2015 Law School Manual by UTS Law Students' Society

Your unofficial guide to UTS Law School 2015

LSM 2015 Law School Manual EDITORS Nicola Colagiuri Vanessa Jiang Ling McGregor Iris Vayzer Aneesa Kruyer © 2015 UTS Law Students’ Society This publication is copyright. Except where permitted under the Copyright Act, no part of this publication may 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 All expressions of opinion published in the LSM are not the official opinion of the UTS Law Students’ Society unless expressly stated. The UTS Law Students’ Society accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of any opinions or information contained herein and readers should rely on their own enquiries to make decisions in their own interest.

WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO Vanessa Jiang, Vice President (Education), and Ashleigh Barnes, President of the UTS LSS, for their help and support throughout the publication process.

Contents

4. Dean’s Address

5. President’s Welcome 6. Stay Thirsty 7. Words to the Wise – Welcome All Ye JDs! 8. Distraction or Inspiration – the Ultimate Procrastination Guide 11. What is the UTS LSS? 12. Meet the 2015 Council 15. Welcome from the Student Wellbeing Officer

Law School Manual (LSM) is published in Sydney annually by: UTS Law Student’s Society PO Box 123, Broadway NSW, 2007 Room CM5A.01.08, City Markets Campus, Cnr of Quay Street & Ultimo Road Tel (02) 9514 3448 Fax (02) 9514 3427 www.utslss.com

16. Education 18. Peer Mentoring 19. Subject Tutoring 20. Careers 22. Social Justice

* Where unsp ecified, all photos and images have b een contributed by the U T S Law S tu dents’ S o ciety.

25. Sport 26. Socials 28. Competitions 30. ALSA 31. Year at a glance: UTS LSS events you don’t want to miss! 32. Your Study Plan of Attack 34. How to: Make the Most of your Law Degree 36. Beyond a reasonable doubt: Must-try eats and bevs 38. 9 Tips to being a HD Law Student

President’s Dean’s Address Welcome UTS LSS

A very warm welcome to UTS:Law and congratulations on being offered a place at UTS. I hope 2015 will be a rewarding year for you and the start of a life-long connection with UTS:Law. As Dean of the Law Faculty, I am responsible for the day-to-day running of the Faculty and its future direction, and I feel very privileged to be Dean of this Faculty. I am constantly amazed by the dedication of the academic and professional staff and their ongoing commitment to your learning experience. It is a privilege also to know and work with the students in this Faculty. Their enthusiasm, energy, and commitment is infectious. I also work closely with the UTS Law Students’ Society (UTS LSS) and have been able to see first hand the range of UTS LSS activities. Many of the activities undertaken by the UTS LSS complement what we are trying to achieve in the Faculty - the competitions promote the skills which are embedded in each of our subjects through the Graduate Attributes; the social justice activities and events such as the Speaker Series encourage you to think beyond the technical law and to consider law in its broader social and political context; and, the social events are a good reminder that you need to take time away from study and work to relax. I often talk about the Law Faculty as a community – faculty and students together. Since becoming Dean in 2013, I have valued the way in which staff and students here work together. One of the most important aspects of that partnership is the joint responsibility we have for the Brennan Justice and Leadership Program. This voluntary program is unique amongst law schools. It provides amazing opportunities for you. Last year, I was able to visit some of our students who were volunteering at a public interest law centre, Zhicheng Law Centre, in Beijing. The Centre, founded by one of our alumni, Tong Lihua, does important work helping Chinese migrant workers. Tong Lihua’s work was recognized by the University in 2014, when he received the International Alumni Award. One of the reasons I believe the Brennan Program has been so successful is because it is run through a true partnership of Faculty and student. I encourage you to find out more about the Brennan Program and to get involved with it and the other activities offered by the UTS LSS. These activities

can be as important as what happens within the formal classroom for your understanding of law and your future career. One of my priorities as Dean is to reconnect with our alumni. I want to build a life-long partnership with our alumni, one that supports and allows them to continue to engage with the Faculty as part of our community. I believe that UTS:Law offers an excellent legal education, one that is unique amongst law schools, but we need still to make that better known. Our alumni can be our champions. The alumni I have been meeting clearly hold UTS:Law in high regard. Alumni may seem remote to you, who are only just commencing your legal studies, but a vibrant alumni community will also offer benefits for current students through professional links and support. Our alumni already help us in many ways such as judging competitions, giving guest lectures, and, mentoring students. I also think that as Dean it is important to find ways to connect with the student body and to hear from you. In 2014, with the support of the UTS LSS and Faculty student reps, I held two community meetings (one per semester). These meetings provided an opportunity to talk directly to students about the work and priorities of the Faculty, the broader environment affecting legal education and careers, and to respond to questions. The meetings were small in attendance but those attending appreciated the opportunity to meet. I intend to hold the meetings again in 2015, and I hope you will take the opportunity to attend. I am also on Twitter and LinkedIn. Finally, I would like to commend the Law School Manual to you. Take the time to read it as it provides a wonderful introduction to the life of a law student – both the serious side and the fun. The Manual gives you an early insight into the professionalism and dedication of the UTS LSS Executive. I look forward to meeting many of you during the year and I wish you all the best for 2015 at UTS. Lesley Hitchens Dean, Faculty of Law

Congratulations and welcome to UTS:Law!

t h a n yo u r f i rs t we ek o f law rea d in gs !

My name is Ashleigh Barnes and I am the 2015 President of the UTS Law Students’ Society (UTS LSS), your representative body, social hub and the centre of student life for the next 3- 5 years!

The discipline of law will change the way you view and participate in society. Armed with a wealth of knowledge and a renowned degree under your belt, it matters not whether your interests lie in international humanitarian law, the corporate world, banking and consultancy, criminal law, environmental law, refugee law, academia, advocacy or government (to name only a few). What really matters is that the opportunities available to you both throughout your degree, and upon graduation, extend far and wide. The world is your oyster.

The UTS LSS is a student-run organisation that seeks to cater to the social, educational and vocational needs of law students at UTS. The UTS LSS is renowned for its commitment to students by providing a range of activities and initiatives such as social events, educational lectures, publications, social justice initiatives and networking opportunities. However, it is our view that the UTS LSS is more than a club or society – it is a support network charged with providing services to the diverse members of the UTS:Law population. In short, we seek to ensure your time at law school is as fulfilling as it should be! There is no doubt that whether you are commencing your legal studies at UTS as an Undergraduate or a Juris Doctor (JD), as a school leaver or a mature age student, your time at law school will be one of the most demanding, yet one of the most rewarding experiences of your life.

I look forward to meeting you all around the university, and if you have any questions about any aspect at all of the UTS LSS or UTS:Law, please do not hesitate to email me at president@utslss.com or come down and say hello at our office (CM5A.01.08 – in the green area of Haymarket campus). We are always happy to help. Again, and on behalf of the UTS LSS, welcome to UTS:Law 2015. Ashleigh Barnes UTS LSS President 2015

I truly believe that you only get out of law school what you put into it. Challenge yourself and be a joiner – whether that is attending Peer Mentoring, going to Law Ball, competing in legal skills competitions or attending careers’ seminars. Engage yourself with the opportunities provided by the UTS LSS and the UTS Faculty of Law, and I promise that you will be rewarded. As President, I am responsible for coordinating and overseeing all activities of the Society including the six portfolios of Activities, Competitions, Education, Marketing, Social Justice and Sponsorship & Careers, as well as chairing meetings, representing the Society on several faculty committees and boards, soliciting sponsorship from prospective sponsors, representing the Society as a member of various councils, maintaining the Society’s finances together with the Treasurer, and any other day-to-day issues that arise in matters that relate to the Society. I i m plo re yo u to rea d ab o u t ea ch o f t h e p o r t fol i o s a n d o p p o r t u n i t i es t h o ro ug h l y ; t h e L aw S ch o ol Ma nu a l i s o f e qu a l ( i f n o t o f g reate r) i m p o r t a n ce

Stay Thirsty

Words To The Wise

Written by BRYCE CRAIG

Written by RACHAEL MILLANTA

During your time at law school you will invariably stumble upon the most virtuous of social titles, that of the ‘thirsty firstie’. It was Law Camp which first introduced me to the term, where it was honourably bestowed upon a fellow first year who proved that their proverbial ‘thirst’ was a cut above the rest whilst partying the night before. And while the title is no more than a playful reminder of the predictable drinking habits championed by first year students, the idea of ‘thirst’ becomes rather pertinent when reflecting on what made my first year of law so enjoyable. A thirst for involvement, new people and new experiences, will make your time at law school easier and more worthwhile. Whether you’re a school leaver or transfer student, the first weeks of Uni can be daunting. You’ll find yourself in lectures with people of different ages and backgrounds. While these differences may initially seem isolating, it quickly becomes the shared experience that brings students together. Luckily for you, a lot of these strangers won’t be that strange at all, and soon enough you’ll find yourself sharing a bev, talking about the latest episode of Suits, or the latest Game of Thrones casualty. When you find yourself drowning in readings and assignments, your newfound friendships become collegiate networks for study sessions, note sharing, and delirious 3:00am cramming. I cannot emphasise enough the importance of reaching out to new people during this time, so put yourself out there. One great way to meet new people is to attend the amazing events organised by the UTS LSS. The first and most epic of all first year events is First Year Law Camp. Forget everything from your high school camps, this long weekend is an action packed, thirst-fest from the future (legit). As well as introducing you to a group of amazingly helpful students from years above, making friends at Camp will significantly ease your first weeks at Uni. Other events, such as First Year Law Drinks, are also sure-fire stops for any thirsty firstie looking to mingle with their cohort alongside the infamous UTS LSS bar tab (beware). Be sure that you regularly satiate your social thirst throughout the year; however if you’re playing hard, you best be working hard, too.

