyone’s

extra-curricular activities.

been talking about. It is easiest to think of a clerkship as a 12 week long internship in a law firm, most usually over

Firms which offer clerkships range from small practicing

the December to early February summer period (though

firms to large international ones. The culture of every firm

some firms also offer winter clerkships). Students in their

is different and so it’s important to choose the firm which

penultimate year (meaning undergraduate or postgraduate/

would be the best fit for you. A clerkship also equates to a

Juris Doctor students in their second-last year of law school)

thoroughly enjoyable summer, with social and sporting events

generally apply.

held throughout the period. It’s unusual to find a clerk who hasn’t enjoyed a clerkship.

In applying for a clerkship, you are applying for the opportunity to experience what it’s like to work in a corporate firm. A

Clerkship seminars

clerkship involves the selected students working in at least two

Clerkship Seminars are incredibly valuable because they offer

practice areas that the firm is involved in. At the end of the

an opportunity to review different firms before students make

clerkship, the ‘clerks’ (being the students who have undergone

a decision about which positions to apply for. There are so

a clerkship) carry out a final interview with their firm with

many diverse firms offering clerkships and it’s impossible to

the opportunity of being offered a graduate position once

apply to every firm. This is why it’s important to select a firm

their degree is completed. Therefore, once the clerks’ time

which interests you. Luckily, the Seminar Series which held

at university is completed, they would begin at the firm as a

over a few weeks in May provides a valuable insight into life at

graduate solicitor. This is a particularly reassuring prospect

these firms as a summer clerk, as well as a possible graduate.

given the current job market.

Attending these seminars is also useful because it may help determine whether you want to do a clerkship at all!

It is a popular misconception that you are thrown into the deep end with regard to the application process. The UTS

The Seminar Series involves some of Australia’s top law firms

LSS hold a series of Clerkship Seminars (discussed below)

coming to UTS to provide a presentation about their firm. It

around the month of May, as well as Networking Evenings

will cover everything from the firm’s goals and objectives to

and Skills Workshops, so that you are prepared for the applica-

the summer clerk schedule. They often relay tips in regard

tion and interview processes. There are usually an incredibly

to what they are looking for in a clerk and provide you with in-

large number of applicants and not enough positions to satisfy

formation you can use to increase the quality of applications.

everyone. This means the application process is meticulous,

Typically, a human resources representative will highlight

24

2013 UTS LSS Pre-Penultimate Guide

these areas, and a current graduate or past clerk will share

The seminars are open to all law students, whether they are

their experiences about working with the firm. This way, a

applying that particular year or not. Personally, I attended

student can fully comprehend what a clerkship with the firm

some as early as second year to see what my older peers were

would be like.

talking about, and I’m very glad I did. It provides a valuable insight into the Corporate Law world, what areas firms

Students may ask questions to any of the representatives, take

practice in and helps you understand whether it is something

notes and are able to keep brochures or booklets provided by

you have your sights set on or whether it’s not for you. If the

the firm for further information. The seminars are followed

information you receive at the seminars ignites passion and

by some time to talk one-on-one to the firm representatives

excitement, then you can go forth into the rest of your degree

(as well as enjoy the complementary food and drinks!) This

bearing in mind some of the qualities and advice given to

networking opportunity can be extremely valuable as it is a

potential applicants.

chance to stand out to the firm so that they might remember you in the application process.

More information about clerkships is found in the Clerkship Guide, released annually in May, or check out the Careers

Don’t be intimidated by the seminars or clerkship process.

section on the UTS LSS website www.utslss.com/careers/

The firms are essentially trying the sell their firm to you! They

summer-clerkship-program

want the best students and legal minds to work for them, so they want their summer clerkship to appear as interesting and appealing as possible. If you’re still feeling like you need further information, the UTS LSS hosts a Clerkship Networking Evening which gives any interested parties - both penultimate students and pre-penultimate students - a chance to seek more information or speak to your favourite firm. For more information on the Networking evening, check out the UTS LSS website www.utslss.com/careers/clerkship-networkingevening.

25

HOW TO WALK, TALK, EAT, DRINK AND SLEEP LIKE A FUTURE CLERK Michelle Smerdon (UTS LSS Publications Director)

There is no hard, fast or strict standard for a clerk.

Law firms are looking for people who speak confidentially

and who have a sophisticated vocabulary. Make sure you

How to walk like a clerk:

articulate what you want in a future career and why you

It is often said (unverified) that an employer will decide if

want to work for that firm in particular in your interview,

they will hire you within the first 30 seconds of meeting

and remember that at the cocktail events you will need to

you. Irrespective of the truth within this statement, what

be more relaxed and sociable – have a few topics in mind

is important is the first impression you make. This not

to keep the conversation flowing. Be sure to use the correct

only means you must walk with confidence and shake hands

spelling and punctuation in your cover letter – grammar

firmly, it means that how you dress will be crucial to your suc-

changes lives people.

cess. Law firms (and any future employer) will look poorly on sloppiness, unkempt hair and un-ironed clothes. Make sure

Words of advice: think before you speak.

you dress to impress. This means a freshly ironed suit or work dress/skirt, suit jacket and polished work shoes.

How to eat like a clerk: Words of advice: comb your hair.

If you are a person who devours all extra-curricular activities on offer at University, you are a key candidate for a law firm. Law firms are looking for more than good grades,

How to talk like a clerk:

they are looking for well-rounded individuals who can think

If you can rattle off your application in Mandarin, French,

on their feet and socialise, as well as work well in a team.

Spanish, German and English, you are an excellent candi-

Join the UTS LSS law Competitions, become a Peer Men-

date for a law firm. The ability to speak another language

tor, go to the ALSA July Conference, write for The Full

is a key attribute for any clerk, particularly in companies

Bench, maintain your hobbies such as netball or basketball

with international clients or worldwide networks. But let’s

and do some charity work – these extra-curriculars will ex-

be honest, a spare moment between study, part time jobs

emplify your different and varied skill set and you can talk

and mandatory socialising is hard to come by, so not all

(see ‘how to talk like a clerk’ above) in your interview about

of us have had time to learn to parler le français (speak

how these skills can be applied in your future clerkship.

