SCG SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
SCG 2013
SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE EDITOR & UTS LSS CAREERS (PUBLICATIONS) DIRECTOR Katherine RICKARD SUB-EDITORS Nicola COOPER Jessica LOOI Catherine MOORE CONTRIBUTORS Katherine AGAPITOS Codie ASIMUS Emma BECHARA Andrew BERRIMAN Isabelle DUGGAN Jakob FRIEDMAN
Shanil LAL Catherine MOORE Sage NEMRA Katherine O’REGAN Johanan OTTENSOOSER Ashley RADICH
Hannah RUMBLE Amy SIMPSON Michelle SMERDON Kate TAYLOR
DESIGNER Courtney FAY DEAN OF LAW Lesley HITCHENS UTS LSS PRESIDENT Katherine AGAPITOS UTS LSS VICE PRESIDENT (SPONSORSHIP & CAREERS) Emma WHITE WITH THANKS TO Kwik Kopy Neutral Bay UTS Union 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
02
Message from the Editor
03
Dean’s Welcome
04
Message from the UTS LSS President
05
UTS LSS Summer Clerkship Program Events
07
NSW Law Society Clerkship Guidelines and Dates
08
NSW Law Society List of Participating Firms
15
For the Applicant
16
The Clerkship Application Process
18
Which is the Right Commercial Law Firm for you?
20
How to Write a Cover Letter
21
The Imperfect Cover Letter
22
How to Sell Your Extra-curricular Activities
23
The Curriculum Vitae (CV)
24
Sample CV
26
The Interview
28
Networking
30
Using a Clerkship as a Gateway to your Legal Career
32
The Perfect Candidate: The Ideal Clerk’s Dating Profile
33
A Clerkship: Is it my only Option for a Successful Legal Career?
35
A Different Clerkship Experience
36
An International Clerkship Experience
38
The NSW Law Reform Commission Internship
39
An International Secondment Experience
41
A Clerkship with the Cancer Council Legal Referral Service
43
A Clerkship with Ernst & Young
45
A Clerkship with the Australian Government Solicitor
46
The Firms
47
Allen & Overy
50
Allens
53
ANU Legal Workshop
54
Ashurst
56
Baker & McKenzie
57
Clayton Utz
62
Corrs Chambers Westgarth
67
DLA Piper
70
Gilbert + Tobin
74
Henry Davis York
77
Herbert Smith Freehills
80
Johnson Winter & Slattery
81
K & L Gates
83
King & Wood Mallesons
87
Lander & Rogers
89
Minter Ellison
92
Norton Rose
95
TressCox Lawyers
96
Webb Henderson
03
MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR
Welcome to the 2013 Summer Clerkship
While clerkships are an ideal way to enter
Guide! As a penultimate year student
the industry, it is important to remember
picking up this Guide, you may be slightly
that they are not the be-all and end-all.
daunted by the process ahead. This Guide
Every year, great students will miss out on
aims to provide insight into the application
the opportunity. This is a testimony to the
process, firms you may wish to apply for and
competitiveness of the industry and the
clerkship itself. As such, it endeavours to
high standard of students that law schools
offer a sense of ease for the journey ahead.
produce. At times like this, it is important
The clerkship application process has
opportunity to look into the many other
a reputation for being long and tedious.
opportunities available to law graduates. I
Bearing this in mind, the clerkship process
encourage you to also look at the Careers
to gain some perspective and take the
is a rewarding experience and opens the
Guide which will be released in early
doors to a wealth of understanding and
September, and showcases the multitude
experiences from the industry’s best. While
of careers available to a law graduate. I
the skills learnt in university are essential
also recommend students not yet eligible
foundational training, putting these skills into
for clerkships to read the Pre-Penultimate
MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR KATHERINE RICKARD
practice by undertaking a clerkship will assist
Guide (released in March of this year), which
in your continued development as a lawyer.
provides valuable information on how best to
UTS LSS CAREERS (PUBLICATIONS) DIRECTOR
While there are a large variety of firms to
prepare yourself for the clerkship application process and other career opportunities.
apply for, it may be worthwhile to apply to a select number of firms to give you the
On that note, I wish you all the very best of
time to focus on each individual application.
luck throughout the clerkship process and
This will ensure that it is the best it can
your future career.
be. Attention to detail is pivotal – your application could be overlooked for simple
Best regards,
mistakes such as grammar and spelling.
Katie Rickard
With different firms come different cultures and legal specialisations, and although it is important for the firm to choose their clerks, it is also important for you to think carefully about which firm is the best fit for you. I encourage you to look closely at the profiles and clerkship experiences for each firm in this Guide and consider which firms practice in the areas of law you are interested in. It is also a good idea to talk to students who have already undertaken clerkships and attend the on-campus talks by firms (who can answer any specific questions you may have).
04
MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
The Summer Clerkship Guide produced
UTS: Law students are well regarded. How-
by the UTS LSS is an invaluable resource
ever, the clerkship program is highly competi-
whether you are planning to apply for a
tive and there will be many more applicants
summer clerkship or, perhaps, still thinking
than places. Even if you are not successful
about whether or not this experience is for
in obtaining a clerkship, the experience can
you. It will provide you with information
still be valuable. Preparing your application
about the firms, detail the process, provide
can help you to identify your strengths and to
you with tips, and you can also read about
refine how you present relevant information
the experiences of former summer clerks.
about yourself. Likewise, interviews provide
Importantly, the Guide will also provide
useful practice and experience. They will
you with information about the proper
give you an idea of what is expected of a law
procedures to be followed. You should
interview and a chance for you to see how
make sure that your applications follow the
you manage it. Take time after the interview
requirements of the scheme and the firms to
to reflect on it – what went well and what
which you are applying.
could have been improved. Use the tips in this Guide as an aid for that reflection (as well as
MESSAGE FROM LESLEY HITCHENS UTS:LAW DEAN
Applying for clerkships can be quite an
a guide to preparing for the interview). But
intense experience from the application
don’t be too hard on yourself – we can all
stage through to interviews and finally
look back on interviews and wish we had
offers. However, it is important to keep this
said something differently! So whether or
in perspective. The clerkship program and
not you decide to participate in the program,
the firms engaged in the program represent
and whether or not you are successful, the
only a very small share of the career and
clerkship application process can assist you to
employment opportunities that will be
reflect on the type of career you want and/
available to you as a graduate. According
or improve your application and interviewing
to the Law Society of NSW’s 2012 Profile
skills. For those of you who are successful in
of NSW solicitors, only about 22% of NSW
obtaining a clerkship, the experience will also
solicitors employed in private practice work
offer you the chance to consider whether that
in firms with 40 or more partners. Law
is the career path you want to pursue when
firms with more than 20 partners represent
you have qualified.
only 0.5% of all law firms in NSW. About 18% of solicitors working in private practice
And finally, good luck with the process!
are employed in firms of between 2 to 4 partners – these firms are unlikely to be
Best Regards,
running summer clerkship programs. Of
Professor Lesley Hitchens
those in practice, around 30% will be employed by Government or by corporations. Your law degree will equip you for a diverse range of careers that may or may not involve the formal practice of law – not to mention international career opportunities. At this stage you may not even be aware of the diverse possibilities.
05
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
The clerkship season is now upon us and it
Clerkship Events
is time to start preparing yourselves for the
As well as reading the Guide itself, I advise
process. In picking up or downloading the
that you attend the UTS LSS Clerkship
Summer Clerkship Guide, it will provide
Seminar Series. These seminars are designed
you with the opportunity to become more
to allow you to hear directly from human
acquainted with the Summer Clerkship
resources representatives and practitioners
Program as well as increase familiarity with
about their experiences at the firm as well as
firms participating in the Program.
gain tips about applying to those firms.
Participating in the Summer Clerkship
I also suggest that you attend the Clerkship
Program is traditionally the most direct
Networking Evening. This Evening show-
mechanism to secure a graduate position at
cases many of the firms participating in the
one of Australia’s most successful commer-
Program and provides a further opportunity
cial and corporate law firms.
to meet some of the practitioners and other members from the firms.
What will the Summer Clerkship Guide do for me?
If you have any further questions regarding
The Guide’s primary purpose is to provide
the application process or Summer Clerk-
PRESIDENT’S WELCOME
you with a comprehensive range of infor-
ship Program, and are unsure of whom to
KATHERINE AGAPITOS
mation designed to place you in the best
contact, please feel free to email me directly
possible position when making your clerkship
at president@utslss.com.
UTS LSS PRESIDENT
application(s). Since a substantial amount of time goes into such applications, I highly
I would like to extend a special thank you
recommend that each of you undertake
to the UTS LSS Sponsorship and Careers
careful preparation by reading the contents
Portfolio and in particular the Careers (Publi-
of this Guide and the information contained
cations) Director, Katherine Rickard, for her
on each firm’s website.
tireless work, commitment and organisation of this Guide.
A plethora of useful tips regarding the clerkship process are encompassed within
On behalf of the UTS LSS, I wish you all
this Guide. Contributors have prepared
the very best with the application process
frameworks assisting with the development
and your professional careers ahead.
of effective cover letters and your CV. Best regards, This Guide will also provide a multitude of profiles and past clerkship experiences from firms participating in the Summer Clerkship Program. These profiles provide first hand information on each firm, offering you an opportunity to determine which firms are of interest to you.
06
Katherine Agapitos
UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM EVENTS
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM EVENTS Hannah Rumble (UTS LSS Careers (Activities) Director)
The primary purpose of the UTS LSS careers portfolio is to provide UTS:Law students with information on career opportunities available to them, including the Summer Clerkship Program. As a result, the UTS LSS hosts a series of clerkship-related events each year to assist students in deciding where to apply and how to apply. These initiatives are targeted towards penultimate students who are applying for the program, however students in any stage of their degree can benefit from attending these events.
representatives over canapés and drinks in a careers fair-style format. Engaging in one-on-one conversations with firm representatives provides students with the opportunity to stand out from the crowd of applicants. Equally, the Clerkship Networking Evening allows you to compare firms side-by-side and assist you in deciding where you will apply. In 2013, the Clerkship Networking Evening will be held on 21 May at Aerial UTS Function Centre.
In 2013, the UTS LSS will be hosting: 1. The Clerkship Seminar Series The Clerkship Seminar Series provides UTS:Law students with the opportunity to hear from and meet with representatives from some of Australia’s top law firms and gain insight into these firms’ clerkship processes. Held over several weeks in May, the Clerkship Seminar Series provides invaluable insight into life at these firms as a summer clerk as well as a graduate solicitor. The Series involves a number of law firms coming to UTS to provide an hour-long presentation about their firm, with information including the firm’s career opportunities, vision, and culture. Each presentation presents a unique networking opportunity for students who can ask questions and chat to the firm’s representatives. Each firm will typically send a human resources representative, a recruiting partner and a former summer clerk. These representatives frequently provide helpful tips on how to apply and make sure you stand out. With food, drinks and the opportunity to liaise with firm representatives, the Clerkship Seminar Series is not to be missed by students who are interested in applying for clerkships. 2. The Clerkship Networking Evening The Clerkship Networking Evening is held at the conclusion of the Seminar Series and gives students the opportunity to engage with representatives from some of Australia’s top law firms and gain unique insight into these firms’ clerkship process.
3. Skills Workshops In order to assist students with the clerkship application process, the UTS LSS, in conjunction with participating firms, will be facilitating three skills workshops in 2013: • Allen & Overy Networking Workshop, • Clayton Utz Interviewing Workshop, and • Minter Ellison CV & Cover Letter Writing Workshop. The Skills Workshops are held in the week immediately following the conclusion of the Seminar Series and Networking Evening to develop students’ career application skills before clerkship applications open. The workshops are designed provide you with new tips on perfecting your careers-based skills. Each workshop will run for an hour and provide tips from the firms themselves on what they are interested in seeing in a student’s application, interview technique or networking discussion. Whilst the above initiatives have been tailored to assist those students applying for clerkships in 2013, they are open to all UTS:Law students. Dates, times and classroom locations for all the above activities can be found below, however it is suggested you check the UTS LSS website (www.utslss.com) beforehand for any potential room changes. It is highly recommended that students who are interested in applying for the Summer Clerkship Program 2013 take part in these initiatives in order to gain valuable insight from participating firms. Should you have any further questions in respect of these activities, please contact me at careers.activities@utslss.com. I look forward to seeing you at these events!
As the UTS LSS’s premier clerkship event of the year, the Clerkship Networking Evening allows students to engage and network with firm 07
UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM EVENTS
UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM EVENTS
7 MAY 2013
8 MAY 2013
9 MAY 2013
14 MAY 2013
Gilbert + Tobin 11.00am, CM05C.01.05
Clayton Utz 11.00am, CM05C.01.05
Corrs Chambers Westgarth 11.00am, CM05C.01.20
King & Wood Mallesons 11.00am, CM05C.01.05
Minter Ellison 2.00pm, CM05C.01.20
Allens 2.00pm, CM05C.01.05
Norton Rose 2.00pm, CM05C.01.05
15 MAY 2013
16 MAY 2013
20 MAY 2013
Herbert Smith Freehills 11.00am, CM05C.01.05
Allen & Overy 11.00am, CM05C.02.44
Attorney-General’s Department 2.00pm, CM05C.01.20
Ashurst 5.30pm, CM05C.01.19
Henry Davis York 2.00pm, CM05C.01.05
21 MAY 2013
28 MAY 2013
29 MAY 2013
30 MAY 2013
Clerkship Networking Evening 5.30pm – 8.30pm, Aerial UTS Function Centre
Minter Ellison CV & Cover Letter Workshop 1.00pm, CM05C.01.20
Clayton Utz Interviewing Workshop 11.00am, CM05B.01.12
Allen & Overy Networking Workshop 1.00pm, CM05C.01.05
* Please note this schedule is subject to change. For the most up-to-date schedule and further information on the above events, including how to register for the Clerkship Networking Evening, please visit www.utslss.com under the Careers tab.
08
NSW LAW SOCIETY CLERKSHIP GUIDELINES AND DATES
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
NSW LAW SOCIETY CLERKSHIP GUIDELINES AND DATES
NSW Law Society Summer Clerkship Program
2013 Summer Clerkship Program Deadlines
The 2013 NSW Summer Clerkship Program is co-ordinated by the Law Society of NSW for the benefit of law firms in NSW and law schools. The Summer Clerkship Program is generally open to penultimate year law students. Students should confirm with each law firm
DATE
Wednesday 19 June
ACTIVITY
Applications for summer clerkships open.
whether the firm intends to make offers for summer clerkship positions outside the desired year group before submitting their application to the selected law firm. Applications for summer clerkships
The Guidelines are intended to implement a fair program for
Friday 19 July
close at 5.00pm.
law firms and students by providing set dates for the recruitment process. Students should be mindful that the programs are competitive in nature and recruitment is not guaranteed for either program.
Monday 19 August
Interviews for summer clerkships commence.
Each participating law firm has its own application process. Students should send their completed application in the format preferred by the firm of their choice. The Student Application Form (obtained through the NSW Law Society website) is to be used only where specifically required by the firm. For firm
Friday 27 September
Offers for summer clerkships can be made.
requirements view the following list of Participating Law Firms for the Summer Clerk Program which is also available directly from the NSW Law Society website (www.lawsociety.com.au/cs/ groups/public/documents/internetcontent/682167.pdf).
Tuesday 1 October
Offers for summer clerkships must be accepted or declined by 5.00pm.
For more details as to the guidelines imposed on law firms and candidates, refer to the Law Society of New South Wales’ website (www.lawsociety.com.au). The Law Society cannot accept lodgment of student applications. Students should direct all enquiries to the law firm of their choosing, or alternatively, email Michelle Westlund at llfadmin@lawsociety.com.au.
09
NSW LAW SOCIETY LIST OF PARTICIPATING FIRMS
NSW LAW SOCIETY 2013 SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM PARTICIPATING LAW FIRMS Participating law firms list current as at 29 April 2013. For up to date information, go to www.lawsociety.com.au/community/forlawstudents/GraduateEmploymentClerkships
FIRM
GRADUATE PROGRAM
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM
CONTACT DETAILS Level 12 60 Carrington St Sydney NSW 2000
Addisons Lawyers
Allen & Overy
No
No
Yes
Yes
Phone: 02 8915 1089 Fax: 02 8916 2000
CV MAIL OR INTERNAL APPLICATION
Submit applications online via: www.addisonslawyers.com.au/ site/Home/Summer_Clerkships.aspx
CONTACT: Samantha Pearce (Human Resources Specialist) Email: samantha.pearce@addisonslawyers.com.au
Please include a covering letter, detailed CV, current academic transcript and response to application questions.
Level 25 85 Castlereagh St Sydney NSW 2000
Submit applications online via: www.allenovery.com/careers/ australia/en-gb/
Phone: 02 9373 7700 Fax: 02 9373 7710
Applications should include a covering letter, detailed CV and current academic transcript.
CONTACT: The Australian Recruitment Team Email: australianrecruitment@allenovery.com
Deutsche Bank Place Cnr Hunter & Phillip St Sydney NSW 2000 Allens
No
Yes
Phone: 02 9230 4308 Fax: 02 9230 5333 CONTACT: Ms Amy Spira (Graduate Resourcing Consultant) Email: Student.Careers@allens.com.au
10
Submit applications online via: www.allens.com.au/careers
NSW LAW SOCIETY LIST OF PARTICIPATING FIRMS
FIRM
GRADUATE PROGRAM
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM
CONTACT DETAILS
CV MAIL OR INTERNAL APPLICATION
SYDNEY Level 36 Grosvenor Place 225 George Street Sydney NSW 2000 Phone: 02 9258 6924 Fax: 02 9258 6999 Courier to: Level 35 Grosvenor Place 225 George Street Sydney NSW 2000 Ashurst
No
Yes
CONTACT: Ms. Amy Foulcher (People Development Consultant) Email: amy.foulcher@ashurst.com
Submit applications online via: www.ashurst.com/graduates Please include a covering letter, detailed CV, current academic transcript and response to application questions.
CANBERRA Level 11 12 Moore Street CANBERRA ACT 2601 Phone: 02 6234 4078 Fax: 02 6234 4111 CONTACT: Ms. Margot Kindley (People Development Relationship Manager) Email: margot.kindley@ashurst.com
Locked Bag 7246 Canberra Mail Centre ACT 2610 Australian Government Solicitor (Canberra)
Yes
Yes
Phone: 02 6253 7510 Fax: 02 6253 7333 CONTACT: Ms. Debbie Kazolis (Lawyer Development Advisor) Email: debbie.kazolis.ags.gov.au
Application Form available from www.ags.gov.au Submit applications via email: CanHR@ags.gov.au or hard copy to the above address.
Level 27 AMP Centre 50 Bridge Street Sydney NSW 2000 Baker & McKenzie
No
Yes
Phone: 02 8922 0200 / 02 8922 5708 Fax: 02 9225 1595
Submit applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au
CONTACT: Ms Vanessa Harris (Organisational Development Manager) Email: vanessa.harris@bakermckenzie.com
Level 6 179 Elizabeth Street Sydney NSW 2000 Brown Wright Stein
Yes
No
Phone: 02 9394 1047 Fax: 02 9394 1011
Submit applications online via: www.bwslawyers.com.au/careers. aspx
CONTACT: Ms. Brooke Glastonbury Email: bag@bwslawyers.com.au
11
NSW LAW SOCIETY LIST OF PARTICIPATING FIRMS
FIRM
GRADUATE PROGRAM
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM
CONTACT DETAILS
CV MAIL OR INTERNAL APPLICATION
Level 3 60 Phillip Street Parramatta NSW 2150 Champion Legal
No
Yes
Phone: 02 9635 8266 Fax: 02 9635 1167
Submit applications online via: www.champion.com.au
CONTACT: Ms. Michelle Forrester Email: connect@champion.com.au
Level 15 1 Bligh Street Sydney NSW 2000 Clayton Utz
No
Yes
Phone: 02 9353 5426 Fax: 02 8220 6700
Submit applications online via: www.claytonutz.com/careers/ graduates_and_clerkships/ home.page
CONTACT: Ms. Catherine Craven (Graduate Recruiter) Email: cacraven@claytonutz.com
Level 16 1 O’Connell Street Sydney NSW 2000 Clifford Chance
No
Yes
Phone: 02 8922 8000 Fax: 02 8922 8088
Submit applications online via: www.cliffordchance.com
CONTACT: Ms. Debbie McKell Email: debbie.mckell@cliffordchance.com Level 27-01 420 George Street Sydney NSW 2000 Clyde & Co
No
Yes
Phone: 02 9210 4410
Submit applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au
CONTACT: Jaime Strudwick (Office Manager) Email: jaime.strudwick@clydeco.com Level 36 Governor Phillip Tower 1 Farrer Place Sydney NSW 2000 Corrs Chambers Westgarth
No
Yes
Phone: 02 9210 6932 Fax: 02 9210 6611
Submit applications online via: www.corrs.com.au/careers/ graduates
CONTACT: Ms. Katherine Smith (Human Resources Coordinator) Email: katherine.smith@corrs.com.au
Level 14 Swire House 10 Spring Street Sydney NSW 2000 Department of Attorney General and Justice, NSW
No
Yes
Phone: 02 8061 9235 / 02 8061 9238 Fax: 02 8061 9370 CONTACT: Ms. Julia Carland (Senior Policy Officer) Email: julia_carland@agd.nsw.gov.au Ms. Caroline Davies (Policy Officer) Email: caroline_davies@agd.nsw.gov.au
12
Submit applications via email to: lpclrd@agd.nsw.gov.au Further information is available from the website at www.lpclrd.lawlink.nsw.gov.au
NSW LAW SOCIETY LIST OF PARTICIPATING FIRMS
FIRM
GRADUATE PROGRAM
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM
CONTACT DETAILS
CV MAIL OR INTERNAL APPLICATION
SYDNEY 201 Elizabeth Street Sydney NSW 2000 Phone: 02 9286 8585 Fax: 02 9283 4144
DLA Piper Australia
CONTACT: Ms. Kristie Barton (HR Advisor) Email: kristie.barton@dlapiper.com No
Yes
CANBERRA 55 Wentworth Avenue Kingston ACT 2604
Submit applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au Applications should include a covering letter, detailed CV and current academic transcript.
Phone: 02 6201 3434 Fax: 02 6230 7848 CONTACT: Ms. Jennifer Bell (Human Resources Manager) Email: jennifer.bell@dlapiper.com
Level 16 77 Castlereagh Street Sydney NSW 2000 Gadens Lawyers
No
Yes
Phone: 02 9035 7444 Fax: 02 9931 4888 CONTACT: Mr. Doug Barry (Human Resources Coordinator); Ms. Natalie Hannaford Email: dbarry@nsw.gardens.com.au
Submit applications via email: dbarry@nsw.gardens.com.au or the website www.gadens.com.au
Level 37 2 Park Street Sydney NSW 2000 Gilbert + Tobin Lawyers
No
Yes
Phone: 02 9263 4067 Fax: 02 9263 4111
Submit applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au
CONTACT: Ms. Emma Garmston (People Team Co-ordinator) Email: clerkships@gtlaw.com.au Level 28 31 Market Street Sydney NSW 2000 Harmers Workplace Lawyers
No
Yes
Phone: 02 9267 4322 Fax: 02 9264 4295 CONTACT: Ms. Megan Hoban Email: recruitment@harmers.com.au Mr. Paul Lorraine (Special Consultant and Team Leader) paul.lorraine@harmers.com.au
44 Martin Place Sydney NSW 2000 Henry Davis York
No
Yes
Phone: 02 9947 6532 Fax: 02 9947 6999 CONTACT: Ms. Lena Ristevski (People and Development Officer) Email: lena_ristevski@hdy.com.au
Submit application online via www.cvmail.com.au or via email: recruitment@harmers.com.au Applications should include an application form, covering letter, detailed CV and current academic transcript.
Submit applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au Applications should include a covering letter, detailed CV and current academic transcript.
