UTS LSS Clerkship Guide 2022 by UTS Law Students' Society

clerkship guide

University of Technology Law Students’ Society

UTS LSS 2022

authors & acknowledgements

CAREERS PUBLICATIONS DIRECTOR:

Alexandra Haggerty

SUBCOMMITTEE:

Aaliyah James, Amina Magan, Mia Rakhit, Natasha Slims, Nicholas Simpson, Nikki Saini, Sarah McNaughton

DESIGNER:

Tahlia Kho

PRESIDENT:

Erika Serrano

VICE-PRESIDENT (CAREERS):

Melanie Najdovski

VICE-PRESIDENT (SPONSORSHIP):

Brayden Gossling

DEAN OF UTS FACULTY OF LAW:

Dr Anita Stuhmcke

INTERVIEWED CLERKS:

Albert Swann, Georgia Dixon, Hue Pham

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF COUNTRY:

The UTS LSS acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora Nation upon whose ancestral lands our university now stands. We would also like to pay respect to the Elders both past and present, acknowledging them as the traditional custodians of knowledge for these places.

Clerkship Guide

contents 01. welcome address

Dean Faculty of Law — Anita Stuhmcke LSS President — Erika Serrano Careers (Publications) Director - Alexandra Haggerty

4 4 5 6

02. overview & timeline

10 10 11 11 11 12 13 14

03. wellbeing

04. busting myths & misconceptions

05. application tips

23 23 28 29 32

06. interview tips & tricks

07. psychometric testing

08. online & cocktail night etiquette

09. diary entry

10. ‘your questions’ & words of wisdom

Consolidation of Publication Overview What is a Clerkship? What to expect? Glossary Common Practice Areas Timeline

Cover Letter Example Cover Letter Curriculum Vitae (CV) Example CV

UTS LSS 2022

01. welcome

address

Dean Faculty of Law — Dr. Anita Stuhmcke

Welcome to the 2022 UTS Law Student Society Clerkship Guide. This Guide is informative and comprehensive — offering insights and advice to assist you in applying in the upcoming clerkship season. I encourage you to read it. As you will see from this Guide clerkships are an opportunity to work primarily in private law firms across a variety of practice areas, often in commercial law. I would encourage you to apply. I do so based on both the experience this legal work will provide if you are successful and also as the application process will assist you to think carefully and assess your individual skills and attributes. In this latter sense, a clerkship application provides an opportunity for you to gain experience in presenting information about yourself and your experience in a manner targeted at a specific legal employment opportunity. Also – and perhaps most importantly do not talk yourself out of it before you have even started to apply. You have to have a ‘hat in the ring’ to have a chance — remember if you do not apply then you definitely will not be successful. Of course, we all recognise that clerkships are not for everyone. There are many alternative careers and possibilities with a law degree. I myself, as Dean of the Faculty of Law, am in one such career! If you do choose to apply for a clerkship may I extend my best wishes for success. I am sure you will be proud ambassadors for the UTS Faculty of Law and will join many successful UTS Law students who have trod this path before you. Thank you for the LSS in putting this guide together. It is an excellent source of information and advice and confirms what I know – which is how exciting it is for all of us to be part of such a collaborative and caring community of students and staff at the UTS Faculty of Law.

Clerkship Guide

UTS LSS President —

Welcome to the UTS LSS Clerkship Guide 2022!

Erika Serrano

The UTS LSS Clerkship Guide is prepared by our Careers (Publications) Director, Alexandra Haggerty, and the Careers (Publications) Subcommittee, who have worked incredibly hard to provide you with the most beneficial information. This guide offers a wealth of information sourced directly from firms and past UTS clerks. Additionally, as part of a new initiative for this year’s edition, Alexandra and her team have invited students to ask questions of our clerk sources to ensure that students are gaining real insight. Irrespective of whether you are in your penultimate year looking to apply for a clerkship, or a first-year student hoping to gain some insight into this career pathway, I hope that you will find this guide extremely useful. A clerkship is an excellent opportunity to kickstart a career in commercial law. I recommend that anyone interested put themselves out there to experience what the firms have to offer. Although the clerkship process is competitive, it is important to remain confident in what you have to offer. I also emphasise the importance of looking after your mental health and wellbeing during this process. To assist you in doing so, we have included a well-being section to provide you with some tips on how to look after yourselves and maintain checks on your mental health. Lastly, I would like to extend a warm thank you to our sponsors for their support of our publications and initiatives, this Guide included. Their support has made this all possible. I wish everyone applying for clerkships this year the best of luck.

UTS LSS 2022

Careers (Publications) Director —

It is my pleasure to welcome you to the UTS Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide for 2022. I hope this will prove a useful resource for you throughout your clerkship experience, whether that be this year, the next, or in a few years’ time.

Alexandra Haggerty

We’ve composed this guide to give you useful insights into the process, tips for recruitment, and to encourage you to take care of your mental and physical health throughout the experience. Clerkships can be an incredibly competitive process, but we urge you to get involved. It has the potential to be an immensely rewarding experience for you, informing how you’d like to progress throughout your career and what practice areas or firms will suit you best. Of course, it is ultimately your decision whether to apply, and I hope that this guide will help you make an informed decision. If you do choose to participate in this clerkship season, I wish you every success. I would like to thank our hard-working subcommittee for their efforts in compiling this guide for you. I would also like to thank the Law Faculty Dean, Dr Anita Stuhmcke, our President, Erika Serrano, our VicePresident (Careers), Melanie Najdovski, Hue Pham, Georgia Dixon and Albert Swann for their valuable contributions. Wishing you the best of luck, and happy reading.

Clerkship Guide

Face up to the challenge. Put the competition behind you. Make it to the top together.

IT’S TIME.

Visit allenovery.com/careers/gradsaustralia

Great change is here. Shape the future with Allens At Allens, we’re focused on equipping our people with the skills and experience they need to be the lawyers of the future. We’re ready to define tomorrow. Are you? With us, you’ll be more than a lawyer. Our people are technical experts, but they’re also trusted business advisers who think bigger, more broadly and more strategically. Together, we solve complex legal challenges, and collaborate across practice areas and disciplines to guide our clients.

We work across borders too, thanks to our alliance with Linklaters. This provides opportunites for our firm and our people, including annual rotations in Linklaters London, Hong Kong and Singapore being available to our graduate lawyers.