French? – alright, I failed French in High School) along the way. In this event, what you say in English, and how you say it, becomes even more important.

26

Words of advice: devour everything.

2013 UTS LSS Pre-Penultimate Guide

How to drink like a clerk:

How to sleep like a clerk:

This requires one word - Coffee. If you don’t need

You’re right, this is a trick. It’s common knowledge that law

coffee, chances are you are not working hard enough and not

students seldom sleep. How on earth do you have time to sleep

doing enough in your spare time (unverified).

if you are learning Japanese, Italian and Latin whilst practis-

It is very important that everyone allows some free time for

ing your legal skills in Mooting, Negotiation and Witex, being

themselves, but this must be balanced with time for study and

a Peer Mentor and going to every clerkship seminar available?

time to gain some experience. Work experience in a law firm,

It is important, however, not to burn out. Make sure you have

for a barrister or as a volunteer at a Community Legal Centre

enough sleep to be able to function effectively, but not so

looks great on your resume and is something firms will be

much sleep that you have no time for study or extra-curricu-

looking for.

lars (see how to eat and drink like a clerk above).

If you don’t have legal experience, make sure you can talk

Words of advice: sleep is for the unemployed.

about how the skills you have gleaned from other part time employment can be applied in your future clerkship. Coffee will also assist on those late night dates you will have with your

For more information on clerkships, see the Clerkship Guide

law textbooks. Good grades are not a must have but they will

released in May or download the archived version from the

help you get your foot in the door and are a great indicator of

UTS LSS website www.utslss.com/publications/clerkship-

a hard worker.

guide.

Words of advice: less alcohol, more coffee.

27

ABOUT CORRS

Corrs Chambers Westgarth is one of Australia’s largest law

advisory, banking and finance; litigation and workplace

firms. We have around 1,000 people throughout Australia,

relations; intellectual property and tax; property, infrastructure,

but our vision is not just about size. Our vision is about

construction, planning, environment, and government.

being the leading law firm in target industries that are driving Australian and international business. Industries like energy

You are mentored by senior lawyers and your development

and resources, financial services, communications and media,

is overseen by a dedicated Graduate Development Manager

property, infrastructure and construction, and Government.

who works with Division Leaders, partners, graduate mentors

It’s about delivering a new level of legal service that bridges

and human resources, to provide you with guidance, ensuring

the gap between legal advice and business challenges to create

your success.

success for our clients. And it’s about building an inspiring workplace where our people are engaged and empowered to

Corrs Scholarship for International Excellence

make this happen.

Now in its eighth year, the Corrs Scholarship for Individual Excellence offers Corrs’ people the opportunity to enhance

We’ve been busy! Corrs is recognised as being at the forefront

their technical and business skills by attending a course either

of many of Australia’s most exciting deals – deals that change

in Australia or overseas.

the Australian business landscape. We emerged as the most awarded firm a the ALB Australasian Law Awards 2012,

The program is a world-class initiative that has seen almost

winning six awards including Australian Deal of the Year and

200 people awarded scholarships to study at 38 institutions in

Managing Partner of the Year.

11 countries.

We believe in fostering a work environment that promotes

In 2012, Twenty-eight recipients were awarded a scholarship

flexibility and diversity. It’s an essential part of our strategy –

to attend prestigious institutions such as Stanford Graduate

because our differences help us to think differently.

School of Business, INSEAD, Harvard Business School, National University of Singapore, Wharton, Hong Kong

Launch Graduate Development Program

University of Science and Technology Business School,

We are committed to developing world class lawyers. Our

Harvard Law School and Tuck Executive Education at

new Graduate Development Program, Launch, lays this foun-

Dartmouth College.

dation by providing rich, on the job training with a greater opportunity to work directly with partners and senior lawyers; structured learning; mentoring; and regular feedback.

Supervised by partners, you will complete three six month rotations through a variety of practice areas including corporate

Contact information Firm name: Corrs Chambers Westgarth Website: www.corrs.com.au Contact person and details: Katherine Smith, Human Resources Coordinator Email: katherine.smith@corrs.com.au

29

WHERE DO YOU WANT

TO GO?

AT CORRS, WE BELIEVE POTENTIAL IS THERE TO BE REALISED. TO SEE HOW VISIT CORRS.COM.AU/GRADUATES

EXPAND YOUR HORIZONS WITH CORRS’ INTERNATIONAL SECONDMENT PROGRAM If you’ve ever dreamt of working overseas, you’ll be pleased

In 2013, more than 10 Corrs lawyers will take advantage of

to know that Corrs Chambers Westgarth takes its Interna-

six to 12 month assignments in dynamic locations including

tional Secondment program seriously – so seriously, that it’s

London, Tokyo, Singapore and Mumbai. Immersing them-

one of the key 2015 initiatives supporting its international

selves in their new environments, they’ll enhance their CVs by

business strategy.

working on blue chip international clients and expanding their networks inside and outside the office.

Corrs has designed its International Secondment program with you in mind.

Karen said that Corrs recognises the value of overseas secondments, both to the individuals involved and to strengthening

National People Development Manager at Corrs Chambers

the international dimension of the wider firm business.

Westgarth, Karen Bennett, said Corrs provides its lawyers with an enriching professional experience that includes working

“This year we’ve boosted the number of secondments and also opened up

with a choice of leading firms in exciting jurisdictions.

more opportunities in fast-growth markets to complement more traditional options like London and New York.

“That’s why we’ve partnered with premium independent law firms across the world, who welcome Corrs lawyers and also send us some

We will continue to strengthen our relationships with premium independ-

of their own, allowing you to start building those important interna-

ent law firms on a global level, creating more possibilities for our people to

tional relationships and sharing knowledge of different legal cultures

experience different legal cultures and markets,” Karen said.

before you’ve even left Australia,” she said.