13
NSW LAW SOCIETY LIST OF PARTICIPATING FIRMS
FIRM
GRADUATE PROGRAM
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM
CONTACT DETAILS Level 38 MLC Centre 19-29 Martin Place Sydney NSW 2000
Herbert Smith Freehills
No
Yes
Phone: 02 9322 4792 Fax: 02 9322 4000 CONTACT: Ms. Leigh Dunlop (Graduate Recruitment Advisor) Email: leigh.dunlop@hsf.com
CV MAIL OR INTERNAL APPLICATION Submit applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au Applications should include a covering letter, detailed CV and current academic transcript. For more information go to: www.freehills.com.au/careers
Level 65 MLC Centre 19 Martin Place Sydney NSW 2000 Holding Redlich
No
Yes
Phone: 02 8083 0474 Fax: 02 8083 0399
Submit applications via email: sydneyclerkships@ holdingredlich.com.au
CONTACT: Ms. Anna Peters (Human Resources Manager) Email: anna.peters@holdingredlich.com.au
Level 1 Gateway 1 Macquarie Place Sydney NSW 2000 Hunt & Hunt
Yes
No
Phone: 02 9391 3054 Fax: 02 9391 3099 CONTACT: Ms. Rebecca Sutherland (Human Resources Consultant) Email: rsutherland@hunthunt.com.au GPO Box 5408 Sydney NSW 2001
HWL Ebsworth
Yes
No
Phone: 02 9334 8555 Fax: 1300 369 656 CONTACT: Ms. Renee Lawton Email: rlawton@hwle.com.au Level 25 201 Bond Street Sydney NSW 2000
Johnson Winter & Slattery
No
Yes
Phone: 08 8239 7127/ 02 8274 9529 Fax: 08 8239 7100 CONTACT: Ms. Romaine Ponniah Email: romaine.ponniah@jws.com.au Ms. Robyn Howard Email: robyn.howard@jws.com.au
Aurora Place Level 41 88 Phillip St Sydney NSW 2000 Jones Day
Yes
Yes
Phone: 02 8272 0717 Fax: 02 8272 0599 CONTACT: Ms. Natalie Berndt Email: nberndt@jonesday.com
14
Submit applications online via: www.hunthunt.com.au/ join-us/graduate, in hard copy or by email to rsutherland@ hunthunt.com.au (Complete the Law Society Student Application Form, include a detailed CV, current academic transcript, HSC results and UAI or equivalent) Submit applications online via www.hwlebsworth.com. au/join-us/graduate- centre. html and email your CV, academic transcript and any other relevant information to nswgraduate2014@hwle. com.au
Submit applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au Applications should include a covering letter, detailed CV and current academic transcript.
Submit applications via email to: sydneyrecruiting@jonesday. com Applications should include a covering letter, detailed CV and your academic transcript.
NSW LAW SOCIETY LIST OF PARTICIPATING FIRMS
FIRM
GRADUATE PROGRAM
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM
CONTACT DETAILS Level 27, 1 O’Connell Street Sydney NSW 2000
K & L Gates
No
Yes
Phone: 02 9513 2415 Fax: 02 9513 2399 CONTACT: Ms. Alison Maclurkin (Human Resources Specialist) Email: alison.maclurkin@klgates.com
CV MAIL OR INTERNAL APPLICATION
Submit applications online via: www.middletons.com/careers or www.cvmail.com.au Complete an online application and include a detailed CV and current academic transcript.
SYDNEY Level 61 Governor Phillip Tower 1 Farrer Place Sydney NSW 2000 Phone: 02 9296 3573 Fax: 02 9296 3999
King & Wood Mallesons
No
Yes
CONTACT: Mr. Mitch Barreca (Graduate Resourcing Consultant) Email: mitch.barreca@au.kwm.com CANBERRA Level 5 7 London Circuit Canberra ACT 2001
Submit applications online via: www.kwm.com Complete an online application and include a detailed CV and current academic transcript.
Phone: 02 6217 6632 Fax: 02 6217 6999 Email: melissa.crampton@au.kwm.com CONTACT: Ms. Melissa Crampton (People and Development Centre Manager) Email: melissa.crampton@au.kwm.com Level 5 Angel Place 123 Pitt St Sydney NSW 2000 Lander & Rogers Lawyers
No
Yes
Phone: 02 8020 7700 Fax: 02 8020 7701 CONTACT: Ms. Laura Grant (Graduate Recruitment Consultant) Email: lgrant@landers.com.au GPO Box 521 88 Phillip Street Sydney NSW 2000
Minter Ellison
No
Yes
Phone: 02 9921 4390 Fax: 02 9921 8123 CONTACT: Ms. Stephanie Zanella Email: stephanie.zanella@minterellison.com
Submit applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au Applications should include a covering letter, detailed CV and academic transcript.
Submit applications online via: www.minterellison.com/careers Applications should include a covering letter, detailed CV, current academic transcript and their online application.
Level 18 Grosvenor Place 225 George Street Sydney NSW 2000 Norton Rose
No
Yes
Phone: 02 9330 8945 Fax: 02 9330 8111
Submit applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au
CONTACT: Ms. Yvette Revell (Recruitment and National Graduate Adviser) Email: yvette.revell@nortonrose.com 15
NSW LAW SOCIETY LIST OF PARTICIPATING FIRMS
FIRM
Slater & Gordon
Thomsons Lawyers
GRADUATE PROGRAM
No
No
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM
Yes
Yes
CONTACT DETAILS
CV MAIL OR INTERNAL APPLICATION
Level 5 44 Market Street GPO Box 1584 Sydney NSW 2001
Submit applications via email: humanresourcesNSW@slatergordon.com.au
CONTACT: Ms. Michelle Rutherford (HR Assistant) Email: humanresourcesNSW@slatergordon.com. au
Applications should include a covering letter, detailed CV and current academic transcript.
Australia Square Tower Level 25 1 O’Connell Street Sydney NSW 2000
Submit applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au
Phone: 02 8248 5802 Fax: 02 8248 5899 CONTACT: Ms. Stephanie Moffitt (Human Resources Adviser) Email: smoffitt@thomsonslawyers.com.au
Complete the online application form and include your covering letter, resume, and academic transcript.
Level 20 135 King Street Sydney NSW 2000 TressCox
No
Yes
Phone: 02 9228 9200 Fax: 02 9228 9299
Submit applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au
CONTACT: Ms. Julia Bucci (HR Adviser) Email: julia_bucci@tresscox.com.au Level 11 68 Pitt St Sydney NSW 2000 Truman Hoyle Lawyers
No
Yes
Phone: 02 9226 9888 Fax: 02 9226 9899
Submit applications online via: www.cvmail.com.au
CONTACT: Ms. Kathryn Edghill/ Ms. Jan Thomas Email: kedghill@trumanhoyle.com.au Level 18, 420 George St Webb Henderson
No
Yes
Sydney NSW 2000 Phone: 02 8214 3502 CONTACT: Ms Karen Rowland Email: karen.rowland@webbhenderson.com
16
Submit applications online via: www.webbhenderson.com.au/ summerclerk
FOR THE APPLICANT
THE SUMMER CLERKSHIP APPLICATION PROCESS
THE SUMMER CLERKSHIP APPLICATION PROCESS Hannah Rumble (UTS LSS Careers (Activities) Director)
This is your step-by-step guide to the Clerkship process so that you
Interview process
are fully prepared, informed and don’t encounter any nasty surprises.
After the application process closes, firms will assess the applications and then send their offers for interviews to chosen applicants, with
Applications & CV Mail
interviews commencing Monday 19 August 2013. There are two
In 2013, applications for the Summer Clerkship Program open
rounds of interviews before applicants may be offered a place in
Wednesday 19 June and close Friday 19 July at 5.00pm. This gives
a firm’s clerkship program. However, just because you receive an
students a month to prepare and submit the applications for the firms
interview in the first round does not necessarily mean you will receive
they have chosen to apply for.
one in the second round, as with each round the firms will scale down their applicants to determine who to offer a clerkship to.
Each firm uses different application criteria, meaning you must make a different application and cover letter for each firm. CV Mail is an
With each round of interviews firms will often hold a cocktail evening
online application service that many of the firms use to have their
or similar event to network with the applicants and learn more about
applications submitted. If you wish to apply to a firm which uses
them. This provides students with the opportunity to determine
CV Mail you will need to register (which is quick, easy and free)
whether it is a firm in which they would like to work, and equally
which will give you a CV Mail, username. It is through CV Mail,
firms can determine whether you are an applicant who interests
that you submit your cover letter, academic transcript and submit
them.
your application for these firms. If a firm is not registered on CV Mail it is likely that you are required to submit your application and
If you want to impress in an interview, it is advised that you do as
accompanying documents through their website. Also, please note
much research as you can on the firm you are interviewing with. You
that many firms require a formal academic transcript, so make sure
are often provided the names of those who will be interviewing you,
you have one ordered one from the Student Centre prior to applying.
and so it shows initiative if you can demonstrate your knowledge of their work, as well as be able to have a friendly discussion with them.
Some students may be overseas during the application or interview
The interview process is incredibly competitive and often a very busy
period, whether on exchange or for other reasons. Never fear, so long
time for students who get multiple offers for interviews, however if
as you will be in the country for the clerkship period in summer you
you are prepared, organised and demonstrate your potential then
can still apply. If overseas whilst applying this should not affect your
students should feel confident that they have done what is necessary
applications as all applications are submitted online. However, if
to impress.
you know you will be overseas during the interview process it is best
18
to inform the firms in your application. In almost every application
Offers
there is an area to provide additional comments or special needs
Offers for the Summer Clerkship Program for 2013 are made
regarding the interview, and it is here that you would explain you
on Friday 27 September and need to be accepted or declined by
were overseas. It is advised to put as much information regarding
Tuesday 1 October. Offers are made via telephone call to the student
your circumstance here, and would also be prudent to send the firm a
from a human resources representative and the summer clerkship
follow up call to explain you are available for Skype interviews. Most
contract is couriered or mailed to the student that day. This gives
firms will be happy to set up a Skype interview with you, but be sure
students the opportunity to read through the contracts, if they receive
to remind them you will require this if you are offered an interview.
multiple offers, which can often help them decide which firm they
THE SUMMER CLERKSHIP APPLICATION PROCESS
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
wish to undertake their clerkship at. Unsuccessful applicants will also receive a telephone call or email to inform them that they have not been offered a place. Students may only accept one summer clerkship position in one firm, and so it is important during the whole process to decide which firm is the best fit for you, whether it be the people, practice groups or culture that persuades you. The process can be long, frustrating, and, unfortunately due to the large number of applicants and limited number of clerkship positions, disappointing. However, it is important to remain positive throughout the whole process because the procedure can help prepare and equip you with important career related skills for the future.
19
WHICH IS THE RIGHT COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM FOR YOU?
WHICH IS THE RIGHT COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM FOR YOU? Ashley Radich
Understanding the differences between the firms you are applying
•
Have you been particularly impressed with their graduate
to is crucial to writing a good application. However, throughout the
training program? If so, show you’ve done your research by
process it is easy to become overloaded with too much information
using the program’s correct name.
and lose track of what sets each firm apart. This article sets out some important considerations in writing a stand-out application and
•
Has the firm received an award or citation that’s important to you? For example, citations for women may be particularly
picking the right commercial law firm for your career.
important for female applicants. WRITING A STAND OUT APPLICATION
•
While most firms are proud of their pro bono schemes, what they really want to know is that you have a genuine interest in their commercial attributes and opportunities. If your
Step 1: Sing the firm’s praises
application gives enough time and thought to these commercial
Step one to a great application is showing knowledge of the inner
aspects, then an appreciation of their pro bono program
workings of the firm. This doesn’t mean copying and pasting in all
and willingness to contribute will be valued. It’s all about the
their ALB awards to date or every deal mentioned in the Financial
right balance in your application.
Review over the last six months. Take time to think about it - what are the things that honestly make this firm stand out for you?
Step 2: Why are you applying to this particular firm? To really stand out in the application process, you need to understand
Here are some other things to consider:
what the firm is looking for in the people it employs. I don’t believe firms have a ‘type’ of person they recruit, but they do have certain
•
All the firms have great clients, and it’s important to know who
attributes that they value above others. To make sense of all the firm’s
their clients are and the types of deals they’ve worked on. If you
published information, you need to speak to their representatives in
have been impressed by a specific deal or the longevity of a
person at clerkship seminars and networking events. If you’ve listened
particular client relationship, make sure you include it
well and understood what the firm identifies as its selling points,
meaningfully and are comfortable discussing this in an interview.
you’ll be able to give an honest interpretation of what you think is the culture of the firm and provide a genuine reason for why you want
•
Has the firm recently merged? If so, show that you’ve listened
to work for them. Catch phrases and attributes that are left ringing
and understood their approach and the structure of the merger.
in yours ears – whether it be that their solicitors are down-to-earth,
If not, show you understand why it has chosen not to merge and
driven or show initiative – are the things your application should
why that makes it a key market player. If you have a specific
focus on.
area of practice you’re interested in (it’s always good to identify some if you can, but being open to any area is also a positive!),
Step 3: Why should they take you?
how do you think a national or international firm can improve
Step three is drawing on all your work, study and extra- curricular
the opportunities and prospects in that specific area?
achievements to date, and using them to demonstrate how you exude the qualities they value. This makes it obvious that you’re a good fit for the firm. Be specific if you can; ask yourself “have I participated in an activity that shows great teamwork?”, “have I shown excellent drive to improve
20
WHICH IS THE RIGHT COMMERCIAL LAW FIRM FOR YOU?
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
my academic performance?” or “have I taken initiative and come back to study
International opportunities and opportunities for further
law after years in another field?” Make the link clear so that they will
study
immediately know that not only do you understand the culture of the
•
firm but you would also excel in their firm.
Are international opportunities important to you? If so, look at both the clerkship and long-term opportunities. If you are all about the short-term, then the opportunity for an overseas rotation during your clerkship could carry significant weight for you.
IF YOU ARE LUCKY ENOUGH TO GET MULTIPLE OFFERS:
•
Many firms have recently merged so a good question to ask in interviews is what changes this has made to the number of international opportunities. Don’t assume that an international
There are some obvious things that you shouldn’t base your decision
firm can offer you more international opportunities than
on (however tempting it may be): the view from the office, the
a domestic firm. Many of the domestic firms have incredible
canapés and drinks at the cocktail night and the venues for any
arrangements with impressive overseas firms.
second round cocktail events. •
Most firms offer to assist you with further study but some firms
But how do you decide? There’s no right answer to this and most
offer greater flexibility and funding for you to pursue this.
people talk about a ‘gut’ feeling. While different to your usual law
Make sure you ask sufficient questions to know whether this is a
school problem solving technique, using ‘the vibe’ of the firm to help
real possibility for you as a junior lawyer.
you solve this dilemma is a completely acceptable approach. Secondments Alternatively, if you want your head to guide your gut then it’s
Most firms offer secondments and they are seen as a great way
worth reflecting on the people you’ve spoken to and the deals and
to understand what it’s like to be a client of the firm. While
opportunities you’ve discussed. You may already know whether a
secondments are likely to be offered by all firms, it’s a good idea to
small, medium or large firm is for you. However, regardless of the
talk to both junior and senior solicitors about what opportunities they
size of the firm, the following are all relevant considerations.
have been offered while in the firm. This will help you judge what level solicitors are eligible, the frequency of opportunities and the
Clerkship and graduate rotations •
usual duration.
Gain an understanding of how the clerkship rotations work within the firm. How many areas do you try and for how long?
The type of work you’ll be doing
If you want to try everything, then a clerkship that trials many
Talk to the junior lawyers! Try to identify whether you are someone
areas might be the one for you.
who works well independently and likes responsibility or whether you prefer to contribute to a larger team project. The distribution of work
•
Consider your potential for a graduate position should you have
will differ between practice groups within every firm and it’s possible
a successful clerkship. The graduate rotations also vary in terms
to receive your own matters in any sized firm.
of number and duration. If you really want to immerse yourself in a group before you settle, then you may want a firm that
There’s no wrong decision!
offers longer rotations. If you’d rather sample more practice
All of the firms provide a wide range of opportunities for junior
areas, then pick a firm that offers three or more rotations.
solicitors. If you’re daunted by the practice areas and not sure where you want to be in five years, it can be a good idea to keep
•
Make sure you ask what limits there are, if any, on your choices
your options open. Pick a firm that’s strong over a number of areas,
for graduate rotations. For example, do you have any
provided you liked the representatives you met, felt welcome, and
compulsory rotations? Or do you have to elect between
comfortable.
particular groups? For example, if you do tax are you excluded from any other groups? Choose the firm which best
accommodates your areas of interest. •
Keep in mind that you might surprise yourself and like an area you never considered trying! 21
HINTS AND TIPS IN WRITING A SUCCESSFUL COVER LETTER
HINTS AND TIPS IN WRITING A SUCCESSFUL COVER LETTER Katherine Agapitos (UTS LSS President)
Writing a cover letter is an art. It is vital that you understand exactly
3. Start selling yourself: You need to demonstrate to a potential
what you are applying for before you commence drafting a cover
employer that you understand the job requirements and can do the
letter. To ensure that you are on the right track in writing an effective
job itself. Do this by applying your previous job experience and skills
cover letter, there are a few factors to consider:
to the job you are applying for to enhance your application. That said, make sure you only include the relevant skills and experiences
What is the job that I am applying for?
you have to the job description.
Read the job description thoroughly to identify what the employers are looking for. An effective way of doing this is by deconstructing
HINT: Using the direct wording of the employer’s advertised criteria
and analysing the assessment criteria in the job advertisement or
will clearly illustrate your suitability to their position.
clerkship application. Consider how the criteria that has been listed relates to the skills, attributes and experience you possess.
4. Encourage the reader: You also need to show that you are enthusiastic and have a positive attitude towards the potential posi-
Who will be employing me?
tion and the employer’s workplace. This should make the employer
Research the firm or workplace that you are applying for to ascertain
reading your letter want to know more about you and what you could
what their firm ethos and culture is. A good place to look is within
potentially bring to the position.
the firm’s visionary statements and practice aims. Remember to take note of the wording used by firms in describing themselves. It may be
HINT: There is a fine line between coming across as arrogant and
a good idea to use their ‘buzz’ words in your cover letter, indicating that
conceited, and painting yourself as a confident student. Have your
you really have an understanding of the firm’s attitudes and workplace.
cover letter proof read by friends or family before sending the final copy.
Where to from here? Here are a few steps that you may consider to take when writing your
5. The final call: To follow your encouraging description of
cover letter:
yourself and your attributes, include a short paragraph showing the employer your enthusiasm by suggesting your willingness to speak
1. Introduce yourself and make it personal: The key with any
with them further about the position. This can be facilitated through
cover letter is to make it as personal as possible. This means address-
telephone conversations or an interview/meeting.
ing your letter to a real person for a specific job. Avoid the temptation to send out a generic letter.
General tips: A cover letter should:
2. This means a bit of extra work: Look to the “Participating
•
Be succinct;
Firms” table to ascertain who to address your cover letter to. Spend-
•
Be positive and upbeat;
ing some time researching the company so that you can make your
•
Be a precursor to your CV, encouraging the employer to
letter relevant to the specific job and organisation will go a long way in making your application stand out from the pack.
22
want to read more; •
Add to your CV, not reiterate what the CV already says;
•
Address a name – don’t leave it as a ‘dear sir or madam’;
HINT: If you know people who are already employed at the firm,
•
Be brief – no longer than a page; and
ask them about the culture of the firm and how they would describe it.
•
Show how your skills can relate to the role itself.
THE IMPERFECT COVER LETTER
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE IMPERFECT COVER LETTER Kate Taylor (UTS LSS Vice President (Education))
It is best not to use a generic address. Take the time to find out exactly
Referring to the incorrect firm is the most embarrassing but yet the most
who will be reading your application. A safe bet is to address it to the
common mistake made. Remember to give yourself enough time to proof
contact specified in the NSW Law Society List of Participating Firms.
read and check that you have the firm names exactly right. An error here will make it easier for the reader to place you in the “no” list.
Although your interests may not perfectly align with the work of
Salomon & Salomon 123 Queen St Sydney, NSW 2000
the firm, it is necessary that you explain why you are interested
chord with you.
Remember that your cover letter is not a summary of your CV and any interests that aren’t particularly relevant can be listed in the other half of your application. This belongs in your CV – while it is impressive, it is not an indication of how you would perform in the corporate environment. While these are credible skills
the reader.
This letter is the only reference the firm has as to your
I am writing to apply for a summer clerkship with Smith, Stone & Knight Lawyers. I am in a Business and Law degree, with a major in Management at UTS. I have really good written communication skills which, will be a great asset to your firm. I am particularly interested in human rights issues and international law and at university I have particularly enjoyed Real Property and Equity.
ability to communicate in a professional context.
Although it is basic, don’t neglect your grammar. Get friends or family to proof read. It is best to keep a statement of your marks relevant to
I have an average mark across all my subjects of 74 and achieved an ATAR of 96.2 in my HSC . I was awarded first in my school in Legal Studies. This shows that I am dedicated and diligent.
your success in law subjects,
I am currently employed as a law clerk at Briggs Lawyers. My roles in this position are primarily research and drafting. I have also been employed in the customer service industry.
It is useless to throw around
and experience, you need to explain why this is relevant to
a formal tone without abbreviations or colloquialisms.
To Whom It May Concern ,
in working at that firm and what areas of their expertise strike a
Make sure you write in
as this is most relevant to your application.
adjectives in this way; instead, explain where you acquired the skill, and how it makes you
I am involved in a whole range of activities outside of university and work. I was also in the leadership group in school in Yr 12 and we ran numerous charity events. In primary school, I was School Captain and dux.
a good candidate. Keep your cover letter relevant. What have you
I enjoy swimming and playing soccer. I also like music and play the guitar. To set yourself apart from other applicants, give a little
them you would be an asset?
Thank you very much for considering my application,
more detail as to your role so that the reader can ask you more about it in your interview.
done recently that shows
XXXXX
Do you really want the last thought of the reader to be “cool story Hansel”?
23
HOW TO SELL YOUR EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
HOW TO SELL YOUR EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Johanan Ottensooser
When you apply for clerkships, your academic and work experience
Finally, (and, perhaps, most importantly) I featured my extra-
are only the beginning. The way I see it, grades can get you in to
curriculars in what I like to call a “best-of ” reel, located just below
the first round interview but once you’re there, their usefulness has
my contact details in a light blue text box for emphasis. This will
all but expired. Work experience will probably be the focus of some
make you stand out. The section is structured by four subheadings
of your interview, but often applicants have very similar prior work
– Leadership, Communication, Research, Academics. Under each
experience – be it in retail, hospitality, paralegal work in a small
of these, I briefly highlight my relevant experience. My Research,
law firm or work in business. The purpose of your application and
Communication and Leadership subheadings were primarily
interview process is to distinguish yourself from the crowd. I am a
populated by my extra-curriculars. When organised in this way, you
firm (pun intended) believer that extra-curricular activities and even
force the recruiter to view this experience in the light of skills that
your hobbies and interests can be used for this purpose.
they are looking for – making the extra-curriculars a feature rather than a footnote.
If you are going to include an activity in your CV or cover letter, it is important to explain the skill that you are trying to showcase. Instead
Whilst extra-curriculars aren’t enough to get you the job without
of organising your extra-curriculars like your work experience, consider
academics, I believe that academics and work experience aren’t
organising them by project, so as to highlight your role and skills.
sufficient either. Modern firms are looking for employees with a social conscience, communication skills and the drive to change
It is a good idea to use your extra-curricular activities to address
things. Your extra-curriculars can provide evidence to the firm and
gaps in your work and academic experience. For example, if your
to the recruiters that you are that person!
work experience has been non-legal, highlight your success in legal competitions to demonstrate your problem solving and advocacy. If your work has been mainly corporate, highlight your social justice work. Extra-curricular activities can demonstrate your work ethic, leadership and teamwork skills. In my CV, I presented my extra-curricular activities in three sections. In the “volunteer experience” section, I listed my volunteer roles and wrote a bit more about the role which best reflected my strengths, including a small blurb describing the organisation and the project I worked on. For the “extra-curricular activities” section, I listed my experience in law competitions, my work with the UTS LSS, my work as a peer mentor and my participation in other university adjacent programs. I did not discuss these in great detail since I didn’t want to unbalance my resume.
24
THE CURRICULUM VITAE (CV)
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE CURRICULUM VITAE (CV) Catherine Moore
A cover letter and CV are not the same and have different purposes,
Keep your CV current
so don’t make this mistake! A CV is a summary of your work
Focus on your recent achievements and don’t refer to things prior to
experience, extra-curricular activities and accomplishments. A cover
Year 12. Your achievements, experiences and qualifications should
letter is a personalised letter detailing why you would be perfect for
all be set out in reverse-chronological order with the most recent first,
the role while providing the employer with some insight into your
and the oldest last.
personality. A cover letter is formal and should be no longer than one A4 page of sharp, thoughtful sentences designed to make the reader
Don’t waste space on the irrelevant
want to read more about you in your CV.
Focus on experiences that are relevant to the job position such as your ability to communicate in plain legal language rather than your
Make sure that your CV does not contain lengthy paragraphs and
ability to master the trapeze at age 7.
always use simple language. Be sure to put the most important and valuable information first so that your best achievements are not missed.
Make it easy to read Keeping the formatting, font, headings and margins consistent
TIPS:
throughout the CV facilitates easy reading. Stick to fonts such as Times New Roman or Arial to maintain a professional manner.