The academic environment of Uni is a huge departure from what most firsties will be used to, but the benefits certainly outweigh the concessions. While you may lose the cosiness of high school, you’ll gain unprecedented independence in your education. For the most part, how you schedule you’re semester will be up to you, allowing for an improved control over study, work, and other commitments. It will be important to devote enough time each week to your studies; a ‘P’s get degrees’ attitude won’t get you very far. You may also need to adjust your academic standards slightly. Coming off the back of presumably excellent HSC results, even receiving a credit may send you into an existential crisis. Make sure learning curves like this only serve to motivate future improvement, and not negative thinking. If you do ever feel overcome by your thirst for achievement, I strongly encourage you to reach out to those around you, as well as the professional support offered at UTS; your wellbeing is more important than your GPA. Once you’ve found your footing, having a go at some extra-curricular activities is also highly advised. The UTS LSS offers a range of initiatives and opportunities to keep you busy and strengthen your CV. Take a leap of faith and sign up for mooting with a friend, attend one of the Speaker Series events, or volunteer with one of our many social justice activities. These are a great way to advance your legal knowledge, and equally provide opportunities to network with people from both the university and industry. Just like anything that is worth doing, law school isn’t always going to be easy, and it isn’t always going to be fun. However, if you get involved with the people and opportunities around you, you’ll find that your first year flies by, having taught you a lot more than how to write a case note. Stay thirsty, firstie.

I am in my second year of my JD, and in 2015 I am both the postgraduate representative on the UTS LSS and the postgraduate representative on the Faculty Board in Law. I completed my undergraduate business degree via distance education at Southern Cross University, so although a postgraduate student, I had actually never attended a university before (and I was really nervous). During my first year at UTS, I very quickly realised why this university is considered to be one of Australia’s best law schools. The whole university is full of amazing lecturers and tutors, and I am yet to come across one who isn’t prepared to help you in every way possible. On top of that, the law faculty, especially the UTS LSS, is incredibly welcoming and supportive, as well as understanding of the struggles associated with returning to university and juggling both study and work. Whether undergrad or postgrad, every new law student is in the same boat. You and the vast majority of incoming students will spend your first few weeks looking for classes and struggling to navigate your way around campus (which I honestly still battle with). Conveniently, you’re not in highschool anymore, so most of the students will actually give you the correct directions if you ask them (try to look all innocent and scared and you got this). So, as a proud first-year law graduate, I offer some essential tips to make your JD study as enjoyable and stress-free as possible: 1.

Start your assignments early. They won’t be due for six weeks when you get them, so you will decide that it’s ‘future you’s problem’, but then 5 minutes later they’re due in 3 hours and you’ll find yourself crying in the library print room.

Talk to everyone! Since coming to UTS, I have been surprised by the amount of people I have met with the same interests and passions as me, and I’ve made some amazing friends. That person sitting next to you could become the world’s greatest study buddy. Your friends and study partners will get you through your degree, and you will get them through theirs.

Make sure you go to the all the UTS LSS events, as they are the best way to make friends and generally network with the rest of the faculty. Not only are they fun, but the relationships you make with other students (both postgrads and undergrads) will almost certainly help you when it comes to study groups and exam notes.

4. If you need to have a mid-study nap (and let’s face it, we’ve all been there), do it ANYWHERE but at a library computer. There are pillows under the stairs, and I’m even partial to a nice nap on a writing desk, but computer desks are a no-no. There is ALWAYS a line-up to use them, and reserving one for a sleep is a really good way to find yourself on the business end of a stressed-out student’s hissy fit. 5.

Make sure you enjoy the amazing social scene of UTS. Don’t bury your head in a book and forget to come up for air – the events run by the UTS LSS and other societies are brilliant to not only help you relax, but it’s also amazing how much better you can study after a few hours of refreshment and fun.

Good luck in your first semester and the beginning of your fabulous postgraduate university career! Make sure you ‘like’ the ‘UTS Law Students’ Society’ facebook page to keep up-to-date with all the upcoming events and general news. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to contact me at postgrad@utslss.com. I hope to see you around campus soon!

Distraction Or Inspiration? Written by KIZZY BAGGA

TV SHOWS

MOVIES

If you need a break from studying the law, at least learn to walk the walk from TV’s best-loved lawyers. But be careful not to get sucked into a vortex of back-to-back viewing!

Each of us has probably felt inspired by at least one of these movies. In the face of a bleak reality, turn to fiction. 1.

L egally Blonde – If Elle Woods can do it, so can you.

ake – Cleaver Greene reaches new highs and lows R with every episode. If you’re thinking of becoming a barrister, then here is a compilation of the things that you should probably not do.

he Lincoln Lawyer - Matthew McConaughey T discovers the nasty truth about his client and gets stuck in a crisis of conscience. A lesson in legal ethics? I’ll let you decide.

uits – Welcome to the corporate law scene in S Manhattan, where original thinking trumps dusty old legal education, and even the need for a law degree. This show reveals where inspiration might just take you, and how hard (or awesome) life can be once you get there.

You are now starting a new chapter of your life by securing your spot as a law student in 2015 at UTS. You have shiny new textbooks ready to go. You’ve even sussed out the best coffee on campus. You must be feeling pretty good right? Wait for the horrible realisation that all of your assignments are due in the same week, and closely coincide with mid-semester exams. Oh, and you only have about six weeks to learn everything. If you weren’t freaking out already, you should definitely start to! In such circumstances do you: A: Write the dates in your diary in neon pink highlighter, with doodles around it? B: Go purchase a ‘Keep Calm and Carry On’ mug? C: Hope that somehow your brain will transform into Mike Ross’ overnight? D: Do all of the above. I will be the first to admit that I am completely guilty of all of the above. There is something so satisfyingly productive about highlighters. If this sounds like you, then there is a good chance that you might also suffer from the deadly disease that is procrastination. The reality is that having five or six week’s notice on an assignment is almost pointless when you suffer from this particular disease. It is long-term, malignant, and incurable. Yet don’t feel too disheartened, for you are definitely not alone! Law students have long been acknowledging – and embracing – their unique ability to self-distract and delay. After all, who’s to say that your chosen method of procrastination isn’t equally distracting and inspiring? Watching Suits, for example, might not turn you into Mike Ross, but it can inspire you to work harder so that you might join the well-groomed corps of Corporate Law one day. I would even argue that without procrastinating, I wouldn’t have been able to ramble my way through a ‘Foundations of Law’ exam essay, using Judge Judy as my star witness – take that law faculty! So as you find your determination starting to stray in the face of a mammoth workload, don’t start trolling YouTube for last year’s funniest stacks. You’re a law student now. Follow this ultimate guide to procrastination, with my topfivers on how to waste your time wisely.

ilk – This UK show takes you higher up the legal S ladder, and reveals just what a Barrister might do to ‘take silk’. If you don’t yet know what QC (now SC) stands for, I’d recommend this for you.

6. H ow to get away with murder – Professor Annalise Keating and her band of four brilliant law students combine their uncanny problem solving abilities to fight criminal law cases. Little do the students know that they will have to apply what they learn to their own lives...dun dun dun!

BOOKS From fiction to reality, at least reading will make your procrastination more study-like. 1.

o Kill a Mockingbird (Harper Lee) – see bottom T left.

ow Law works (Gary Slapper) – Firsties, this is one H for you!

ppealing to the Future: Michael Kirby and his A Legacy (Michael Kirby) – This is a collection of essays that track the contributions of Justice Kirby to the Australian legal system. A good read because it traverses a number of subject areas, including constitutional law, law reform and judicial values.

4. E ugenia (Mark Tedeschi QC) – What can’t this man do? In this book, Tedeschi gives a captivating true account of the 1920’s murder trail of Harry Crawford (or Eugenia), in Sydney. Time spent reading this book is certainly not time wasted. 5.

rownies – If you want to know what life is like in C the office of the DPP then this is the show for you.

4. B oston Legal – Another study in Comparative Law, Boston Legal gives us a fictional snapshot into life at a civil law firm in the US. An oldie but a goodie. 5.

o Kill a Mockingbird – No question, this is a movie T about legal ethics, and it’s a classic. If 4. you’ve neither seen it, nor read the book, do so before anybody finds out.

he Baby Farmers (Anna Cossins) – Another T Sydney-based book, ‘The Baby Farmers’ details one of Australia’s most notorious murder trials, set against the cultural background that facilitated the baby trade.

rin Brockovich – This film is great because it is E biographical, and it shows us what we can actually achieve with the law if we have a little bit of gumption. Ladies, I’m talking to you especially.

6. P hiladelphia – Tom Hanks is a senior associate at a Major US corporate law firm, until the firm discovers that he has AIDS. Unfortunately inspired by true events, watching this film is a must.

WEBSITES/SOCIAL MEDIA Some of these websites provide short, sweet comic relief. Others are seriously useful. As for social media, it’s time to stop stalking instagram, and read some inspired lawrelated discussions. 1.

aw School Memes – They are relatable and just L downright hilarious. For other law-related funnies, be sure to check out ‘Look Mum I’m a Lawyer’ and ‘#whatshouldwecallme’.

ats and Sugar – This blog is by one of our very own O ex-UTS students. Check it out if you need some inspiration on how to format your own amazing notes (he provides his own too)!

urvive Law – A must-read for all law students, it S has articles from everything to study, careers, to procrastination (hint hint).

4. @ MsLods is the Twitter account of Australian Lawyer Leanne O’Donnell who blogs about a variety of legal issues. 5.

I f you follow the above accounts, you can reward yourself and stray to @ShitJudgesSay for some quirky High Court quotes. @garyslapper is a lawyer and columnist who keeps a similarly interesting account of bizarre cases and funny courtroom quotes.

Finally, it is important to note that procrastination can only be inspiring and useful when you are in the right frame of mind. So change up your routine, get off your butt and go for a run, go to the shop to restock your study supplies (wine inclusive), or even just walk to the fridge (snack break every 5 minutes? No one is judging you here). Exercise is scientifically proven to be a useful form of procrastination, and you will be amazed what happens when oxygen starts flowing to your brain.

What Is The UTS Law Students’ Society? Written by VANESSA JIANG

The UTS Law Students’ Society, more commonly known as the ‘UTS LSS’, is the largest society at UTS, with over 1000 members and even more followers online. As a non-profit organization designed to cater to the needs of law students, the UTS LSS provides a plethora of initiatives that operate primarily for your benefit. From Peer Mentoring to Boot Camp, smashing social events to the Speaker Series, fun legal competitions to largescale events like City2Surf and the Colour Run, there is something to appeal to everyone. And that’s not even half of it.