An early legal career at Allens includes highly tailored training through the Allens Academy. Developed in partnership with the Australian National University, our Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice will help you transition from law graduate to legal expert and trusted business adviser.

In a rapidly changing world, we seek opportunities to innovate, embracing creative thinking, new approaches and emerging technology. We don’t just seek opportunities to benefit ourselves and our clients, we believe strongly in driving positive change to do right by our community too, as demonstrated through our strong pro bono practices.

Another fantastic initiative from Allens to engage future talent! As a candidate, I am excited at the prospect of joining such a fantastic and innovative firm. ALLENS CONFIDENTIAL PODCAST

graduates.allens.com.au/allens-confidential-podcast

ALLENS MEET AND ENGAGE meetandengage.com/allens

STUDENT NEWSLETTER

graduates.allens.com.au/life-at-allens

FACEBOOK

facebook.com/allenscareers/

Our teams are open, inclusive and encouraging, giving you the opportunity to learn and grow while feeling supported. You’ll have the flexibility to drive your own career, and we’ll recognise your achievements and hard work as you progress through the firm. Are you ready to begin?

linkedin.com/company/allenslawfirm

Find out more at graduates.allens.com.au Allens is an independent partnership operating in alliance with Linklaters LLP.

19306D

Great change is here. Shape the future with Allens At Allens, we’re focused on equipping our people with the skills and experience they need to be the lawyers of the future. We’re ready to define tomorrow. Are you? CLERKSHIP PROGRAM A clerkship at Allens is the first step in a rewarding legal career, and will give you invaluable insights into our work and culture. With support from a buddy and development supervisor, you’ll work on real matters for real clients and be involved in a variety of projects. The programs: run from three to 10 weeks;

are available at our Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney offices;

feature ongoing support, including a buddy system; and

include exposure to one or two practice groups.

GRADUATE PROGRAM In each rotation, you’ll gain a depth of experience that comes from seeing matters through to the end, and get exposure to stimulating legal challenges. At Allens, we don’t work in silos, meaning you won’t be limited to working with only one partner or by your practice areas. You’ll work alongside a range of partners and lawyers, giving you exposure to a wide variety of tasks. Working with different teams and leading organisations, you’ll grow a solid skills base and develop the agility needed to thrive in our ever‑changing world. The programs include: two 12‑month rotations in your areas of interest;

secondment options in London or Asia, via our alliance with Linklaters;

ongoing supervision, coaching and mentoring;

completing a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (via Allens Academy); and

a 12‑month weekly legal seminar series (Cornerstone Program).

I found Meet & Engage very useful and I was very grateful that the partners were eagerly happy to answer our questions. I think that speaks volumes about the attitude and culture of the firm. ALLENS CONFIDENTIAL PODCAST

graduates.allens.com.au/allens-confidential-podcast

ALLENS MEET AND ENGAGE meetandengage.com/allens

STUDENT NEWSLETTER

graduates.allens.com.au/life-at-allens

FACEBOOK

facebook.com/allenscareers/

linkedin.com/company/allenslawfirm

Find out more at graduates.allens.com.au Allens is an independent partnership operating in alliance with Linklaters LLP.

19306D

UTS LSS 2022

02. overview

& timeline

Consolidation of Publication

• Wellbeing • Busting Myths and Misconceptions • Applications Tips • Interview tips and tricks • Psychometric Testing • Online and Cocktail Night Etiquette • Diary • ‘Your Questions’ • Words of Wisdom

Clerkship Guide

Overview

Upon initial glance, the clerkship process can seem very daunting, shrouded in an air of mystery behind the mystical aura that is legal practice. And that’s where this publication comes in! The UTS LSS Clerkship Guide 2022 aims to tackle this misconception head-on. It highlights all the key information from firms with opportunities waiting for you to take hold of them, the ins and outs of the application process, wellbeing tips, and tricks to help you present your best self in this stage of your progressing legal career. So, whether you’re in your first year and have just started your law journey or you’re a seasoned pro readying yourself for the next big step beyond university, this guide is for you!

What is a clerkship?

Clerkships are a student’s first taste of what life as a graduate in the legal profession looks like. They are a great opportunity for students to gain a better understanding of not only what working as a lawyer looks like but also what experiencing life at a specific firm entails. Run mostly over summer, the program is aimed at penultimate and final year law students. However, clerkships can also take place during the winter break. The duration of clerkship programs can vary anywhere from 4 to 15 exciting weeks of networking, industry experience, social events and personal development.

What to expect?

Clerkships provide a challenging yet rewarding experience that exposes students to the extensive range of career opportunities available to law students. Throughout these weeks, students will be exposed to all types of legal work and shadow a mentor at the firm. Some of this work includes: • Performing legal and factual research • Drafting and summarising legal documents, and checking for accuracy • Preparing correspondence, written reports and performing records research • Organising and tracking case files • Writing client memos • Recording meeting minutes and drafting daily correspondence, including letters and legal documents • Attending meetings and court with solicitors • Assisting in the preparation of matters for hearings

UTS LSS 2022

Glossary

Back End:

The litigious practice of law. This work involves assisting clients in dispute resolution in whatever form it may be.

Big Six:

A term occasionally used to describe the six largest firms by revenue.

Cultural Fit:

Refers to the ability of an individual to fit within an organisation or company’s working environment and workplace culture. This includes elements such as the workplace's values, processes, policies, diversity and overall environment. This is something that firms take into account when hiring an individual, and something that is assessed throughout the hiring process. As an applicant, this is something you may also want to note in terms of what best fits your values and interests, and how to showcase this in your application.

Discrete Task:

Tasks that have ‘a recognisable beginning and end.’ Some of the work given to a clerk will fall within this scope as they are usually relatively simple matters.

Front End:

Refers to the initial stages of a transaction, involving due diligence, drafting legal documents and negotiations.

Psychometric Testing:

Used throughout some firms’ application process, this type of testing assesses an applicant's logical reasoning, problem-solving, numerical skills and reading comprehension. Some may also include testing regarding emotional intelligence.

Rotation:

The process of moving through practice areas while undertaking a clerkship or graduate position. This helps determine what practice area a clerk might like to enter upon graduation.