Don’t include anything in your CV that you wouldn’t be able
Photographs are unnecessary. Spelling and grammatical errors are
to discuss in an interview
simply unacceptable when you have access to spell check, and this
Although it is tempting to extend activities that we stopped in high
makes it easy for the reader to dismiss your application. Be sure that
school or classify your role flipping burgers at McDonalds as “sous
you and your family and friends proof read your CV thoroughly
chef at a two-hat restaurant”, the risk is not worth it. It is also
before submission.
important to remember that all professional experience is relevant, even if it isn’t as a paralegal at a top tier law firm. A job that you may think is irrelevant may be extremely interesting to employers, who will want to know about the transferable skills you acquired such as time-management and customer relations. Don’t go into too much detail about your previous jobs and experiences Your CV should give substance to your cover letter and provide easy-to-read information about your extra-curricular activities, your professional experience, and the relevant skills you have acquired from these opportunities. Be discerning about the information you include, and make sure that you relate everything you mention to the professional criteria outlined in the job description. Include your extra-curricular activities, and things you participate in outside of law to show prospective employers that your have a balanced lifestyle. 25
A SAMPLE CV
SAMPLE CURRICULUM VITAE Sage Nemra
SAMPLE CV
Jane Smith 1 Quay Street, Ultimo NSW 2007 Tel: (02) 9876 7890 Mobile: 0412 345 678 Jane.Smith@gmail.com
Career Objective I would like to combine my interest and experience in business with my desire to establish a career in a corporate law firm. As such, I would ideally like to be involved in the area of Mergers and Acquisitions to use my knowledge of business to enhance the commerciality of the transactions. Education & Achievements Bachelor of Business/Bachelor of Law 2011 – 2015 (expected) University of Technology, Sydney Awards: 2011 – Awarded first place in Tort Law
• •
aspirations, ideally tailored to the specific firm.
•
List your academic history (tertiary and
secondary) in reverse chronological order. •
Include what you studied, where you studied and when you studied (or expect to complete studying).
•
You may include any other achievements such as prizes or scholarships you have received.
•
List all employment history in reverse
chronological order. •
Detail the position you held, the organisation
Training: LEAP software, Dictaphone, typing speed 40wpm.
you worked for, the duration/dates of your
Responsibilities: research into current defamation laws and legal cases; delivery of documents to clients; general office duties.
position (full time, part time or casual) as well
Achievements: created an educational pamphlet for prospective clients; discovered a factual error on official court documents that was instrumental in successfully defending the client.
26
Make a short, succinct statement outlining to the employer your long term career
Higher School Certificate 2008 – 2010 Sydney Girls’ High School ATAR: 97.5 Professional Experience A & B Lawyers March 2012 – to present Paralegal (part-time role)
This section is optional, particularly for clerkship applications.
employment, on what basis you held the
as all duties performed. •
I recommend to provide more detail on your most recent and/ or relevant jobs.
•
Tailor the information in the section to the job you are applying for.
A SAMPLE CV
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
Pizza and Pasta Kitchen Waittress (casual role)
June 2008 – January 2009
Training: MYOB, Certificate in Retail Management IV. Responsibilities: customer service; cash handling; complaints handling; receptionist work. Achievements: promoted to head supervisor after 6 weeks; implemented a digital roster that allowed staff to contact each other more directly and so ensure no shifts were left uncovered.
•
that you participate in and any charity work that you have done. •
Voluntary Experience / Extra Curricular Activities 2012 • IT Director on UTS Law Students’ Society • Member of UTS LSS Community Ambassadors 2011 • •
Witness in UTS LSS Witness Examination Competition Member of UTS Brennan Justice and Leadership Program
You may include specific voluntary jobs, programs
You do not need to list everything you have ever participated in.
•
Keep in mind the position you are applying for and selection criteria involved to determine what experiences and activities should be included.
•
List interests that are relevant to the job and are professional in nature, for example, membership/
Interests Piano and guitar - 8th grade AMEB qualified • Soccer •
Skills Qualifications: RSA (2011) Languages: Fluent in French
participation in organisations or an interest in reading on particular topics.
•
List all skills you have obtained, whether from professional experience or not.
•
Include, for example, good communication skills, ability to work well in a team, computer skills (for example, word processing or graphic design), and
Referees Referees available upon request.
any languages you speak (you should also list what stage you are at, that is, beginners, intermediate or fluent). •
•
List also any courses that you have completed.
If requested, provide at least two professional referees, including your most recent or most relevant employer.
•
You may also provide referees from any volunteer or extra-curricular activities you have undertaken (where relevant), or an academic referee.
•
You can either provide the contact details of your referees, or alter- natively provide a written reference.
•
You should ask the referees for their consent to provide their details prior to listing them on your CV.
27
THE INTERVIEW
THE INTERVIEW Katherine O’Regan
The interview is the culmination of all your efforts in the application
work for that firm specifically, so it pays to refresh your research
process so far, and can be both an exciting and nerve-wracking
beforehand. Be sure to have plenty of questions prepared as well
experience. The key to acing your interviews and scoring the
because most second round interviews allocate at least 50% of the
clerkship of your dreams is preparation- so here is some advice to
time for you to ask questions.
make the process a little bit less daunting. Preparing for the interview Firstly, congratulations!
Before the interview, research the firm. Look at their website and
The firms will usually get in contact with you by phone or email to let
Lawyers Weekly for some examples of recent deals they have been
you know you have made it through the first round. After you give
involved in, their main practice groups and significant awards. You
yourself a virtual high five for making the cut, make sure you thank
need to be able to communicate clearly and confidently why you
them, but keep the call short and brief. Use this opportunity to ask
would like to work for the firm and why you would be a good fit with
who will be interviewing you and confirm the time, date and location
the firm’s culture and values.
– and write it down! If you have been selected for an interview, it means the firm is interested in getting to know you better, so now is a
You should also research who is interviewing you. It is good to know
good time to start thinking about what personal qualities you want to
things like their area of expertise and a few high profile cases they
highlight.
have worked on. Your interviewer will expect that you at least know their practise area.
Importantly, if firms ask you to choose an interview time, make sure you mentally “book in” two hours for the interview, regardless of how
Make sure you know your CV and cover letter back to front. These
long they tell you it will take. This will ensure you aren’t caught off
documents will form the basis of a lot of their questions, so have a
guard if the interviewers are running late, if the interview runs for
re-read of your application beforehand. Think about any strengths
longer than expected, or if a junior lawyer wants to take you to coffee
you have highlighted, and also your strengths and weaknesses – be
afterwards. This also means you won’t be stressing out or running late
prepared to explain that pass on your transcript.
if you’ve booked other interviews for that day. Lastly, work out the location of the firm beforehand, how you are The interview process
going to get there, and how long it will take you. Allow an extra
Generally, most of the firms have a first round interview with a
fifteen minutes, as there are no excuses for being late.
human resources representative or a partner. The interviews are usually around 30 minutes to an hour, and the firm is focused on
Practice makes perfect
getting to know you. The interview will usually start with a few
To be as best prepared as you possibly can, it is worthwhile getting a
introductory questions, such as “tell me about yourself.” You can
friend to ask you some practice questions. Practicing will also mean
also expect lots of questions about your CV, so make sure you know it
that you will have plenty of examples to draw from when you are
and are prepared to elaborate on certain points.
sitting in your interview. A number of firms hold mock interview workshops where partners or HR representatives interview you.
The second round interview is your chance to really distinguish
This is a valuable experience, as you have the opportunity to receive
yourself, and is also a great opportunity for you to really get a feel for
feedback as well as meet people from firms you are interested in.
the firm. The firm is likely to be focused on whether you are a fit for the firm’s culture and values, so you might have a few behavioural questions pop up, or it may just be a general chat. In second round, the firm is also likely to be more interested in why you want to 28
THE INTERVIEW
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
Sample questions
Some tips
You might find it useful as part of your preparation to think about
During the interview, be clear and concise. Don’t get caught
answers to the types of questions you might be asked. The questions
waffling and searching around in your head for stories. Get to the
will vary from firm to firm, but generally are introductory questions,
point. Lawyers need to be clear communicators.
behavioural questions and “what would you do if…” type questions. Give quality examples. Remember, they are asking the same These are some examples:
questions of everyone, so examples are how you will be remembered.
•
Why does the law interest you? What do you want to be a lawyer?
•
Tell me what you know about the firm, and why you applied here.
Listen and engage with your interviewer. Don’t focus on
•
What was it like backpacking in Cambodia?
whether you stumbled on the previous question – focus on what
Give an example of a time where you worked well in a team.
the person is saying to you and respond thoughtfully. You will
What was your role? What was the outcome?
appear more engaged and won’t come across as pre-rehearsed.
• •
What is an example of a time where you have shown leadership?
•
What would you do if a client called the firm asking for urgent
Any questions?
advice and the instructing partner was unavailable?
Towards the end of the interview you will be given the opportunity
Have you ever missed a deadline? How did you handle the
to ask questions. It’s always a good idea to have a few insightful
situation?
questions about the firm and the program prepared. You might want
•
to know about how the rotations work, or what sort of professional Dress for success
development program the firm has. However, asking about a firm’s
Your appearance will help you create a good first impression, so it
commitment to sustainability is only appropriate if that’s a passion of
pays to put some effort in. Make sure you appear professional and
yours, so don’t fake an interest.
well groomed, which means you need to wear corporate attire. For men, wear a suit with a tie and smart dress shoes. Facial hair (if any)
One last thing…
should be neat and tidy. For the girls, a skirt or pant suit with a nice
Be yourself. Relax and don’t forget to smile! The process is as much
shirt or blouse is appropriate. Keep jewellery, make up and fragrance
about the firm selecting candidates, as it is about you selecting the
to a minimum, and wear some sensible corporate heels. While your
firm. If you let your personality shine through, you are much more
appearance alone won’t score you a clerkship, the idea is to keep
likely to receive an offer at somewhere you will fit in and be happy.
it professional and simple, so as not to distract from your winning performance.
Good luck!
29
NETWORKING
IT’S WHO YOU KNOW, NOT WHAT YOU KNOW… (SOME OF THE TIME) Shanil Lal
A clerkship is the first hurdle for any law student seeking to break
The Clerkship Networking Evening
into the legal professional services industry. The process involves a
The UTS LSS runs a very thorough and rigorous program for
number of factors outside the online application and it’s all about
students in their penultimate year. My exposure to the clerkship
preparation and being ‘in-the-know’ about the idiosyncrasies of each
process began with the numerous clerkship seminars allowing
firm and leveraging off this knowledge to gain an advantage during
some broad general information about what programs entail. At
the application and interviews processes.
the seminars, note the representatives of respective firms so you know exactly who to look for when you get to networking. Shortly
While importance is placed on a student’s grades and extra-curricular
thereafter, recruitment representatives, recent clerks, and current
involvement, I have always been a strong advocate of engaging in
professionals from each firm attend the Clerkship Networking
the networking element with firms, current professionals and other
Evening, offering invaluable advice and direction for your
students. Face time with relevant people and the information they
applications. My objectives for this night were to have short and
provide is invaluable and keeps you ‘in-the-know.’
sharp conversations with each firm and even longer ones with the ones I initially liked. It’s usually a good idea to introduce yourself,
Networking – the secret element?
shake hands, and shoot out pre-planned questions like:
Well, what is networking? We, as students, network every day in our social lives, in class and around campus. But one thing we don’t do is
•
What separates you from the competition?
learn the etiquette to network professionally. Networking in this sense
•
Will a clerkship at your firm help me to secure a graduate
•
How expansive is your business and what are your areas of
does not mean asking for a job, but rather commencing an ongoing process of relationship building. It is an effective way to keep in touch with people, learn about various career options, and gather
position? expertise?
advice for achieving goals. The challenge is to be inquisitive and carry on a conversation with It is important to remember that firm representatives love to
each representative for as long as it remains relevant. When you feel
communicate with others, and whilst good grades might look great,
like you can no longer have a productive conversation, don’t be afraid
they are also looking for students who have that extra element.
to leave by thanking the representative/s for their time and moving on.
Being able to work in a commercial and professional environment requires exactly that from each employee – commercial thinking and
Impressions – Try to leave your own unique impression with each
professionalism. A relationship with colleagues and clients at large
representative as something to be remembered by. For example,
commercial practices is driven by the ability to network.
I used the fact that I had created Law School Memes. Firm representatives meet thousands of students across several universities,
Networking for clerkship season
and it always helps to be that person when your application flies past
Kick off your networking by meeting past clerks and discussing their
their desks.
experiences as a clerk. Their story may have nothing to do with what you want to do, but their advice with regards to the application process will be invaluable. This gets word out on the grapevine that you are interested in clerking and automatically places you ahead of people who don’t network. When do you start this? As soon as possible! 30
NETWORKING
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
During the interviews
Group conversations – Sometimes you will find that a group of
It is almost essential to network during the interview period. Due
students surround one firm representative and it is hard to break
to your pre-application networking, you may already have met your
into the group and join the conversation. There is nothing wrong
interviewers and have a rough idea of what will be asked. This will
with approaching the group and chiming in. I’ve always found that
help calm the inevitable nerves.
approaching and asking to join the conversation is a good ice-breaker.
Mingling well
What to talk about? – The Clerkship Program and everything
Remember, each primary contact has a secondary network that
about it: how many clerk spots are up for grabs, opportunities for
could be your link to securing that clerkship. The importance of
paralegal work post-clerkship, what essential qualities are sought,
networking well can’t be underestimated – you never know when you
what their specialities are, what you’re interested in (outside of
will find your next key contact.
university), and, more importantly, anything that shows your character. Representatives churn through thousands of students but
Your personal brand – Everyone is different and has something
they remember those who display uniqueness, flair and flamboyancy
unique to offer. Know your personal brand because this is your most
in their speech. Smile and be nice to everyone, be personable,
powerful tool when networking. What is a personal brand? It is your
approachable, easy-speaking, and have a laugh but stay professional.
own unique stamp in your friendship groups, your workplace, and your other surroundings. Have a short, sharp and sweet elevator
The Faithful Red – Or the not so faithful! Most functions have very
pitch ready to roll off your tongue (Google “elevator pitch” if you’re
nice catering and some decent wine. It is important to remember the
unsure about what it is).
reason you are there and if need be, stick to the lemonade. Here’s a good tip - hold your drink in your left hand because no one likes to
Conversation starters – Introduce yourself, make eye contact
shake a wet, cold hand!
and make sure you execute a firm handshake – weak dangling handshakes portray low self-confidence and lack of interest. The best topic to get started on is something recent. If you’re going to the Clerkship Networking Evening, then make sure to scope out the Facebook pages of each firm and know recent stories to bring up with representatives.
31
USING A CLERKSHIP AS A GATEWAY TO YOUR LEGAL CAREER
USING A CLERKSHIP AS A GATEWAY TO YOUR LEGAL CAREER Codie Asimus
Why apply for a clerkship?
My clerkship and graduate experiences
Law students in their penultimate year undertake clerkships for
Over the 2011/12 Australian summer, I was lucky enough to be
various reasons. Some are committed to fulfilling their ambition to
given the opportunity to undertake two clerkships in London and
emulate Harvey Specter and have a romantic idea of what it is to be
Sydney respectively. One was with a large Australian firm and the
a commercial lawyer in a large city firm. Others apply for a clerkship
other with a global, but London-based firm, called Linklaters. Both
because they are tentatively testing the waters of commercial law
firms have a market-leading reputation, friendly culture and provide
before making a long-term commitment. Some are in the fortunate
excellent training. Although the decision was difficult, I accepted
position of knowing exactly what life as a commercial lawyer is like
the ‘training contract’ offered by Linklaters and am now living in
and have already decided on a particular firm and area of practice.
London working for the firm. Given the London office of Linklaters recruits primarily from the UK, had I not applied for the clerkship
The truth is, there is no ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ reason to undertake a
(which is specific to Australian students), I do not think I would have
clerkship. I know many former students who originally saw the
been successful in obtaining employment at the firm. As such, the
clerkship as a means to earn some extra cash over summer, but then
importance of the clerkship for me personally cannot be overstated.
fell in love with commercial law. I have also seen students, who were once passionate about commercial law, realise it wasn’t quite what
During my various rotations throughout the clerkships, I was exposed
they had expected. Either way, a clerkship is a wonderful way to
to corporate law (with a focus on insurance), project finance and
clarify your thought processes and help you decide what you want
banking. While this was really just a small snapshot of the broad
to do with your career. In a sense, it is a gateway to the rest of your
range of services these firms offer in practice, it was enough for me to
legal career – whether that career is at a large commercial law firm; a
be confident that I could happily pursue a career in commercial law.
smaller practice specialising in family, criminal, property or tort law;
While working at Linklaters, I am also studying for the Qualified
working in-house at a company; at an NGO; or even somewhere else
Lawyers Transfer Scheme, which will allow me to become admitted
in a non-legal role.
as a solicitor in England and Wales. This will make me dual Australian/English law qualified.
Is a clerkship really that important? It is true that it is not the end of the world if you don’t get a
I will rotate across four different practice areas for the first 24 months
clerkship. I know a partner at Herbert Smith Freehills, a former UTS
at the firm, with each rotation being of six months’ duration. At this
graduate, who still has his rejection letter from the firm in response
stage, I wish to rotate through corporate (focusing on mergers and
to his clerkship application. Much like the ATAR and alternative
acquisitions), banking, projects and equity and debt capital markets. I
pathways into university courses, there are numerous avenues to
will also get the opportunity to spend one of my four rotations (called
securing employment at one of the firms that participate in the
‘seats’) on secondment – either with a client or in one of the overseas
clerkship scheme. However, a clerkship is without a doubt the most
offices of the firm. I wish to undertake my secondment in Hong
direct and secure route to gaining employment at one of these firms.
Kong, because of the full-service nature of the Linklaters office there,
Many firms don’t offer graduate programs, as they recruit their
and the significant number of deals being serviced by Hong Kong
graduates solely through the clerkship process, meaning the usual
law firms, both now and in the foreseeable future.
alternate pathway is several years of hard work in a smaller firm to build your reputation before applying again. This process can be avoided by applying for a clerkship at the first instance. 32
USING A CLERKSHIP AS A GATEWAY TO YOUR LEGAL CAREER
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
Lessons from my experience I was initially hesitant to apply for the clerkship at Linklaters because I thought the process would be too competitive for me to have any chance of being accepted. I will forever be thankful that I backed myself and made the decision to apply, because now I have the rare opportunity to commence my career overseas in a global firm, which means exposure to an abundant range of cross-jurisdictional transactions and the opportunity to explore the world while advancing my career. Even if I was unsuccessful in my application, the process of perfecting my CV, drafting a cover letter, sitting tests and attending interviews was invaluable. Engaging in this process significantly refines your ability to handle job applications in the future and, as a result, enhances your employability. If any lesson is to be taken from my experience by those even slightly interested in commercial law, it is to apply for a clerkship, because there are only positive aspects to the experience, however it unfolds.
33
THE PERFECT CANDIDATE: THE IDEAL CLERK’S DATING PROFILE
THE PERFECT CANDIDATE: THE IDEAL CLERK’S DATING PROFILE Michelle Smerdon (UTS LSS Publications Director)
In July, each law firm will begin receiving applications for clerkships.
Age:
Firms will have to choose from every Tom, Dick and Harry, amongst
In the dating world you will often be seeking a candidate of a
hundreds of other candidates. They will carefully contemplate each
specific age range. For firms, the age range may vary, but what is
application and carve the number down from the hundreds, to the
consistent is a firm’s desire for penultimate law students. However,
more manageable tens. One might compare this process to the world
age doesn’t always mean maturity in the dating or clerkship world.
of RSVP and E-Harmony, where profiles may disgust, delight or
Firms are seeking applications that burst with maturity. Ensure you
devastate.
use sophisticated and formal language in your application but do not make it overly complicated – the High Court is urging for the
While there is no hard and fast rule regarding the process of dating
use of plain language, as are big law firms. In particular, you should
or clerkship selection, there are characteristics that must be on your
articulate why you want to work for that firm in your cover letter.
profile to secure yourself that coveted first meet and greet.
Be sure to use correct spelling and punctuation in your application – grammar has the power to change your life (or at least your next
Name:
Summer holiday).
It is true that no two names are alike, which also means that no two applications should be alike. Your clerkship application must
General ‘age’ tips:
be unique in order to secure yourself an interview. While it is very
•
Be a penultimate law student when applying; and
important to ensure that you address the core values of the specific
•
Write your application answers on Microsoft word and copy them
firm, it is vital to ensure the application showcases your own specific
over to CV-mail to ensure no grammatical errors!
skill set, experience, and involvement in extra-curricular activities. Be sure to link your abilities to how they will help you in your role
Height:
as a clerk. For example, ‘…my love for writing and my position as
While dating preferences may vary, in the clerkship world, short is
an editor for my University publication has cemented my abilities to
preferable to tall. If your application is in excess of 5 pages, try again.
write succinctly and effectively. I have found this passion has been
Firms are looking for you to provide as much information about
particularly helpful in my prior work experience at [insert law firm]
yourself, in the smallest number of words possible. Keep your cover
where I have drafted affidavits and various court documents.’
letter to one page, and your resume below three pages. Use dot points to list your experience and achievements in your resume so they are
General ‘name’ tips: •
Ensure the name of the firm and the contact person are spelt
easily identifiable and great starting points for interview discussion. Ensure you stick to the word limit in application questions.
correctly; • •
Include your name on your application (or you won’t get an offer);
General ‘height’ tips:
and
•
One word responses are bad, essays are worse.
Name your skills. With all of the above in mind, you are sure to land yourself that enviable first date. Remember to dress to impress.
34
A CLERKSHIP: IS IT MY ONLY OPTION FOR A SUCCESSFUL LEGAL CAREER?
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
A CLERKSHIP: IS IT MY ONLY OPTION FOR A SUCCESSFUL LEGAL CAREER? Amy Simpson
In the lead-up to your penultimate year you will hear the term
So, if you decide that the clerkship program is not for you, or you are
“clerkship” peddled on an increasingly frequent basis, whether
not successful following your application, what then?
formally in relation to on-campus firm seminars, guides, and fairs, or informally amongst friends and older students discussing their desired
Needless to say, while the melodramatic law student will no doubt be
career path.
left pondering their perceived lack of direction, not participating in the clerkship process will not result in the death of your future legal
Whilst the benefits of the clerkship program are frequently cited,
career. Rather, choosing to start your career by taking an alternate
what is less commonly addressed is the reality of the clerkship
route can lead to many opportunities both within and outside the
application process, including its downfalls, and what to do in the
corporate sphere.
event that you do not receive an offer for a clerkship, or simply hold no interested in undertaking one.
The suburban firm Most small suburban, criminal, and family law firms simply do not
The reality of the clerkship process is this: those who are successful
offer clerkship programs and will accept expression of interests
will, generally speaking, go on to have well-paid employment and
from graduating students. Also unlike many top and mid-tier firms,
experience over Summer. Additionally, those undertaking clerkships
smaller suburban firms will advertise for junior and entry level
are afforded the opportunity to network with senior and junior
solicitor positions on a frequent basis.
solicitors within the firm, as well as growing their network of peers (aka clerks from other firms) at the various inter-firm events.
While the downside with a smaller firm is that you will most likely need to be admitted prior to commencing work and the cost of your
What is discussed less frequently is the instability of the graduate
PLT may not be reimbursed, you will reap the benefits of working
job market. While graduate jobs were once a “sure thing”,
across a number of diverse areas of law and may even be given the
the global financial crisis and ongoing financial pressures and
opportunity to practice your courtroom advocacy. Additionally, it is
downturns experienced by firms have resulted in the reduction of
likely you will be allocated your own matters and be required to run
overall clerkship and graduate positions offered to young lawyers.
your own practice.
Additionally, when considering the numbers – with firms taking on between 1 and 50 clerks, and that in any given law school there
Furthermore, the teams working at suburban firms are usually
are roughly 400 penultimate-year students - the odds of actually
relatively small. This means you will not only be able to easily
attaining a clerkship offer are relatively small.
access the pool of knowledge that is your fellow employees, but it will also be likely that you will also have reasonable opportunities for
When considering the relatively low number of clerkship positions
progression and promotion over a shorter period of time.
offered compared with the total number of penultimate students it is no wonder that many penultimate students are left wondering
If you want to get a head start it would be worthwhile contacting
whether the process is really for them.
suburban firms in your area and seeing whether they require a legal secretary or paralegal, as these roles have been known to lead to a solicitor positions upon graduation.
35
A CLERKSHIP: IS IT MY ONLY OPTION FOR A SUCCESSFUL LEGAL CAREER?