KEEP INFORMED To stay in the loop about all career opportunities, social events, competitions, publications, seminars and programs: 1. 2. 3.

ecome a member of UTS LSS through B www.utsunion.com.au/social/clubs ‘ Like’ our Facebook Page “UTS Law Students’ Society”; and Follow us on Twitter - search “utslss”

The UTS LSS Council is made up of six profiles, being Activities, Competitions, Education, Marketing, Sponsorship & Careers, and Social Justice. Thirty-one students ranging from first year to fifth year will make up the 2015 Council, with this number ever expanding as more opportunities and initiatives are created.

MEMBERSHIP If you are a commencing law student, membership to the UTS LSS is free. Simply approach one of our Councillors at our stall during Orientation and we will take down your details to be loaded into the system. You will then be emailed a validation link to confirm and that’s it you’re a member for the life of your degree! If you miss Orientation, please email secretary@utslss. com for further directions, or keep an eye out for the first edition of the faculty newsletter InBrief, which will detail how to redeem your free membership. Signing up to the UTS LSS means you’ll be able to attend all UTS LSS events at a discounted price, including Law Cruise and Law Ball, as well as be eligible to participate in internal competitions. You will also be given access to all communications and e-newsletters distributed by the UTS LSS (namely ‘The Buzz’). This fortnightly distribution keeps you up to date with UTS LSS initiatives, programs, and information regarding competitions, careers and educational opportunities and other activities. It is highly recommended that you sign up for UTS LSS Membership, so that you can benefit from initiatives, including those explained within this manual, throughout your degree.

Meet The UTS LSS Council for 2015

First Year Representative 1, to be elected...

First Year Representative 2, to be elected...

socials2@utslss.com

First Year Representatives are elected at First Year Law Camp, so purchase your ticket today! For more information about what it is like to be on the UTS LSS, come and speak to one of our friendly Council members at Orientation Day or on Camp, or email student.wellbeing@utslss.com with your inquiries!

Student Wellbeing Officer’s Welcome Written by JESSICA NOAKESMITH

My name is Jessica Noakesmith, this year’s Student Wellbeing Officer on the UTS LSS and I would like to extend a warm welcome and congratulate you on joining our law school. I would like to take this opportunity to stress the importance of your wellbeing during your time here at UTS. Our aim this year is for you to have less AHH moments.

DIAGNOSIS What is an AHH moment? Your circumstances (either uncontrollable or selfinflicted) have gotten to a point where it affects your happiness and wellbeing, often resulting in hiding under the covers.

STEP TWO: Keep fit If clubs aren’t your thing, there are other ways to keep fit. A healthy body equals a healthy mind. Exercise is proven to lower stress levels and long-term exercise results in overall health. Social Sports run all year, with a selection of lunchtime and evening comps, so get down to the Sports Hall and run off some steam! www.activateuts.com.au/ SocialSports/Info The gym is an easy way to individually look after yourself if the idea of getting sweaty in front of peers makes you squirm. Check out ours at activatefit.com.au U Fit is a free beginners exercise program which runs twice a week and involves a variety of strengthening and cardio exercises. Keep your eyes peeled at www. activateuts.com.au/Sport/Ufit

STEP THREE: Balance your priorities With the New Year comes new opportunities for socialising and soon you may find yourself overwhelmed with plans and commitments you cannot fulfill. On top of learning to prioritise, it’s important to make time for yourself – find out what relaxes you, and allocate time for this.

TREATMENT Remember, even the coolest of cucumbers need help sometimes!

PREVENTION There a few things you can do to avoid this:

STEP ONE: Immerse yourself UTS has many clubs that offer activities, opportunities, friendship, fitness and more. Finding one that suits you can help you feel more excited about coming to university if the going gets tough. Browse, and find yours at: www. activateuts.com.au. Make sure you join the UTS LSS to keep up-to-date with everything we offer!

The UTS counseling services are free of charge, confidential, on campus, and they address a wide variety of issues including financial problems, mental health or just general guidance. You can make an appointment by calling them on +61 2 95 14 1177 or asking one of the desk staff at CB01.6. Keep an ear out for the UTS LSS Smile Project – an initiative designed to look after law students by promoting balance, mindfulness and keeping healthy through law school. Previous events have included puppies, massages and free food! Most importantly: If you’re having an AHH moment, there is help to be found. Whether it is a tutor, a counselor, a fellow student or one of the UTS LSS Councilors. Or of course, feel free to send me an email at student. wellbeing.officer@utslss.com. Lots of love, Jessica Noakesmith Student Wellbeing Officer

Education Written by VANESSA JIANG

The Education Portfolio is here for your every academic, networking and mentoring need. Our ever-expanding portfolio aims to inform and enrich the student body of law students by providing opportunities for students to interact with professionals, peers, mentors and buddies, to be exposed to differing perspectives on topical issues, and to engage in welcoming environments that aim to relieve the stress of law school. We aim to go far beyond the confines of the classroom to provide you with a practical understanding of where the bigger issues fit into your law degree, and vice versa.

First Year Peer Mentoring Program: Twice a year, once a semester, first years studying UTS: Law are able to participate in a six-week peer mentoring program, a joint initiative by the UTS LSS and the Faculty of Law. Having been run for years, there is little to contest the fact that first years who join the program reap great benefits. This includes how to make efficient notes, dig deep into law databases, write the perfect answer to a problem question, gather tips for exams and so much more. Find out more on page 18 or at utslss. com/education/mentoring-program.

Our initiatives will help to ensure that your academic support needs are met, whether you need help with your studies or a foot in the door in the legal world, want to learn more about the nitty gritty of real life legal issues, desire a mentor to guide your path or just need a friend to rid you of your stress.

The Buddy Project: Whether you’re a newbie to law school and university or a wiser, more experienced student, this project will be in your interests. Settle into UTS:Law under the friendly guidance of a student with two, three or even four extra years of experience up their sleeve. Meet up for coffees or even some cheeky Satang Thai. Quite simply, the project means that someone is there if you have any questions or need any help. The transition into university life is smooth sailing when you’re part of the Buddy Project. Email edu.internal@utslss.com with your name and contact details to let us know that you’re interested (to be either a First Year Buddy or a Senior Buddy)!

Feel free to contact any of us with any enquiries! We look forward to meeting you. Vanessa Jiang – Vice President (Education) – vpe@utslss.com Richard Heng – Internal Education Director – edu.internal@utslss.com Dasha Konnova – External Education Director – edu.external@utslss.com Nicola Colagiuri – Publications Director – publications@utslss.com Jessica Noakesmith – Student Wellbeing Officer – student.wellbeing.officer@utslss.com

U:PASS: U:PASS (UTS Peer Assisted Study Success) is a series of voluntary group study sessions led by a student who has previously achieved a distinction or higher in the focus subject. It’s a great way to meet new people and guarantees at least one hour of study per week. Be sure to sign up for U:PASS sessions via My Student Admin (onestopadmin.uts.edu.au) from Week 1 onwards. U:PASS currently runs for Criminal Law and Real Property. Honours: It’s never too early to start thinking about Honours! Completing Honours sets you apart from your peers and future work colleagues, and allows you to focus on an area of law that you’re passionate about. You are eligible to apply to do Honours once you enter your penultimate or final year of study. Achieving Honours involves completing an 8000-12000 word thesis on a specific topic area under the supervision of one of UTS’ academics. There are strict eligibility requirements so be sure to find out more information at http://utslss.com/ education/research-andhonours-at-uts.

with a mentor in a leading commercial law firm. Students are matched with mentors based on their interests and experiences and through their mentor gain first-hand insight into the world of commercial law, invaluable advice in preparing for interviews and a wealth of insider knowledge. •

Advocates Professional Mentoring Program: If commercial law isn’t your cup of tea, fear not! The Advocates Professional Mentoring Program might be just up your alley. The Advocates Professional Mentoring Program offers an opportunity for high achieving law students to develop a mentoring relationship with a leading legal professional in the advocacy field.

Speaker Series: The Speaker Series consists of a series of legal educational seminars run throughout the year that focus on a range of topical and often controversial legal issues. In 2014, we had esteemed panelists come in to comment on the king hit offence and lock out laws, the right to privacy, and the politics of fear and terrorism. Each Speaker Series provides students with the opportunity to ask prominent figures within the legal industry questions on a given topic. All UTS law students are invited to attend, and who could say no to a night of vigorous debate, networking opportunities and canapés? In addition, attendance at the event and participation in discussion forums afterwards will earn you points towards the Brennan Justice and Leadership Program (see page 24 of this manual). For more information, visit http://utslss.com/education/speakerseries.

The Smile Project: Ever get that feeling as exams roll in that you may not make it to the holidays, hoping for a beam of light to rejuvenate your spirits, dreaming for a field of daisies to run through, a puppy to cuddle, some emergency highlighters, a sugar hit? UTS LSS to the rescue! We’ve got some fresh plans for 2015 to help you get through those hard weeks of law school. The Smile Project will consist of sporadic cheery events such as having puppies or massage angels on campus. Be gone, stress. Good vibes are here to stay. Publications: The UTS LSS publishes several informative and engaging publications throughout the year. As well as the Law School Manual, Law Camp Survival Guide and the Electives Guide, the education portfolio publishes The Full Bench – a quarterly law journal for students that explores topical legal issues revolving around specific themes. Law students and some faculty members, professionals and PhD students, write for the The Full Bench. Why not do the same and contribute to one of our publications this year to have your say! Don’t forget to ‘like’ The Full Bench on Facebook to keep updated on calls for contributors and topical news stories and make sure to keep an eye on the UTS LSS website for further information. ALSA: The Australian Law Students’ Association (ALSA) is the national peak representative body for law students. Be sure to check out all the services and opportunities associated with ALSA at http://utslss.comeducation/ alsa and on page 30 of this manual.