31

STUDENT EXTRACURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES

2013 UTS LSS Pre-Penultimate Guide

THE IMPORTANCE OF EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Lloyd Wood (UTS LSS Treasurer)

Your degree is only a fraction of what university life can

There are also some other good societies at UTS that are

entail with the remainder made up of things you choose to be

similarly useful for providing legal skills, such as the Debating

involved in. Extra-curricular activities can develop skills that

Society (requiring strong communication and critical analysis

have career implications or can just give you a chance to have

skills) and the Model UN Society, which emphasises diplomacy

some time off. Ultimately, they stand as great opportunities to

and negotiation. These both hold competitions of their own to

make friends, expand your skill base and focus on life outside

participate in. The networks you can establish through work-

of your weekly readings.

ing with peers are invaluable, as well as experiencing the joys of politics and developing leadership and organizational skills.

Working on your legal skills Competitions are the ideal way to develop, test and enhance

Healthy body, healthy mind

a myriad of legal skills. If you are interested in becoming a

Having a range of hobbies especially those related to fitness

barrister, you should consider participating in Mooting and

and wellbeing is not only a great way to de-stress but also

Witness Examination Competitions. Client Interviewing

looks favourable to future employers by demonstrating an

and Negotiation Competitions focus on the development of

ability to balance your studies with your interests. Sports

professional communication skills, and future scholars should

provide key disciplines and are a great way to wind

consider the Essay Writing Competition. Participation in

down – they will also give you an edge on inter-office

these types of extra-curricular activities can give you practical

sport competitions. UTS have a huge range of sports

skills that are not attainable through studying law alone, and

available - everything from soccer and netball to ultimate

it is often these skills law firms will seek to utilize. Success in

frisbee, fencing and skiing. A good place to start looking is

these competitions can also see you travel to the annual ALSA

the UTS Union clubs’ website (www.utsunion.uts.edu.au/

national conference to compete with students from universi-

sports) which provides links to any sports that suit your fancy.

ties across Australia. For more information on the different

Getting involved with university sports will also give you the

UTS LSS Competitions, turn to page 36. Despite their other

opportunity to travel to the annual Eastern University Games

benefits, I would recommend participating purely on the

and Australian University Games (you don’t even have to be

basis that they’re a lot of fun!

that good!). Other social, religious or cultural clubs are also found on the UTS Union website.

33

Volunteering

Furthermore, if you can show that through your slightly

Volunteer work is a glowing addition to any law student’s CV,

obscure interests you have learnt skills that you can apply to

and is also a great way to give back to the wider community.

your legal work, you’re already a step ahead. For example, the

One easy way to get involved is through the UTS LSS and

talents developed through involvement with the new UTS

UTS: LAW Faculty’s combined initiative, the Brennan Justice

Revue Society, can include interpersonal skills, public speaking,

and Leadership Program, which awards students after they

and time management as you balance rehearsals with your

complete 200 hours of practical work and accrue a certain

studies. Unique extra-curricular activities also make for a

number of ‘Reflection on Justice Points’ (turn to page 40

more memorable application than 40 CVs that all mention

to read more). There is also the recently established LSS

the same law-school competition, and are also something

Student Volunteer Committee, which allows students to pool

to employers can flesh out of you in an interview to get the

together to help run UTS LSS initiatives (turn to page 43

conversation started.

for more information). Beyond UTS, there are Community Legal Centres requiring student volunteers where you can

A final note

select volunteer experiences that reflect your interest in a

Getting involved in these activities is not always easy if you

particular area of law. For example, if you’re interested in

work full time, have children or other family commitments,

family law, you may consider volunteering as a paralegal for

or live far away from campus. It is therefore very important

organizations offering pro bono legal work for low-income

to know your limits before you get involved and potentially

families. This involvement can benefit you when you begin

over-committed. Getting good grades will ensure you meet

looking for work in those specific fields.

the threshold, but the importance of extra-curricular activities is that they will set you apart.

External downtime One important thing to remember above all else is that extra-curricular activities should be something that you enjoy.

It may be that some of the legal competitions and societies are up your alley, but if you can’t think of anything worse than spending your downtime in the law library researching for mooting submissions, don’t forego your external interests because you don’t think they will look good on your CV; often the case can be to the contrary. You learn the law and legal skills through your studies, and although you may learn something by doing law-based activities, employers also look to those that have interests outside the law as it is proven that students with widespread external interests are more likely to cope with what can be a stressful and demanding profession.

Employers are looking for candidates who have experience beyond the law who are comfortable with themselves and generally have a well-rounded knowledge.

34

2013 UTS LSS Pre-Penultimate Guide

Get Involved in NSW Young Lawyers www.younglawyers.com.au

Follow us: @NSWYoungLawyers

NSW Young Lawyers is an active, innovative and dynamic non-profit organisation that supports the aims of our members through training, information sharing and networking opportunities. As the largest collective group of law students and young lawyers nationally, we provide a platform for our members to influence debate on issues that affect both the profession and the community.

There are many ways to get involved including joining a NSW Young Lawyers committee, attending one of our networking functions, social events, seminars or legal education forums which are held throughout the year. To find out more, visit www.younglawyers.com.au. And follow us on Twitter @NSWYoungLawyers Participate in a committee Law Students are encouraged to join any one of our committees, where members can get involved in a range of fulfilling and rewarding projects.

Find out more about a practice area of interest and key legal developments in that area.

Help shape the law through writing submissions on proposed policy or law reform.

Network with practitioners in an area of law to raise your profile and increase career opportunities.

Meet high-profile members of the profession and the business community.

Develop leadership skills by becoming a leader of a project sub-committee or a Committee Chair.

Meet some new people and have fun.

Our committees There are fifteen committees to choose from, each dedicated to a particular area of law.

Animal Law

Communications, Entertainment & Technology Law

International Law

Bushweb – Regional Issues

Criminal Law

Property Law

Business Law

Environment and Planning Law

Public Law & Government

Civil Litigation

Family Law

Taxation Law

CLE

Human Rights

Workplace & Safety Law

Many committees Committees usually meet monthly at the Law Society Building, 170 Phillip Street Sydney. For members outside the CBD or in regional areas, teleconference arrangements can be made.