Government and policy work
In-house banking and finance
Each year government departments at both a state and federal level
All banking and finance companies offer separate graduate
undertake large scale graduate legal recruitment for many of their
recruitment. However, like the clerkship process the competition for
legal and policy based roles.
a graduate position in these companies is fierce.
In doing a rotation in a government department you will be taught
In working for a banking or financial institution you will be placed
the skills to become an effective policy or legal officer with a strong
in graduate team rotations and will focus on specific divisions which
focus on core government values. Also, given that a large number
relate directly to the core services provided by the company. For
of legal service roles are undertaken in-house, a large number of the
example, you may be required to review banking contracts and
graduate positions will not be subject to “billable hour” requirements.
financial agreements.
Applications for many of these roles open in around March, although
However, these roles are also considered in-house positions and thus
for those seeking a role with the Attorney General’s Department
may afford you the opportunity to work in roles which relate directly
you will need to apply in March of your final year if you wish to
to the company’s and director’s duty under the Corporations Act.
commence work immediately after graduation. Applications for the graduate programs open in March of the year Non-government organisations
prior to commencement.
Although some NGOs do offer informal clerkship programs (for example the Cancer Council offer an unpaid 2-day per week
And just remember…
clerkship), most simply do not.
If you do not get a clerkship it is not a reflection upon your skills, abilities or personality. I know many students with amazing marks
Much of the work undertaken by these organisations is likely to
and personalities who have not been successful at the end of the day.
be unbillable in nature and may range from developing policy submissions through to legal advice, referrals and assistance to the
The important thing to remember during this period is that if are
organisation and its clients. The work across various NGOs is as
true to yourself, you will ultimately end up in graduate role which is
diverse as the organisations themselves and will likely be reflective of
satisfying and rewarding.
the organisation’s focus and values. Should you have a specific organisation in mind, it may be worthwhile volunteering in your final year on an unpaid basis to build up your connections. However, more formal recruitment is offered, particularly for larger NGOs and Community Legal Centres.
36
A DIFFERENT CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE
AN INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE
AN INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE Jakob Friedman
Overview
Being interested in and enjoying the firm’s work forms a large part
Those nearing the end of their law degrees have traditionally asked
of any future lawyer’s decision to join Linklaters, but of additional
themselves – what do I want to do? In an increasingly globalised
importance for Australian clerks is the decision to move away from
world and job market, many are perusing over a second question –
Australia and start one’s career in London. The firm recognises this
where do I want to do it?
and engages clerks in a comprehensive leisure and social program showcasing some of London’s attractions including the London Eye,
In addition to the plethora of domestic clerkships available to
a National Theatre performance, ice skating at the Tower of London
penultimate year law students, several of the largest global law
and events in a variety of bars and restaurants. These evenings also
firms are now also seeking out a selection of Australian students to
provide clerks with an opportunity to interact with some of the firm’s
participate in their international Clerkship Programs. This article is
junior lawyers, including alumni from previous Australian clerkship
based on my experiences, applying to and clerking with Linklaters
groups.
(one of the largest global firms) in their London office. Training Contract Application
At the conclusion of the clerkship, each student is invited to
In contrast to my experience of the domestic firms’ application
undertake a Training Contract interview for a graduate role with
processes, Linklaters imposes a more rigorous collection of
Linklaters to commence upon completion of their law degree
application tasks. The process commences with a written application,
and Practical Legal Training. As part of their Training Contracts,
with a series of Watson-Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisals, Work
Australian graduates will sit the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme,
Simulation Exercises, HR-style and commercial interviews for those
the completion of which will see them also qualified as solicitors in
who progress. Even if you are not ultimately offered a clerkship, the
England and Wales. The Training Contract is two years, comprised
rigorous nature of the Linklaters interview process will place you in
of four rotations of six months.
good stead to navigate future interviews at other firms. My decision Clerkship
At the conclusion of my clerkship I was offered a Training Contract
For those who are offered a clerkship (typically 8-10 students from
and have decided to accept it for three main reasons:
across Australia), Linklaters will reimburse return airfares to London, provide serviced apartments in central London near the firm’s
Training and education
office and remunerate clerks with a weekly wage. During my two
Linklaters invests significant time and money in ensuring that their
practice group rotations, the global nature of the firm’s work quickly
Training Contract offers graduates a market-leading commercial
became apparent and most deals involved a multitude of different
and legal education. The firm’s brand is globally renowned as being
jurisdictions. Specific tasks I assisted with included research for clients
synonymous with excellence and their training will provide you with
relating to a £6b energy infrastructure purchase and a £39b multi-
rock-solid foundations irrespective of whether you want to continue
currency bond issuance. Clerks also attend a range of seminars and
in commercial law or branch out into other sectors.
workshops on different topics, undertake a written commercial advice project focusing on a hypothetical public company and compete against each other in a client pitch exercise.
38
AN INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
High profile and cutting edge legal work Trainees have the opportunity to be involved in high profile work right from the beginning of their careers and have played important roles in the News of the World litigation, the Lehman Brothers administration and the Glencore-Xtrata merger to name a few examples. Secondments One of the most decisive factors in my decision to join Linklaters was the firm’s secondment program for trainees. Trainees have an opportunity to complete at least one of their six month rotations on client secondment or international secondment. Client secondments typically take place with one of the firm’s ‘platinum clients’ such as Goldman Sachs or BP - fostering a greater understanding of the clients’ business and allowing an insight into future in-house roles. International secondments allow trainees to work in an overseas Linklaters office. International experience and cross-jurisdictional work, especially at the outset of my career, is something I place huge importance on and having visited (post-clerkship) Linklaters offices in Berlin and Dubai, I am beginning to appreciate the strength and depth of the firm’s global network. Final word Just as commercial law is not for everyone, working overseas and in different jurisdictions is not for everyone. For those with international career ambitions, I recommend applying for the Linklaters clerkship, as it is an opportunity tailor-made for Australian law students to join one of the largest and most successful global firms.
39
THE NSW LAW REFORM COMMISSION INTERNSHIP
NSW LAW REFORM COMMISSION INTERNSHIP Andrew Berriman
Between January and February 2012 I undertook an internship at
Ultimately I was able to contribute to a number of the chapters of
the NSW Law Reform Commission. I had a wonderful time and
the draft Report. Through pursuing these Reports and the related
learned a lot about the development of the law and legal policy along
activities and discussions, I gained an appreciation of the process by
the way. The internship is not remunerated but this does not make it
which the law is formed in New South Wales. Unlike the Security
any less rewarding. The Commission offers two intakes of interns per
for Costs Report, the Penalty Notices report was in its concluding
year: one in winter and one in summer. Interns can continue to work
stages when I came to work on it. I was involved in editing and
for the Commission after the expiration of their internship period.
proofreading a number of chapters. I was also responsible for
The fact that many choose to do so is an indication of how enjoyable
verifying the bibliographic elements of the Report, including
it is to work at the Commission.
compiling the appendices and bibliography. During the course of these tasks I was able to discuss the relevant law with the officers
Selection Process
of the Commission and those seconded to it from agencies and
I was selected through the submission of an application that
departments who had expertise in the relevant areas. The culture of
addressed the four selection criteria (see www.lawlink.nsw.gov.au/
the Commission facilitated this. It is democratic and characterised by
lawlink/lrc/ll_lrc.nsf/pages/lrc_internship) and participation in an
amicable intellectual inquiry. In addition to being extremely capable
interview. The interview involved a stimulating discussion regarding
lawyers and policy makers, the staff are genuinely gregarious and
a report which the Commission had recently published and an area
supportive and I have formed a number of friendships as a result of
of debate that I had examined in an essay. It reflected my subsequent
my time there.
experience at the Commission. Conclusion The Internship
The NSW Law Reform Commission internship is a valuable
Each intern is assigned to a report on which the officers of the
experience for any law student regardless of their desire to work
Commission are working. The number of interns assigned to any
in policy development after graduation. It is a genuinely educative
report is contingent upon its size and development. I was assigned
experience in which the intern can participate fully and make a
to the Security for Costs Report. Additionally, I came to be involved
contribution to the development of the law.
in the Penalty Notices report. As the Security for Costs Report was at its inception, my tasks largely comprised research into the area and identifying issues and areas of consensus based upon the submissions made by interested parties. This is a process known as ‘submissions analysis’ and is the starting point for the composition of each Report. I was also required to contact these parties from time to time to clarify their submissions. I also attended consultations with stakeholders in which their submissions were discussed.
40
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
AN INTERNATIONAL SECONDMENT EXPERIENCE
AN INTERNATIONAL SECONDMENT EXPERIENCE Emma Bechara (UTS LSS Immediate Past President)
Over the summer of 2012/2013, I was fortunate enough to
Monday morning saw the commencement of the professional
undertake a clerkship at the Sydney office of Allen & Overy. The
aspect to Asia experience. Upon my arrival at the office, situated in
clerkship experience at Allen & Overy was different in many ways
the China World Tower (the tallest tower in Beijing), I was warmly
however, perhaps, the most interesting aspect was the opportunity
greeted by the Beijing office manager. She introduced me to the office
afforded to clerks to undertake a one-week secondment to an
support staff, lawyers and translators. I also met my “buddy”, who
international Allen & Overy office within the Asia-Pacific region.
was a Trainee from the London office on Secondment (who was to be my go-to person for the week). I was given an induction to
The purpose of the experience is for summer clerks to experience
the Beijing office: to the Asia office networks, clients and the type
the breadth of the Allen & Overy global network, to engage with
of work the Beijing office mostly advised on. And so, the working
another culture where our clients are based, to understand and learn
week commenced!
about working in a different jurisdiction and to develop networks and relationships with colleagues in the firm’s international offices. This
Throughout the entire week I engaged in a number of commercial
opportunity reflects Allen & Overy’s commitment to training lawyers
transactions and legal work including reading through contracts,
and ensuring that teams engage in the global resources available to
learning about different areas of law that I had not been exposed
them in what is truly an international firm.
to in Sydney (for example aviation) assisting in the drafting of documentation for cross-jurisdictional oil agreements and assisting
I was fortunate to be seconded to Beijing, China – other possible
in translating. Perhaps, one of the most interesting aspects of
destinations included Bangkok, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Shanghai and
working in Beijing was learning how foreign lawyers work with
Singapore. Before I left, I was thoroughly briefed by the Human
local counsel, as a result of foreign lawyers largely being unable
Resources team in Sydney, and felt ready to embark on my Asia
to practice Chinese law. I learnt an invaluable amount of legal,
journey.
commercial and general knowledge in such a short period of time, largely as a result of the lawyers’ patience and willingness to
The first thing I noticed about Beijing was how cold it was! I landed
expose me to work, and teach me about it.
late on a Sunday evening wearing my Australian Ugg boots and even they could not shield me from the -20 Beijing bite! This capital city
However, Beijing was not all work! I was fortunate to be taken
captivated me immediately. At 11.00pm the streets were bustling –
under the wing of my buddy and other Associates, Senior Associates
swarms of people continued to shop, hot food stalls remained open
and Partners within the Beijing office, and was treated to lunches,
and the city looked like it was nearing morning, lit up by millions
morning teas and casual catch-ups. I was also fortunate to meet
of lights. It was a wonderful and eye-opening introduction to what
with colleagues from other global firms, who were also in Beijing
would be my home for the next week as I prepared myself for the
on secondment. It goes without saying that an Asia experience
working week.
would not be complete without Chinese cuisine! To that extent, throughout the week I immersed myself (quite literally) in Chinese foods and sampled a variety of both Western and Eastern foods, including dim sum, handmade noodles, delicate Chinese sweets, Western hamburgers, street fruits – and of course, the famous Beijing peking duck!
41
AN INTERNATIONAL SECONDMENT EXPERIENCE
Having the opportunity to experience another office in the web of the Allen & Overy global network was one of the most fulfilling and rewarding experiences of my professional career. I am grateful to have had the opportunity, and I strongly encourage students who are interested in a career with a leading, global, commercial law firm to apply for a clerkship at Allen & Overy in the coming months. Whilst the clerkship experience as a whole at Allen & Overy was unique; for me the opportunity to be exposed to another jurisdiction, was unmatched. I wish you the very best of luck with your clerkship applications!
42
A CLERKSHIP WITH THE CANCER COUNCIL LEGAL REFERRAL SERVICE
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
CANCER COUNCIL LEGAL REFERRAL SERVICE Looking to get some work experience over summer?
Essential selection criteria
Interested in the not-for-profit and community legal sector?
•
Currently undertaking a tertiary qualification in law (penultimate or final year)
The Cancer Council Legal Referral Service (CCLRS) is offering
•
Very high level written and oral communication skills
volunteer summer clerkships from November 2013 to February
•
Excellent attention to detail
2014. Clerks will be required to work at least 3 days per week for a
•
minimum of 20 days (days are flexible).
Demonstrated ability to work effectively with a range of stakeholders
•
Strong organisational and time-management skills
About the CCLRS The CCLRS assists cancer patients and carers across Australia
Interested in applying?
to access legal services, when they would otherwise be unable to
Please email your resume and a cover letter addressing the selection
do so, because of cost, illness or other barriers. Our partner firms
criteria to Sarah Penman on sarahp@nswcc.org.au
generously donate their time to assist cancer patients and their
(tel: (02) 9334 1845).
families with a range of legal matters on a pro bono basis. Applications close: 5pm on Friday 4 October 2013 About the role
Interviews: 9 October – 18 October 2013
You will get hands-on experience in the delivery of legal services
Start dates: Rolling start from 18 November 2013
to disadvantaged clients. You will have primary responsibility for
Cancer Council NSW (ABN: 51 116 463 846)
contacting clients to take instructions and preparing written reports
www.cancercouncil.com.au/
to brief external lawyers. You will develop a range of skills including client interviewing, legal research, fact investigation and analysis and legal drafting. You will also have exposure to relationship management and marketing activities, as well as technical training in a number of areas of law.
43
A CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE WITH THE CANCER COUNCIL LEGAL REFERRAL SERVICE
A CLERKSHIP WITH THE CANCER COUNCIL LEGAL AND FINANCIAL REFERRAL SERVICE Francis Wong
What I have learned I was surprised at the amount of trust my supervisors had in me as I had began interviewing clients from an early stage in my clerkship and have spent significant time taking instructions from them independently. The hands-on experience has enabled me to develop my skills in interviewing and communication, and my interactions with clients, lawyers and financial planners have helped further my legal research and legal drafting skills. More importantly, my experiences at the Cancer Council have opened my eyes to how we law students can apply our skills and I have always wanted to apply the skills I developed at university at
contribute to the not-for-profit and community legal sector.
the community level in the not-for-profit sector, so when I discovered that there was a Cancer Council Summer Clerkship Program, I
Challenges and highlights
leapt at the opportunity to become a part of it.
Each individual case presents a new set of challenges as our clients come from a diverse range of backgrounds, are faced with different
The Cancer Council Legal and Financial Planning Referral Service
prognoses, and every person responds differently to the effects of
assists cancer patients and their families to access legal and financial
cancer and the difficulties it presents. The main challenge has been
planning services. We help clients receive advice on issues including
adapting my interviewing techniques to different situations, while
wills and estates, powers of attorney, early access to superannuation,
dealing with a range of emotions and trying to obtain the necessary
consumer credit hardship, employment and discrimination.
information to complete a referral.
Work I have done
The most memorable moment of my time at the Cancer Council
As a summer clerk, my main responsibilities have included taking
was when I received a call from the son of a client who we had
instructions from clients in order to assist them with legal or financial
assisted in drafting a will and with financial planning. He informed
matters and drafting written reports to brief external lawyers and
us that sadly, his mother had passed away, but he wanted to express
financial planners. I then communicate directly with lawyers and
his appreciation and gratitude for the work that the Cancer Council
financial planners to follow cases from the initial interviewing phase
had done for his mother and his family at such a difficult time. It
all the way to the delivery of legal or financial advice to our clients.
was really moving to know that, despite the sad circumstances, the Cancer Council had played its part in helping give the client and her
I have also been asked to do some legal research for a policy
family some peace of mind, and that the services we provided were
paper, which involved comparing tobacco licensing laws in a
appreciated.
variety of jurisdictions. Francis is a fifth year International Studies/Law student at the University of New South Wales.
44
A CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE WITH ERNST & YOUNG
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
A CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE WITH ERNST & YOUNG Isabelle Duggan (UTS LSS Secretary)
Studying a business degree with a law degree really opens the doors
an office tour. The interviews contained questions on scenarios
to a lot of options in terms of a career. Fairly certain that I didn’t
relevant to the firm’s core values as well as your general commercial
want to work in a law firm, but wasn’t keen on just business either,
awareness, so it required a great deal of preparation. A few days
I opted to go for Advisory - an area that contains a mix of both
later, I received a formal offer for the Vacation Program and my
worlds.
acceptance of this offer was finalized by May.
I completed a Vacation Program at Ernst & Young from November
My first rotation was in Mergers & Acquisitions, a team within
2012 – February 2013 in Transaction Advisory Services. Advisory is
the Transaction Advisory Services division. As the name suggests
a broad term encompassing work done at Banks, Investment Banks,
a core part of their work was acting on behalf of clients who
Accounting firms, Management Consulting firms, Insolvency
were buying and selling companies. The aim of the Vacation
firms, Insurers and other Financial Services firms. A lot of the
Program was for Vacationers to get an insight into what working
larger firms in these areas will offer a “Vacation Program” – their
at Ernst & Young is like. As a Vacationer in this team I helped
term for a clerkship. This is a full time work program throughout
edit information memorandums about companies as part of
the summer that is offered to penultimate year students, with the
a sell-side transaction, research into acquisition opportunities
aim of obtaining a graduate offer on completion of the program.
as part of a buy side transaction and conducted research into
The thing to note is that unlike the NSW Law Society’s Summer
potential opportunities in an industry sector as part of the business
Clerkship Program, these firms have all different closing dates for
development work the M&A team undertook. My second rotation
applications and acceptances of offers and they tend to be a lot
was in Corporate Restructuring where I tracked debtor payments as
earlier than the law Summer Clerkship Program with applications
part of a company administration, undertook research for aspects
open in February/March. Firms conduct recruitment days
of a liquidation of a mining company and other tasks related to
frequently from the open date of applications and applications
managing a company in administration.
just close as soon as all positions are filled. So be organised and prepared early.
The Graduates and Vacationers I met at Ernst & Young had all different degree backgrounds and Ernst & Young places a great deal
I applied to Ernst & Young in March last year. The application/
of emphasis on training you for the work you’ll be doing. However
interview process is similar to many Vacationer Programs although
having a good general commercial awareness, some technical skills
not identical. The online application required an academic
in accounting and knowledge of corporate and commercial law
transcript, work history (including key roles and responsibilities),
definitely made the work I was doing a lot more familiar.
details of extra-curricular involvement and answers to such questions as “Why do you want to work in Transaction Advisory Services?”
During my time in both these rotations I had the opportunity to
A few days after submitting my application I was sent an email
attend many client meetings, team meetings and training sessions
asking me to complete a literacy and numeracy test online, which
on various topics integral to Transaction Advisory Services.
I had 48 hours to complete. Following this, I was notified my
All Vacationers were also assigned a buddy (a graduate) and
application had been successful thus far and was invited to attend
a counselor (a manager) to provide guidance throughout the
a recruitment day. This day ran from 9am to 3pm and consisted
program, organise what work we would be involved in and provide
of two interviews (behavioural and skills-based), more literacy and
feedback on our performance. I also had the opportunity to spend
numeracy tests, an informal networking session over lunch and
time shadowing a partner, which provided a great insight into what 45
A CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE WITH ERNST & YOUNG
a whole transaction actually involves. Apart from work, there were team and business unit Christmas parties, lots of team lunches and drinks throughout the program, as well as firm wide Vacationer functions. I really enjoyed my time as a Vacationer at Ernst & Young, as I felt it provided a great insight into what working in the area of Advisory is really like. For me I found it especially valuable as the work involved a mix of accounting knowledge and corporate and commercial law, thus I felt it combined the career options available to both a business and a law degree. The work was interesting and engaging as the nature of transaction work frequently affords the opportunity to work on new projects. I can’t wait to start as a graduate in 2014.
46
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
A CLERKSHIP WITH THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT SOLICITOR
A CLERKSHIP WITH THE AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT SOLICITOR Summer clerkships
Preparing your application
The AGS national summer clerkship program is generally directed
Applications for summer clerkships must be made using the AGS
towards penultimate year law students but is open to all law students
summer clerkship application form (which will be available on the
who will not have completed the requirements of their law degree
day applications open, Wednesday 19 June 2013). Applications in
by the end of the Summer Clerkship Program. It gives students
other formats will not be accepted.
an opportunity to observe many aspects of legal practice at AGS. The program begins in early December and ends in mid-February.
You are asked to give an account of your career aspirations in law
Each summer clerk rotates through 2 of our legal areas, reporting
and to list 3 reasons why you are applying for a summer clerkship
to a member of our legal staff within each of those areas. They are
with AGS. These answers will form a major part of our assessment
also allocated a ‘buddy’ in each rotation team and receive broader
of your application.
mentoring from the Lawyer Development Adviser. There are 3 work areas in which summer clerks might undertake a rotation: the Office
Your application must include supporting documents – your
of General Counsel, AGS Dispute Resolution or AGS Commercial.
university academic transcript and copies of 2 written references.
Our summer clerks also have the opportunity to participate in some
If you cannot provide written references from previous or current
AGS Lawyer Development Program activities.
employers you may provide written character references. Only in exceptional circumstances will we accept referee contact details
Applications for 2013/14 summer clerkships open on Wednesday
instead of written references, so please email graduaterecruitment@
19 June 2013 and close on Friday 19 July 2013. For other key dates
ags.gov.au if this becomes necessary. Further details on the AGS
relevant to summer clerkships (as set by the NSW Law Society),
summer clerkship program can be obtained by visiting www@ags.
please see the NSW Law Society website. Aboriginal and Torres
gov.au
Strait Islander students are encouraged to apply. In 2013/14, the AGS summer clerkship program will run from 2 December 2013 – 14 February 2014.
47
THE FIRMS
Global career Global expertise Global opportunity
rid Mad
ork New Y
Aust ralia
Bangkok
Shang hai
Paris Beijing London
bai Du
n Berli
Broadening your horizons comes as standard Join one of the global elite, visit www.allenovery.com/careers 2,639 Lawyers
Š Allen & Overy 2013
512 Partners
2IĆ„FHV
29 Countries
www.allenovery.com/careers
FIRM PROFILE: ALLEN & OVERY
FIRM PROFILE
As one of only a small number of global elite firms, Allen & Overy Australia offers
opportunities available to you at Allen & Overy. Whilst it’s by no means
you something truly different. Joining Allen & Overy means playing a part in a
compulsory, a large proportion of our lawyers will choose to take up the
diverse domestic and international team spanning a fully integrated network of 42
opportunity to spend time working in another office at some time during
offices in over 29 countries.
their career, whether that’s a rotation as a junior lawyer, a longer term secondment or a permanent transfer.
We focus on complex and strategic domestic and cross-border transactions for a high profile client base of market leading private
Learning & Development opportunities
and public organisations. Our Australian practice has three core
Allen & Overy is renowned for high quality training and development.
groups: Banking & International Capital Markets, Corporate and
During your career you will have the opportunity to attend
Litigation. Within these, the practice areas are diverse, including
comprehensive training both domestically and globally to meet and
Mergers & Acquisitions, Private Equity, Projects, Structured Products,
learn with colleagues here and overseas, starting with our “Global
Investment Funds, Asset Finance, Tax, Energy & Resources, Litigation
Universities” run in London for lawyers with approximately 2 years of
and International Arbitration. Clients increasingly need global service
experience.
providers and we are currently one of the only firms in Australia able to provide a fully integrated domestic, regional and global offering.
Who we look for There is no typical Allen & Overy lawyer. We realise each person
Our culture and the values we share inspire the way we work and
has their unique skills and qualities. While you should have excellent
behave: excellence in everyone and everything, dedication to our clients,
academic results, beyond this we want to see evidence of teamwork,
helping our people to achieve their potential, respecting and including
communication skills, planning and organisation skills, problem solving,
every individual, working together as one firm, entrepreneurial spirit
commercial awareness, and commitment to a career in law and a career
and energy.
with Allen & Overy.