Subject Tutoring Database: Looking to be tutored? Visit http://www.utslss.com/ education/subject-tutors for a list of students who have completed your subjects with flying colours, and get in contact with them today! Or maybe you’ve done well in a subject and would like to become a tutor? Email edu. internal@utslss.com with your details and include a copy of your academic transcript! The Study Group Project: Are you completing Foundations of Law, Ethics, Law and Justice, Contracts, Criminal Law, or Torts? Did you want the UTS LSS to put you in contact with others to create a study group? All you have to do is email edu.internal@ utslss.com, with your details and tell us which subject you’re undertaking this semester. Because we’re all in this together. Professional Mentoring Programs: The following Professional Mentoring Programs run from April to November and are offered to high-achieving first or second year LLB students and JD students and third or fourth year LLB combined degree students. For more information visit: http://utslss.com/education •

The Professional Mentoring Program offers talented students interested in a career in commercial law the opportunity to be paired

Subject Tutoring What is Peer Mentoring? Peer mentoring is a joint initiative of the UTS LSS and the UTS:Law Faculty. It provides first year undergraduate law and © 2015 UTS Law Student’s Society Juris Doctor students with the knowledge, insight and isskills necessary to kick-start This publication copyright. Except where permitted underdegrees. the Copyright Act, noare part of thisby their law Classes run publication may form or by an means (electronic student mentors who have excelled in first or otherwise) be reproduced, in athe retrieval year subjects and allow stored students chance system or transmitted by any process without to supplement their learning.

attend as it will definitely smoothen their transition into law school.” Daniella Sukkar, 2014 Mentor “Rest assured in your first semester of university everyone is feeling a tad legally blonde! Bring that fluffy pink pen to Peer Mentoring and make friends, learn from older students who have walked in your shoes, see your marks fly and feel your nerves decrease!” Ashleigh Barnes, 2014 Mentor

This publication is copyright. Except where permitted under the Copyright Act, no part of this publication may form or by an means (electronic or otherwise) be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted by any process without specific written consent of the UTS Law Student’s Society. Enquiries are to be addressed to the publishers.

Disclaimer The Program is a great way to ease any All anxieties expressionsthat of opinion may published arise asinatheresult of LSM are not the official opinion of the UTS commencing your legal studies. Classes Law Student’s Society unless expressly stated. areas including howaccepts to conduct legal Thecover UTS Law Student’s Society no research, writing case notes, answering responsibility for the accuracy of any opinions or problem contained questions and and exam preparation. information herein readers should relyMost on their importantly, own enquiries to make in Peerdecisions Mentoring their own interest. facilitates a friendly and casual learning

When does it run?

Disclaimer All expressions of opinion published in the LSM are not the official opinion of the UTS Law Student’s Society unless expressly stated. The UTS Law Student’s Society accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of any opinions or information contained herein and readers should rely on their own enquiries to make decisions in their own interest.

specific written consent of the UTS Law Student’s Society. Enquiries are to be addressed to the Why should you attend? publishers.

environment where there are absolutely no stupid questions – everyone is in the same boat. Needless to say, it is highly recommended. “Peer Mentoring is the best way to put at ease all your fears about your first year law subjects. Having senior students and your peers as a support network means that you can ask those questions that you were too afraid to ask in your tutorials.” Imogen Bailey, 2014 Mentor “The peer mentoring program is extremely rewarding as it provides a friendly atmosphere where experienced students can provide useful advice, knowledge and guidance to new students who are nervous about entering their first year of law school. All students should

Weeks 3 – 8 of either first or second semester, depending on when you commence your first year law subjects. There is no registration required - simply rock up, listen, learn, and of course, have fun.

Topics Covered: • How to read and analyse legal authorities • Legal research – strengths and weaknesses of databases and when to use them • IRAC method for problem questions • Time management skills • Study skills and note taking Looking for more information? Visit: www.utslss.com/education/ mentoring-program or contact Richard Heng, UTS LSS Education (Internal Engagement) Director at: edu.internal@utslss.com

Didn’t understand anything in Foundations of Law? Having trouble wrapping your mind around Crim? Contracts and Torts not your cup of tea? Real Property got your mind boggled? Have no fear, Subject Tutoring is here! As an initiative of the UTS LSS, Subject Tutoring aims to provide peer support within the UTS:Law community. The UTS LSS facilitates a service wherein law students who have achieved a distinction grade or higher in a completed law subject/s offer their time to tutor other law students. Where to find these elusive tutors, you ask? The UTS LSS has compiled an extensive database consisting of talented tutors who are happy to share their knowledge, insights and guidance in a wide range of subjects from first year and beyond. Simply visit: www.utslss.com/education/subjecttutors for the full list of tutors and their respective subjects. And how does this all work? The email of each tutor is included within the database. Send them an email or two, work out the times and fees that best suit both of you, and before you know it, you’ll be acing your subjects. Your friends will be in absolute awe! For further information, please feel free to contact: Richard Heng, UTS LSS Education (Internal Engagement) Director at: edu.internal@utslss.com

Careers Written by THE CAREERS PORTFOLIO

Follow the Yellow Brick Road Landing work experience Considering career opportunities in your first year of law school may seem a bit daunting. Where to even begin? Never fear, the Good Witches of the Careers Portfolio are here to guide you along the Yellow Brick Road and help deliver you safely to the Emerald City that is your chosen career. Allow us to tell you a story…

Munchkinland Your journey begins in Munchkinland. The name of this land lends itself to how you may be feeling. Yet, although you may be less experienced than older law students, there are still so many career opportunities for you to take up! Even if careers events (eg Clerkship Seminar Series and Careers Networking Evening) do not apply specifically to you during your first year – is a great way to get a handle on your career opportunities.

Your Journey The journey down the Yellow Brick Road may sometimes be tough and competitive, with hidden difficulties lurking along the way. Luckily for you, Dorothy has already done the hard yards and can teach you a thing or two… 1. Put yourself out there Everyone in the Land of Oz knew about Dorothy (even when she didn’t want them to). In our own context, we can achieve this by ‘being a joiner’ (The Hon Kirby told you to, so that reason alone should be good enough!). Get involved in university, UTS LSS initiatives and any other extra-curricular activities that interest you. Attend the UTS LSS Careers networking events to learn about different legal sectors and other careers opportunities, and to start building professional contacts in an industry where the number of candidates often outnumbers the available entry level positions.

Also, utilise social networking for your benefit. Linked In is the most appropriate professional networking site. Twitter is a useful tool for following political, business and legal news, which will help you develop commercial and political awareness. Update privacy settings on your Facebook and Instagram accounts to ensure that only people you know and trust have access to your account. 2. Be Persistent Did Dorothy give up when the going got tough? No, she didn’t! If your applications via seek.com or through the ‘Careers’ Tab on the UTS LSS website do not amount to a job straight away, you can learn skills that make you more employable. Join a competition or attend Careers Skills Workshops (the workshops relating to CV and Cover Letter Writing and Interviewing are extremely useful). You can also pursue legal experience in voluntary positions, including at Community Legal Centres, NGOS or NFPs. Other options include undertaking an unpaid internship or a short-term locum (replacement) position, which could lead to a paid position in the future. 3. There is always an opportunity to learn All of Dorothy’s experiences in the Land of Oz taught her something new, even if unexpectedly. Use tasks of photocopying and updating legislation as an opportunity to see how professionals like to set out their briefs, and gain a better understanding of how they research in the workforce.

The Emerald City When you finally reach the Emerald City, the question remains, what will you find? Each student’s Emerald City, or career, will differ depending on their interest.

Practice Law Do you want to pursue a summer clerkship in your penultimate year or apply for a graduate position? The Careers team is heavily involved in the clerkship process, organising the networking evening, guide and seminars. If commercial law is not your thing, perhaps you are

more interested in applying for a graduate job at other smaller firms, including those specialising in criminal, family or personal injury law. Or perhaps you will find that you are drawn to advocacy. Becoming a barrister involves you passing the bar exam after you become a solicitor. This career path involves providing advice to clients and representing them if proceedings commence.

Corporate Sector Large corporations usually have their own legal team, known as ‘In-house Counsel’. In this role you would provide advice to the company, assist in the management of risk and ensure compliance. As In-house Counsel you could work for a bank, insurance company or investment firm. Government Sector There are so many public sector opportunities for students. You could work as a policy advisor for a minister or portfolio in Parliament, in the AttorneyGeneral’s Department, for the Australian Government Solicitor or a Law Reform Commission, to name a few.

The Good Witches Vice President (Sponsorship Francesca Elias Arciuli

Careers):

Careers Activities Director: Imogen Bailey Careers Publications Director: Yvonne Nehme Email careers@utslss.com with any questions.

Careers Initiatives Publications • The Careers Guide: March • The Clerkship Guide: May • The Pre-Penultimate Guide: June • The Electives Guide: TBC Activities • Careers Networking Evening: 25 March • Clerkship Seminar Series: May • Clerkship Networking Evening: 28 May

Community Sector and Legal Aid Doing work experience as a volunteer may ignite your passion for helping others! You can work in a Community Legal Centre or in a state or territory Legal Aid Commission. Other Areas Other career paths include but are not limited to academia, legal publishing and becoming a judge. Furthermore, you may be surprised to know that lawyers and law students pop up across all professions, from HR to journalism to engineering.

Portfolio Overview: Whatever your Emerald City ends up looking like, whether it is conventional or takes on a whole new look, the Good Witches of the Careers Portfolio want you to explore every opportunity and enjoy your time travelling down the Yellow Brick Road!

Social Justice Written by THE SOCIAL JUSTICE PORTFOLIO

Social justice is a pillar of the legal profession. With a law degree comes a responsibility to help those who were not afforded similar opportunities, thus at UTS:Law, students are encouraged to think beyond what the degree can do for them and consider what they can do for others with their degree. Getting involved with the service element of law is integral to understanding the foundations of the law in Australia. There are two primary elements to social justice at UTS – internally helping students reach equality among their peers, and externally, utilising the student body to help those in the greater community. Textbook Equity Scheme The Equity division of the UTS LSS aims to provide a helping hand to anyone at law school who needs it. The main program run for students facing financial hardship is the Textbook Equity Scheme. Students on Centrelink benefits, or who qualify under other criteria can apply for Semester long loans of textbooks, which can otherwise cost hundreds of dollars. All information sent to the society as proof of qualification remains strictly confidential. Textbook Rental Scheme For those who do not qualify for the Equity Scheme, the UTS LSS offer all other textbooks on a semester-long rental basis. This is still a cheaper alternative to buying textbooks, and anyone is able to apply. Textbooks cost $30 to rent, with $15 returned when the book is returned at the end of the semester. Brennan Justice and Leadership Program The Brennan Justice and Leadership Program is a unique social justice initiative co-run by the UTS:Law Faculty, and the UTS LSS, aiming to prioritise social justice in legal education. There are two elements to the program – Leadership Through Service (LTS) hours and Reflections on Justice (ROJ) points.