Clerkship Guide

Common Practice Areas

• Dispute Resolution and Litigation • Employment, Workplace and Safety • Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) • Banking and Finance • Competition and Consumer Law • Intellectual Property (IP) • Taxation • Corporate and Commercial • Technology, Media and Telecommunications

UTS LSS 2022

Timeline

Monday 6 June — APPLICATIONS FOR SUMMER CLERKSHIPS OPEN

This involves submitting your CV, a Cover Letter and Student Transcript to LegalVitate or a particular firm’s clerkship application portal. It’s so important to put your best foot forward here so don’t leave this to the last minute!

Sunday 3 July to 10 July — APPLICATIONS CLOSE

Please be aware that different firms have different closing dates.

July - September — INTERVIEW ROUNDS

This is stage is currently evolving with COVID-19, however, it is usually separated into two stages — an initial interview and then a more informal event like a cocktail evening. The first is aimed to gauge the personality of a candidate while the latter gives further insight into how a candidate might fit within the culture of a firm. It is ultimately up to the discretion of the firm and as a result multiple interview rounds in various formats can often taken place.

Wednesday 14 September — OFFERS CAN BE MADE

Remember this day is not the be-all and end-all. Whether you are successful or not, a clerkship is just one path of many in the journey of becoming a practising lawyer. The experience in itself has likely helped develop key skills that will aid you in your ventures, and eventually come in handy on the path that is right for you.

Thursday 15 September — OFFERS FOR SUMMER CLERKSHIP MUST BE ACCEPTED OR DECLINED BY 5PM

Remember this whole process is as much for you as it is for a firm. If you are successful, don’t forget to make a decision that suits your needs. Do your research! And, most importantly, trust your instincts!

make the difference

to your career, clients and community

Aim beyond pure legal knowledge. Beyond commercial advice. Be known for something more: a clarity of thought and an instinct for problem solving that can influence governments and leading businesses the world over. Join us and we’ll help you enrich and expand your worldview, grow your skills and influence new ways of thinking. In other words, we’ll help you make the difference.

Begin now at ashurst.com/students

Connect with us on

UTS LSS 2022

03.

wellbeing

CMY

Law is a high-stress degree to begin with, so it is only natural that the added pressure of application processes in your final years may exacerbate this. The thought of intricate clerkship application processes and the anticipation of entering the ‘real world’ triggers a complex mix of emotions, thoughts and challenges that can feel overwhelming. And that’s okay! We have the utmost faith that regardless of the result, you are more than capable of great things. Whilst we all know that emotions like stress ebb and flow, it can be challenging to get on top of these feelings and stop them from consuming you. This is especially relevant during a time such as the clerkship season, where the stakes may feel extremely high, and it can be easy to fall into a negative mindset.

So, how do we deal with potential rejection? Now that is the question, and there is no one right answer. Rejection is a natural process. Many will tell you that with experience you learn that rejection is the key to the path you are meant to take. A ‘re-route’ towards your next exciting career move. Large firms receive thousands of applications for only a handful of positions. However, it is important to remember that this rejection does not define you, and the likelihood is that most people in their final years of law will be experiencing it as well. To help you through this challenging but exciting time, we have collated a list of our top wellbeing tips and tricks to help keep those stress levels at bay.

BORN GLOBAL Baker McKenzie invented the global law firm - so we are different in the way we think, work and behave. Like no other law firm, we were 'born global'. We have followed clients into new markets, establishing offices driven by local lawyers and talent. And our growth has been organic, giving us a strong, common culture that runs through our Firm. Our unique culture, developed over 70 years, enables our 13,000 people to understand local markets and navigate multiple jurisdictions, working together as trusted colleagues and friends to instil confidence in our clients. We also understand the challenges of the global economy because we have been a global law firm from the start. Baker McKenzie has been thinking globally in Australia for more than 50 years. In 2014, we opened our Brisbane office making our Australian practice the fourth largest in our network of 76 offices with more than 80 Partners and 220 lawyers across Melbourne, Sydney and Brisbane. In Australia, we act for leading multinational and domestic companies on market-leading local and global transactions.

Our clerkship program Right from the start, our clerks get involved in real work. You will be exposed to our Australian and international clients through client meetings, shadowing, research and other everyday activities within your assigned practice group. Our clerks work closely with other lawyers, are guided by a supervising partner and enjoy the extra support of an experienced associate “buddy”. You will develop practical and legal skills through our national learning program and by attending workshops specifically designed for clerks, as well as Firm-wide sessions. In Sydney, our clerkship program takes place from late November to mid February. Clerks who accept a graduate role with Baker McKenzie are eligible to apply for an international clerkship, with the opportunity to work in one of our overseas offices in the year following their clerkship.

Our graduate program Over the course of the program, graduates gain experience in different areas of law before they join a particular practice group as an associate. You will be supervised by a partner and have an associate “buddy” in each rotation to oversee your on-the-job and formal learning.

Develop globally At Baker McKenzie, we have a deep commitment to development. Our dedicated Leadership & Learning team facilitates sessions in five key areas for our graduates legal learning, managing your career, the business of law, business development & client service, and people & self-leadership. We work hard to facilitate on-the-job learning and the many ways it happens too - through informal mentoring relationships, client secondments, involving graduates in global teams working on international deals and in providing them with the opportunity to manage their own files as part of our pro bono program. We also bring graduates from our Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane offices together to help our people foster networks across the Firm, and support professional development by covering the costs of Practical Legal Training and your admission.