What to expect
We accept applications from overseas students, however applicants must
As a Summer Clerk you’ll complete two rotations within our core
demonstrate a commitment to starting their legal career in Australia and
practice groups. You’ll be allocated a supervising partner and will work
have the right to live and work in Australia. We invest in hand-selecting
closely with that partner and the senior associates and lawyers who
our Summer Clerks each year and were pleased to offer graduate
make up the team. You will be exposed to premium quality domestic
positions to all our Sydney Summer Clerks in 2011, 2012 and 2013.
and international work and will also participate in various exercises that
For further information, please visit our website –
simulate real transactions from beginning to end, providing a valuable
www.allenovery.com/careers (select Australia) or contact us at
insight into the role of an Allen & Overy lawyer. Informal feedback and
australianrecruitment@allenovery.com
guidance will be given to each summer clerk throughout the process. Summer Clerk Program We aim to give Summer Clerks every opportunity to work closely with
Applications open: 19 June 2013
other offices within our network, whether that be by connecting with
Application close: 19 July 2013
Summer Clerks in our Perth office during training sessions or working
How to apply: www.allenovery.com/careers (select Australia)
with other offices on cross-boarder transactions. This will give you a greater understanding of our global network and a taste of future 50
Global career – Global expertise – Global opportunity
CLERK PROFILE: ALLEN & OVERY
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
SUMMER CLERK 2012-2013
Emma Bechara
Over the 2012/2013 summer period, I was fortunate to have had the
There are many aspects of the clerkship that stood out to me, but
opportunity to be a summer clerk at Allen & Overy (A&O). The 10
perhaps one of the most memorable was the training. Through-
week clerkship was one of the most rewarding experiences of both
out the clerkship, we were presented with “What We Do” sessions
my academic and professional career, and a program I am thrilled to
by each team in the firm on how that team works, the commercial
have been selected to be a part of.
aspects of the practice and the current status of the teams respective matters. Despite being a fourth year law student, there is much about
I had always had a “gut-feeling” about A&O, and preparing for the
the commercial world (such as Leveraged Finance!) that I did not
interviews and attending the cocktail evenings made me nervous -
know much about – and the opportunity to have partners and senior
however at each event, the firm representatives welcomed prospective
lawyers present their expertise to us was invaluable.
clerks with ease, interest and an approachable manner. After commencing the clerkship with A&O, I quickly learnt that these qualities
Moreover, the “Mock Transaction” and “Mock Pitch” exercises
displayed throughout the interview process, are entrenched within the
were extremely valuable. We were split into groups, provided with
A&O culture.
the pitch proposal and deal documents, which we then had to work on – and pitch the proposal to a board of panellists within a given
As the only UTS student in the clerkship group, I felt slightly nervous
time frame and then close the deal. Whilst at the time, the exercises
without my university peers – however those nerves were instantly
were one of the most daunting aspects of the clerkship, in hindsight
quashed after meeting the other 10 clerks. Comprising from students
the experience was fun, engaging and provided a practical element
from New South Wales and Victoria, our tight-knit group enjoyed a
to team-building. Throughout the clerkship, we were also invited to
summer of hard work, team-building exercises, assisting and sharing
engage in “business development” by which we were able to hear
workloads, many lunches and a wonderful start to our careers as col-
about the firm plan and marketing aspects whilst also engaging the
leagues.
firms lawyers.
My two rotations were in Corporate and Litigation, and in both
Finally, the charitable initiatives at A&O were a lot of fun and ones
teams I was paired with a “buddy” – the person who was the
that the whole office can be a part of. We summer clerks held a “Baby
first-touch point for any questions or queries. Across both teams, I
Photo Guessing Competition” which was warmly welcomed by staff,
engaged in challenging yet interesting work, including assisting in
who all supported our cause, donated generously and turned out to
research for advices, assisting in drafting advices, case-law research,
our morning tea presentation.
attending meetings, engaging in the commercial aspects of deals and working with junior and senior lawyers to commence understanding
Overall, my clerkship experience at A&O was incredible. The
complexities in matters. I was also fortunate to be given the opportu-
culture, people and vision of the firm on both a domestic and global
nity to undertake a rotation in Beijing as part of my clerkship. The
scale is inspiring and exciting, and truly resonated with me. I have no
week-long Asia Experience was a fantastic excursion to another A&O
hesitation at all in recommending applying to the firm if you are an
office, which provided me with an opportunity to connect (literally)
interested, committed, engaging and commercially-aware student.
with the vast A&O global network, meet my colleagues from another
The clerkship with A&O has been the highlight of my legal career
office, learn about the practice of law in Asia and see and learn first-
thus far, and I truly look forward to commencing as a graduate. Best of
hand how deals are run in another jurisdiction.
luck with your applications!
51
52
Possibility in everything ABOUT ALLENS
CLERKSHIP PROGRAM
Allens is a leading international law firm, with partners, lawyers and corporate services employees across Asia and Australia. We work with many of the world’s leading organisations, including 55 of the world’s top 100 companies and more than 75 of Australia’s top 100 companies.
We recruit most of our graduates through our clerkship program, which gives first-hand exposure to life as a lawyer at Allens. Get involved in work as soon as you set foot in the firm. Work alongside lawyers and partners. Learn from their experience and enjoy their support.
WHAT MAKES US DIFFERENT
WHAT WE LOOK FOR
It begins with our people
Initiative
It’s our people who make us great. It is our priority to ensure they are constantly challenged, recognised, rewarded and empowered throughout their careers.
A curious mind is vital, as is plenty of initiative. The more adaptable you’re prepared to be and the more energy you bring, the more you’ll get out of your career at Allens. You’ll be able to steer a path that turns possibilities into realities.
Our unique way of working We adopt a flexible approach to the way we work, which builds strong and diverse teams, and is one of the reasons our lawyers tell us a career at Allens is so rewarding. You won’t be limited to working with a particular partner or group. Instead, you will have the opportunity to drive your career by working with a range of lawyers and partners across the firm.
Excellence
We make the complex simple
Successful lawyers understand that law is more than an academic pursuit. It’s about understanding the client – their objectives and the challenges they face – as well as the wider commercial environment in which we operate.
Allens is known for the quality of its legal minds. That’s why we attract some of the most complex legal work, and why our firm and our lawyers are recognised as the best in the profession.
Our strategic alliance
Excellence is essential; it’s a guarantee we give our clients. Intellectually rigorous, driven and eager to learn, you’ll set the highest standards for yourself and strive to be the best you can be.
Commerciality
Resilience
Our integrated alliance with Linklaters means we are able to share resources and offer our clients a seamless service through a global network of 39 offices across 28 countries. When you join our firm, you are joining a global network, with opportunities across Australia, Asia, Europe and the US.
Positive people thrive in our environment. We look for people who can build sustainable careers with us; people who successfully juggle a busy life and varying commitments while maintaining their wellbeing. Like us, you’ll believe that leading a full, active life outside the law can make you a better person to work with.
Life-long learning
Well-rounded
The learning never stops at Allens. It’s woven into our culture, and makes our people better leaders as well as better legal practitioners. Along with formal technical training and development, we offer a mentor program, a buddy program, and support to pursue further education outside the firm.
Our clients often tell us we have ‘great people’. And it’s true. We look for diversity – people who bring a fresh perspective and energy to everything they do, with the ability to create strong relationships with each other and with clients.
HOW TO APPLY www.allens.com.au/careers CONTACT Amy Spira, Graduate Resourcing Consultant EMAIL Student.Careers@allens.com.au
Allens is an independent partnership operating in alliance with Linklaters LLP.
16693
53
CLERK PROFILE: ALLENS
WHAT A STUDENT CAN EXPECT FROM AN ALLENS CLERKSHIP Dana Rechtman
Before completing my clerkship at Allens, clerkships were a mystery
Another great thing about the clerkship was the exposure we had to
to me. I had heard whispers around law school about cocktail nights,
different practice groups and different areas within the firm. Even
the dreaded interviews and students giving up part of their precious
better, this was achieved through wine and cheese nights, where we
(three-month long!) university holidays. However, I had not heard all
effectively went speed dating with members of the different practice
that much about all the benefits that come with completing a clerk-
groups with wine and cheese provided! These evenings were great
ship. Having completed a clerkship at Allens, I would like to give an
– they were very informative and really gave us an insight into the
overview of why it is an invaluable experience and why you should
different areas within the firm. We also had interesting and eye-
really consider this option as you head towards the end of your law
opening seminars on the really amazing work that Allens does in the
degrees. A seasonal clerkship really is a great way of finding out
community sphere, including in the areas of pro bono and reconcili-
what working in a commercial law firm is all about.
ation, and we were also invited to attend the special interest group meetings.
One of the best things about the clerkship was how welcoming people were and how willing they were to give open and honest opinions
If I could leave you with one message, it would be to take up all the
about their day-to-day lives at Allens. This was evidenced in the
opportunities offered to you during the clerkship. Be it putting your
organised event ‘Confessions of a Law Grad’, in which a panel of
hand up to help out on a pro bono matter, attending ice cream runs
graduates answered our many and varied questions on their experi-
organised by the grads (that really happened!) or going to a lunchtime
ences entering into the workforce. They were also more than willing
talk put on by the Women at Allens committee, the more you get
to take us out for coffee to talk more about their personal experiences
involved and the more people you meet and speak with really enables
and to chat about the transition from university to full-time work. It
you to see what your experience later down the track could be at
was really great that people were so friendly, that I could relate to
Allens and whether this is the path that you want to take to begin
so many people who had been in my position and that they really
your career. For me, the clerkship awakened me to all the wonderful
understood why the questions that we were asking were so important
things that were on offer at a firm like Allens and the insights that I
to us.
gained made it clear that Allens was a place that I wanted to be.
This welcoming attitude was also evident throughout other areas of
Dana Rechtman
the firm. Working on matters for different lawyers not only exposed
Former Summer Clerk, current Paralegal
me to the type of work that I would be doing at Allens but also demonstrated the approachable nature of the lawyers. Importantly, I really felt that people had time for me. The lawyers I worked with made a real effort to ensure that the work that they gave me was interesting and they were always willing to give me feedback. They also allowed me to sit in on client meetings and attend court so that I could get a real experience of life in a large commercial law firm.
54
Practical legal education at Anu Legal Workshop Your Pathway to Legal Practice The ANU Legal Workshop is Australia’s largest university-based legal practice program. We provide practical legal training in the Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (GDLP). Becoming a Practitioner (BAP) is the first part of the program and is a 5 day pre-requisite face-to-face intensive offered in cities Australia wide. We also offer: > flexible on-line delivery > concurrent enrolment in the final year of your LLB & JD studies > your choice of 20, 40, 60 or 80 day Legal Practice Experience > direct or reciprocal admission to legal practice nationally > substantial credit towards an ANU LLM. We have an efficient and friendly administrative team who are available to answer any questions students may have about the program. Many of our academic staff are practising lawyers.
Becoming a Practitioner (BAP) Face-to-face intensives for 2013: Melbourne & Brisbane 7 January Canberra & Darwin 14 January Perth 21 January Sydney & Canberra 18 March Adelaide 27 May Darwin 17 June Melbourne, Perth & Sydney 24 June Brisbane & Canberra 1 July Melbourne 2 September Canberra 9 September Canberra & Townsville 18 November
Information W law.anu.edu.au/legalworkshop/gdlp T 02 6125 4463 E lwsa@law.anu.edu.au CRICOS# 00120C | 221012LW
Perth & Sydney 25 November Toowoomba* 25 November Adelaide 16 December * Subject to change
55
Firm profile About us
Areas of legal practice
Ashurst is a leading global law firm. We advise Australian and international corporations, financial institutions and government clients.
Our Australian office practises in over 30 different service areas including:
We have 25 offices in 14 countries as well as associated offices in Jakarta and Jeddah, and a best-friends referral relationship with an Indian law firm. With over 400 partners and 1,650 lawyers, we offer the international insight of a global network combined with local market knowledge and expertise. Our clients can access deep local knowledge and on-theground support wherever they do business from people they know and trust. We build teams that are specific to our clients’ needs, combining specialist legal skills, industry experience and regional know-how. We have a track record of successfully managing large and complex multijurisdictional transactions and projects. Our focus is on getting to the heart of our clients’ legal needs and delivering practical, commercial solutions.
Our clients We are a full service commercial law firm advising major corporations and government clients across key sectors including financial services, energy and resources, projects and infrastructure. Our clients include 73% of the top 100 ASX companies and 93% of Australian companies in the Forbes Global 2000. We have the privilege to advise on some of Australia’s and the world’s largest and most complex deals.
Recognition s Best Large Law Firm – BRW Client Choice Awards, 2011 s Australia’s Best Firm in 14 areas of law – Best Lawyers Australia, 2012 s Band 1 in 12 areas of law (including Brunei, Japan and PNG) – Chambers Asia-Pacific, 2013 s 142 leading lawyers – Chambers Asia-Pacific, 2013 s Australian Deal of the Year – ALB Australasian Law Awards 2012
s Banking & Finance s Commercial Property s Competition s Construction & Infrastructure s Corporate s Dispute Resolution s Employment s Energy & Resources s Environment s Government s Hotels, Leisure & Gaming s Intellectual Property s Mergers & Acquisitions s Native Title s Project Finance s Restructuring & Insolvency s Tax s Technology, Media & Telecommunications
What we look for We look for abilities and strengths which experience tells us are critical to success as graduates and clerks and in the longer term. We seek graduates and clerks who can demonstrate an ability to build rapport with a range of people; an ability to work in a team-based environment; the academic capacity to excel; a demonstrated interest or expertise in a commercial legal environment; the willingness to learn; resilience, motivation and a commitment to excellence in both work and client service.
www.ashurst.com/graduates Australia Belgium China France Germany Hong Kong SAR Indonesia (associated office) Italy Japan Papua New Guinea Saudi Arabia Singapore Spain Sweden United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States of America
AUSTRALIA’S GLOBAL LAW FIRM
CLERK PROFILE: ASHURST
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
SUMMER CLERK 2012-2013 Rosa Chen
I was excited yet apprehensive about completing a summer clerkship
During my clerkship at Ashurst, I felt that I was consistently
at a commercial law firm, and expected that the environment would
supported in shaping my career goals and developing as an
be rigid, reserved, conservative. I quickly realised, however, from the
individual. My time at the firm offered a promising and insightful
very first day at Ashurst that my concerns were misplaced. We had
look into the commercial law world and provided me with
a week-long induction that gave us the opportunity to get to know
opportunities and experiences which enhanced and broadened my
everyone and familiarise ourselves with the wide range of extensive
personal learning. I was amazed to meet so many people who love
resources and support services available. Lasting and genuine
the work they do and who were genuinely interested in my progress
friendships were made in that first week. Everyone we met, be it a
and development as a future
lawyer, librarian, or secretary were friendly, supportive and helpful. My first rotation was in Disputes/Litigation. Before I began my rotation, I was told that the team was extremely busy and the work we would get as clerks would be varied and fast-paced. All of that proved true. Within the first couple of days, I sat in on a CTTT hearing, met clients and attended the Federal Court to assist on an big litigation matter. By the second week, I began drafting a guide for a client, which combined some of my favorite subjects – Corporate Law, Commercial Law and Taxation Law. I was constantly learning new things and felt like the team trusted us clerks to do meaningful and interesting work. The fact that we were not restricted to working for just one partner, senior associate or lawyer meant that I had a chance to meet and work with many people across the team on various matters. My second rotation was in Construction and Infrastructure. Again, I was given lots of interesting work, much of which was based in contracts, another area of law I enjoyed. With some of the larger and more complicated matters, the lawyers who gave me work were patient and took the time to explain and make sure that I understood the more technical aspects before giving me a task. I always felt comfortable asking questions. I was also happy to be given the chance to do some hands-on pro bono work.
57
BORN GL BAL At Baker & McKenzie we are different in the way we think, work and behave. Like no other law firm, we were born global. We have been a global law firm in Australia since 1964 and the Australian practice is now the fourth largest in our network of 73 offices in 46 countries around the world, with more than 80 Partners and over 170 lawyers across Sydney and Melbourne. We opened our first office in Asia Pacific in Manila in 1963, and have grown to 14 full-service offices across 11 jurisdictions. With more than 1,000 locally qualified lawyers across the region, Baker & McKenzie is the firm with the greatest depth and breadth of coverage across the dynamic Asia Pacific markets. Baker & McKenzie Australia offers our people access to complex, market-leading matters working with some of the world’s best legal minds – people who know the law and who understand business.
Our 2013/14 Clerkship Program
Develop globally
Right from the start, our clerks get involved in real work. You will be exposed to our Australian and international clients through client meetings, shadowing, research and other everyday activities within your assigned practice group.
At Baker & McKenzie, we have a deep commitment to development. We work with each graduate to create a tailored development plan and career goals. To help them reach their goals, we provide targeted learning opportunities — from seminars on core legal topics to practical skills development in areas such as communication, drafting and presenting.
Our clerks work closely with other lawyers, are guided by a Supervising Partner and enjoy the extra support of an experienced Associate ‘Buddy’. You will develop practical and legal skills through our national learning program and by attending workshops specifically designed for clerks, as well as firm-wide sessions. Many of our clerks have also had the opportunity to travel overseas after their Sydney clerkship to work with one of our international offices. To celebrate our 50th year in the Asia Pacific region, and as part of our Asian engagement initiative, this year our focus will be on placements in the Asia Pacific region.
Our Graduate Program Graduates complete three rotations over 18 months before they join a particular practice group as an Associate. You will be assigned a Supervising Partner and an Associate “Buddy” in each rotation to oversee your on-the-job and formal learning.
We work hard to facilitate on-the-job learning and the many ways it happens — through informal mentoring relationships, client secondments, involving graduates in global teams working on international deals or supporting them to run their own files for our award-winning Pro Bono Program. We also bring graduates from our Sydney and Melbourne offices together to help our people foster networks across the Firm, and support professional development by covering the costs of Practical Legal Training.
Mergers & Acquisitions Private Equity Capital Markets Hotels, Resorts and Tourism Financial Services & Structured Transactions • Commercial Real Estate
58
What does the firm look for? We look for people who enjoy a challenge and seek new opportunities; who share our global perspective; who have sound academics and are practical in their approach; who like taking responsibility and getting things done; who express themselves confidently while staying open to new ideas; and who seek a friendly and inclusive culture that encourages making a difference to our local and global communities.
How to apply Applications for clerkships can be submitted online at www.cvmail.com.au. Applications for clerkships open on 19 June 2013 at 9:00 am and close at midnight on 19 July 2013.
Our regional practice group structure means many of our lawyers attend regional training in our Asia Pacific offices and, once graduates complete their graduate program, they will travel overseas to attend a regional orientation program with other mid-level Associates from the region.
Ready to explore our world?
Our key areas of practice include: • • • • •
In addition, the firm offers opportunities for lawyers at varying stages of their career to work directly for clients or with our other offices in the Asia Pacific region.
• Construction • Technology, & Communications • Energy, Resources and Infrastructure • Environmental Markets • Banking & Finance • Tax
• • • • • •
Dispute Resolution Insolvency Competition Employment Intellectual Property Media
Vanessa Harris Tel: +61 2 8922 5708 vanessa.harris@bakermckenzie.com www.bakermckenzie.com/careers/australia/ sydney/
CU ON VACATION! /UR 3YDNEY OFlCE IS OFFERING 3UMMER #LERKSHIPS
!PPLICATIONS OPEN *UNE !PPLICATIONS CLOSE *ULY /FFERS MADE 3EPTEMBER /FFERS ACCEPTED DECLINED /CTOBER 4O APPLY VISIT WWW CLAYTONUTZ COM GRADUATES
59
FIRM PROFILE: CLAYTON UTZ
FIRM PROFILE
Firm Background
At Clayton Utz, you will experience a work environment in which
Clayton Utz is one of Australia’s most successful and dynamic
individuality is embraced and innovation is actively encouraged.
commercial law firms, with over 200 partners and 1700 employees
Progressive and dynamic, Clayton Utz is very much its own firm,
working across seven offices in Australia and Asia. We have a
where people are valued for who they are and what they contribute.
reputation in the market for our innovative approach to complex
Our people come from a diverse range of backgrounds and bring
transactions and litigation, and for our exceptional client service. Our
with them different experiences, which is part of what makes Clayton
focus is on building our capability in key and evolving practice areas
Utz an exciting place to work.
and attracting the best lawyers in the market to work with us. Clayton Utz is a trusted legal adviser to a diverse private and government
Pro Bono and Social Responsibility
sector client base operating in a range of industry sectors.
Clayton Utz is a leader of Australian law firms in Pro Bono practice and Social Responsibility programs.
Areas Of Legal Practice Our four core departments – Corporate, Litigation/Dispute
We were the first national firm to employ a Pro Bono Director (1997),
Resolution, Banking and Financial Services and Property,
to appoint a Pro Bono Partner (2005), to promote a Pro Bono Senior
Environment and Construction – house a diverse and comprehensive
Associate (2006) and were a Foundation Signatory to the National
range of practice groups, each comprising recognised and award-
Aspirational Pro Bono Target.
winning experts in their respective areas of law. Firm Culture
Since we established our Pro Bono practice in 1997, our lawyers have completed over 400,000 hours of pro bono legal work. That’s the
Areas of Law • Banking and Finance • Capital Markets and Securities • Competition • Construction and Major Projects • Corporate / M&A • Energy and Resources • Environment and Planning • Governance and Compliance • Insurance and Risk • Intellectual Property • International Arbitration • International Trade • Legal Technology Services • Litigation and Dispute Resolution • Native Title • Private Equity • Product Liability • Real Estate • Restructuring and Insolvency • Taxation • Telecommunications, Media and Technology • Workplace Relations, Employment and Safety 60
Industries • Advertising and Marketing • Agribusiness • Banking and Finance • Climate Change • Constructions and Major Projects • Energy and Resources • Government Services • Healthcare Life Sciences • Leisure and Entertainment • Private Equity • Real Estate Markets • Telecommunications, Media and Technology • Transport and Logistics • Water
equivalent of 220 lawyers working full-time on pro bono matters for a year. Today, our Pro Bono practice represents more than 3% of the firm’s total legal work. Clayton Utz adopted a Corporate Citizenship Policy in 2002 and established the Clayton Utz Foundation in 2003 as the first ever Private Ancillary Fund at an Australian law firm. We launched our Reconciliation Action Plan in March 2010, and in 2011 became a foundation member of the Australian Legal Sector Alliance to promote sustainable practices across the profession. Attributes & Skills Our people People are our competitive edge and Clayton Utz partners are known for being market leaders in their areas of specialisation. The firm and our partners are consistently recognised in respected international legal directories such as Asia Pacific Legal 500, Chambers Global and IFLR1000. However, we know that awards are only part of
FIRM PROFILE: CLAYTON UTZ
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
the story. Delivering the best possible results for our clients requires
Clerkship Program
technical expertise, resources, commitment and understanding their
We offer a unique Clerkship Program that is both challenging and
definition of a superb outcome.
comprehensive. We provide an environment which will encourage you to extend yourself and expand your knowledge. The Clerkship
Who we’re looking for
Program is carefully planned and designed to ensure that you gain
Our people come from a wide range of backgrounds, skills, interests
experience in a wide range of areas of law and on real client matters.
and competencies. We are looking for people who can contribute new
Your work at Clayton Utz will allow you to put into practice the
ideas and who take a creative approach to solving problems.
knowledge and skills you have acquired at university.
We also look for individuals who are personable, practical, commercially savvy and flexible. Our lawyers do complex and
Under the supervision of a partner and with the help of a buddy
innovative legal work, so it’s important that our employees are
who will be there to provide ongoing support and guidance, you
intelligent and motivated individuals who aren’t afraid of a challenge.
will experience the office environment and culture at Clayton Utz first hand. Part of the Clayton Utz experience is being involved in
What we offer
the kind of client services we provide. You will have the opportunity
Working within a friendly, dynamic and highly collaborative team
to work with our clients, including some of Australia’s biggest
at Clayton Utz, our lawyers benefit from the extensive experience
companies.
and resources of our national firm, while making a meaningful contribution to some of the most challenging cases at the front lines
Legal Training
of business and the law.
Developing your career We believe learning and development are critical to helping our
Partners and senior lawyers are readily accessible to offer advice
people achieve in their careers and to reach their full potential.
or assistance. Our lawyers are encouraged to set goals and test themselves, knowing that support is there if needed. Clayton Utz
We provide a range of tailored and comprehensive professional
offers a vibrant and supportive work environment. We recognise the
development programs suited to the individual needs of each
need for balance and provide a range of flexible work options, health
employee through our national training program Learning@Clayton
and wellbeing initiatives, as well as sporting and social activities.
Utz.
Graduate program
We support your learning with:
We can offer you a great start and the opportunity to build an
•
excellent legal career at Clayton Utz. We give our graduates a
intensive orientation programs at the beginning of the clerkship period and graduate program;
comprehensive orientation program and the support of a buddy to
•
on-the-job guidance and support from peers and senior lawyers;
help them grow and develop in the role. From the outset, entry-level
•
regular Continuing Legal Education sessions led by specialists
solicitors are part of our team and are involved in real legal work.
sharing their knowledge and experience;
Because you will be working closely with partners and solicitors who
•
tuition assistance for further study; and
are recognised as leaders in their fields, the Clayton Utz Graduate
•
external courses and seminars relevant to your professional and
Program provides a solid basis for future success.
personal development.