First, the LTS hours are the important ‘hands-on’ element of the two-part program. To complete the program, students must partake in 120 to 200 LTS hours, depending on the length of their degree (i.e. 40 hours per year of your degree). This may seem like a daunting task, however giving up 40 hours every year to make a local or global difference, is an incredibly worthwhile experience. The second part of the program is the reflective process, with a requisite 100 points earned across your time at law school. The ROJ points encourage students to contemplate relevant and contentious issues in our society today. These points can be earned in a number of ways, such as attending social justice based lectures and program film nights, participating in discussion groups, and ongoing reflection. Find out more on page 24.

Justice Action Committee The Justice Action Committee is a group of students who organise fundraisers, raise awareness, lobby on issues that matter and do whatever else they can to help make the world a better place. Initiatives for 2015 include a charity trivia and other games nights, writing Parliamentary Submissions, organising fundraising raffles and one-off volunteer days. Members of the Justice Action Committee meet approximately once a month and must submit an application form. If accepted, you will be rewarded with Brennan Program hours and sit on an officially recognised UTS LSS SubCommittee. Keep your eyes peeled for the application date coming soon! Discussion Groups Discussion Groups are a great way to earn Brennan Program ROJ points. Participating in 5 groups across the semester earn you 20 ROJ points, and are a great opportunity for you to meet others at uni from a range of year groups and discuss issues that are important to you. In second semester, first years are also able to apply to lead discussion groups. This involves facilitating the groups, choosing the topic and ensuring that minutes of the groups are recorded. Leaders are awarded 25 ROJ points and 2 hours every week for their work. Short-Term Volunteering The LSS offers one-off volunteer days, which are opportunities to give back to the community without the long-term commitment. This year, we hope to continue to work with the Children’s Hospital Westmead, as well as organise smaller visits to a low security gaol or Villawood.

Brennan Justice And Leadership Program

UTS LSS Sport

A balanced lifestyle is essential for students to succeed at law school. The UTS LSS gives law students the opportunity to participate and be actively involved in competitive sporting events as well as social gatherings where participants can get fit and have fun at the same time!

The Brennan Justice and Leadership Program is a unique initiative, the only of its kind, and is available only to UTS:Law students. This voluntary program seeks to fire student idealism and lay the foundations for future professional leadership. With over 1,300 students registered (almost half of the law student cohort at UTS), the Program is indicative of UTS:wLaw students’ interest in social justice and their desire to go beyond the academic curriculum. It is an opportunity to develop intellectual, volunteer and leadership capabilities. The two main components of the program are: 1. 2.

Reflections on Justice in which students engage with the themes of justice and its social contexts through events, personal and reflection and discussion groups. Leadership through Service where students contribute voluntary service (both legal and non-legal in nature) over the course of their studies.

The Brennan Program was introduced in 2011 as a joint initiative of the UTS Faculty of Law and the UTS Law Students’ Society. It is named for Sir Gerard Brennan AC KBE, former Chief Justice of the High Court of Australia and Former UTS Chancellor (1999-2005). Last year Sir Gerard Brennan presented 12 outstanding UTS: Law students with their Brennan Award. So join up today and stand out from the crowd with this altruistic accolade to your name. Further information and social media: www.law.uts.edu.au/brennan/ www.facebook.com/UTSBrennanProgram/ www.twitter.com/BrennanProgram/

Boot Camp (Commences in March) Boot Camp runs two mornings a week on Monday and Wednesday and is a fantastic way to get fit and making friends along the way. We are lucky enough to have access to an amazing personal trainer and offer a breakfast after each training session so you can rejuvenate before a long day of classes.

Intervarsity Sports Day (September/October) For those who are competitive and love representing the UTS LSS and UTS as a whole, this day provides an amazing opportunity for students to play Mixed Netball, Soccer and Touch Football against teams from other Universities. It is also an opportunity to make new friends along the way.

Inter-Faculty Sports Competition (Commences in March) This is an amazing opportunity to show the other faculties what law is really made of ! Every semester, the faculties come together and compete against one another in sporting competitions including mixed netball and indoor soccer. Get involved and show your support for your fellow law students!

Yoga (Commences in August) Yoga sessions will be an exciting new initiative that the UTS LSS is hoping to kick start at the beginning of Semester Two. We are hoping to hire a professional to run sessions on either a Tuesday or Thursday morning. Stay tuned throughout the year for further updates.

Dodgeball (April) A one off event where the war paint comes out, friendships are put aside and teams go head to head pelting balls at one another (all in the name of charity of course!). Match Viewings This will be another new initiative where we are hoping to bring a large group of UTS LSS students together to watch major sporting events (e.g. State of Origin) and enjoy a “game-like” atmosphere. We are also hoping to organise group trips to NRL, AFL, A-League and Cricket matches.

Law ‘n’ Bowls (September) A one off event where friends can come together, socialise, enjoy a few beers and show off their incredible lawn bowls skills (or attempt to do so anyway). Team Initiatives This year, the UTS LSS is excited to announce that we will be looking to enter teams into events including Tough Mudder and the City2Surf. Sign-Ups for most competitions will commence in either week 2 or 3 of each Semester or roughly a month out from its scheduled date. Be sure to like the UTS LSS Facebook page as well as visit ustlss.com to keep updated on events so you don’t miss out! For any more information about playing sport with Law, at UTS in general, about going to Uni Games or about the UTS gym, feel free to contact Max at sports@lss.com.

Socials

Law Ball

Written by THE ACTIVITIES PORTFOLIO

First Year Law Camp Want the best start possible to your university career as a UTS law student? Don’t miss out on the First Year Law Camp! The first few weeks of uni can be both daunting and overwhelming, but fear not! Attending orientation camp is a great way to not only meet the rest of your peers , but build lasting relationships, spending a weekend away packed with fun activities, great tips for surviving law school and, of course, a bit of partying too! When? 6-8 February!

First Year Law Drinks of SOS Can’t attend Law Camp? Don’t stress! First Year Law Drinks is the perfect opportunity to celebrate your first few weeks as a law student whilst getting to know your peers over a few drinks. What’s even better? It’s FREE! If that’s not enough, complimentary buses will also be available to take you to the Start of Semester Party! Here you can continue the celebrations with students from all years and keep the good times rolling! When? March 13!

Without a doubt, the most anticipated night of the year where students from all year groups are invited to put on their best and most beautiful attire to party in style! With a three-course dinner, live band and DJ and celebratory drinks, Law Ball is an exquisite black tie event not to be missed! And if you thought it couldn’t get any better... complimentary buses will also be provided to whisk you away to the after party to continue celebrations, completely sober of course! When? October 16!

Open Air Cinema After a wild mid-semester break, ease back into uni at the UTS LSS Open Air Cinema! Spend a relaxing night with friends enjoying a movie under the stars on a BIG screen, while you binge on popcorn, fairy floss and hot dogs! When? September 3!

Law Cruise Seas the day at the UTS LSS Law Cruise! One of the most outrageous nights of the law school calendar jam-packed with hilarious costumes, breathtaking harbour views and copious amounts of food and drinks! Don’t forget your floaties for the biggest boat bash of the year! When? May 15!

Day at the Races With exams over and summer right around the corner, it’s time to celebrate, and what better way than a Day at the Races! Students from all year groups are invited to pull out their most dazzling fascinators and flamboyant bow ties, spending an afternoon filled with drinks, nibblies and a few nail-biting photo finishes! When? Late November!

Valedictory Dinner Valedictory Dinner is a special night for our graduating class to celebrate the end of their university careers at UTS and usher in the next chapter of their lives with their fellow class mates. Graduates are treated to a beautiful black tie event where they can reminisce with friends over a formal dinner, champagne and congratulatory speeches from both the dean and valedictorian. When? May 8!

Competitions

Written by THE COMPETITIONS PORTFOLIO

Why get involved in Competitions? Law competitions provide a practical opportunity to develop legal knowledge and professional skills outside the classroom. In essence, they offer you the opportunity to pretend you already are a lawyer, living out your day-to-day legal activities and life. Students are encouraged to participate in the competitions from their very first year of law school, and to continue to compete up until graduation. In addition to enhancing skills, they are a fantastic way to build upon their CV qualifications, meet other law students and faculty members, progress on to intervarsity competitions, and enjoy your degree - as they are super fun!

When are the UTS LSS Internal Competitions? The Autumn semester of the academic year holds the senior competitions, where competitors will often have previous experience (though this is not a requirement). The Spring semester hosts numerous junior competitions for students who have no prior experience and are trying out a competition for the first time. There is also subject mooting, paper presentation, and advice writing competitions which run throughout the year, and are open to all.

Mooting, Negotiation, Witness Examination and Client Interviewing: • •

Senior Competitions - Autumn Semester – registration opens late February 2015 Junior Competition - Spring Semester - registration opens late July 2015

Subject Moots: • • • • • • •

Varnham Torts Law Moot - 20-22 March Holland Constitutional Law Moot - 24-26th April International Humanitarian Law Moot - 8-10 May Contracts Law Moot - 28-30 August Junior Criminal Law Moot - 11-13 September Equity Law Moot - 9-11 October Commercial Law Moot - 23-25 October

Watch the UTS LSS website (www.utslss.com) for registration and specific details.

Other Comps: Paper Presentation Comp - Autumn Semester – watch the UTS LSS website for submission dates. Advice Writing Comp - Spring Semester – watch the UTS LSS website for submission dates.

Why not volunteer? Not ready to compete yet? Want to learn the tips and tricks prior to competing? Students can assist and also learn the ins and outs of UTS LSS competitions by signing up to the Student Volunteer Committee. The Witness Examination Director and the Client Interviewing Director will be sourcing clients and witness volunteers for their respective competitions from this committee. For further information about the Committee and how to sign up check out the UTS LSS website.