 We are commercial pragmatists who make complex Our regional practice group structure means many of our lawyers attend regional training in our Asia Pacific issues simple for our clients and we are passionately offices. Once graduates complete their graduate program, committed to service excellence. they will attend a regional orientation program with  We strive to stay ahead of the curve, bring other mid-level associates from the Asia Pacific region. entrepreneurial energy to our work, embrace The Firm also offers opportunities for lawyers at varying innovative change - and our curiousity continues to stages of their careers to work directly for clients or push new boundaries and challenge existing norms. with our other offices globally.  We actively encourage and support engaging with our community, through our pro bono and What does the Firm look for? community service programs. Baker McKenzie looks for people who genuinely want  We want everyone at Baker McKenzie to reach their to work with us and who understand Baker McKenzie's potential so we invest in global and local development unique offering and position in the market. We look and mobility programs for our people for well-rounded, motivated individuals who have a performance mindset and strive to be the best in Our award-winning diversity strategy, initiatives whatever they do; who are intellectually curious and and programs are focused in five areas: have sound academics; who display business acumen and are practical in their approach; and who have a global BakerWomen – gender equality and supporting the mindset and are passionately committed to service progression of women excellence. We look for people who enjoy a challenge BakerDNA – ethnic, indigenous and cultural diversity and seek new opportunities; who constantly look for ways to achieve better results while learning and BakerWellbeing – commitment to mental health and growing; and who take proactive ownership and wellbeing, workplace flexibility and supporting responsibility for their careers. And we look for people parents/carers who act with integrity, honesty and candor in their dealings, decisions and actions; who express BakerPride – lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and themselves confidently while staying open to new intersex diversity ideas; who seek a friendly, inclusive and diverse BakerIndigenousEngagement – commitment to culture; and who take seriously our role in making a engagement with our Aboriginal and Torres Strait difference to our local and global communities. Islander community and to making a real difference in Thrive in a culture of inclusion the lives of our nation's First Peoples. Quality and excellence together with integrity, honesty, candor, teamwork and responsiveness are How to apply some of Baker McKenzie's key values - and are central Applications for clerkships can be submitted via in us delivering outstanding service to our clients. www.bakermckenzie.com/careers/Australia. The values that make us a unique and great place to work are deeply embedded - you will notice our Applications should include a cover letter, as well as difference in all of your interactions with us, in details of your work experience, your extra-curricular Australia and globally: activities and interests, and your academic results.  We are passionately global, and leverage our global Applications for clerkships open at 9.00am on expertise for our Australian and global clients at every 6 June 2022 and close at 11.59pm on 3 July 2022. opportunity, recognising our strength is in our diversity. Nicola Bell - Talent Consultant +61 2 8922 5272  We are a truly multicultural firm united by a genuine TalentManagement.Australia@bakermckenzie.com and robust culture of friendship, inclusion and collaboration. www.bakermckenzie.com/careers/Australia



Dispute Resolution, Litigation and Insolvency

 Environmental Markets



Employment & Industrial Relations

 



IP/Tech

Our key areas of practice



 Banking & Finance  Corporate (including Mergers & Acquisitions, Capital Markets and Private Equity)



Funds

Energy, Resources, Infrastructure & Corporate

Commercial Real Estate Construction

Tax

Baker & McKenzie, an Australian Partnership, is a member firm of Baker & McKenzie International.

UTS LSS 2022

1. Exercise and stay active Whether it’s going for a walk or hitting the gym, keeping active is crucial to maintaining good mental health. Even if you are taking some time away from your desk to have a little stretch, that’s great! You definitely do not need to go on a 5km run to manage your stress levels, any form of exercise will release chemicals like endorphins and serotonin to help improve your mood and mindset.

2. Talk it out

Research has consistently shown that talking openly about how you feel can redefine your mood. If you live alone and don’t have anyone around to talk to, try calling a friend or family member, even talking out loud to yourself or a pet can work through any internal anxiety by helping to get out of your head. And we know this is easier said than done - starting the conversation can be the hardest step. We’ve listed some resources and contacts for organisations that are there to listen and help if you need them.

3. Try mindfulness Mindfulness is a great way to bring awareness to how you are feeling. This can involve guided meditation, breathing methods, or a range of other relaxation practices that connect the body and mind to relieve stress. There are some amazing resources out there to learn about mindfulness but some of the best apps include Calm, Headspace and Smiling Mind. There are also plenty of free online videos out there for you to follow during your next yoga or meditation session!

Clerkship Guide

4. Practise self-care

Despite the busyness of the clerkship season, it is still important to take a little bit of time out of your day to do at least one thing for yourself. All the stress relief methods in the world cannot help unless you are taking care of yourself so make sure to do things that make you happy!

5. Seek help If everything is getting a little too overwhelming, remember that you do not have to deal with your stress alone, and there are many options available. Taking the first step can be challenging, but it will set you on the right path. This is only a small list of the resources and organisations out there, however, there is an abundance to explore that may work better for you! UTS Counselling Services offer consultations over the phone, by zoom, or face to face. Alternatively, they offer group counselling sessions and weekly Mindfulness Meditation workshops. Below we have also attached the numbers of various mental health hotlines which are easily accessible and provide valuable information if you are in need. Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636 Lifeline: 13 11 14 NSW Mental Health Line: 1800 011 511

UTS LSS 2022

04. busting

myths & misconceptions

When applying for clerkships, it is important to be aware of the myths and misconceptions that surround the application process. When applying, try to avoid negative self-talk around your skills and experience. If you haven’t gained experience in legal areas, strictly speaking, that is okay. Your transferable skills will be of value in the context of a clerkship, so make these skills clear to firms. With experience in retail comes excellent communicative and social skills and experience in hospitality brings

about knowledge on how to navigate high-pressure situations and liaise with clients. You may want to leverage these experiences during your applications, so never dismiss what makes you stand out! After all, they have crafted the professional you are today and may have been formative in developing the skills that make you an asset to the firm’s team. With that said, it is up to your discretion and research as to what is appropriate in the circumstances.

Clerkship Guide

Myth #1

Firms won’t be interested in me as I don’t have a HD average. Although a high GPA will be appealing to a firm, your grades are only one indication of your ability to succeed. A plethora of other factors, including your soft skills, prior experiences, and ability to fit into the firm’s culture are also relevant. Firms want to know who you are as a person and in the workplace, not just who you are on paper.

Myth #2

Firms won’t be interested in me as I have no legal-related work experience. For firms, it is not about what your previous jobs were, but rather the skills you picked up and how you learnt from these experiences. When preparing for interviews, consider how to discuss your achievements in a manner that showcases the transferable skill you gained or why you achieved a certain role. You may want to highlight key achievements, explain the skill’s transferability or give examples of where you have displayed that skill. A useful resource for students is the STAR technique, which is outlined further in this guide.

Myth #3

Firms won’t be interested in me as I have no mooting experience. Although firms will value extracurriculars, there is no single experience, mooting included, that is essential. Laws firms will not expect you to have experienced everything, nor anticipate a set number of accomplishments when you enter an interview. Instead, firms will be interested in your unique experiences and how they have shaped you and your skills.