Rotations Graduates will have the opportunity to gain experience by rotating through our diverse practice areas. Our graduates experience both the contentious and non-contentious areas of law. To help you with your preferences and rotation areas, our People and Development team will work closely with you. At the end of each rotation, you and your supervising partner will review your performance.
61
CLERK PROFILE: CLAYTON UTZ
SUMMER CLERK 2012-2013 Jamesina McLeod
Looking back to how I felt at the beginning of the clerkship process,
Responsive because I often felt challenged but never totally out of my
it’s easy to understand why it’s often described as daunting. But,
depth. The training you receive is supportive, ongoing and constantly
reflecting on my experiences with Clayton Utz, a whole different
re-tailored to ensure no one falls through the gaps. Before my
vocabulary springs to mind; refreshing, relaxed and responsive.
clerkship, I’d never filed a memo, written a letter of advice, drafted a subpoena or billed time. By the end, I hadn’t only done all of those
Refreshing because, after frequenting numerous clerkship seminars
things, but I felt confident about my ability to do them again thanks
and career events, the people from Clayton Utz struck me as the
to the constant feedback I received throughout.
most approachable and down to earth, traits that spoke highly to me of the firm’s overall culture and which I personally value.
Most affirming for me was when I was packing up my desk for the
Throughout the application process, I was welcomed by a change
final time and farewelling all the peers – and, more importantly,
from the stock-standard questions other firms employed and given
friends – I’d made. I realised I wasn’t so much reminiscing about
an opportunity to think outside the box and stand above the crowd.
what I’d done with Clayton Utz than thinking about what I’d be
Finding a firm that really invests in getting to know you is important
doing with the firm in the future – if you can say that about a job,
– it’s a sign of how much they will also invest in your clerkship
then you know you’ve found the one for you.
experience and your future career. It goes the other way as well – taking the time to really bond with your fellow clerks (an effortless process thanks to the fantastic social events that run throughout the clerkship!) and talk to the lawyers you’re working with makes for great memories, valuable learning and validating experiences. Relaxed because, throughout the application process and my actual placement, Clayton Utz made a point of validating my aspiration to work there. Interviews can be nerve-wracking – your first day on the job even more so. But as soon as I entered the interview room, I was made to feel comfortable and free to engage in a conversation rather than an interrogation. First day jitters were quickly dissipated by my buddies (graduate lawyers that you are paired up with) who lost no time introducing me to the team. As I result, I spent less time sweating the small things and more time immersed in my rotations - I’d never thought I’d choose corporate law over litigation but after rotating through Energy & Resources and Litigation (Product Liability), I’d say it’s a dead tie! And of course, the social calendar (which includes Christmas parties, cocktail nights, inter- firm sport and plenty of ridiculous costumes – elephant onesies anyone?) shows that work-life balance is a real thing for commercial lawyers, despite any stereotypes!
62
PRACTICE GROUP PROFILE: CLAYTON UTZ
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
PRACTICE GROUP PROFILE
1. Litigation Dispute Resolution Clayton Utz’s litigation and dispute resolution (LDR) lawyers form a top-tier
Representing a major Australian airline in a matter concerning its computer
commercial litigation practice. Our practice is one of the largest and most
reservation system. The dispute was ultimately resolved out of court, with our
active in Australia and our reputation for undertaking the most complex,
client announcing the parties had reached a mutually satisfactory agreement.
significant and high profile matters, as well as delivering excellent results for Representing the pharmaceutical giant Merck Sharp & Dohme (Australia)
our clients is second to none.
in defence litigation involving its product VIOXX. This litigation has been In today’s legal and regulatory environment, litigation can threaten a com-
described as one of the largest-ever product liability disputes and possibly the
pany’s very existence. Our LDR practice is widely recognised for its ability to
largest product liability class action of the decade.
represent clients faced with their most critical litigation issues and effectively achieve the desired commercial results. It’s why we are consistently ranked in
Representing the corporate regulator, ASIC, in a high-profile and landmark
the top tier in Legal Directories.
litigation against former directors and officers of companies in the James Hardie Group and James Hardie Industries NV. Nine appeals were heard by
We lead the way in the development of Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR)
the Full Bench of the High Court of Australia and judgment was delivered on
techniques to avoid litigation. When litigation is unavoidable however, we
3 May 2012. ASIC was successful in its appeals against the former non-execu-
are the lawyers that clients rely on to run or defend proceedings, particularly
tive directors and the former secretary and general counsel.
when faced with “bet the company” litigation. Our lawyers are recognised as having the greatest market experience in critical, complex, high-profile dis-
Representing the administrators and now liquidators of Lehman Brothers
putes, having acted in some of Australia’s (and the world’s) best-known cases.
Australia in the collapse of the Lehman Brothers Group. Represented two local councils and other government entities in response to
The LDR practice group has an outstanding philosophy providing technical
the Queensland State Government’s Flood Commission of Inquiry.
excellence in a friendly and responsive environment. The team consists of excellent lawyers and support staff, who are happy and enthusiastic in their
4. Accolades
support of your legal career, providing guidance and counsel as you develop
Clayton Utz’s LDR team is consistently well ranked by the leading Legal
your skills. They are the people who enhance your experience at Clayton Utz
Directories, we are currently ranked in Tier 1 for Dispute Resolution by APL
and provide a friendly environment in which to learn.
Legal 500.
2. Our Expertise
Recent accolades include:
Our litigators are able to provide expertise in all areas of litigation and dispute
“Clayton Utz’s dispute resolution team is the ‘number-one choice for major litigation’.”
resolution (Litigation and Alternative Dispute Resolution) including:
Asia Pacific Legal500 2012 (Dispute Resolution)
Our recent experience includes: • • • • • • • •
Anti-Bribery and Corruption Class Actions Competition / Anti-Trust Construction Energy and Resources General Commercial Litigation Insurance and Risk Intellectual Property and Information Technology
• • • • • •
International Arbitration Product Liability Reputation Management Restructuring and Insolvency Tax Workplace Relations, Employment and Safety
“Clayton Utz’s well resourced team gives ‘uncompromising and precise legal guidance in frontline transactions’.” Asia Pacific Legal500 2012 (Restructuring and Insolvency)
“The team understands our business, reacts quickly to our demands and seeks creative solutions to problems.” Chambers Global 2012 (Intellectual Property)
Representing the Commonwealth Bank of Australia defending a number of
“Clayton Utz has one of the deepest benches across the nation, with true insolvency expertise
class actions including in the defence of representative proceedings com-
and a strong support from its top litigation practice.” IFLR 1000 2012 (Restructuring
menced by the Australian corporate regulator, ASIC, and a class action com-
and Insolvency)
menced by individual customers for and on behalf of a large group of margin loan customers. 63
CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH Website Contact Email
www.corrs.com.au/graduates Katherine Smith, Human Resources katherine.smith@corrs.com.au
ABOUT CORRS Corrs Chambers Westgarth is one of Australia’s largest law firms. We have around 1,000 people throughout Australia, but our vision is not just about size. Our vision is about being the leading law firm in target industries that are driving Australian and international business. Industries like energy and resources, financial services, communications and media, property, infrastructure and construction, and Government. It’s about delivering a new level of legal service that bridges the gap between legal advice and business challenges to create success for our clients. And it’s about building an inspiring workplace where our people are engaged and empowered to make this happen.
WHAT SIGNIFICANT WORK HAS CORRS DONE RECENTLY? We’ve been busy! Corrs is recognised as being at the forefront of many of Australia’s most exciting deals – deals that change the Australian business landscape. We emerged as the most awarded firm at the ALB Australasian Law Awards 2012, winning six awards including Australian Deal of the Year and Managing Partner of the Year. As finalists for 16 awards across nine categories, Corrs received six awards for: •
Australian Deal of the Year – National Broadband Network’s Definitive Agreement
•
Energy & Resources Deal of the Year – Peabody’s US$5.2 billion hostile takeover of Macarthur Coal
•
Insolvency & Restructuring Deal of the Year – Centro restructure
•
We believe in fostering a work environment that promotes flexibility and diversity. It’s an essential part of our strategy – because our differences help us to think differently.
M&A Deal of the Year – SABMiller plc’s acquisition of Foster’s Group Limited
•
Project Finance Deal of the Year – Wiggins Island Coal Export Terminal
AREAS OF PRACTICE:
•
Managing Partner of the Year award – John W.H. Denton
We’ve been busy! Corrs is recognised as being at the forefront of many of Australia’s most exciting deals – deals that change the Australian business landscape. We emerged as the most awarded firm at the ALB Australasian Law Awards 2012, winning six awards including Australian Deal of the Year and Managing Partner of the Year.
•
Corporate (Corporate Advisory)
•
Finance & Tax (Banking & Finance and Taxation)
•
Property and Development (Construction, Environment & Planning, Property & Infrastructure)
•
Litigation and Workplace Relations (Litigation, Workplace Relations, Intellectual Property, Technology & Competition)
With an integrated network of offices throughout Australia (Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth), Corrs acts for many of Australia's largest companies and is regularly involved in major transactions of national and international significance.
We also advise 60 of the ASX top 100 listed companies, four of the top ten Fortune 500 companies and some of the world’s largest organisations.
WHAT INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES DOES CORRS OFFER? The Corrs 2015 strategy requires the firm to see the world through our clients’ eyes and to adapt our services to assist them in their business strategies, including their international engagement. Our international strategy is to provide our clients with the best and most relevant international expertise on the ground through our
WWW.CORRS.COM.AU 64
CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH Website Contact Email
www.corrs.com.au/graduates Katherine Smith, Human Resources katherine.smith@corrs.com.au
relationships with leading firms in a large number of key locations. The firm is therefore committed to investing in a strong international network and competitive footprint. We have an existing track record of delivering major transactions and quality work originating off shore, especially from the Asian region. To continue to grow, the firm needs to increase international business flow. Corrs’ International Secondment program offers its lawyers more than 10 international secondment opportunities each year with many of the world’s leading firms in a number of locations. The program is designed to provide an exciting professional experience for Corrs’ best lawyers so that they can immerse themselves in a different culture while gaining international experience and developing valuable relationships. The firm offers six to 12 month international secondment opportunities in locations including the United Kingdom, Japan, Indonesia, India, United States of America and Singapore. These opportunities help the firm to expand its international capabilities while continuing to build strong relationships with other premium international law firms on a global level.
WHAT IS INVOLVED IN BEING A CORRS CLERK? The Corrs Seasonal Clerkship Program is a great opportunity for you to experience the people, clients, work and culture that differentiates Corrs from other law firms. As part of the Program, you’ll have the opportunity to work with some of Australia’s leading lawyers on high-profile work for major Australian and international clients across all industries. You’ll soon discover the standards of quality and commitment to clients required to succeed at this level. You’ll be exposed to a broad range of interesting matters, plus you’ll perform tasks such as conducting research, reviewing documents, presenting documents, attending client meetings, mediations and settlements. It’s the perfect way to discover the area of law that excites you most. The
Program involves a unique rotation system, whereby you will participate in four two-week rotations, which gives you the opportunity to work across the whole firm. There are also structured learning opportunities that include a comprehensive orientation program, and presentations on relevant legal, business and workplace issues. As a clerk, you will be closely supervised by allocated Clerk Coordinators, who are senior associates at the firm. You will also have a mentor, a junior lawyer who is there to answer any questions you may have about the firm, and who can settle you in and provide you with an informal level of support and guidance during your time at Corrs.
PRO BONO & COMMUNITY Corrs is committed to contributing to the broader community with a pro bono and community engagement agenda that is diverse and far-reaching. It includes providing pro bono legal services for disadvantaged individuals who might otherwise not have access to legal representation through the conduct of nine legal clinics and referred public interest matters. We also act for charitable and not-for-profit organisations that have access to justice objectives or support one of our priority social causes. We also provide non-legal staff a range of opportunities to be involved. Nationally, the firm is the principal legal partner for the United Nations Refugee Agency in Australia (UNHCR) and has been associated with Oxfam for more than 20 years. Each year, our summer clerks undertake a pro bono project for the duration of the clerkship. The 2012 clerks completed a very useful guide on the legal framework concerning Nepalese migrant workers. This work was done for the Diplomacy Training Program (DTP) based at the law faculty at UNSW to support the DTP’s Nepal Project, with its focus on the human rights challenges of increased labour migration from Nepal. The guide was used in February 2013 to assist advocates on the ground in Nepal to develop action plans for 2013 to address the many issues and challenges arising out of the
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CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH Website Contact Email
www.corrs.com.au/graduates Katherine Smith, Human Resources katherine.smith@corrs.com.au
hundreds of thousands of Nepalese migrant workers that leave the country each year.
LAUNCH GRADUATE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM We are committed to developing world class lawyers. Our new Graduate Development Program, Launch, lays this foundation 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.
Tuck Executive Education at Dartmouth College.
WHAT DOES CORRS LOOK FOR IN A CLERK? Corrs looks for intelligent people. But being intelligent and being able to provide intelligent legal solutions are not always the same thing. We want individuals with common sense and an instinctive mind for business, outstanding communicators who can define the essence of any issue in a simple way. We also want clerks who are mature enough to know they don’t yet have all the answers.
Supervised by partners, you will complete three six month rotations through a variety of practice areas including corporate advisory, banking and finance; litigation and workplace relations; intellectual property and tax; property, infrastructure, construction, planning, environment, and government.
HOW TO APPLY FOR A CLERKSHIP
You are mentored by senior lawyers and your development is overseen by a dedicated Graduate Development Manager who works with Division Leaders, partners, graduate mentors and human resources, to provide you with guidance, ensuring your success.
All application dates are in accordance with the 2013 NSW Legal Graduate Employment and Summer Clerkship Guidelines.
CORRS SCHOLARSHIP FOR INDIVIDUAL EXCELLENCE
All applications for summer clerk positions should be made via: www.corrs.com.au/graduates
Applications for 2013 summer clerk positions open on Wednesday, 19 June 2013 and close at 5.00 pm AEST on Friday, 19 July 2013.
Now in its eighth year, the Corrs Scholarship for Individual Excellence offers Corrs’ people the opportunity to enhance their technical and business skills by attending a course either in Australia or overseas. The program is a world-class initiative that has seen almost 200 people awarded scholarships to study at 38 institutions in 11 countries. In 2012, twenty-eight recipients were awarded a scholarship to attend prestigious institutions such as Stanford Graduate School of Business, INSEAD, Harvard Business School, National University of Singapore, Wharton, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology Business School, Harvard Law School and
WWW.CORRS.COM.AU 66
CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH
JESSICA CRAWFORD SUMMER CLERK 2012/2013 When deciding where to clerk and hopefully launch my graduate career, the most important thing for me was to ensure I had the opportunity for long term professional development as well as an environment in which I could excel. I had a strong desire to be inspired and taught by brilliant, yet approachable lawyers; work in lean teams where I could have greater exposure and involvement on high profile and interesting matters; and to be surrounded by a tight knit and fun team. I spent a long time sifting through a ton of marketing materials, attending cocktail evenings and listening to conflicting opinions of my colleagues in my quest to find what I was looking for. In the end, Corrs was the resounding winner in every category. The Corrs clerkship program of four two-week rotations through various divisions is innovative and tailored to providing summer clerks with a broad exposure and skill set. I rotated through Banking and Finance, Property and Infrastructure and Construction, Litigation and Intellectual Property, Technology and Competition. Highlights included attending a $47 million settlement on my first day working alongside one of the most respected partners in Australia as he negotiated a contract for a massive commercial development, as well visiting a major client with a partner to discuss terms of a sale. In both instances, I was encouraged to interact with the clients (I even drafted some of the contract clauses myself) and I was astounded at the patience and time that each of these partners took to discuss the legal and commercial implications of my work.
A distinguishing feature of Corrs’ pro bono program is that each year the clerks are entrusted with their own pro bono project. This year, we developed a training manual on the legal framework concerning Nepalese migrant workers for the Diplomacy Training Program and it was very satisfying to read a commendation in the National Pro Bono News for that work. Complementing the stimulating and diverse work were the endless social activities. Each week we enjoyed inter-firm sports and drinks, informal coffees and drinks with the graduates and partners, as well as yoga in the board room. We pulled on ridiculous costumes for the inter-firm harbour cruise, trivia night and firm Christmas party in the Dinosaur Room at the National Museum. By the end of the 11 week clerkship, between the 14 of us, we knew every lawyer in the firm and had developed an unshakable bond. When all of our buddies, mentors and coordinators attended our farewell lunch surprising us with champagne and graduate offers, I knew I was in an exceptional workplace which truly valued its employees. I can’t wait to start my career at Corrs.
There is a strong culture of pro bono at Corrs and every lawyer and clerk is encouraged to get involved by volunteering at local community legal centres. This was an experience which I found rewarding as I was able to assist in interviewing the client and even proffer advice.
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AT CORRS, YOU’LL WORK ON DEALS THAT SHAPE AUSTRALIA’S BUSINESS LANDSCAPE. TO ENJOY MORE VISIT CORRS.COM.AU/GRADUATES
FIRM PROFILE: DLA PIPER AUSTRALIA
FIRM PROFILE
Joining DLA Piper means not only joining an experienced local
way that is consistent with our values. Our Corporate Responsibility
team, but also being part of a global network of 4,200 lawyers in
initiatives focus on key areas of Pro Bono, Community Engagement,
nearly 80 offices across more than 30 countries around the world.
Diversity and Environmental Sustainability. Our contribution
In Asia Pacific we have offices in Bangkok, Beijing, Brisbane,
ranges from global pro bono projects in developing and post-conflict
Canberra, Hong Kong, Melbourne, Perth, Seoul, Shanghai,
countries to local partnerships benefiting schools and charities in the
Singapore, Sydney and Tokyo.
communities in which we operate. Last year our lawyers undertook more than 190,000 hours of pro bono legal work globally, making us
Our lawyers provide clients with trusted local knowledge as well as
one of the largest providers of pro bono legal services in the world.
seamless multi-jurisdictional legal capabilities across a full range of critical services and sectors.
Summer Clerk Program During our structured eight week rotation program, Summer Clerks
In Australia, we advise approximately a third of ASX 100 companies
are provided with the opportunity to work on real legal matters
or their subsidiaries and all levels of government as well as
alongside our partners and staff in two areas of the firm. On the
international clients looking to enter the Australian market.
job training and practical experience may include tasks such as undertaking complex legal research, attending client meetings, going
Areas of Practice
to court, drafting advices and other legal memoranda, assisting with
Banking and finance; Construction; Corporate and commercial;
strategy plans – and more. Weekly ‘Lunch & Learn’ sessions provide
Dispute Resolution; Environment and climate change; Funds
an opportunity to speak with partners and gain a real insight into
Management; Government; Information technology; Insurance and
what is involved in each of our practice group areas. Both firm
risk; Intellectual property; Real Estate; Superannuation; Taxation;
social events and those held with Summer Clerks from other firms
Workplace relations and employment.
help facilitate networking amongst your colleagues and broader peer group.
Global Opportunities A career with us means being an integral part of an exciting global
What We Look For
team. We support our people’s desire to experience working life in
At DLA Piper Australia we are seeking people from a diverse
other parts of the world through our global footprint – giving them
range of backgrounds who are as engaged and dedicated as they
opportunities to work on multi-jurisdictional, international matters
are inventive, balanced and friendly. We value intellectual ability,
with quality clients and colleagues around the world.
curiosity, commitment, ambition, commercial and client awareness, smart thinking, team skills and leadership potential, communications
In recent years we have placed lawyers in DLA Piper offices in
skills and experiences outside of academic life.
London, Hong Kong, Singapore, Washington, Chicago and Dubai. Over the past two years we have also had five Australian graduates
How to Apply: Sydney Summer Clerk Program 2013/2014
undertake their third rotation in Hong Kong, Beijing , Tokyo and
Applications open 19 June 2013 and close 19 July 2013, 5.00pm.
Singapore. In return, our Australian offices host international
Applications must be submitted online via our job board and should
trainees from the UK and Asia from time to time.
include a covering letter, your current CV and your academic transcript.
Corporate Responsibility At DLA Piper we are committed to conducting our business in a 70
Visit us at www.dlapipergraduates.com.au
CLERK PROFILE: DLA PIPER AUSTRALIA
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
SUMMER CLERK 2012-2013 Emma Oberg
Rotations: Pro Bono; Litigation & Regulatory
Working in the Litigation and Regulatory team in my second rotation allowed me to fully appreciate the approachability of the people at
“The most important part of the clerkship process is choosing the
DLA Piper. The team took me under their wing almost immediately
right firm for you. As you begin your research, you will come to
and I quickly acquired numerous mentors who were all eager to see
realise that most firms sound the same – they’re all fantastic! So how
me succeed. Partners and graduates alike were always willing to take
do you make your decision?
the time to explain things to me and offer their guidance. I assisted with writing advices, performed legal research, drafted letters to
I used every connection I had to arrange coffee dates with friends of
clients, attended court and reviewed documents for discovery in huge
friends of friends who work at various firms. Personally, I found that
litigious matters. Being involved in almost every aspect of matters
meeting with graduates who had previously gone through the sum-
meant I was able to develop a holistic understanding of how matters
mer clerkship process allowed for an honest insight into each firm.
are run. This hands-on experience was exactly what I had hoped for.
After countless coffee dates, I had made my decision. DLA Piper had a strong international presence and a commitment to excellence. All
The firm also held bi-weekly ‘Lunch and Learn’ sessions where part-
reports confirmed that the firm had a friendly work environment that
ners from the different teams would explain their work specialities
attracted well rounded and interesting people with a broad range of
and the type of matters they work on… all while you got to nibble
interests and skills.
on a free lunch! There were numerous opportunities to socialise with other clerks both within and outside the firm, including the inter-
The firm’s commitment to recruiting people from varying back-
firm sporting competition, a ‘clerkSHIP’-themed harbour cruise, an
grounds and interests was hugely important to me in making my de-
Australia-themed trivia night, monthly themed firm drinks, and of
cision. I was in a unique situation in that I was not in my penultimate
course the firm’s own Christmas party.
year, having deferred my degree in 2011 to work on a remote cattle station in the Northern Territory for seven months. DLA Piper saw
Overall, I would strongly recommend a summer clerkship at DLA
that my various experiences and adventures over the years were just
Piper. I was exposed to a variety of challenging work and given in-
as important as my academic achievements. Being a successful DLA
valuable hands on experience, all under the guidance of experienced
Piper applicant therefore requires you to demonstrate that you have
and approachable legal practitioners. Since the summer clerkship I
life experiences, personality, interests and talents that will contribute
have been working as a paralegal in the Litigation and Regulatory
to the firm’s culture and values.
team. I look upon my clerkship at DLA Piper as the beginning of what I know will be a successful, challenging and happy career at this
My first rotation was in the Pro Bono team, where I had the op-
firm.”
portunity to prepare a seminar on the upcoming UN review of Australia under the ‘Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities’. I began the task knowing next to nothing about the UN or the Convention and concluded my four-week rotation by presenting the seminar to the team. The seminar I prepared will be rolled out to Disabled Person’s Organisations in 2014. It felt good to be doing work that would actually be used and to have meaningfully contributed to the team. 71
Think independently
Make the smart choice Be part of a young, flexible, leading corporate law firm that has built its success on innovation and having a heart. If you are among the best and brightest law students, make the smart career choice and begin your legal career at Gilbert + Tobin. To find out more visit: me.gtlaw.com.au
Grace Keesing, Lawyer
Think independently
Why a career with Gilbert + Tobin is the smart choice Lawyers who want to work in the world’s most dynamic market sectors come to Gilbert + Tobin. The most recognised brands – including Google, Samsung, Telstra and Westpac – seek our advice on cutting-edge transactions that shape the market.
Our objective is simple: to be Australia’s leading corporate law firm and the best provider of legal services in each of our chosen areas of practice. If this sounds like the kind of place you would thrive in, and if you share our desire to be the best, we want to hear from you.
From our offices in Sydney, Melbourne and Perth, we provide innovative legal solutions to major corporate and government clients in Australia and around the world.
ARE YOU READY TO MAKE THE SMART CAREER CHOICE? We’re looking for ambitious, bright, friendly and enthusiastic individuals who will thrive in an environment of integrity, respect, innovation and legal excellence – and who demonstrate team spirit and a determination to succeed.