Mooting If we’re being honest, mooting is the top dog law competition. It allows you to take the skills you learn at law school and apply them in a practical courtroom environment. Through mooting, you will learn the fundamental skills of researching and forming a legal argument, how to back up that argument with cases and authorities, and how to advocate that argument in front of a judge who, unlike debating, will not just sit by idly, but will question your argument. No other competition will teach you about the law more than mooting. Watch out throughout the year for other mooting related events and opportunities to learn about the competition, such as the oral and written submission information sessions. The Mooting Mentoring Program also runs alongside the junior internal mooting competition in autumn to provide that extra bit of help for those starting out. Subject Mooting Do you have a passion for a particular area of law? Do you like arguing? If yes, subject mooting is for you! Participating in subject moots allows students to challenge and develop the advocacy skills of general mooting, but focuses on one particular, specialised area of law, reducing prep time and the scope of your research. Subject moots are also run across one weekend in the semester, and so are smaller time commitments. A Media Law Moot, Torts Moot, Constitutional Law Moot, International Humanitarian Law Moot, Commercial Law Moot, Contracts Law Moot and Equity Moot will be offered this year.

Client Interviewing (CI) Your ability to effectively represent a client hinges on the quality of your working relationship. Your first meeting with a client can be make or break, so why not master it at law school? You will work in a team of two as solicitors that are meeting a potential client. The client has come to you with a legal issue and is seeking advice. The problem? You have no information! In order to provide any advice, you need to learn the client’s story, and what information they may not initially reveal. CI requires the littlest preparation time, and does not hinge on legal knowledge or analysis. Of course, the task itself is made more complicated when your client suddenly bursts in to tears. You can also volunteer as a client before taking on the comp yourself.

Negotiation Negotiation involves a simulated negotiation of a legal dispute, in which teams of two face off representing different parties to the matter. The aim of each team is to reach an outcome that satisfies the goals of their individual client, but that also reflects consideration for the interests of the other side. Of course, each side’s desires may conflict, but subtle persuasion and strategising can go a long way in finding a mutually acceptable solution. Clients of law firms increasingly want to settle disputes without the time and expense involved in proceeding to court litigation. Skills in negotiation and dispute resolution are therefore essential for lawyers in all practice areas, and great for students to hone!

Witness Examination (Wit-Ex) If you like the idea of engaging in a real life Law-andOrder-esque examination of witnesses, then WitEx is the way to go. Acting as either the Prosecution or Defense barrister in court for a criminal matter, competitors must before a judge lead their witness in an examination in chief, followed by a brutal (yet polite) cross-examination of the opponent’s witness. The overall objective is, by adducing evidence through your questioning, to prove that the fact situation of your witness is more plausible than that of your opponents. Whilst not essential, knowledge of evidence law can also help you outwit your opponent through objections. You can also gain insight into the comp by first volunteering as a witness, before later taking on the competition yourself.

Paper Presentation Paper Presentation involves the submission of an essay relating to any legal subject or issue (3000-5000 words). You will then present the paper orally to a panel of judges, who will also engage with the topic and ask questions. The competition aims to promote legal scholarship and oratory skills. It is a chance to present controversial or interesting issues in an informative manner, while showcasing your writing skills. The top competitor in the competition will also win the right to represent the University at the ALSA Conference this year in Sydney, and may even have their paper published.

Advice Writing Competition This competition presents students the opportunity to submit a written advice for a client to a legal problem. The ability to write an advice is a skill all lawyers require - the earlier students learn how to write an advice, the better they become. Answering legal problem questions is also an element of nearly all law subjects, and practice makes perfect! This competition is one of the most practical on offer, and all students seeking employment within the legal fraternity are encouraged to take part. Intervarsity Competitions The UTS LSS encourages students to participate in a number of prestigious Sydney based, national and international competitions over the course of their degree. These intervarsity competitions offer students an opportunity to expand their knowledge and gain experience by going up against the best young legal advocates on offer. It’s also an excellent chance to meet students from other top law schools and to learn from some of the sharpest legal minds in the industry.

Participation in these competitions is assessed and based on merit and success in internal UTS competitions, which is why it’s ideal and clever to get involved in comps from the very start of your degree! Intervarsity competitions are run throughout the year, so keep an eye out on the UTS LSS website for key dates and opportunities.

Australian Law Student’ Society (ALSA) - President’s Welcome Hi there! My name is Alistair Booth and I am the 2015 President of the Australian Law Students’ Association (ALSA). I am a fourth year law student at Macquarie University. Now…ALSA. I know what you’re probably thinking – ‘not another acronym! I haven’t even opened a textbook yet and already there’s sooo much to remember!’ But don’t worry – very soon it will all become second nature to you. Think back to your first week of high school and how daunting and unfamiliar that was, but by Year 12… ha! You knew it all! So trust me when I say that you’ll be fine.

brings together over 500 law students from around the world to showcase talent in legal competitions, brilliant educational seminars and amazing social events, including a Harbour cruise, cocktail party and black tie Gala Dinner. ALSA Conference is the largest law student event in Australia and a must for any law student! You can attend as a General Delegate or competitor – be sure to get in touch with your LSS to find out more! Check our website (www.alsa.net.au) as well as our Facebook page for more information about what we do. Of course, if you have any questions, please do not hesitate to get in touch. All the very best for 2015 and welcome to the world of being a law student - strap yourself in for an amazing ride! Alistair Booth 2014/2015 President Australian Law Students’ Association (ALSA) president@alsa.asn.au

2015 Year at a Glance UTS LSS EVENTS YOU DON’T WANT TO MISS! Each year the UTS LSS organises a smorgasbord of smashing events and activities for students. From outrageous O-Day antics and show-stopping social events, to volunteering opportunities and networking nights for all you go-getters, there are always fun ways to get involved. So take note of these dates and we’ll see you there!

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

•

• • •

• •

One of the ways I know you’re going to be fine is because you are part of a big law student family who have gone, or are currently going through, exactly what you are going through. As a law student, you are part of a network of almost 28 000 students, all of whom are automatically members of ALSA. ALSA is the peak national representative body for Australian law students. Now, what does that mean? Well, if UTS LSS is the law student association for UTS, then ALSA is like the law student association for Australia. With a membership base comprised both of individual law students and Law Student Societies, ALSA has a number of functions relevant to students, including: • Facilitating an information-sharing forum for Law Students Societies from both around Australia and around the globe; • Representing and advocating for law students’ interests on a national platform; and • Providing services and opportunities to law students, such as through our academic publications and annual national competitions. One of the best ways to get involved with ALSA is to attend the July 2015 Conference, which we are very excited to be holding in Sydney! The Conference

Why participate in ALSA? by Lucy Jedlin

In July 2014, I was fortunate enough to attend the Australian Law Students’ Association (ALSA) Conference in Brisbane as a General Delegate (GD) representing UTS. As a GD, I had the opportunity to attend all the fascinating education and careers forums held at QUT, which were incredibly interesting and insightful. Each GD was assigned to a different team of UTS that was competing, and we provided a support to them, ensuring they were prepared for their particular competition. I was lucky enough to be able to watch some of the finals of the competitions, which was incredibly inspiring, to watch some of the best Mooters and Negotiators in Australia battle it out. The social events were a clear highlight of ALSA, and something I really enjoyed. It was a fantastic opportunity to meet students from other Universities all over Australia, and the social events provided a fantastic base for lots of mingling and networking! Overall, I loved getting to know the rest of the UTS Delegation and it was an incredible experiencing being able to represent UTS at ALSA, and I would encourage all young law students to get involved in ALSA.

Law Faculty Orientation & UTS O’Day Registration open for Senior UTS LSS Competitions & Autumn Subject Mooting Textbook Equity Scheme Applications Open

• • • •

First Year LawCamp Boot Camp commences First Year Law Drinks & Start of Semester Party Speaker Series Launch Buddy Project Launch Careers Networking Evening Peer Mentoring Launch

•

Networking Skills Workshop Commercial Awareness Skills Workshop UTS LSS Dodge ball

MAY

JUNE

JULY

• • • •

•

• •

•

Valedictory Dinner Law Cruise Clerkship Seminar Series CV and Cover Letter writing workshop Clerkship Networking Evening

•

Smile Project - Autumn Semester End of Semester Party

•

AUGUST

SEPTEMBER

• • • •

• • •

Speaker Series II UTS LSS runs the City2Surf Smile Project – Spring Semester UTS LSS Competition Awards Evening

Intervarsity Sports Day Law ‘n’ Bowls Open Air Cinema

Interview Skills Workshop Registration open for Junior UTS LSS Competitions & Spring Subject Mooting ALSA 2015 Conference

OCTOBER/ NOVEMBER • • • • •

Speaker Series III Law Ball Brennan Program Awards Evening End of Semester Party Day at the Races

Don’t forget to check out the UTS LSS website: www.utslss.com and follow us on Facebook to keep updated about events and other activities throughout the year!

Your Study Plan of Attack

to go to class!), and when you have done this, print off past papers from the UTS Library website. Form a study group of 2-4 people and you can tackle some problem questions together, or go through ones that you were finding difficult. There are group study rooms available in the library, but make sure you book! In your own time, and as the exam draws closer, do some practice questions under exam conditions. The quiet sections of the library are an ideal environment to do this. File your answers into your study notes, to take into the exam, as they can be referred to if a question addresses a similar issue.

Written by TARYN PRIADKO

Studying law for the first time can feel like you’re being initiated into the army. The boot camp is intellectual, but it is challenging and competitive. If you’re ready for it though, it can also be a lot of fun. So first years, get ready! We are here to prep you with a study plan of attack. Armed with the following tips, you will have everything you need to begin your degree with guns blazing.

OBJECTIVE 1. PUT YOUR BEST FOOT FORWARD Achieving this objective means getting organised early, and coming to class prepped and ready to work. •

•

Start by buying the required text. Avoid unnecessary expense by sussing out the UTS Union Second Hand Bookstore at the bottom of the Tower Building, or jumping on textbookexchange.com.au. If you want or need to buy a brand new text, becoming a member of the co-op bookshop will save you some money. There are also ‘hornbooks’ or ‘essentials’ that are available for purchase. These can be handy for subjects that are particularly contentdense, or that you are finding tough to navigate. However, remember that they are a study aid, not a substitute for the text or your own study notes. Next, attend class. You are required to go to tutorials, and believe me you will not want to miss them. They are where the problem-solving magic happens, and where moments of triumphant clarity are reached. Lectures are often recorded, but lecturers and students alike will tell you that skipping them, and telling yourself that you will listen to the recording later, is a common and dangerous pitfall. Recordings are a godsend if you come down with a deathly flu, but otherwise don’t rely on them. Now that you have the books you need, and are attending class, start piping up straight away! Participation points are often a portion of your grade, but even if they aren’t, being ready and willing to contribute will enhance your learning and endear you to the tutor. Just keep it relevant.