How do you join Membership of NSW Young Lawyers is free and automatic for law students and lawyers under the age of 36 or who have been admitted for less than five years. The best way to activate your NSW Young Lawyers membership is to sign up to a committee mailing list. You will then start receiving information related to the area of law as well NSW Young Lawyer events and news.

Did you know The leaders of each Student Law Society in NSW are invited to participate in regular meetings with NSW Young Lawyers and collaborate on events for the benefit of law students across the state. Speak with your leaders to find out more.

Full time students can attend fundamental or intermediate NSW Young Lawyers CLE seminars for $25.00 per session.

Visit to http://eshop.lawsociety.com.au for more information. Student pricing is also available for our one day courses.

Associate Membership of the Law Society of NSW is free of charge for law students. Visit www.lawsociety.com.au.

Further information To find our more about NSW Young Lawyers and our committees, including meeting dates and recent activities, visit our website www.younglawyers.com.au. Selecting the ‘Joining a committee’ page will allow you to subscribe to the mailing list of your choice. Follow us on Twitter @NSWYoungLawyers

35

LAW COMPETITIONS Nicholas Bentley (UTS LSS Vice President (Competitions))

When are the UTSLSS Competitions?

Mooting, Negotiation, Witness Examination and Client Interviewing: Autumn Semester - Senior Competitions - registration opens 18 February 2013.

Spring Semester - Junior Competitions - registration opens 22 July 2013.

Subject Moots: Autumn Semester- Torts, Media, Constitutional and the International Humanitarian Law Moots Spring Semester- Commercial, Contract and the Equity Law Moots.

Other Comps: Paper Presentation Comp - Autumn Semester - information session 12 March 2013.

Advice Writing Comp - Spring Semester - registration opens 22 July 2013.

Check the UTS LSS website for information on information sessions and further dates and information.

Competitions at UTS are a fantastic way for students to involve themselves in university outside the classroom, while also enabling students to build upon their lawyering skills. In 2013, the UTS LSS Competitions Portfolio is expanding upon internal competitions like never before, while also focussing on increasing student participation in intervarsity legal competitions. Watch the UTS LSS website

36

2013 UTS LSS Pre-Penultimate Guide

INTERNAL COMPETITIONS Mooting

Subject Mooting

Director: Cindy Lam

Director: Kizzy Bagga

For a competition that enhances legal research and

Subject mooting aims to give students a greater under-

public speaking skills, look no further! Mooting

standing of a particular area of law by allowing students

is a discipline, which teaches you to think like a

to choose an area of law they are interested in and solve

lawyer rather than a law student. In mooting,

problems based on that specialised legal field. This aids

two teams are provided with a scenario from which

competitors in putting their theoretical skills and knowl-

they must produce legal arguments for their

edge of a specific subject into practice. As of 2013, the

client. These submissions will then be presented

UTS LSS will be running seven Subject Moots with each

in a Moot Court in front of a judge. For more

Moot being held over one weekend during the Autumn and

information visit the UTS LSS website

Spring semesters. For more information visit the UTS LSS

www.utslss.com/competitions/general-mooting.

website www.utslss.com/competitions/subject-mooting.

Client Interviewing

Negotiation

Director: Ava Hancock

Director: Stephanie Purcell

Professional communication skills and issue identifica-

In the legal sphere, negotiation is a key skill to refine,

tion are an essential part of a lawyer’s skill set, which

particularly in the recent push for dispute resolution over

is only obtained through practice and experience.

lengthy litigation. The Negotiation Competition involves

Client Interviewing is a great way to learn how to

negotiating a legal dispute in teams of two, who face off

approach the client for the very first time and learn

against each other, representing opposing parties to the

these essential skills. In Cwlient Interviewing, you will

matter. The aim of each team is to reach an outcome

work in teams of two as solicitors to meet a potential

that advantageously satisfies the goals and expectations of

client. The client actor will have a legal issue and fact

their individual client, but that also reflects consideration

scenario where you as the solicitor will have to ask

for the needs and interests of the other side. Of course,

them questions to find out all the information, some

each side’s desires may conflict but subtle persuasion

of which they may be hesitant to reveal. Succeed-

and strategising can go a long way in finding a mutually

ing in Client Interview involves creating an effective

acceptable solution. The competition is also an excel-

relationship with the client and great teamwork with

lent opportunity to enhance other essential skills such as

your partner. Participants do not require specific legal

effective communication, perception, creative thinking,

knowledge and do not need to undertake strenuous

teamwork, strategy building, compromise and confidence.

amounts of preparation time. For more information

For more information visit the UTS LSS website

visit the UTS LSS website www.utslss.com/competi-

www.utslss.com/competitions/negotiation

tions/client-interviewing

37

Witness Examination

INTERVARSITY COMPETITIONS

Director: Haran DeLillo

In 2013 the UTS LSS is establishing the new Intervarsity

Witness Examination develops three skills; your knowledge of the law (usually criminal law), your knowledge and grasp of Evidence Law, and your ability to think on your feet. It also allows competitors to become accustomed to court protocol and is essential experience for those considering going to the Bar. Witness Examination involves individuals acting as counsel in court with witnesses to examine and cross-examine.

Competitions Director to foster the participation of UTS students in intervarsity competitions. Key competitions that UTS will partake in include the Australian Law Students Association Conference in July as well as the Nicholas Cowedery Moot and the Women’s Moot. For more information visit the UTS LSS website www.utslss.com/competitions/intervarsity-competitions.

Each barrister has a legal scenario and they lead their witness in chief, before conducting a cross-examination of the

THE UTS LSS STUDENT JUDGING PROGRAM

opponent’s witness. The overall objective is, by adducing and

The UTS LSS Student Judging Programs provides UTS

leading evidence, to prove that the fact situation of your client

Law students with the opportunity to be trained as certi-

is more plausible than your opponents. For more information

fied UTS LSS judges. Only students who are certified to

visit the UTS LSS website www.utslss.com/competitions/

be UTS LSS judges may judge in the UTS Law School

witness-examination

competitions. There are four separate judging programs for Mooting, Negotiation, Client Interviewing and Witness Examination. Each program has three stages consisting

Paper Presentation Competition

of a judging workshop, 3 judging ‘sit ins’ on competition

Director: Nicholas Bentley

matches with a certified judge, and a final assessment.