Keen to see your legal career take off with a truly international law firm? Explore a summer clerkship with us Contact Claire Arnold or Narcissus Dhungana sydsummerclerks@twobirds.com 02 9226 9888 Visit our website here @twobirdsAPAC

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Clerkship Guide

05.

application tips

Cover Letter

Recruiters are responsible for sorting through many comparable cover letters from a variety of law students. Your cover letter is a critical chance to stand out amongst the crowd of applicants and show the firm why they should choose you. So, you should make sure you give specialised cover letters to each firm - a generic cover letter is not enough. If you go onto the firm’s website and read their ‘about us’ page, you will learn a lot about the firm and what their values and motives are in the legal profession. Furthermore, news articles or released statements about the firm’s recent ventures can build commercial awareness and show genuine interest. Combining your qualities with those of the firm can show them that you have put in extra effort to seek out further information and connect with the firm. It can be a bit tedious to have to tailor each cover letter to each firm, however, it is worth it.

UTS LSS 2022

Do’s — RESEARCH

CONTACT DETAILS

Firms will prefer to hire someone whose values and interests align with theirs. So, go online and do some research about the company. Show them how you would be an asset and what skills you can bring to the table. As mentioned, building commercial awareness about the current legal climate, practice areas, members of the team or any new ventures from the firm shows your genuine interest and passion for the area of law. However, the emphasis is on the word genuine. To help out with this, you may want to approach the task with the assumption that ‘all things mentioned in your application will be asked about in the interview’. Now, this may not necessarily be the case, but it’s important to have a good understanding of all you mention in your applications in case you do get asked about it. You may also want to consider how this interest has been displayed throughout your career, life or studies, and how you think it makes you an asset to the firm.

It is imperative that your contact details are correct. To make it easier, simply use one contact number and email for every application. This will allow you to keep track of all your applications, and make it easier for you to know when recruiters are trying to get in contact with you. Also, make sure to set up a professional voicemail for recruiters to notify you that they are trying to reach you if you miss their call.

PROOFREAD

Before submitting your cover letter make sure you’ve proofread it. Little things like spelling or grammatical errors can reflect poorly on you being detail-oriented and diligent.

LINK IT TO YOUR CV

In your cover letter, give the recruiter a slight summary of your attributes that are tailored to the role and the firm (which will be further highlighted in your CV). This will draw them in and make them want to read through your CV afterwards. PDF

Make sure you convert your cover letter from a word document to a pdf format. Uploading your cover letter as a pdf ensures that the format of the document doesn’t change when downloaded, and appears as you had intended upon submission. With that said, please make sure to comply with any requirements that the firm you are applying for provides.

Clerkship Guide

Don’ts — USE A GENERIC COVER LETTER

MAKE IT TOO LONG

Recruiters read myriads of cover letters from students and are often able to identify which letters are generic. Make sure you tailor each cover letter to the firm to make yourself shine and show them why you want the position.

Your cover letter should be a maximum of 1 page. Recruiters receive a high volume of cover letters, and the ability to get your point across in a unique yet concise manner is a useful skill to refine.

USE UNPROFESSIONAL GREETINGS

Considering that these are professional, competitive programs, many are trying to put their best selves forward. A professional greeting can set the tone for the cover letter and showcase that you are ready for a position at that firm. A good place to start is the firm website, which will often have the HR contact for that application process, who you can address the cover letter to.

As a junior lawyer, your enthusiasm is in overdrive. Everything is interesting. You have a million questions for everyone. You want to be the best. And for me, I wanted to be the best lawyer and leader I could be. Right now I’m a corporate and tax lawyer, buying and selling companies, structuring investments and having the occasional battle with the ATO.

STAY TRUE.

So, a little while after I started at Clayton Utz, I joined the social committee. A powerful assembly fuelled by lunchtime pizzawielding lawyers making important decisions like choosing the Christmas party theme. They knew I liked pizza, but had no idea I was gay. You see, I wasn’t out at work yet and this became a genuine source of anxiety for a good two years. But In May 2015 this all changed... To listen to Luke’s full story, go to: claytonutz.com/graduates Academic brilliance certainly counts, but graduates who thrive here have something extra – a natural passion for connecting with people and a strong sense of self. That’s what staying true is all about. If you have these qualities, Clayton Utz is for you.

CLERKSHIP PROGRAM If you’re a law student in your penultimate year, our Clerkship Programs will expose you to the fast pace of a full-service commercial law firm and show you the law in action. You’ll be working under the guidance of some of the sharpest legal minds in Australia, on challenging, complex and high-profile transactions and matters. You’ll be mentored by partners and lawyers who are leaders in their fields, in a firm where individuality is embraced and innovation actively encouraged.

GRADUATE PROGRAM It’s not just about wearing a suit. There’s always a gap between theory and practice, and post-university prospects can be daunting. How do you make the leap to working in the industry?

That’s where we come in. Once you’ve completed your studies, our national Graduate Program gives you the perfect foundation for your legal career. Our 2.5 week orientation program is designed to ensure that you’ll hit the ground running. It consists of PLT+, local training and a national orientation week in Sydney. Our rotations will help you discover different areas and find the right fit. From day one you’ll be working on complex and sophisticated legal issues, and with our innovative learning and development approach, you’ll get the support to become the best you can be.

You’ll get… • Three rotations of six months in our national practice groups • continuing legal education programs and professional development support • mentoring from some of the best lawyers in the country • a buddy who’ll give you the inside information

• the chance to participate in our Community Connect and Pro Bono programs and really give back

• meaningful performance feedback so you know you’re on • social and sporting activities, because we know it’s not the right track all work and no play.

We hire most of our Graduates from our Clerkship Programs. Occasionally, additional opportunities may arise. These opportunities will be listed on our website.

UTS LSS 2022

Example Cover Letter Note — This is a sample of a general cover letter from UTS Careers. Please see our tips on making this a more clerkship-focused application. For more reseources on a variety of application processes and career development topics, please visit UTS CareerHub: https://careerhub.uts.edu.au/ resources.