OBJECTIVE 2. WHIP YOUR NOTES INTO SHAPE Good notes are 100% necessary for both closed and open book exams. Don’t be fooled into thinking that open book means easy. The time constraints are fierce and you will not want to waste time flipping through pages. Trust me. •

formatting, but they are in no way a substitute for making your own. The law is constantly developing, and writing out notes is an important stage for getting information from paper to brain.

A good place to start is to look at previous students’ notes. You should use these to get an idea of

You can also form a study group early in the semester, and divide the topics amongst yourselves. This can help you manage your workload, because you will only have to make detailed notes for your assigned topics. I would recommend creating a group Dropbox, where you can simply deposit your notes, and have access to everyone else’s. Just make sure that everyone is willing to contribute equally, and adhere to any timelines that you agree upon.

•

If you choose to make your own set of notes, don’t leave it until the last minute. It’s worth getting into the habit in the first weeks, before mid-semester assignments take hold. You won’t want to be rereading the text and making notes when you should be doing practice questions to prepare for the exam.

•

Be obsessive compulsive with your notes. Organise them into topics, and use headings and sub-headings within a topic. I would even suggest colour-coding and using mind-maps to piece everything together. At the same time, be sparing. Only include in your notes what you will have time in the exam to read (or remember for closed book) and write down, or create an additional scaffold for each topic that can be referred to quickly. Finally, include a contents page, number your pages, and flag your notes with post-its. You can have your notes bound in the Union Shop for about $4.

OBJECTIVE 3. ACE YOUR EXAMS When it comes to law exams, most will consist predominately of problem questions. The secret to doing well in a problem-based exam is practice. IRAC, people. You will learn to love it. •

•

Begin your exam preparation a few weeks in advance, so that you can go through each topic. Catch up any unfinished notes, re-familiarise yourself with the key cases, and make sure your notes are concise, clean and exam friendly. Print them off, order them and learn them well. Then practice, practice, practice. Go through the problems that you dealt with in tutorials (see, it pays

•

Take advantage of Peer Mentoring and U:PASS classes. Peer Mentoring gives you a chance to find your feet, both generally and academically. U:PASS classes are great for revision, extra practice, and to ask any questions that may not have come up in tutorials. They also provide you with a ready-made study group! U:PASS classes are usually available for Real Property and Criminal Law.

OBJECTIVE 4. BE A TEAM PLAYER Or as former High Court Justice Michael Kirby says, ‘be a joiner!’ While it may seem like a strange study tip, participation in law school activities can actually greatly enhance your academic experience in a number of ways.

•

Become a member of the UTS LSS. All year round they offer a number of activities that are social, academic and professional in nature. Take it from somebody who didn’t, and attend as much as you can! Forming social networks can help you to make study buddies, as well as important industry connections.

•

Participate in competitions, or other academic activities. They can enhance your study, by giving you the opportunity to apply the knowledge you are gaining, and to develop your professional skills.

•

The Brennan Social Justice and Leadership Program, as well as other programs such as ‘BUiLD’, look great on a resume and give you access to intellectual and service opportunities. Experiences as a volunteer can be translated to your studies, and are great to do regardless.

Lastly, and most importantly, don’t be overwhelmed by all of this! If you remember nothing else, then remember the simpler and more profound words of a much wiser human than I: “If you are resolutely determined to make a lawyer of yourself, the thing is more than half done already.” – Abraham Lincoln

TOP 5 APPS FOR LAW STUDENTS Dropbox - free Create an account and save your files to your Dropbox folder, and they will automatically save to all other devices, and websites, linked to your account. Backing up is a serious business so get on board. It can also be great for study groups and group assignments. Available for iPhones, iPads, laptops and home computers. Blackboard Learn - free This app puts your UTS Online site at your fingertips. Manage your courses by getting announcements, lecture slides, and tutorial questions in an instant. Available for iPhone and Android. AustLII - free A quick link to cases and legislation, so that you can do your legal research anywhere (or look up that case that you were supposed to read for class, during class). It’s available for Android and iPhone. iStudiez Pro - free Use this app to get organised! With immediate access to planners and calendars, it also tracks your GPA and grades. Available for iPhone. Check out Everstudent Student Planner for Android. Phrase Buster – free For a productive study break, check out this game created by Allens law firm. It tests your knowledge of famous quotes and concepts and includes, predictably, a legal phrases category. Available for iPhones and iPads.

How To: Make The Most Of Your Law Degree WARNING:

Within the first month of beginning your law degree, you’ll be sent numerous emails informing you about intervarsity sports days, volunteering opportunities, registration dates for competitions, careers seminars and so on. But it is important that you do not fear this bombardment of opportunities for involvement, but rather, embrace it. This is part of what makes University, and Law School in particular, so great. There are literally endless ways to maximise both your academic success and that which you achieve beyond the classroom.

Welcome to UTS:Law and congratulations on your excellent choice! A letter of advice should come from a wise, mature and knowledgeable person. I may not match that description but I hope this letter offers you some ‘tools, tips & techniques’ to successfully kickstart your degree. Tools – the following may be useful: 1. An interest, passion or curiosity about the law, society and justice. 2. A note-taking device, either a laptop or writing materials. 3. Solid organisational skills – time management, storing of information, backing up of work, finding misplaced textbooks, locating the best coffee in the law school vicinity. Tips – the following are essential: 1. Turn up – attend class and ‘have a go’ – introduce yourself to the colleagues sitting next to you, join a study group. 2. Ask when you do not understand – your tutors, lectures and subject coordinators are real people, introduce yourself and, if the road gets bumpy, let them know. 3. Contribute when and where you can – UTS LSS, Peer Mentoring, the Brennan Program, and any free food opportunities. Techniques – the following can keep you on track: 1. Work out how to best keep fit, both physically and mentally, and how to nurture a sense of wellbeing. 2. Practise and perfect an approach to study – note taking, assignment and exam preparation, and seeking and using feedback. 3. Ask for help, guidance and support if needed at any time during your study – academic, career, or health-related All the best for your first year of law – enjoy, embrace and engage! I look forward to meeting you around campus. Maxine Evers, Director of Students

Students to Students Confucius Says… The moment you start your law degree prepare to hit the ground running. Between pages of readings, learning all the shortcuts from Central, and venturing into the world of deliciousness and dumplings that is China Town, it’s easy to forget the world of opportunities that are available to you from day one. Often the advice you will hear when asking how to make the most of your degree is ‘just get involved in EVERYTHING’. I personally never found this advice particularly useful. So here are some of my lessons that I now pass on with Confucius-like wisdom LESSON 1: Elle Woods taught us to ditch the pink fluffy note pad and buy a Mac. Keeping on top of notes is crucial and for many a laptop is going to be the most efficient way of doing this. Never forget however that ancient art of handwriting in lectures helps you synthesise and retain information. LESSON 2: Your textbooks are going to weigh more than you. They will most likely cost more than your car as well. Always buy second hand if you can- see the site: Textbook Exchange or the UTS LSS Facebook Page. LESSON 3: Comps. Every semester there are junior and senior law competitions. From Mooting to Negotiation to Client Interviewing, grab a friend and give it a go. Plus, you might just find yourself battling it out in a top tier Law Firm and winning the Grand Final. LESSON 4: Expand those horizons. There are literally a world of opportunities at your fingertips at UTSparticularly through the BUiLD Program. I found myself in India with the 40K Program teaching children English and Maths, and improving Waste Management in the rural villages of Bangalore. Who knows where it may take you! LESSON 5: UTS LSS events are the gateway to new friends and opportunities, be it challenging Sydney Uni at the intervarsity sports days or destroying the bar tab at social events. LESSON 6: While Mike Ross may have snagged a job without a degree or experience, the rest of us probably won’t be so lucky. It never goes astray to get yourself some work experience early on- it always helps to put what you’re learning into practice. by Giselle Capacchione

My name is Josh, and I’m currently in my 3rd year of an undergraduate straight-law degree at UTS. The concept of law school is often accompanied by the word ‘success’. This can almost certainly be attributed to an unfortunate, traditional view that money is an objective measure of success, and that the practice of law is a lucrative game. Despite the cynicism, the good news is, these sentiments seem to have been eroded, to a point where we can no longer say that the archetypical law student exists. You are part of a remarkably progressive generation, with limitless access to education and information, blessed with a prerogative to determine what ‘success’ means. My advice, therefore, to succeed at law school is: Enjoy your Existential Crisis Do not allow yourself to be encumbered by the expectations of others, because passion will only develop organically. Chase curiosity down the rabbit hole, and embrace the dead ends, until you finally figure out what ‘success’ means. Do it Law school will provide the opportunities to foster your genius, but hard work is ahead for you. You know what you want, and you know how to achieve it. It’s all up to you. Now, do it. by Josh Sukkar If you’ve been accepted into a law degree at UTS, congratulations! It is a huge accomplishment. However, a law degree can bring with it new challenges that may make you feel like you’re back in pre-school. And when those inevitable times come around, I encourage you to alleviate the pressure and be kind to yourself ! If something is too complicated, simplify it! If something is too daunting, sandwich it in between things you enjoy. I never sit down to work without good music and a cup of tea or coffee. A habit which has developed a never-ending Spotify playlist, an unrivalled tea collection and a close, personal relationship with my local barista. However, a law degree also brings with it extraordinary opportunities. UTS, in particular, encourages outgoing, passionate and well-rounded graduates. From Boot Camp to social events and competitions, my involvement with the UTS LSS has fostered invaluable friendships and unforgettable memories. Undertaking paralegal work alongside my degree has also provided me firsthand practical legal experience. I also volunteer through the Brennan Justice and Leadership Program, which has broadened my understanding of and exposure to work far beyond the textbook. I encourage you to plunge headfirst into this dynamic rollercoaster, because: ‘if it’s both terrifying and amazing, then you should definitely pursue it’ - Erada. by Pip Cordi

Beyond A Reasonable Doubt: Must-Try Eats And Bevs Written by FRANCESCA ELIAS ARCIULI and NICOLA COLAGIURI

Caffeine craving

It is a truth universally acknowledged, that a student in the midst of assignments and exams has an insatiable thirst for coffee. Now, those of you who believe that any coffee is good coffee have no business reading this recommendation (although we do believe you may need it most). Coffee hot spots near the Tower include My Cuppa (Harris St Ultimo next to the Bon Marche Building) or its rival Pausa (across the road next to the DAB Building). If you are closer to Haymarket, Mecca (646 Harris St, Ultimo) will deliver one of the best cappuccinos you’ve ever tried, or if you’re in need of a coffee pick-me-up on your way to Uni, definitely try Knights Coffee and Tea Co. in the Central Station tunnel. For those who are a little cash-strapped, The Hub (Building 5, Haymarket) provides a student discount on its teas and coffees.