For more information visit the UTS LSS website

The Paper Presentation Competition is particularly suited to students with strong writing skills or a passion for research and law reform. This competition presents students with the opportunity to submit a paper relating to any legal issue (3000-5000 words). A panel of academics will judge the paper based on the assessment criteria located in the Paper presentation rules on the UTS LSS website. You will then present your paper to a panel of judges, followed by questions. The top competitor in the competition will win the right to represent the University at the ALSA Conference held in July where that winner will have their paper published in ALSA’s Academic Journal. The paper and oral presentation competition aims to promote legal scholarship, oratory skills and the chance to present controversial issues in an informative manner. For more information visit the UTS LSS website www.utslss. com/competitions/paper-presentation

38

www.utslss.com/competitions/student-judging.

Want the inside scoop on landing a role at Clayton Utz? Find it on Facebook!

www.facebook.com/ClaytonUtzCareers

39

THE BRENNAN PROGRAM Nicholas Bentley, Vice President (Competitions)

The Brennan Program seeks to fire student idealism and lay the foundations for future professional leadership.

With over 800 members in 2012, the program is indicative of UTS: Law students’ interest in social justice and their desire to go beyond the academic curriculum. It is an opportunity to develop intellectual, volunteer and leadership capabilities. The two main components of the program are: Reflections on Justice in which students engage with the themes of justice and its social contexts through events, personal reflection and discussion groups.

Leadership through Service where students contrib-

Sir Gerard presents the first Brennan Justice and Leadership Awards.

Photo: Anna Zhu

ute voluntary service (both legal and non-legal in nature) over the course of their studies.

Further Information: www.law.uts.edu.au/brennan/

The Brennan Justice and Leadership program was

Facebook:

introduced in 2011 as a joint initiative of the UTS:LAW

www.facebook.com/UTSbrennanprogram

Faculty and the UTS LSS. It is named for Sir Gerard

Enquiries:

Brennan AC KBE, former Chief Justice of the High

Program Administrator

Court of Australia and UTS Chancellor (1999-2005).

brennanprogram@uts.edu.au

40

2013 UTS LSS Pre-Penultimate Guide

THE COMMUNITY AMBASSADORS Rojda Dag (UTS LSS Community Connections Director)

The Community Ambassadors is a group of students getting

students, faculty members, employees of large firms with a

together to raise funds for organisations that we feel passion-

pro bono sector, or workers at charitable organisations. By

ate about, create awareness for issues that are of interest to us,

working closely with these people and conducting yourself

review laws that dissatisfy us, compose letters that we feel need

in an honest, competent and dedicated manner, your new

to be written and give our time to initiatives that we enjoy.

contacts will be able to praise you to potential employers who are much more likely to hire candidates they know over those

The group is open to any law student at any stage of their

they don’t – even if the unknown candidate appears to be

degree. Meetings are held on campus at UTS, but our

more qualified. Employers are aware that those who seem

initiatives can take us everywhere, from Town Hall to Bondi

great on paper, or those who can ace an interview, can also be

for the City2Surf, or locations elsewhere around the CBD for

inexperienced, difficult to work with, or unreliable. Someone

volunteering. Meetings are held monthly and fundraisers and

they have worked with, however, (i.e. you!) has proven to be

events are held wherever possible.

beyond capable and is thus highly employable.

Being a Community Ambassador brings many benefits to your

Community Ambassadors learn lifelong legal skills. When

law degree and employment prospects.

going for a job as a paralegal, summer clerk or judge’s associate, skills like burger flipping and shelf stacking can

Being a Community Ambassador is a great way to gain

be a struggle to explain as relevant to the ability to research

relevant experience that will stand out on your CV. Col-

complex concepts and manage people. So, when a potential

laboration, empathy, event planning, problem solving, conflict

employer quizzes you about your last job, you can instead

resolution, marketing, web design, organising fundraisers,

talk about your philanthropic advocacy role as a Community

drafting and editing are all useful and relevant administrative

Ambassador. You’ll also be able to back that talk up with the

skills that you’ll feel more confident about using at work once

list of hands-on experiences you will have racked up, from the

you’ve perfected them in a volunteer position first.

reality check you received by helping out the homeless to your exceptional knowledge of the struggles faced by charities to

Participating in the Community Ambassadors program en-

gain funding from that time you helped them secure a Council

hances your time management skills. Juggling study, work and

grant. No top-tier law firm is without a compulsory pro bono

a social life with regular monthly meetings, awareness events,

commitment these days, and getting a head start on being a

fundraisers, policy reviews and letter drafting demonstrates

well-rounded lawyer that’s in touch with their surroundings is

your ability to manage your time effectively.

what being a Community Ambassador is all about.

Community Ambassadors also get the chance to network.

If you’d like to get involved, contact Jamesina McLeod, UTS

You’re introduced to a new group of like-minded people from

LSS Vice President (Social Justice) at vpsj@utslss.com.

diverse backgrounds and skill sets including fellow UTS:LAW

41

UTS: BUiLD Photos: Johanan Ottensooser and Prue Cheesman

The Beyond UTS International Leadership Development (BUiLD) program is an official UTS extra-curricular initiative.

BUiLD will connect you with students who share your passion for international development and global sustainability.

Designed to fit in with your study, work, family and social commitments, BUiLD will empower you to develop personal leadership skills, forge global connections and learn to lead. The aspiration of BUiLD is to foster the next generation of leaders to create a more globally and socially aware world.

Students who participate in BUiLD might volunteer with children in Nepal, participate in the World Model United Nations Conference or work with the 40K Foundation to develop social enterprises in India.

So why not hear from the participants themselves?