Located on Park Street in the heart of the CBD, the partners and lawyers in our Sydney office include some of Australia’s leading practitioners in: Banking + Finance Competition + Regulation Corporate Advisory Energy + Resources Intellectual Property Litigation Pro Bono
For more information on employment opportunities in our Sydney office, please visit me.gtlaw.com.au. “This is a place where you can make a name for yourself – through the transactions and projects you work on and through participation in our extensive community activities.” Danny Gilbert, Managing Partner
Real Estate + Projects Technology, Media and Telecommunications + Project Services
FIND OUT MORE AT ME.GTLAW.COM.AU
2012/13 Summer Clerks – Ryan Turner, Linda Quek, Chris Frommer, Laura Pontin.
Think independently
Why a clerkship with Gilbert + Tobin is the smart choice A G+T clerkship is a fantastic opportunity to develop core skills and experience in your areas of interest, and work directly with partners and lawyers who are experts in their fields. At our Park Street office, clerks complete a 10-week placement that consists of two five-week rotations across any of the firm’s practice areas. As well as immersing themselves in their practice areas of interest, clerks have the opportunity to contribute to the Pro Bono group and Knowledge Management practice. We also offer two clerks the opportunity to gain work experience with a Native Title representative body during their winter semester break. This unique initiative is run through the Aurora Project and is fully funded by the firm. ARE YOU READY TO MAKE THE SMART CAREER CHOICE?
The G+T clerkship experience is open to students in their penultimate year of study. We’re looking for ambitious, bright, friendly and enthusiastic individuals who will thrive in an environment of integrity, respect, innovation and legal excellence – and who demonstrate team spirit and a determination to succeed. Applications for 2013–14 clerkships in our Sydney office are open from Wednesday 19 June to Friday 19 July. For more information on how to apply, please visit me.gtlaw.com.au, or contact Emma Garmston on 02 9263 4067 or at clerkships@gtlaw.com.au.
“Everyone at G+T was very friendly and helpful and made me feel right at home. The lawyers and partners took time to explain matters to me. I was even invited to attend conference calls and meetings with clients. I couldn’t have asked for a better clerkship experience.” Linda Quek, Summer Clerk, University of New South Wales
“A clerkship at Gilbert + Tobin is a highly rewarding experience, and one which I’d recommend wholeheartedly. My rotations in Competition + Regulation and Pro Bono gave me a great opportunity to see two very different sides of the firm’s professional culture – its powerful commercial ambition matched with its genuine social conscience.” Chris Frommer, Summer Clerk, University of Sydney
FIND OUT MORE AT ME.GTLAW.COM.AU
In 2012–13, Christopher Boyd spent his summer as a clerk in Gilbert + Tobin’s Sydney office. Here’s why he thinks G+T is the smart choice for a summer clerkship. Christopher Boyd, Summer Clerk
Think independently
Why a clerkship with Gilbert + Tobin is the smart choice After spending the summer at G+T, I am excited to pursue my legal career in corporate law and embrace all the opportunities the firm has to offer. Throughout my first rotation in Competition + Regulation I was given instructions from partners who would make the time to explain the context of the work I was asked to complete. I attended client meetings in anti-money laundering matters and teleconferences with clients seeking clearance of their complex international joint venture. Working in Australia’s leading Competition + Regulation group gave me exposure to the highest quality matters and the sharpest legal minds in the field. More importantly, my opinions were respected and incorporated into actual pieces of advice. My second rotation in G+T’s Banking + Finance group was an equally valuable and eye-opening experience. The energetic, collegiate atmosphere in the group ushered me into a world of big transactions and unfamiliar areas of law – where attention to detail is all important but so is an ability to keep sight of the bigger picture.
we quickly came up to speed with the firm’s research, format and mentoring structures and gained valuable experience by presenting our work to partners and lawyers at the end of the summer. The clerkship experience at G+T wasn’t all work. We bonded over trivia, weekly drinks and the firm’s Christmas party. We played valiantly in the inter-firm sport competition and joined the clerks from other firms on a Sydney Harbour cruise. Lawyers at G+T appreciated the assistance of summer clerks and expressed their gratitude, often in the form of long lunches! I chose G+T because of its strength in the areas of law in which I am interested, its ethical culture and the respect it commands from lawyers at other firms.
Far from being thrown in the deep end, I received excellent induction and development training throughout the summer. Of particular benefit was G+T’s legal research training sessions, which have completely changed the way I go about my studies.
Gilbert + Tobin is winning clients, acquiring leading partners, building upon its excellent reputation and creating opportunities for young legal talent. It’s a firm that is wholeheartedly embracing its position as an independent Australian corporate law firm in a market that is increasingly comprised of international firms. Even as a summer clerk we were encouraged to feel connected with the aspirations and successes of the firm as a national business, and to be proud of the connections we have built overseas.
Our skills were honed and put to good use through a knowledge management task – a project each clerk was assigned at the outset of our clerkship. By completing this task
FIND OUT MORE AT ME.GTLAW.COM.AU
ONE SPECTRUM OF OPPORTUNITY One Vision
One Purpose
One Firm
One Decision
One Journey
Visit http://summerclerks.hdy.com.au for more information
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FIRM PROFILE: HENRY DAVIS YORK
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
FIRM PROFILE
Henry Davis York has a different feel and that’s deliberate. With more than 50 partners and more than 200 professionals, we have the advantage of being big enough to attract high-end clients and top-quality work, but small enough to remain personal and to provide hands-on advice and experience. Our Clients We are proud to partner with an impressive list of clients who recognise our unique approach to delivering technical excellence with the commercial edge that creates real value for their business. Our clients include the top four Australian banks, international financial services organisations and fund managers, market authorities, ASX and foreign listed companies, NSW Government agencies, property groups and a diverse range of privately held companies. Pro Bono and Community Lawyers at Henry Davis York are encouraged to support their wider community through the provision of legal services and involvement in community programs. Our pro bono commitments have seen substantial investment into assisting the homeless, families of homicide victims, not-for-profit and charitable organisations and disadvantaged and vulnerable individuals. A significant amount of our pro bono work is referred to us through the Public Interest Law Clearing House, the Law Society of New South Wales, Legal Aid, Community Legal Centres, charities and not-for-profit organisations. In addition to these referrals, Henry Davis York is focused on developing pro bono projects that are designed to address specific areas of unmet legal need. What We Look For People are our success. For that reason, we invest substantial time and energy in recruiting and retaining the right people. As clerks are integral to our future growth we look for people who: • • • • • •
Share our commitment to excellence in what we do and how we do it Communicate well Are team players Are lateral and innovative thinkers Demonstrate balance in their life outside of work or study Are intelligent and commercially-minded lawyers in the making.
You will need a sound academic record, some work experience in a legal or non-legal environment, and have a positive disposition and demonstrated leadership skills. The Summer Clerk Program During the program you will have the opportunity to rotate through three practice groups with designated support in each rotation from a supervising partner, senior associate and mentor. You will receive regular feedback and advice from your supervising partner and others you work with plus a more formal review at the end of each rotation. Working with our partners and senior lawyers who are recognised and respected as experts in their fields, you will experience real, meaningful work and gain valuable insights into what it’s like to practise as a lawyer in a top quality firm that works hard, has a friendly inclusive culture and celebrates both individual and team endeavours. Life After Your Clerkship... We carefully select our clerks with the intention that they will become our graduate lawyers. Of course, any offer of permanent employment depends on how you perform during your clerkship, and on the needs of the firm. Successful candidates who accept graduate roles with us can discuss opportunities for part-time paralegal work in their final year of university. We also provide our graduates with an in-house Practical Legal Training program in conjunction with the College of Law. Applications Summer clerk applications open on 19 June 2013 and close on 19 July 2013 and all applications should be made via CV Mail. For further information about employment at Henry Davis York or our summer clerk program please contact: Lena Ristevski People & Development Officer T: +61 2 9947 6532 E: summerclerks@hdy.com.au
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CLERK PROFILE: HENRY DAVIS YORK
SUMMER CLERK 2012-2013 Sanjita Roy
“When I asked my fellow clerks why they chose to
Finally, I was excited to see that Henry Davis York truly boasts a
undertake a summer clerkship with Henry Davis York, the
passion for social activities. The summer clerk events ranged from an
overwhelming consensus was because of ‘the people’ and their
inter-firm cruise, trivia night, sporting competitions and drinks along
supportive attitudes.”
with the firms Christmas party and end of clerkship party which meant that I usually had ridiculous costumes under my desk for the
From the commencement of the clerkship until the end, I always
evening ahead. These events made the clerkship more enjoyable and
felt supported. The summer clerkship began with a comprehensive
gave me the opportunity to develop invaluable friendships with other
orientation program followed by a range of training sessions which
summer clerks.
covered skills, such as legal drafting, research techniques and career planning. Throughout these sessions I was continuously amazed to
If I haven’t already given you enough to look forward to, I should
meet so many highly professional people who demonstrated a sincere
note that the Managing Partner, Sharon Cook, took the time to get
interest in my ambitions and progress as an aspiring lawyer.
to know each and every clerk over a drink after work. This showed to me that while Henry Davis York produces high quality work, it also
Also, for me, it was extremely important that I was exposed to as
has an inclusive down-to-earth culture.
many aspects of working in commercial law firm as possible. Henry Davis York provided just that by giving me the opportunity to partake
Overall, my summer clerk experience provided me with the most
in three different rotations, which gave me invaluable exposure to
diverse experience coupled with extensive training and people I really
work from both transactional and litigious groups. In these groups,
enjoyed working with.
I was given the opportunity to attend court, draft emails, sit in on client meetings, assist in preparing a presentation for a Partner and conducting a diverse range of research tasks. I was happy to find that the interesting, challenging and diverse nature of high calibre work continued throughout each rotation. I really enjoyed working with the people at Henry Davis York because they are highly regarded professionals who value the importance of encouraging their colleagues. This was most evident to me when I saw that Partners, senior associates and lawyers taking time from their busy schedules to explain legal concepts to me, and also, to provide me with regular feedback.
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2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
TO SEE WHAT OTHERS CAN'T
SEE
THE BIGGER PICTURE
DO YOU HAVE WHAT IT TAKES TO BE AN EXCEPTIONAL LAWYER? It takes the curiosity to see what others can’t; the ability to cut to the heart of any matter; and the character to push further than others. This is how we bring original, unexpected perspectives to our clients’ most complex and critical matters. Bring these qualities and we’ll expose you to inspiring people working together towards a new and distinctive vision. And we’ll reward your contribution with the responsibilities, challenges and opportunities you’d expect from a leading global law firm. We see a fascinating and exciting future for the business of global law. Do you? HERBERTSMITHFREEHILLS.COM/CAREERS
HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS
CLERKSHIP
OPPORTUNITY BE PART OF A GLOBAL TEAM INTRODUCING HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS
CLERKSHIP PROGRAMME
Herbert Smith Freehills formed in 2012 when Freehills’ Australian based practice merged with Herbert Smith’s international practice. Our clients include many of the world’s largest and most ambitious organisations. We support them with their dispute resolution, finance, corporate, projects, real estate and employment law issues; providing them with perceptive advice and comprehensive support, delivered from our 23 offices around the world.
Finding the right fit for you is key to deciding where to start your legal career. Since working together is a good way to get to know each other, we offer a range of summer and winter clerkships in each of our Australian offices. We encourage students to participate in our vacation clerkship programme and we fill the majority of our graduate positions through this programme.
Ours is a merger of equals: we have no ‘head’ or ‘branch’ office; global management is shared by both legacy firms with representation from all our regions. From the moment we merged it was clear how strongly our cultures aligned. We believe technical ability is not enough: we understand that the business of law is fundamentally about human relationships. This means a culture built on creating exceptional working relationships with both clients and colleagues. We’re delighted our vacation clerks and graduates often talk about Herbert Smith Freehills' friendly yet professional culture, challenging work, regular client contact and partner support as features that distinguish us from other firms. Whichever office in the world you work in, we’re confident you’ll find colleagues who care about the same things you do. To learn more about our people, please visit our website where you can read and watch films about many of our people from offices across the globe: herbertsmithfreehills.com/careers/meet-our-people.
OUR COMMUNITY PROGRAMMES Herbert Smith Freehills’ work in the community demonstrates the values that bind our business together. We share a long tradition of providing pro bono legal services and advocacy, which has developed into a broader programme of volunteering and charitable giving. Last year our lawyers in Australia provided more than 35,000 hours of pro bono legal work. All our lawyers are encouraged to do pro bono work and all pro bono work is billable. In addition, all staff are encouraged to volunteer and able to take one working day a year as volunteer leave. Many of our vacation clerks are able to participate in community and pro bono work and describe it as one of the highlights of their clerkship. For more information visit herbertsmithfreehills.com/about-us.
DIVERSITY Across the world our offices share a long history of supporting diversity and inclusion. We see the ability to embrace a wide variety of personalities and viewpoints as a real strength and a competitive advantage. Our diversity programme includes a range of networks supporting diversity and equality in the areas of gender, ethnicity, culture, sexuality and gender orientation, and family. We were very proud recently to welcome the Honourable Michael Kirby AC CMG to give the keynote presentation at the launch of our LGBT Network in Australia.
Spend part of your vacation with us and you’ll get a great understanding of how we go about meeting the needs of our clients. The programme includes a detailed introduction to the firm and to each practice group, as well as the opportunity to work with our legal teams on real matters. Each year we provide opportunities for up to four clerks to undertake a clerkship in an office outside Australia. Opportunities are available in London, Hong Kong and Singapore.
WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR? We are interested in who you are and the strengths you can bring. We recruit employees from a wide range of backgrounds who possess the qualities we look for in our lawyers, such as intellectual curiosity, confidence, empathy, clarity of thought, ability to see the bigger picture, and the ambition to grow personally and professionally. We look for students who want to pursue a career in commercial law and who demonstrate a commercial awareness. We are interested in your academic record as well as strong communication and interpersonal skills; evidence of a balanced university life and evidence of ability to work effectively in a team. We’ve prepared some more detailed guidance on our website: herbertsmithfreehills.com/careers/australia/graduates/apply-now/ preparing-your-application.
HOW TO APPLY You will need to submit your application online via cvMail at www.cvmail.com.au. If you have queries about graduate and vacation clerk positions, please visit our website: herbertsmithfreehills.com/careers/australia/ graduates or contact one of our graduate recruitment team. Sydney recruitment contact
Leigh Dunlop Graduate Recruitment Consultant T +61 2 9322 4792 leigh.dunlop@hsf.com
For more information visit herbertsmithfreehills.com/about-us/ diversity-and-inclusion. HERBERTSMITHFREEHILLS.COM
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© Herbert Smith Freehills 2013 SAV125750_Master_Firm_Profile
HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS
CLERKSHIP
WHY I RECOMMEND HERBERT SMITH FREEHILLS – TOM LAIDLAW HOARE The training begins on your first day at the firm and continues throughout the clerkship, and for the rest of your career. There is a collegiate atmosphere at the firm through which you always feel supported by your team as well as the firm as a whole. The people you meet through the process, from the clerkship group to partners, are interested in getting to know you and helping you succeed. For me, they were the largest contributor to my enjoyment of the clerkship period. The firm contains a diverse collection of people including lawyers from all universities, many different backgrounds and many different degrees and experiences beyond law.
Tom was a clerk in Herbert Smith Freehills' Sydney office in 2012-13. He has returned as a paralegal in our Finance, Real Estate and Projects team and will join us as a graduate in September 2013. The reasons I ended up accepting an offer from Herbert Smith Freehills, over offers from other top tier firms, have been justified by my experience over the clerkship period. They remain the reasons why I would highly recommend the firm to other UTS students. For those who enjoy their statistics, Herbert Smith Freehills is the largest fully integrated practice in the Asia-Pacific; has over 20 offices globally, with new offices opening this year; and is a top-ranking Firm in the Thomson Reuters M&A league tables for the UK, and the AsiaPacific. The Firm recently won awards for Best Professional Services firm and Best Law Firm in its revenue category at the 2013 BRW Client Choice Awards; and the Australian Law Firm of the Year at the Chambers Asia Awards 2013. Aside from the reputational and career benefits of working at a firm like Herbert Smith Freehills (whether or not you choose to continue in legal practice), the three primary reasons I would recommend Herbert Smith Freehills as a place to commence your legal career are the training; the diversity and traits of the people; and the nature and quality of the work.
HERBERTSMITHFREEHILLS.COM
It is undeniable that the firm works on some of the largest and most important deals and litigation within Australia and globally. During the clerkship you may assist with legal research, in business development and knowledge management tasks, in due diligence processes, and in drafting correspondence. The majority of work I did was billable which makes you feel part of the team and the firm and that you are actively contributing to each matter.
Advice for the application and interview process Research each firm via their website and via the media. It is important to understand the type of work each firm specialises in and to understand whether their strengths match your interests and subject choices. Try to speak to a solicitor who currently or has previously worked at the firm you are applying for. If that is not possible then speak to a solicitor at another firm who has worked on the other side of transactions or litigation with the particular firm. Do not be afraid to promote your strengths and interests, particularly those outside of law (for instance in sport, leadership, volunteering, and your hobbies). Ultimately you cannot change your transcript but you can emphasise the experience and alternate perspective you will bring to the firm and how you can add value. If you have previous work experience, use it as a reference point in interviews and promote it within your resume.
Be knowledgeable of the firm and your future role as a clerk and as a graduate solicitor. Show an interest in commercial law and in particular practice areas of the firms you apply for. Ask questions of your interviewers and other employees you meet throughout the process. I personally found this particularly helpful to gauge the ethical position of the firm and to compare each firm on intangibles such as approaches to team work, respect for extracurricular commitments, social events, sense of humour and culture. Although I found this challenging at times, talk to as many people as possible at the cocktail parties. I would highly recommend attending these events as they are a great way to meet solicitors at the firm of varying experience and ages in a less formal environment. Helpfully Herbert Smith Freehills pairs each interviewee with a junior solicitor at the firm. Should you commence as a clerk, you will also have a buddy to support you in each of your rotations. They are an invaluable resource. Lastly, good luck with the application process. I highly recommend that you apply for Herbert Smith Freehills if you have an interest in corporate and commercial law, if you want to work at an international law firm, and if you want to commence your career at a firm with some of the most competent, intelligent, helpful and grounded lawyers in Australia.
“The people you meet through the process, from the clerkship group to partners, are interested in getting to know you and helping you succeed. For me, they were the largest contributor to my enjoyment of the clerkship period.” TOM LAIDLAW HOARE VACATION CLERK, SYDNEY
© Herbert Smith Freehills 2013 SAV125750
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• Enjoy no fixed internal silos and greater transparency • Collaborate with diverse teams of specialists across the country • No individual fee budgets
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• Structured professional development to supplement hands-on training
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“Being in an environment where the associate to partner ratio is 1:1 has given me the opportunity to be exposed to, observe and learn directly from some of the top lawyers in Australia.” Emily Haseloff, Law Clerk
VISIONARIES WANTED. Middletons is now K&L Gates. We have 48 fully integrated offices across five continents allowing us to share our people, expertise, clients and most importantly our success. Your career will benefit from unprecedented exposure to high profile deals on an international platform. Are you a visionary? Join us.
Choosing a career at K&L Gates is selecting to be a part of a progressive and innovative law firm that continues to grow year on year. We work with market leaders across many industries in a range of exciting areas of the global economy. Level 31, 1 O’Connell Street Sydney NSW Australia 2000 Phone: +61 2 9513 2415 Fax: +61 2 9513 2399 www.klgates.com
We look to recruit talented people, then provide the opportunities and support for them to achieve their best. Join us, and you will join a team of passionate professionals dedicated to providing exceptional client service.
Sydney practice areas Corporate and Transactional Financial Services Intellectual Property Labour Employment and Workplace Safety Litigation and Dispute Resolution Policy & Regulatory Real Estate Investment, Development and Finance Restructuring and Bankruptcy Join us – 2013 Summer Clerkship Program Applications for our Sydney 2013 Summer Clerkship program open on 19 June 2013. To apply and to find out more information about the firm, please visit our website at www.klgates.com.
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FIRM PROFILE: K & L GATES
FIRM PROFILE
About K&L Gates Middletons has combined with global law firm K&L Gates. We have
As a law student in your penultimate year at university, this is an op-
more than 2000 lawyers in almost 50 fully integrated offices across
portunity to gain practical work experience through participation in
five continents allowing us to share our people, expertise, clients and
client meetings, court visits and involvement in real legal work.
most importantly our success. Professional development is provided throughout your clerkship. It K&L Gates was founded in Pittsburgh in 1946 then experienced
begins on your first day with a comprehensive induction program
rapid expansion within the U.S. followed by other key global loca-
and continues through your clerkship enabling you to learn impor-
tions. The Australian merger marked the continued expansion of
tant skills that lay the foundation for your legal career.
K&L Gates into the Asia Pacific region. You will work closely with a supervising partner or senior associate Our offices are based in world capitals and key financial and com-
who is responsible for your daily work. A graduate or junior lawyer
mercial centres. Clients include industry leaders, major corporations,
will also be there to provide buddy support throughout your clerk-
capital markets participants and governments. We represent global
ship. In addition to the daily on the job feedback and guidance you
household names across all industries (this not surprisingly includes
receive, you will also take part in a structured performance review at
Microsoft - given the “Gates” portion of our name originates from
the end of both rotations.
Bill Gates’ father!). What we look for in our clerks What distinguishes the firm from others?
Solid academic results are important but to be a successful lawyer you
Choosing a career at K&L Gates is choosing to be part of the only
need to demonstrate talent and skill in a variety of areas. You need to
U.S. based global firm in the Australian market, allowing us to access
be able to demonstrate in your application commerciality, logic and
two thirds of global legal spend. We are the largest fully integrated
a high level of attention to detail, as well as an enthusiasm for deliver-
firm in the world, operating as one partnership across all 48 offices.
ing exceptional service.
For example, 30% of work completed by K&L Gates is attributable to matters generated in one office and performed in another. We
Step onto a truly global stage. Join us.
work as a team to share our clients, our knowledge and importantly,
Application dates for 2013/2014 Sydney Clerkship program are:
our success.
Opening: 19 June 2013 Closing: 19 July 2013
Your career will benefit from unprecedented exposure to high profile
To apply, please visit our website www.klgates.com
deals on an international platform. You will have access to a global knowledge bank to help you develop and grow. Most importantly you
Contacts
will be part of a straight talking culture where you are recognised for
Alison Maclurkin – Human Resources Specialist
what you do and how you do it.
Phone: (02) 9513 2415 Email: alison.maclurkin@klgates.com
Summer Clerk program at K&L Gates
Stephanie Ah Cann – Human Resources Coordinator
A clerkship is the ideal opportunity for you to explore what we have
Phone: (02) 9513 2563
to offer. Over the 8 week clerkship, you will experience 2 rotations in
Email: stephanie.ahcann@klgates.com
different practice areas, allowing you to gain insight into a career in law, meet our people and sample our culture to determine if K&L Gates is the right career choice for you. 84
Same same, but...
ALWAYS DIFFERENT The way we build careers, engage clients, communicate and grow our business – it’s a little ‘same same’ but a whole lot different. Sure, we’re similar to other great law firms (eg the best clients, nice offices, ordinary coffee!) – but we move beyond this with a global vision and a culture that’s creative, innovative and commercial. A culture that’s brought us to the centre of world growth, where we bring bold new capabilities and challenge the established norms. Where you can be involved in the biggest and the best global assignments – and have a little fun along the way. Get social with a firm that’s different – facebook.com/KingWoodMallesons
FIRM PROFILE: KING & WOOD MALLESONS
FIRM PROFILE
We’re a powerhouse legal brand in the Asian region with unmatched
•
Our people – you’ll find that people from every part of the
capability focussed on opening-up the world’s fastest growth region
business will help you along, sharing their knowledge, and
for clients. We’re business people who apply the law to create value
ensuring you have everything you need to fit in, and do well.
for clients. And, we want you to be part of our success story. What do we look for? For those who don’t know us well, here’s a snapshot of what we offer:
The four key capabilities we look for in our clerks are: •
A passion for commercial law and clients – that’s what we do
Vision: to create a global law firm in Asia
every day. It’s key that you have a genuine interest in the law
Team mates: over 380 partners and 1,800 lawyers (biggest
and the clients that need those services.
international legal network in Asia)
•
A strong interest in business and industry – we work in our
Reputation: over 100 international and Asia-focused awards and 50
clients’ worlds and are striving to help them achieve their
top-tier rankings
objectives. You need to be interested in this and willing to
Locations: strategically positioned in the world’s growth markets,
commit time and energy to really understand our clients and
financial capitals and the home of information technology (21
their businesses.
offices globally and the only international legal network to be head
•
The self-awareness and desire to understand and work well with
quartered in Asia)
others – we don’t build widgets. We deliver legal solutions to
Clients: global financial and corporate powerhouses to new
people through people, so we have to be really good at working
industry-makers and all levels of government (some for over 200
with and understanding others.
years)
•
Adaptability to live with change – our ability to move as quickly as the world around us is getting more important every day. We
Summer Clerkship Program
need people who think quickly, learn fast and adapt well.