Cheap eats

You’re a Uni student now, so you’re going to have to start tracking your expenditures down to the last 5c. It’s how we roll. Given that UTS is located in China Town, rest assured that bargains are plentiful if you know where to look. The Dixon House Food Court (Little Hay St, Haymarket) has some exquisite options (at low prices) if you’re feeling oriental, be sure to find the window selling homemade rice noodles, they always go down a treat!

For accessible Thai food, try Satang Thai, which has both a sit down restaurant at 204/107-121 Quay St with a take-away restaurant across the road. It’s always packed with students due to its cheap lunch specials, quick service, huge portion sizes and BYO status. From spicy fried rice to crispy pork belly, Satang has all of your favourites and some new ones too. You’ll leave Mamak (15 Goulbourn St, Haymarket) stuffed with magnificent Malaysian roti for just $6. An added bonus is that they are open til 2:00am on Friday and Saturday nights, if any of you crammers are feeling peckish.

Dumplings

End of exams Bev Spots

Sugar, oh, honey, honey

Pens down. It’s your last exam for the semester. What do you do? Grab your friends and bolt out of Wentworth Park to the nearest place selling good food and sweet, sweet beverages. If you feel like staying local, then The Loft (15 Broadway, Ultimo) and Glasshouse (the Tower) are good options for a post-criminal law exam cider, and are often the site of UTS events. Often however, you may be feeling like you need to escape the walls of UTS altogether, and want to head off campus with your friends. The numerous pubs littering Haymarket and George St, including Covenant Garden Hotel (102-108 Hay St, Haymarket), may go some way to satisfying that need. Strawberry Hills Hotel (453 Elizabeth St, Surry Hills) is a short walk from the other side of Central Station, and has a nice rooftop area for you to enjoy some nachos and the house white. Side Bar ( 509 Pitt St) and Bar Broadway (2 Broadway) are also close-by and perfect for an afternoon brew. The Lansdowne Hotel (2-6 City Rd, Chippendale) is also great for a pub feed and some early evening trivia. If you want something closer to a gastro-pub, try The Clock Hotel (470 Crown St, Surry Hills) or The White Horse (381 Crown St, Surry Hills). For bars and restaurants, walk through the Entertainment Centre car park to Darling Harbour.

Feeling festive?

That’s right, we think that dumplings deserve their own category. Grab a group of friends and head over to Dodgy Dumplings (aka Chinese Noodle Restaurant) (8 Quay St, Haymarket). With a serve of 12 dumplings coming in around $10 a pop, this place is a gem. The pork and chive dumplings come highly recommended, and the vegetarian egg and chive dumplings are also a winner! The pan-fried dumplings have also been known to result in seven students a salivating. Check out one of our very own students’ instagram @asiafantasia_ for recommendations on dumplings, noodles and other Asian cuisines.

Penny Lane Bar & Café (81-117 Broadway) is also a nice spot for wine and cheese, and its right next to Building 11.

If the plastic red and white chequered tablecloths, mismatched chairs, and giant cacti don’t scream ‘FIESTA’ loud enough for you, then please know this – El Loco (64 Foveaux St, Surry Hills) has a Tequila Bar. Hola amigos, let’s party! El Loco has a fun, relatively cheap and cheerful Mexican cuisine. Its modest menu includes tacos, pork tortillas and Mexican hotdogs. However, be warned that it is usually pumping on a Friday night with young suits, so depending on what you’re into, this may or may not be the best night to check it out. That being said, make sure you do. A little further up the road you can find The Forresters (336 Riley St, Surry Hills), they serve $12 lunches on weekdays, $10 cocktails and can whip up killer jugs of sangria. ‘Nuff said.

N2’s gelato is so scrumptious it should be illegal. You’ll find yourself heading down to 43/1 Dixon St, Haymarket almost too often once you’ve tried one of their weird and wonderful creations. They change up their flavours regularly, so each visit is just as exciting as the last. And to top it off, the magic that occurs when they pour liquid nitrogen over the ingredients to create little cups of heaven might be cold, but it never gets old. If you’re feeling like going for a stroll to earn your ice cream, walk up to Messina (389 Crown St, Surry Hills) and try their white chocolate and hazelnut gelato. It’s out of this world.

Can’t decide?

Never fear, Central Park Sydney ‘or ‘The Living Mall’ is here! It’s right across from UTS, and houses a world of edible choices. Some of the options include Guzman y Gomez, Cuba Cubano, Din Thai Fung, Sushizilla and Autolyse Bakery (personal favourite). If this isn’t enough, the subterranean Woolworths just made forgetting your lunch a whole lot cheaper, and even houses a sushi bar and deli! Regent Place ( 501 George St, Sydney) is the ultimate spot if you feel like Asian food, but don’t know what kind. With Yebisu boasting the ability to order your food on iPads and Miss Chu serving up healthy Vietnamese Pho and rice paper rolls, you will be delighted by these and more.

9 Tips To Being A HD Law Student Written by EMILY MELLER

Win every argument

All HD law students are quick to give you their opinion on everything. Totally uninformed opinions are usually the most popular, and often made with sweeping hand gestures and a lot of yelling. The golden rule of argument is simple: you are always right, even if blatantly wrong. The aim is not intellectual conversation and a mutual widening of perspectives; it is to make sure your opponent knows you are right. This can be done in a number of ways. You can, for instance, simply continue talking at them long after their eyes glaze over and they begin texting their friend about the weirdo they just met in the law café. If they start nodding out of boredom, you win. If they walk away first, you win. If they punch you in the face after you follow them down the hall, still yelling that Abbot’s immigration policy was basically written by the United Nations, you win and get a chance to sue them in real court. Double win.

Moan about how much work you have to do

This is especially important in first year. Most of your non-law friends doing their hippie Communications and Science degrees with a major in ‘future unemployment’ will try and complain about their workload. Laugh in their face. You just did Foundations of Law AND Ethics at the same time. That is no joke. Last night, you had to read fifty pages. Actually it

was more like a hundred. Actually it was like, a thousand pages, and you have to read that much every night and if you don’t your tutor literally breathes fire into your face and you get burned and your skin falls off in a puddle at your feet. That’s the price you pay for a real degree, after all.

Talk about how you never do any work

The flip side to being an all around great law guy or gal is to never actually let anyone see you doing any work. Go to the library and talk to everyone you see. Lounge around after class for hours over a strong cappuccino because you can. When people ask you how you manage to pass, let alone do well in any subject, simply talk about how you are naturally gifted. Don’t let them know that you have not actually slept for three months. Or that you got notes and past assignments from your older brother who was Dux at Usyd. The point is to make it all look effortless, just like real lawyers. May as well stay for a second coffee, you’ll be up all night.

Keep on top of current affairs

Like who got with who at law cruise? Law students love to gossip. The more info you collect about people who are likely to be successful, the more leverage you will have in the future. How likely is a judge to rule against you when you have photographic evidence

of them doing a nudie run at law camp? Of course, that will just be the tip of the ‘law school experience’ iceberg. Law students work hard and play harder. So, make sure you always bring a camera.

Make new law friends and tell your old friends how great your new law friends are (no offence)

It’s not that you are replacing your ‘old’ friends. It’s just that between study, mooting, coffee dates, and schmoozing partners at the Big Three (law firms, that is), you really don’t have any time left. Plus, really, what are you actually getting out of their friendship? Laughter? Companionship? A warm fuzzy feeling in the pit of your stomach that is kind of like love, but you can’t be sure because since exams you’ve just kind of been numb to emotions? Exactly. Future lawyers don’t need any of those things. Plus your new law friends are super nice. And really smart. They just kind of, get you, you know? You can discuss things like the future without the lame “I don’t really know what I want to do yet, maybe I’ll just wait and see/pursue my dreams.” Pathetic. You have already picked out your future office chair. Your late teens and early twenties are the time to really focus on your career, after all. But even you have only planned out the next ten years. What about the next thirty? Or the next fifty? Once that is all worked out, then, maybe, you will have spare time for a ‘catch up’ drink.

Buddy up with the lecturers, whether they want your friendship or not

Lingering at the end of every lecture to ‘ask a question’ is a great segue into what topics will be in the exam. If the usual friendly banter doesn’t do that trick, baked goods often work a charm. Especially if they contain subliminal messages. Like baking a giant cake in the shape of an HD with your face on it. You sly Freudian dog.

Post the Marshall ‘Studyin’ Law’ video to all your friends, every exam period

Because no one else has seen it yet. You are the first one. If anyone asks what you are singing, just say it’s a ‘personal joke.’ This is despite the fact that How I Met Your Mother quite possibly has the broadest humour on paid television. You are right, remember? They probably wouldn’t understand. Don’t even bother saying anything to non-law students. This is way above their intellectual capacity.

Never stop being yourself

Even if people tell you to your face that you are a bad person. Haters gonna hate, so just shake it off. And there are a lot of law student haters, trust me. Well, to them I say: enjoy your Jenga Block tower. Meanwhile, we will be busy pretending to frolic in the lawn and/ or will have invaded a new green planet in our special law building. Jealous, much? We get TVs down here too.

…Unless it’s to get a good internship, of course

Being an all-round HD-er means that your GPA alone, no matter what the score, will not be enough to secure you a job as the future Harvey Specter or Jessica Pearson. A good internship is the key to your success, so if the powers that be don’t like you … change. Hate sports? You are now in training to run a marathon. Never played golf ? It’s time to upgrade from putt putt and break that green ceiling. If you are a teetotaller, you may as well give up – internships are a parade of canapés and wine, and never for the weak-stomached.

Enjoyed reading the Law School Manual? Why not contribute to one of the other UTS LSS publication this year! For more information keep an eye on our website and your student email for calls for contributors or contact the Publications Director at publications@utslss.com.