Personalise the greeting line. If you know the name of the relevant recruiter or business contact, address them directly here (consider calling the company to find this out). Include a subject line. List the exact position title written in the job advertisement including the reference mumber assigned by the company, if applicable. Using the opening paragraph to concisely explain why you are the right person for the job and what you can offer to that organisation. Be as specific as possible regarding the role and company i.e. state the company name versus broad terminology. Do you possess relevant qualifications and/or work experience? Do you have a particular interest in that area of work? Include 1-2 sentences highlighting why you want to work for that particular company. This will require you to do company research — find out about their key product/services, current projects, customer and client base, notable awards or recognitions and the company values. This section should be tailored and targeted for each application. As a guide, we recommend that you address how you have demonstrated 3 core competencies mentioned in the job advertisement. Highlight specific examples from your work, studies and extracurricular activities to show your skills and strengths, including notable achievements and contributions that you have made. Where possible, quantify those achievements. In this sample, you can see that the core competencies addressed are communication skills, teamwork skills and an interest in relevant topics. You closing paragraph should reinforce your interest in the role and shold conclude the letter on a positive note. Use confident phrasing that encourages the organisation to make contact with you.

Ms Alice I. Wunderland 0412 345 678 alice.wunderland@gmail.com 8 March 2022 Ms Molly Meba Meba Media 100 Sussex Street, Sydney NSW 2000 Dear Ms Meba, Re: Marketing assisant (Position ref: G452/A) As a recent Bachelor of Business graduate from the University of Technology Sydney, I am very interested in the role of Marketing Assistant at Meba Media. Achieving a distinction average over the course of my studies; along with work experience at two high profile media organisations, demonstrates that I am hardworking and self-motivated, with a passion for marketing within the entertainment industry. In particular, I feel that my previous experience in public relations, event coordination and social media management will allow me to make a valuable contribution to Meba Media. As a market leader in providing creative strategies for social media and communications branding, Meba Media has contributed to the success of organisations such as XYD company and ZXY. An opportunity to work for an organisation who places value on creativity and innovation is exciting to me. I have a strong commitment to developing my own creativity, as seen through my dedication to weekly Pohotshop classes in my free-time. This role will enable me to apply my prior experience while further developing my own capacity to work as a marketeer and learn from experts in the field. During my degree I completed several marketing internships, including positions at Channel 7 and ACP magazines. These internships proved to be invaluable as I was able to demonstrate my skills as a confident communicator and my ability to build rapport with both internal and external clients. I also demonstrated strong written communication skills, reflected through 12 nationally published media releases. In addition to my internships, I have been involved with various extracurricular pursuits including 6 years with the NSW Volunteer Fire Brigade and 2 year with my local Smith Family shop. Here, I strengthened my teamwork skills, and my ability to work effectively under pressure when serving up to 10 customers at once a time, in a fast paced environment. The internet is of particular interest to me due to its ever-changing nature and I also enjoy working with social media as it is a growing market segment area. Notably, at Channel 7 I was responsible for increasing the Channel’s Facebook and Twitter traffic in 2011. As a result of my efforts, Twitter traffic increased by 40% and the number of Facebook ‘likes’ by 30% over six months. With my natural affinity for social media, strong communication skills and initiative, I offer a range of skills relevant to the Marketing Assistant role. Please do not hesitate to contact me should you require further information supporting my application. I look forward to hearing from you. Yours sincerely, Alice Wunderland

Clerkship Guide

Curriculum Vitae (CV)

A CV is a short, written description of your experiences, education, and qualifications. It is often referred to as a ‘resume’. This is sent to a prospective employer to entice them into inquiring further into you as a prospective employee. It is incredibly important as in combination with your cover letter, it is often your first interaction with the employer, and everyone knows first impressions matter. Employers are sifting through hundreds of these applications, therefore you may want to use every advantage to set yourself apart from all the other faces in the crowd with a well-organised, professional and succinct CV that sets out all the relevant information. Unlike a cover letter that is often tailored to each employer, a CV is a document that can be utilised in multiple applications with minimal changes necessary, and thus putting the time into “perfecting” a CV can yield great return as you apply for different roles throughout your career. With that said, it is still important to think about what experiences and skills are most valuable to a particular firm and how you can tailor elements of your resume to reflect that.

Groundwork of a CV

The following segments are recommended for an employer to properly engage with your CV. However, it is important to note that this is not an authoritative guide and that a resume will be tailored to your needs, that of the employer, and the application itself. All this is subject to change if an employer requests specific details or specifies to leave certain aspects off the application.

Personal Details —

Often situated at the top of a resume, common contact details include your full name, phone number and email address. You may also wish to include a link to your LinkedIn profile - recruiters will often search your LinkedIn profile during the process, so this may be a useful element to show professionalism and initiative. Unless specified to do so, avoid including a photo, date of birth or address.

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GROUNDWORK OF A CV CONTINUED—

Previous Job Experience / Career Overview —

Provide an overview of previous jobs/roles you have had in your career so far, including a short description of the role, responsibilities and any helpful skills you developed that may apply to clerkships. Another key element may be to include any ‘key achievements’ within the role that highlight your strengths or moments where your efforts were acknowledged. While jobs that are directly linked to the position you are applying for are always strong, do not discredit the value of transferable skills! Whether it be within or outside of the industry you are applying to work in, every job teaches fundamental soft and technical skills that may be used in multiple contexts.

Education —

Provide a brief overview of your education, specify your degree(s) and any majors and minors you engaged in, as well as the intended year for the completion of your studies. Make note of any achievements you deem relevant from university so far, including academic achievements and scholarships. While it is generally safer to include High School experience (e.g. ATAR, recognised awards, or any other High School equivalents), it can depend on how much time has passed or how much other experience you have had whether this is included.

Extra-Curricular Activities —

Include any relevant activities or personal interests such as volunteering opportunities and community involvement, remembering to always highlight the relevant skills these activities fostered, especially ones that demonstrate leadership and drive. Some weight may be given to extra-curriculars as it differentiates an applicant from others with similar academic expe rience.

Professional Accreditations —

These include qualifications like being a certified translator or a Specialist Accreditation.

Referees —

It is best to try to include at least two referees who have been either direct supervisors or someone who can attest to your quality as an employee.

Clerkship Guide

Suggestions Honesty is the best policy

Most recruiters in a large firm will have seen hundreds if not thousands of applications and have gained the ability to see through the exaggeration of potential interviewees. Embellishing your experiences in your CV ultimately detracts from your authenticity. Additionally, if you happen to get called in for an interview, the interviewer will be acutely aware of the content of your CV and ay ask you to elaborate, and you don’t want to get caught in a lie or half-truth as it’s a sure-fire way to get your application dismissed.