Applications open: 19 June 2013 How to apply: Via our online application system at
If this sounds like you, why not talk to one of our graduate resourcing
www.kwm.com/careers
consultants or contact us by visiting our website www.kwm.com
We’ve designed a program to help you make the most of your time
King & Wood Mallesons
with us. During your clerkship, you’ll learn:
Level 61, Governor Phillip Tower
•
•
•
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The day-to-day skills to get you started – taking instructions,
1 Farrer Place
meeting with clients, drafting memos and documents, managing
Sydney NSW 2000
your practice and professional relationships.
www.kwm.com
The core practice teams at King & Wood Mallesons – who they are, what they do, how they’re structured, the clients they work
Contact:
for, and of course, your role within them.
Mitch Barreca
Our culture – working within your team, you’ll be exposed to
Graduate Resourcing Consultant
(and encouraged) to get actively involved in the many activities
Phone: +61 2 9296 3573
and events that help create our unique culture.
Email: mitch.barreca@au.kwm.com
CLERK PROFILE: KING & WOOD MALLESONS
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
SUMMER CLERK 2012-2013 Johanan Ottensooser
Rotations: Banking and Finance and Mergers and Acquisitions
I rotated in Banking and Finance and Mergers and Acquisitions, both the areas that I put as my preferences, and both with exceptionally
When I was applying for my clerkships (on exchange halfway across
cool teams. I must admit that I was pretty nervous on my first day in
the world) I knew that I would have to make some choices. Who
Banking. I didn’t know the first thing about the area, and everything
would I apply to? What areas of law was I interested in? What
seemed new. But as soon as I got out on level 57, my supervising
rotations would I choose? However when I settled back down in
partner met me, introduced me to my buddy and everyone else on
Sydney, and the interview process began, I knew my choices would be
the floor. I was given real work to do, and real responsibility, with
easier than I thought.
guidance from my team the whole way. Before long I was drafting documents, writing advices and attending client meetings.
From Mitch’s first friendly phone call, I knew I had stumbled onto a place with a great culture, an essential quality. From the first
No matter what area we rotated in, we were able to learn about the
interview, I knew there was something a little bit different about
whole firm, in training and in team briefings, where solicitors taught
KWM. I was interviewed by a partner who would later supervise me
us a bit about their floor and what they do. We were able to sample
on my first rotation, and by a lovely solicitor in dispute resolution.
every floor.
We spent more time talking about travel shenanigans and music than anything else.
However I can’t write a spiel about my clerkship without talking about the non-work-fun. We made a (tacky but awesome) clerkship
But my decision was really made for me when I went to the “inside
video, had a mascot building competition in Mergers and
a deal” event. Before that night, I had vague notions about what
Acquisitions (our papier mache pig was exceptionally cute), had a
corporate law was. I knew as much about them as anyone who has
Christmas party (complete with a rockabilly theme that everyone
watched Wall Street or Boston Legal, nothing more. That night,
dressed up for) and this was just the tip of the iceberg.
we learned a bit more about corporate law through stories. Two partners told us about their favourite deals: the enthusiasm they had,
My summer was a busy one; I learned a lot about the law, met
the personalities that they described, the negotiating hijinks that
amazing people and really got to know KWM. I would recommend
seemed commonplace. They were describing a world I wanted to be
this experience to everyone. I hope to see some of you this summer!
a part of. So I chose KWM and haven’t looked back. On the first day we were there, we ran around the city getting to know the other clerks, taking photos in borrowed barrister’s wigs and jumping into photo booths in China Town. After a day of meeting the other clerks we were introduced to our teams and none of us could wait to work with them.
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GRADUATE PROFILE: KING & WOOD MALLESONS
GRADUATE PROFILE James Darch
When I commenced at King & Wood Mallesons (KWM) as a law
I had never appreciated the work and clients I would be exposed
graduate in February 2013, I had been at the firm on-and-off for
to until I started full-time with the firm. Commencing my first
almost two-and-a-half years. In that time, the legal landscape had
rotation in the Mergers and Acquisitions practice group (KWM’s
evolved dramatically with a string of mergers and international
largest), I was met by a team of intelligent, dynamic and friendly
entrants that definitively altered the composition of the Australian
lawyers. In only a very short period, the team exposed me to an
legal market. However, the one thing that has remained constant
exceptional range of clients and work-types. The varied work-types
since the day I arrived at KWM is the culture of the firm, which just
have included drafting agreements, preparing deal documents for
so happens to be the very thing that lured me to KWM in the first
completion, conducting research, attending signings and closings,
place. Law firm culture is one of those intangible elements that is
attending client meetings, preparing prospectuses and conducting
impossible to capture, yet irreplaceable in any firm. In the famous
due diligence for proposed mergers and/or acquisitions. I have also
words Dennis Denuto, it is “the vibe” of KWM and more specifically,
been involved with KWM’s extensive pro bono and communities
it is the people. KWM attracts and retains people with a rare mix
program, KWM in the Community, and will be acting as the firm
of intelligence and friendliness. They conduct themselves with the
key contact for RSPCA NSW. There really is a diversity of work and
utmost professionalism, yet are warm and approachable and this
clients at KWM that is unparalleled for law graduates.
provides a comfortable environment for learning and development. The people at KWM also have varied backgrounds and interests
Although my experience as a law graduate has been brief, I
which only enhances the unique culture of the firm and makes it a
cannot speak highly enough of my time at KWM so far. The firm
great place to work.
demonstrates a great deal of care and respect for its young lawyers and it is a privilege to work with such talented people and clients
In terms of actually commencing full-time employment, I must admit
every day. I am looking forward to a challenging and rewarding
that I was not overly keen. I had just returned from a two month
career with an exceptional firm.
holiday to celebrate the conclusion of my legal studies and the last thing I felt like was commencing full-time work. However, starting at KWM as a law graduate made the ‘real world’ adjustment so much easier. It started with the 34 other law graduates commencing at KWM in 2013 and consisted of building on the great relationships I had formed during my summer clerkship and making new connections with people I had never met. One of the benefits of starting as a law graduate is that you instantly gain a new group of friends to share your experiences with. These experiences are facilitated through KWM’s International Graduate Program (IGP). The IGP consists of three six-month rotations in different practice teams and a vast amount of informal, formal and practical training. From simple technology and systems training right through to how to draft affidavits, the training law graduates receive through KWM’s IGP becomes the cornerstone of your legal development.
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FIRM PROFILE: LANDER & ROGERS
FIRM PROFILE
Contact information Address: Level 19, Angel Place, 123 Pitt Street SYDNEY NSW 2000 Web: www.landers.com.au HR Contact: Laura Grant, Graduate Resourcing Consultant Email: lgrant@landers.com.au Phone: 03 92699333 About Lander & Rogers Lander & Rogers is a successful and growing Australian law firm operating nationally from Melbourne and Sydney. Our clients include many mid and large sized Australian companies and Australian subsidiaries of global companies. We have a distinctively happy workplace, achieved through selectively recruiting people who think and act collaboratively and will strengthen our culture. The firm comprises 56 partners and more than 350 lawyers, support and internal services staff. We have grown organically, resulting in a highly cohesive firm sharing a strong work and services ethic, and high staff and partner retention rates. The firm’s legal services are multi-disciplinary in nature and in our Sydney office cover Corporate, Commercial Disputes, Insurance Law & Litigation, Property, Projects & Infrastructure and Workplace Relations & Safety. Our commitment to our client relationships, both professional and personal, is one of the reasons we believe we stand out from other firms. Our strong relationships with many household and global brands, such as Wesfarmers, Qantas, Telstra, Ford, Bosch, AECOM, ExxonMobil, Orica, Bunnings, M2, Mercer, BlackRock and Stockland are testament to our offering. Pro Bono & Community Support Lander & Rogers is committed to developing a culture and business which supports the undertaking of pro bono work and other similar initiatives in the community. We have a market leading pro bono program in place which focuses on matters of access to justice, social inclusion and community service work. We have a pro bono partner appointed to drive the practice of pro bono at the firm and we treat pro bono work as equally important to the firm as paid work. Everyone in the firm is encouraged to participate in and engage with our pro bono work.
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depending on the practice group you join (we’ll ask you to indicate your preferences), and could involve: • Researching points of law and summarising your findings • Drafting correspondence • Court documents and sections of commercial agreements Reviewing and analysing legislation and case law • Observing our lawyers in action at meetings, conferences, mediations • and court • Attending practice group discussions. These experiences will provide you with a much clearer idea of what it means to be a lawyer. You’ll also develop a better feel for the human side of Lander & Rogers, such as why our people work here, where they’ve come from, and what they do when they’re not being lawyers. We value our people and understand the importance of our staff maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle and we encourage our summer clerks to get involved in life at Landers as much as possible during their time with us. Our health and wellbeing committee, LandersMax!, encourages our people to get involved in various activities, including BootCamp, Yoga/Pilates, tennis tournaments, language classes, in-house massage and much more. What we look for We’re in the business of dealing with people, whether that is each other, our clients, barristers or you. So, we aim to recruit people who are friendly, down to earth, and who can engage with a whole range of people in the workplace. You’ll also need intelligence to tackle the most interesting of legal scenarios, energy to absorb new concepts and changing laws, and a willingness to work productively with lots of different people. We don’t expect that you’ll be a gun at all of these things straight away, but when we meet you at interview we’ll be curious to learn more about your potential to handle these things in the future, based on the skills and experience you’ve already built through studying law (combined with other disciplines like arts, commerce and science) and any legal and non-legal part-time work, volunteer work and university activities you’ve tackled. A carefully prepared and professionally presented application letter and CV are the key to maximising your potential to secure an interview, and offer an excellent opportunity for you to identify the skills and attributes that you believe will be of value to our firm. In addition to setting out your key skills and experience, you should also consider:
Our program includes: • pro bono legal work • volunteering and secondment opportunities • fundraising campaigns and educational forums • work place giving
•
Land on your feet with a clerkship at Lander & Rogers Our summer clerkship program is built on learning and fun and we’ll do everything we can to show you the way by giving you a chance to have a go for yourself.
• •
On joining us you’ll be teamed with two lawyers (one experienced, and another a little closer in level to you) who will immerse you in the day to day running of their practices. What that means on a practical level will vary
See our website to learn more about the experiences of our people, such as what they do and who their clients are, why they chose Lander & Rogers, and why they choose to stay with us. www.landers.com.au.
•
Whether you have expressed who you are - be yourself, we want to see your personality shine through! Your interests and hobbies - we recruit people who are passionate about their career in law, but who are also interested in things outside the law! What you can offer our firm and why we should recruit you What attracts you to working with Lander & Rogers, eg how have you demonstrated that you are genuinely interested in our firm?
Our vacation clerkships open a window on what it’s like to be a lawyer in a large commercial law firm. Interested? Find out more at www.minterellison.com/careers
ADELAIDE AUCKLAND BEIJING BRISBANE CANBERRA DARWIN GOLD COAST HONG KONG LONDON MELBOURNE PERTH SHANGHAI SYDNEY ULAANBAATAR WELLINGTON
SYD12 0388
YOUR PASSION YOUR CAREER OUR FIRM
www.minterellison.com
ABOUT MINTER ELLISON Minter Ellison is a top tier law firm with a strong Asia Pacific focus. We represent major multi-national, regional and local companies as well as government organisations and state-owned entities. Minter Ellison has been at the table of some of the Asia Pacific’s headline transactions – strategic business acquisitions by Qantas, the National Broadband Network roll out, global outsourcing projects for BHP Billiton and some of the biggest energy and resources M&A in Australia involving foreign investors.
WHAT WE LOOK FOR
WORKING WITH US
LEARN AND GROW
Excellence: We want people who strive to be the best, pursue outstanding outcomes, and are passionate about a career in commercial law.
Our vacation clerkships offer you real life work experience. A comprehensive orientation program and learning on the job will help you build your legal skills and commercial acumen.
We know and understand what it takes for you to be successful as a lawyer. We also know that as a junior lawyer you will need targeted development to help you succeed in the transition from law school to law firm.
Commercial awareness: Although this comes with experience and time, we’re interested in people who are commercially savvy, know how a business works and are interested in business generally. Team fit: We look for people with ideas and energy, who share our values and work well as part of a team.
You will work closely with partners and lawyers on active matters to meet deadlines and produce quality work. You will also be allocated a supervisor for daily support who will help you manage your workload, and a ‘buddy’ for extra insight and advice.
Initiative: We value proactive, engaging and resourceful people. We encourage critical thinking, decisiveness and ingenuity.
GLOBAL PRACTICE AREAS
Energy & resources Financial services & insurance Government Health & ageing Infrastructure Telecoms, media & technology
Construction Corporate Dispute resolution Finance Human resources & industrial relations Real estate Taxation
ADELAIDE AUCKLAND BEIJING BRISBANE CANBERRA DARWIN GOLD COAST HONG KONG LONDON MELBOURNE PERTH SHANGHAI SYDNEY ULAANBAATAR WELLINGTON
GLOBAL INDUSTRY SECTORS
When you start your career with us as a graduate, you receive tailored learning and development – both in technical skills and in important commercial skills such as client interaction, business development and interpersonal dynamics. These programs have everything you’ll need to build a successful, long-term legal career. We are also proud to offer graduates a dedicated LifeSkills program to assist you in maintaining your personal wellbeing.
www.minterellison.com 92
YOUR PASSION YOUR CAREER OUR FIRM As a prospective clerk it can be a difficult process figuring out which firm is right for you. During the application process my approach was to speak with as many people as I could to hear their experiences. I was naturally drawn towards Minter Ellison. The picture painted by everyone I spoke to from the firm was of a vibrant, supportive workplace that creates opportunities for young lawyers. After doing the clerkship and working as a paralegal, for me that picture has been vividly true to life. Testament to that would have to be my experience in the Hong Kong office. I was chosen to spend two weeks there in January. The trip was a great opportunity for me to see first hand what it’s like to work in a foreign jurisdiction, and the benefits that flow to the firm from its strong regional presence. I also got to put my tourist hat on – I had a lot of fun exploring the city, with its unique blend of cultures and delicious food. Above all, the trip gave me confidence that the firm is committed to investing in my career. Thomas Ellicott – Summer Clerk
CONTACT US For more information about Minter Ellison and a career with our firm, visit www.minterellison.com/careers SYDNEY
Ben Carter, Senior Resourcing Consultant ben.carter@minterellison.com Stephanie Zanella, Resourcing Advisor stephanie.zanella@minterellison.com
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Spend the summer with us Our ten week summer clerkship programme will expose you to an ambitious, expanding, international legal practice with a clear strategy for the future.
nortonrosegraduates.com Into the USA – Norton Rose will join forces with Fulbright & Jaworski LLP on 3 June 2013, to create Norton Rose Fulbright, a global legal practice with significant depth of expertise across the US, Europe, Asia, Australia, Canada, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America and Central Asia.
2900 lawyers / 42 offices / 6 continents nortonrose.com
FIRM PROFILE: NORTON ROSE
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
FIRM PROFILE
Introduction
and work closely with our Associates, Senior Associates and Partners.
Norton Rose Australia is a member of the Norton Rose Group, a
All in all, it is an opportunity to experience what life is really like as a
leading international legal practice offering a full business law service
commercial Lawyer.
to many of the world’s pre-eminent financial institutions and corporations. You will attend various induction sessions, as well as firm wide CLE We are one of the largest international legal practices in Australia,
training and talks from graduates about spending time on second-
with offices in Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.
ment to one of our International offices. During your time at Norton Rose Australia you will get to participate in actual work with clients
Knowing how our clients’ businesses work and understanding what
– which could involve anything from legal research to attending client
drives their industries is fundamental to us. Our lawyers share in-
meetings or court visits.
dustry knowledge and sector expertise across borders, enabling us to support our clients anywhere in the world.
Another aspect of your clerkship with us will be the social activities that you can participate in. As a summer clerk you will be included in
We are strong in financial institutions; energy; infrastructure, mining
firm specific activities including sporting events, lunches, dinners and
and commodities; transport; technology and innovation; and phar-
various other social events.
maceuticals and life sciences. Graduate programme We take the view that we are only as strong as our people – which is
The Norton Rose Australia graduate programme runs for a
why quality training and flexible work programmes are paramount to
24-month period and consists of four six-month rotations, which
our business. We deliver an extensive range of training programmes
allow you to experience a wide variety of legal work and develop a
targeted at specific stages of our lawyers’ professional development.
comprehensive skill set. With this breadth of experience, you will be
Our graduate lawyers have the opportunity to be involved in a
able to confidently identify the area that best suits your talents and
unique International Rotation Programme and to spend time in one
career goals.
of our International offices. As part of our national graduate programme, we now provide graduWe’re also proud to be certified by the EOWA as an Employer of
ates in their second year of the programme with a unique opportu-
Choice for Women 2012.
nity to undertake a four month rotation in one of our international offices. This formalised learning opportunity introduces you to the
Summer Clerkship Programme
broader Norton Rose Group, including regional and global clients,
The summer clerkship programme runs for 10 weeks in Brisbane,
Partners and staff, and gives invaluable experience of different cul-
Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney and will commence in late November
tures and legal work. Global thinking is essential in all our graduates
2013. As a Norton Rose Australia summer clerk, you will have the
and you will embrace the international opportunities on offer.
chance to spend five weeks in one practice group and then rotate into a different practice area for a further 5 weeks, to broaden your
Throughout the programme, you will also be involved in a regular
knowledge as much as possible. Our clerkship programme is your
feedback process. This provides an opportunity for ongoing commu-
opportunity to start building a career with a global legal practice,
nication between partners and staff and ensures you maximise your
doing meaningful work of value. You will also get to know our people
learning experience. 95
CLERK PROFILE: NORTON ROSE
SUMMER CLERK 2011-2012 Luke Hawthorne
The work At Norton Rose I always knew that I was contributing something meaningful. The work we were given was challenging but rewarding. I always felt a sense of ownership for what I discovered, drafted, prepared or assisted with. The partners and senior lawyers were always happy and excited to explain what a matter was about, the complexities involved, and how we could achieve it together. Every firm will tell you they are a ‘full service’ law firm, but Norton Rotations: Intellectual Property (Disputes); Real Estate I was a summer clerk at Norton Rose during the summer of 2011/2012 and I have excellent memories from the experience. Any summer clerkship is a great way to expose yourself to what life is like in a large commercial law firm. However, at Norton Rose you see that same opportunity with the added exposure of being in an international law firm. I completed two rotations at Norton Rose: first with Intellectual Property, and the second with Real Estate. I really benefited from having access to two very diverse areas of law and practice. If you only read this paragraph, I would want you to know the three main reasons why I enjoyed Norton Rose: the people and culture, the work, and the international focus. But I encourage you to read on. The people and the culture I was sold on Norton Rose from the very first careers fair. I was fortunate enough to talk to a number of senior lawyers and partners at the firm, who each relayed their experiences and advice about entering the legal profession. I still recall now how the people I spoke to were friendly and approachable and with different viewpoints. As I learnt, Norton Rose is a firm that relishes in diversity: they know their strength is in their people. Once I started work, I saw this theory in practice. The different lawyers who I worked for had an incredible level of shared respect for each other. Norton Rose is a firm that believes in having a diversity of experiences and views in order to give the best quality legal service. They really believe in teamwork and mutual support. I am also very proud to work for a firm that is consistently Employer of Choice for Women and recognised in the community as a leader in supporting diversity and inclusion; initiatives that have real positive effects on our workplace. Being immersed in an award winning culture makes a real difference to your career and opportunities. 96
Rose are industry leaders in financial institutions, energy, infrastructure, mining and commodities, transport, technology and innovation, and pharmaceuticals and life sciences. Norton Rose advises the key leaders, both in Australia and internationally, within those industry sectors. Being industry specialists gives you access to the really interesting specialist work that a client can trust your team with. The international focus Working day-to-day in this international context really opened my eyes to how legal profession and the law is global. While I was a summer clerk, Norton Rose has expanded into Canada, Colombia, Kazakhstan, Russia and Venezuela. As a graduate and following my clerkship, I have seen Norton Rose begin its merger into the United States to become Norton Rose Fulbright. There is a real feeling of momentum at Norton Rose. I really enjoy that I get to work for a firm that has a vision and a future that it is actively pursuing. I worked hard. I was challenged. But I was rewarded with an invaluable learning experience. I worked with great people and made lasting friendships. Each of these combined to ensure that I was happy with my decision to accept a placement at Norton Rose – a decision that today, as a graduate lawyer, I am still grateful for. Local contact details: Name: Yvette Revell, Recruitment and National Graduate Advisor Email address: yvette.revell@nortonrose.com Telephone number: +61 (2) 93308945 Office address: Level 18, Grosvenor Place, 225 George Street, Sydney, Australia
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
Stand out at TressCox TressCox is a trusted Australian mid-sized Commercial Law Firm that has been operating since 1897. We are based in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Canberra and have an enviable reputation in all areas of law. As a summer clerk with us, you will have the opportunity to: Participate in 3 rotations through our Health, Corporate and Commercial and Litigation divisions: Gain exposure in different areas of law; and Be a part of a busy and dynamic legal team doing valuable legal work. We give you practical legal experience, and when we can, the opportunity to attend hearings, undertake research tasks, observe client meetings and conferences and get involved at our in-house seminars. Our culture is simple. We have a positive, fun environment that aims to satisfy the individual’s career aspirations. This is the ďŹ rst step for a career in law and our summer clerks will get a chance to stand out at TressCox. Please submit your application to Julia Bucci, HR Adviser and include a covering letter, CV and your academic transcript using CV Mail. For more details please go to www.tresscox.com.au
www.tresscox.com.au
twi tt e r.c om/ Tr e s s Co x linkedin.com/company/tresscox-lawyer s
Make Waves ABOUT WEBB HENDERSON We are only four years old, but we’ve already established ourselves as a first-tier international legal practice. We've been recognised by Australasian Legal Business as the fastest growing law firm in the region and one of the top 10 firms to watch. The big name clients who seek our advice include NBN Co, Foxtel, Vodafone Group, SingTel, Red Bull, Air New Zealand, Google and The World Bank. They are testament to our calibre and the quality of work that you’ll be involved in. We are a truly international legal practice with offices in Sydney, Auckland, Singapore and London. More than half of our work is generated in overseas markets. In the last 12 months, our lawyers have worked on matters in Indonesia, Malaysia, Brunei, Thailand, Myanmar, Hong Kong, Qatar, Oman, Palestine, Luxemburg, South Africa, Brazil and the US, as well as our home markets. Our clients rely on us to make valuable contributions to their strategic decision making. To this end, we offer class-leading regulatory consulting services, which complement our premium commercial, regulatory and litigation services in key business sectors. The quality of our team, as lawyers and as people, is second to none.
ABOUT OUR CLERKSHIP PROGRAM We know that you’re in high demand, so we’re committed to ensuring that your clerkship experience is first rate. You’ll spend eight weeks with us. You’ll gain valuable legal experience and have time off to enjoy your summer, too. You’ll be deeply involved in all areas of our practice and be closely mentored by the most senior members of our team to make meaningful contributions of the kind we expect from the best graduates and junior lawyers. You’ll benefit from our intensive training program, which has been specially designed to fasttrack your transition from law student to lawyer. You’ll also spend part of your clerkship working at our Auckland office to get a real feel for what it’s like working for a next generation law firm. In turn, your New Zealand counterparts will join you in Sydney for part of their clerkship. We want the best and the brightest. We invest heavily in our clerks and pay at the top of the market. Given that all of our graduates are sourced directly from our clerkship program, it presents a unique opportunity for you to join our team.
APPLICATIONS If you fancy your chances with the big firms, but want to make waves, then we want to hear from you. Apply to us directly at www.webbhenderson.com/summerclerk or find our careers page on Facebook.
Sydney
Legal and Regulatory Advisors
I Auckland I Singapore I London www.webbhenderson.com
2013 UTS LSS SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
NOTES:
SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE PRE-PENULTIMA EERS GUIDE THE FULL BENCH SUMMER CLER ULTIMATE GUIDE LAW SCHOOL MANUAL GUIDE SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE THE FULL LERKSHIP GUIDE THE FULL BENCH LAW SCHO TE GUIDE CAREERS GUIDE SUMMER CLERKSH
E FULL BENCH PRE-PENULTIMATE GUIDE CAM AMP SURVIVAL GUIDE LAW SCHOOL MANU REERS GUIDE SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE
MER CLERKSHIP GUIDE PRE-PENULTIMATE GUID PRE-PENULTIMATE GUIDE THE FULL BENCH THE FULL BENCH SUMMER CLERKSHIP GUIDE LAW SURVIVAL GUIDE CAREERS GUIDE CAMP S Enjoyed this LSS publication?
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