Johanan Ottensooser – ‘The coolest thing that UTS has done was to support me in my own project. When I went to work in Sri Lanka, the ambassador’s grant really allowed me to spend an extended period of time there. I’m not sure other universities would send an undergraduate student to do a project like this.’

Emily Larkin – ‘For me, BUiLD was a perfect complement to my degree, it enriched my academic education in a very practical light and I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a diverse and global dynamic.’

Stephanie Matti – ‘I began to look into overseas opportunities with the BUiLD program. With the help of BUiLD through a travel grant, I was able to participate in a 2 week intensive law and business program in Dubai. The program, was the perfect balance between understanding the corporate business and legal world in a foreign land as well as getting the chance to explore the local culture and customs of a bustling metropolis.’

42

Abhineet Gupta – ‘ All these commitments (through BUiLD) have helped me settle well into a culture that is vastly different from mine back home. More importantly, they have opened up my conscience to being a citizen of the world, not just a country.’

Denise Grace – ‘As to my personal development, the BUILD program has rekindled my desire of helping others. Volunteerism is very dear to my heart, and as a BUiLD member, I had ample opportunities to engage in volunteerism.’

Aimee Minns – ‘ BUiLD offers UTS students the perfect way to complement their degree, to meet incredible like-minded people and to expand their perspectives of the world with each of the varied presentations and activities that are offered.’

For more information, visit facebook.com/utsbuild or contact the Program Manager Fiona Tschaut via fiona.tschaut@uts.edu.au or have a look at some of the student blogs http://cfsites1.uts.edu.au/ssu/profiles/ build-abroad/index.cfm

2013 UTS LSS Pre-Penultimate Guide

THE STUDENT VOLUNTEER COMMITTEE Nicholas Bentley (UTS LSS Vice President (Competitions))

In 2013 the UTS LSS Competitions Portfolio along with the

The Student Liaison Officer chairs the Committee meet-

Education and Social Justice portfolios will be establishing the

ings, with the President, Vice President (Competitions), Vice

UTS LSS Student Volunteer Committee.

President (Social Justice) and Vice President (Education) as ex officio members of the Committee.

This Committee consists of a pool of UTS students from any faculty wishing the volunteer their time to assist the UTS LSS

Committee meetings are designed to promote discussion on

in its many activities and events organised throughout the year.

ways the UTS LSS can better engage with the UTS student body, improve its current services and events and develop new

Participation in the committee is a fantastic way for students

initiatives to serve the UTS LSS’ Constitutional aims.

to engage outside the classroom in UTS LSS initatives that are more than just social gatherings.

If you are interested in learning about a competition, becoming a competition judge, fighting for social justice, or becom-

In recognition of their contribution, each student will receive

ing a student leader, you can join the Student Volunteer

points towards the UTS Brennan Justice and Leadership

Committee by visiting the UTS LSS website www.utslss.com/

Program and each member will also receive a certificate of

competitions/student-volunteer-committee.

service at the end of the year.

The primary activities of Committee Members include: Committee meetings (meetings take place every second month from March through to November); Witness Examination Competition – Witness Volunteers; Client Interviewing Competition – Client Volunteers; Student Judging Programs; UTS LSS Community Ambassadors Program; UTS LSS / UTS Union 2013 City to Surf Team; Live Below the Line; UTS LSS Speaker Series; and Intervarsity Law Sports Day.

43

INTERESTED IN WRITING? WHY NOT WRITE FOR THE UTS LSS? Michelle Smerdon (UTS LSS Publications Director) and Katherine Rickard (UTS LSS Careers (Publications) Director)

Getting involved with an academic publication is a great

The annual Clerkship Guide contains information regard-

way to show employers that you keep your finger on the

ing summer clerkships at a wide range of boutique to large

pulse and that you know what is currently shaping the legal

commercial firms, both domestically and internationally, as

landscape that you will be heading into. It also shows that

well as selected non-law summer vacation work. The Guide

you are capable of doing independent research on topic

includes firm profiles, interviews with a number of former

areas beyond what is required in your classes.

summer clerks and graduates, and practical information regarding applications, networking and interviews. For

The Full Bench

more information on clerkships, check out the Clerkship

The Full Bench is the UTS LSS’s quarterly academic pub-

Networking Evening in May, with information on the UTS

lication. Not only does it present scholarly articles on the

LSS website www.utslss.com/careers/clerkship-networking-

most contentious current legal issues, it contains thought-

evening.

provoking opinion pieces and insightful interviews with people in the wider legal industry.

The annual Careers Guide contains information regarding the wide variety of careers a UTS Law student can pursue

If you like writing and journalism, are interested in follow-

at the completion of their degree. The Careers Guide

ing developing legal stories, or are into photography and

provides company/firm profiles, testimonials and contact

art, The Full Bench team are always looking for contributors.

details for a variety of law firms, government bodies, social

You can opt to do some new material, or you can submit

justice and humanitarian organisations, NGOs, investment

as essay you’ve written previously. If you’re keen to get

banks and management consultancy firms. For more

involved or would like to submit your ideas or discuss a

information on careers, check out the Careers Networking

piece you’d like to work on, email our Publications Director,

Evening in September, with information on the UTS LSS

Michelle Smerdon, at publications@utslss.com

website www.utslss.com/careers/careers-networkingevening.

Careers Publications Each year, the UTS LSS publishes three Careers Publica-

If you would like to get involved in these publications,

tions; the Pre-Penultimate Guide (released March), the

please contact Katie Rickard at careers.publications@

Clerkship Guide (released May) and the Careers Guide

utslss.com.

(released September).

44

ACHIEVING A BALANCE

STOP STRESSING, START STUDYING Nesha Jeyalingam (UTS LSS Education Director (External))

It’s intimidating enough when everyone in your class

When undertaking your readings, be selective. Don’t be

seems to have a sky-high IQ and an opinion that sounds

too hard on yourself if you find it impossible to get through

important. But when you get the subject outline for your

the reading list (you’ll be hard pressed to find a law

law subjects, your heart may sink further. Studying law can

student that doesn’t!). The key is to skim-read, paying

be both stressful and rewarding.

particular attention and time to the sections of the readings that deal with legal issues you find complex or

Different methods of studying work for different people

are of particular importance.

and it’s important that you find what works best for you.