Proofreading and CV writing/ reviewing software

There are an abundance of methods for resume review, including having somebody you trust read over it, visiting a university careers service or using review software provided by your university careers service. Significant updates have been made to the Microsoft Word UI in Windows 11 and the latest Mac OS, and its integrated proofreading software can now be utilised to check more than simple grammar and spelling errors with an integrated word suggestion/ rewrite feature which helps keep your writing succinct and to the point, and it is just Finding the balance one click away! Whilst exaggerating your skills and experiYou may also want to use the “Read ence will often be detrimental to an appli- Aloud” feature, which can effectively read cation, selling yourself short can similarly your CV back to you and help you pick up be detrimental. This can be achieved through errors, poor grammar and tonal issues you the use of specific phrasing or language. It is may otherwise miss. Additionally, more best to identify key traits that you believe advanced multi-platform applications such the company is searching for in their can- as Grammarly can aid in maintaining a prodidates and tailor your descriptions of your fessional tone throughout the CV and subexperience to these qualities, highlighting sequent correspondence. specific responsibilities that demonstrate Lastly, UTS provides access to a CV/ an aptitude in those areas and quantifying Resume rating application accessible by your performance if you believe it will resimply searching “Rate My Resume UTS’’ sult in a more positive response. Even if you into Google search. From here, there is an don’t have any legal experience, you can pre- in-depth UTS Careers Hub Guide on how sent your non-legal work experience in a to access and use this piece of software by way that demonstrates transferable skills simply following a few helpful links on such as positive client interaction, commthe page. unication and organisational skills. One strategy includes being specific and quantifying your work (e.g conducting 3 workshops per week) to show detail and provide clarity in your application.

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Example Curriculum Vitae Daniel Kaffee Feature name prominently at the top of the page in a simple font to maintain professional aesthetic. Specifically for your email, avoid any unprofessional emails addresses. Generally firstname.lastname@ emailprovider.com is a good structure. Consider making a new Gmail account only for professional purposes. Feel free to highlight all relevant academic achievements. How far back you draw from is up to your personal circumstances.

EMAIL: danielkaffee@gmail.com

MOBILE: 0498 765 321

LINKEDIN: www.Daniel-Kaffee.linkedin.com

EDUCATION

Bachelor of Laws at University of Technology, Sydney (UTS)

2019 — 2023

• Distinction average (GPA: 6/7, WAM: 78) • 2019: Subject Prize for Contracts

Higher School Certificate at [High School]

2018

• ATAR: 97.55, Band 6 in Legal Studies, Maths (Adv), English (Adv), Physics & Chemistry • School Vice-Captain and Careers Development Committee Member EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

Legal Secretary at Reiner-Sorkin Lawyers

Put your experiences in reverse chronological order with more recent experiences first. Use verbs to begin the sentences that describe your key competencies and responsibilities, using present tense for roles you are currently in and past tense for roles that you are no longer in. Each dot point should be no longer than three (3) lines, preferably two (2).

• Assisting in a variety of cases, most commonly in criminal matters, carrying out duties such as document drafting, client relations, service of materials and organising case files • Commended by my peers for my ‘exceptional ability to engage with clients’ and my ‘client focused’ approach • Presented in front of 15 fellow Sydney firms to showcase Reiner-Sorkin Lawyers’ unique design-thinking approach as an avenue for client success

Make use of bold, italics, underlining and headers to create structure in the CV and reinforce the professional aesthetic.

• Ensuring customer satisfaction, serving drinks and replenishing bar stock through collaboration, communication and strong organisation skills • Complying with Responsible Service of Alcohol legislation

Include the non-legal experience as all work will build upon your character, however if possible note potentially transferable skills that you can leverage in the role you are applying for. Volunteering and extracurricular opportunities are a great way to showcase your skills and who you are outside of your studies, particularly in areas such as leadership, competitions and volunteer work. There is plenty out there, and what you include is at your personal discretion in the context of your application. These are interesting topics that may better demonstrate different facets of your personality, help individualise yourself from the crowd, and may serve as speaking points at resultant interviews. Don’t overdo it and don’t mention anything that you don’t feel passionate about. Always assume anything and everything in your CV will be brought up in the interview. E.g. Team Sports can highlight your ability to effectively work with others. Include at least two referees, supply their contact details, roles/position at the company or association and where it is they work. Always ensure these people know you have provided them as a reference and are willing to provide an accurate representation of you before handing out a CV with their number on it.

MARCH 2020 — PRESENT

Bartender at Goodmen’s Cocktail Bar (Casual)

AUGUST 2019 — PRESENT

VOLUNTEER EXPERIENCE

Volunteering at Community Legal Centre

JANUARY 2019 — SEPTEMBER 2020

• Assisted with client intake services, helping people book appointments and assisting solicitors interview new clients

Brennan Justice & Leadership Program

JANUARY 2019 — JUNE 2022

• Graduated from the Program - An initiative of the UTS Faculty of Law designed to stimulate an intellectual engagement with the idea of justice and encourage volunteering engagement in the law and other non-legal areas OTHER EXTRA-CURRICULAR EXPERIENCE

UTS Law Students’ Society (UTS LSS)

2019 — PRESENT

• 2022: Member of Career (Publications) Subcommittee. Assisted with the drafting and editing of the Careers Guide and other related materials for UTS law students. • 2020 - 2022: Senior Buddy in the UTS LSS Buddy Program

Australian Army Cadets

JANUARY 2013 — FEBRUARY 2022

• Participated in multiple leadership training courses, achieving a final cadet rank of Cadet Under Officer and placed in charge of over 1000 cadets • Continued engagement as a Staff member following graduation, organising the cadet unit and its activities OTHER INTERESTS

• Participant in University social Basketball and Football competitions • Photography and videography enthusiast REFEREES

Jane Sorkin

Partner, Reiner-Sorkin Lawyers Email: J.Sorkin@r.s.lawyers.com.au Telephone: 0406385496

Robert Smith

Manager, Goodmen’s Cocktail Bar Email: R.Smith@goodmen.com.au Telephone: 0432095453

WHAT TO EXPECT KEY DATES “Clyde & Co combines top-tier work with the ‘small firm feel’. You’ll have the opportunity to get involved in a range of complex, challenging matters and to make meaningful contributions from day one of your career. You’ll work alongside industry leaders in diverse, supportive teams, and you’ll quickly realise that everyone is genuinely interested in you and your professional development. So, if you’re excited to grow, both individually and collectively, this is the place for you!” – Kyle Denning, 2021/2022 Summer Clerk

Applications open Applications close Interviews Offers accepted by Summer Clerkship dates

15 August 16 September 26 September – 18 October 28 October 28 November – 3 February

CONTACT

Simone Rodgers Recruitment Advisor | Clyde & Co Email: Simone.Rodgers@clydeco.com Direct Dial: +61 2 9210 4416

Be exceptional. Corrs clerkship 2022

At Corrs, we bring together engaging, curious, ambitious individuals to create top performing teams.

www.corrs.com.au/careers/graduates-and-clerks

Corrs Chambers Westgarth is Australia’s leading independent Australian law firm. We’re known for delivering legal excellence, exceptional client service and outstanding results.