Taking advice from others may provide you with a good

This method also applies when reading judgements. It is

starting point.

important to read the main cases in full for each of your law subjects. Your tutors will usually give you some indica-

Where do I start?

tion regarding the important cases that you need to spend

Be as organised as you can. It’s your responsibility to know

time on. You will spend a lifetime reading cases if you

your deadlines and ensure you leave time for adequate

read every single word in every judgement. A good starting

preparation. If you think one night constitutes ‘adequate

point may be to read an excerpt about the case to help you

preparation’, think again.

have an overall understanding of the main issues that arise.

Secondly, skim-read the case and pay particular attention

Write deadlines in your diary, your the calendar and on

to key facts, legal issues, the ratio decidendi and the judge’s

your fridge – anywhere you will see it. It’s also a good idea

reasoning (including the decision of the minority).

to write a reminder two weeks before the due date so that if you haven’t done enough preparation or haven’t even

Information overload

started preparation, you can get going.

The overwhelming task of condensing what you have learnt in a semester into study notes can often be

Reading

daunting. Writing summary notes after you finish a topic

Learning the art of skim-reading will assist you to get

within each law subject is a great way of ensuring you

through your weekly reading list, including crucial cases

are well prepared before your final exam and making

that can often be longer than your attention span. Don’t

sure you understand critical concepts as you learn about

make the mistake of drowning yourself in coffee and

them. Setting out your notes according to topics is usually

developing terrible bags under your eyes as you attempt

the most logical and convenient way to organise them.

to stay awake until five in the morning to read every word of every reading.

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2013 UTS LSS Pre-Penultimate Guide

Make sure to include the legal rules in addition to relevant legislation and case summaries.

It is also incredibly helpful to make ‘micro notes’ which are essentially a summary of your summary notes. The process of making these notes helps to consolidate the information in your mind and you also end up with a neat set of short and sweet notes. Then practice, practice, practice with past papers!

Group or individual study?

Group study doesn’t work for everyone, but it’s a good idea to give it a go because there’s a lot to gain for everyone involved. Tossing ideas around, comparing answers to past papers, sharing knowledge and baked goods can make studying more bearable and somewhat enjoyable! Just make sure the entire conversation doesn’t turn into what happened on the latest episode of Suits!

In your fifth year you’ll still be learning new methods of studying and telling yourself that next semester you’ll give yourself more than one night to start and finish an assignment. But don’t panic! Take on board these tips and soon enough you’ll be giving advice to others on how to ace exams and get through law school!

47

BE THE BEST (AND HEALTHIEST) LEGAL PROFESSIONAL YOU CAN BE! Jerome Doraisamy

To my mind, there are three things that a student must

Studying law can be a chore, and a laborious one at that.

adhere to in order to be a successful legal professional. First

So why not find ways to spruce it up and make your day-

of all, a student must engage with and understand the aca-

to-day more exciting? As a recent Law/Communications

demic material that is prescribed by the degree. Secondly, a

graduate, I have experienced and witnessed a number of

student should endeavour to gain an appreciation of how

activities that you can get involved in - any and all of which

the law operates in day-to-day society, why society operates

will help! Join a team sport, keep up your hobbies, like

the way that it does, and how legal professionals can have

reading, writing and travelling, join the local gym or take

an effect upon the society in which we live. Finally, students

up a new skill, such as cooking. No doubt you already have

must ensure that a holistic approach is taken with regards

your own interests that could sufficiently keep you enter-

to one’s health – physically, emotionally, mentally, psycho-

tained and preoccupied – the important thing to remember

logically – so as to reach one’s desired pinnacle profession-

is that it is these things will help you have fun, stay focused,

ally. By taking this broader approach, you give yourself

and be healthy. They will also nadvertently provide you

a better chance of reaching your goals whilst remaining

with a much greater level of appreciation for all aspects of

healthy and happy.

your life – including law!

As new or existing law students, it is highly likely that you

The UTS:LAW community provides a myriad avenues that

are already aware that depression and other mental ill-

may tickle your extra-curricular fancy: the UTS Bren-

nesses are far more prevalent in the legal industry than in

nan Justice and Leadership Program provides students the

most other professions around Australia. It is estimated that

chance to gain a legal educational experience not received

approximately 40% of law students, lawyers and other legal

within the classroom and develop one’s capacity for leader-

professionals suffer from mental illness to some degree.

ship and initiative. The UTS LSS hosts a range of annual

This article is not designed nor intended to provide sta-

events and activities that cater to the educational, voca-

tistics that will scare you into trying to avoid any form

tional and social needs of students on-campus. UTS:LAW

of mental illness; on the contrary, I feel that such scare

similarly hosts seminars and workshops that students are

tactics only serve to add anxiety to a law student’s (already

able to attend outside of their class hours.

burdensome) load. Instead, I aim to provide positive motivation for achieving a healthy work/life balance because

UTS also provides a number of services that can help

there are a plethora of ways that you can make your time

you if you are ever in need. The Student Services Unit

as a law student (and then as a lawyer or legal professional)

deals with personal and health issues for students seeking

much more enjoyable.

academic assistance. The Law Faculty have a number of

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2013 UTS LSS Pre-Penultimate Guide

academics and staff, including the Director of Students,

In summary, get involved on-campus, keep up a healthy

whom you are able to confide in if necessary. The UTS

work/life balance, and ensure that you’re able to have

LSS Council also boasts a number of students in their sen-

fun and stay fit. Be well-rounded rather than being one-

ior years, who can provide guidance in a mentoring capacity

dimensional. Only through adherence to the three goals

if you are ever seeking advice.

at the beginning of this article will you be able to give yourself the best possible chance of being a successful

It is important to get into good habits early - don’t leave

legal professional, whose physical, emotional, mental and

it until halfway through your degree to rediscover your

psychological health is at an optimal level.

hobbies and interests because it will be so much harder for you to get back into them. Stay interested and stay active –

Depression in the legal industry can be and is a scary issue.

you’ll appreciate it in the long run. Furthermore, it is worth

But by taking a holistic approach to your health, wellbeing

pointing out that employers appreciate law students who

and lifestyle, you can be the best legal professional that you

are well-rounded. If you can convey that you have interests

are able to be.

and obligations outside of law, you will appear as a much more motivated and driven applicant compared to others.

Most importantly, however, remember to be true to yourself and to your friends and family. Law school can be tough, and it is crucial that you be able to rely on those closest to you. It is these people who will get you through the hard times.

49

MENTORING PROGRAMS Kate Taylor (UTS LSS Vice President (Education))

King and Wood Mallesons Mentoring Program

Become a peer mentor

The King and Wood Mallesons Mentoring Program offers

The UTS LSS in conjunction with the UTS:LAW Faculty,

talented students the opportunity to be professionally men-

runs a Peer Mentoring program for first year students to

tored by a member of one of Sydney’s most prestigious law

help their transition into law school by teaching them fun-

firms. You will be matched with either a Senior Associate

damental skills and providing an opportunity to meet other

or junior lawyer depending on what kind of experience you

students.

are looking for.

Each year, about twenty student mentors are chosen to lead Mentors are matched to students based on interests and

the mentoring sessions. Students are chosen based on an

experiences and students’ often develop a close bond with

application form that requires you to outline your experi-

their mentor as they have so much in common.

ences, and explain the skills that you have that would make you a good mentor.

This is a unique opportunity that offers students an insight into the commercial law world, provides students with in-

This is a great initiative to be involved with as it shows po-

valuable hints for interviews and writing a curriculum vitae,

tential employers that you are an exceptional communica-

and gives students access to knowledge and advice only a

tor, who is able to express themselves in front of a group of

practicing solicitor possesses.

people, and that you are also committed and empathetic.

The program runs from April to November each year and

The mentors for 2013 have already been selected. For 2014

is open to high-achieving first or second year straight LLB

application dates and more information, visit the UTS LSS

students, third and fourth LLB students studying a com-

website www.utslss.com/education/mentoring-program

bined degree and first or second year JD students.

The 2013 intake has already closed, but watch out for the application dates for 2014. For more information, visit the UTS LSS website www.utslss.com/education/mallesonsprofessional-mentoring-program

50

EXCHANGE OPPORTUNITIES Nesha Jeyalingam (UTS LSS Education Director (External))

Picture yourself standing in front of the glamorous

The partner universities available to law students tend

skyscrapers watching the Symphony of Lights show at

to vary from year to year, but universities in Canada,

night in Hong Kong, or even shopping, eating and drink-

Denmark, Hong Kong, Netherlands, Sweden and the

ing in bustling London, stopping along the way to throw

United Kingdom are usually available. When choosing

snowballs at your friends. These are all experiences I

your top five preferences, read the profiles provided by

had last year while I was on exchange for a semester,

UTS but also look at the partner university’s website. It’s

studying at the University of Westminster in London.

also important to note that a stronger academic transcript will give you a greater chance of being accepted

So, where do you start? The UTS website has a section on global exchange (www.ssu.uts.edu.au/globalexchange.com), which is great for an overview of the application process.

When is the best time to jet off ?

As a law student, you have to complete a subject called Equity and Trusts before you can go on exchange. I recommend completing your law electives overseas so that you’re not stuck with the difficult task of matching your core subjects with existing subjects at your partner university.

Where is the best place to venture to?

There are a number of factors to consider before choosing where you want to go on exchange. One of my key priorities was to see Europe. Basing myself in London allowed me to take weekend trips to the Netherlands and Belgium, to spend Easter in Spain and Portugal, enjoy a European summer in Italy, Greece and Croatia, and party in Hong Kong on the way home. You may also wish to consider whether there is a university that offers the particular subjects you wish to study, and the affordability of certain countries.

51

into your first preference university.

2013 UTS LSS Pre-Penultimate Guide

How much money do I need to save up?

Is it worth it?

Exchange finances depend on your location and how you

Without a doubt, going on exchange has been the greatest

approach your exchange experience. Activities such as ad-

experience of my university life. Living in London never

ditional travelling and shopping will enhance your overseas

got boring. There was always something to do, whether it

experience, but will also inflate your budget. Research

be shopping on Oxford Street or playing in snow for the

and planning will allow you to keep to a budget while still

first time. Studying international law subjects presented

enjoying everything exchange has to offer. You also need

interesting experiences such as attending the Royal Courts

to consider scholarships or loans that you can get from the

of Justice in London as part of my Mooting and Advocacy

government, UTS, BUiLD and other areas.

subject. Travelling parts of Europe and discovering some of the most breath-taking views, such as the sunset over

During my seven months overseas, I spent roughly $15,000

the water in Greece, made memories I will never forget.

including flights, accommodation and travelling. Working

And of course, the best part of exchange was the amazing

on exchange may be an option, but if you plan to travel

friendships I made with people all over the world who

frequently you may have difficulty finding a flexible position.

are now some of my closest friends. Come to think of it though, there is one horrible catch - the day your exchange

What else do I need to think about?

experience ends.

There are lots of things you need to consider during the application process and upon acceptance. You will need to attend an information session at UTS, complete an application form, choose subjects and check whether there are any scholarships available. You will then need to find and apply for accommodation, determine which Visa is appropriate for your purposes and book flights.

UTS and past exchange students can offer assistance and advice to make the process easier.

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MP SURVIVAL GUIDE PRE-PENULTIMATE GUIDE AREERS GUIDE THE FULL BENCH CLERKSHIP G ULTIMATE GUIDE LAW SCHOOL MANUAL CA URVIVAL GUIDE CLERKSHIP GUIDE THE FULL B CH PRE-PENULTIMATE GUIDE LAW SCHOOL ERKSHIP GUIDE CAREERS GUIDE PRE-PENULTIM

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