Your time as a clerk at Corrs

Corrs’ Lawyer Development Program

During your time as a clerk, you will be allocated a supervising partner, mentor and buddy, who will support you through your clerkship experience.

The Lawyer Development Program is designed for lawyers in the formative stage of their career. It aims to build the capabilities and relationships that will drive career progression and underpin future successes, as rapidly as possible. Unique features of the program include:

The majority of our graduates join us after experiencing a seasonal clerkship program. Our clerkships give you the opportunity to connect with partners and lawyers across the firm, learn what a ‘day-in-the-life’ at Corrs is like, and experience the type of work we do and the clients we partner with. The Corrs seasonal clerkship program gives you the opportunity to work alongside some of Australia’s leading lawyers on high-profile work for major Australian and international clients. You’ll be exposed to a broad range of interesting matters and have the chance to complete tasks such as conducting research, reviewing and presenting documents, attending client meetings, court hearings, mediations and settlements, as well as shadowing partners and lawyers in client meetings and business development activities.

Our significant work We let our work speak for itself, and are proud to work with some of the biggest organisations in the world on their most important matters. Our clients include more than half of the top fifty ASX-listed companies, some of the largest privately owned companies in Australia and a number of global Fortune five hundred companies. We work with well-known organisations like AGL, Amazon, BP, Blackstone, CBA, Coles, eBay, Google, Johnson & Johnson, Medibank, NAB, PayPal, TPG Telecom, Wesfarmers and Westpac. We also work with governments, Federal and State, as well as on major transactions that make the news.

•

Mentor partner – Each lawyer is allocated a mentor partner (in most cases their supervising partner in their first rotation) who remains in this role throughout the program and potentially beyond. This will build a personal and enduring relationship that transcends everyday transactional work. Lawyers will also be supported in each rotation by a supervising partner and SA/SC who will source meaningful and challenging work.

•

12 x 6 x 6 rotation structure – The first practice group rotation is 12-months to ensure graduates have time to learn on the job and build strong capabilities and relationships in their first year. In the second year, when graduates have an increased level of experience and confidence, they will complete two 6-month rotations in order to gain exposure and build relationships across different groups.

•

Formal learning – The program incorporates comprehensive formal learning opportunities including our national Graduate Academy, local Graduate Orientation, practical legal training with the College of Law, practice group induction sessions, and the national Legal Excellence program.

Diversity & Inclusion We strongly believe that diversity in all its forms should be embraced and celebrated. This benefits our people, our clients, our firm and the industry at large. Our culture is defined by excellence, collaboration, commitment and respect. We’ve established flexibility as standard business practice and an option for all our people, including partners. Even before COVID-19 fast tracked the general approach to workplace flexibility.

Community & Pro Bono

International Opportunities

We think it’s important to contribute to the community and to facilitate access to justice. We perform around 20,000 hours of pro bono and volunteer work each year, helping those who need it most. We feel that it is our responsibility to ensure legal services are available not only to those who can afford it, but to those who cannot, to those who are disenfranchised and to those who have genuine legal issues of public interest that need to be pursued, even if those issues are unpopular or politically sensitive.

Wellbeing Program

We invest in international experiences that help our lawyers grow their skills, cultural understanding and relationships worldwide. Through our long-term relationships with leading law firms across the world, we advise on the most significant global matters and connect with the best lawyers internationally to provide our clients with the right team for every engagement. Our International Study Scholarship supports the continuing professional development of exceptional legal staff. The Scholarship provides financial support for the completion of further study at Oxford, Cambridge or a US equivalent (full-time on campus).

Corrs recognises the importance of health and wellbeing and is committed to providing a safe and healthy workplace through a range of programs and policies. Our wellbeing program provides a range of initiatives to assist people in maintaining good overall health. Some of our activities include mixed netball, pilates and yoga, touch football, cricket day, Friday night drinks, family days, trivia nights, End of Financial Year party and Christmas Party.

Key dates Sydney

Melbourne

Brisbane

Perth

Clerkship Applications Open

Monday, 6 June

Monday, 4 July

Monday, 18 July

Monday, 27 June

Clerkship Applications Close

Sunday, 10 July

Sunday, 14 August

Friday, 12 August

Sunday, 31 July

Seasonal Clerkship Offers

Wednesday, 14 September Wednesday, 19 October

Wednesday, 12 October

Friday, 16 September

Cassandra Galea

Alarna Barling

Marianne Saliba

Jennifer Jacobs

People & Performance Consultant +61 2 9210 6314 cassandra.galea@corrs.com.au

People & Performance Consultant +61 3 9672 3070 alarna.barling@corrs.com.au

National Graduate Recruitment Manager +61 3 9672 3318 marianne.saliba@corrs.com.au

People & Performance Consultant +61 8 9460 1621 jennifer.jacobs@corrs.com.au

CorrsLawyers

@CorrsLaw

Corrs Chambers Westgarth

@CorrsLawyers

corrs.com.au/graduates

Insert Corrs Chambers Westgarth heading Clerkship Profile Insert subheading Insert date

Piper Fraser Lawyer at Corrs Chambers Westgarth

The application and interview process

Pro bono and community

I had such lovely interviewers and it was such an enjoyable and comfortable experience that I can still remember what we talked about! The firm’s introductory event for potential clerks “Taste of Corrs” (a wine tasting and cocktail event, held virtually due to COVID-19 restrictions) was a great setting to meet people within the firm in an informative yet more relaxed context.

I was a leader for our pro bono project, which involved dividing research and the preparation of advice for Act to End Street Sleeping – a collective impact initiative whose goal is to halve rough sleeping across NSW by 2025 and work toward ending it by 2030. At the end of the clerkship we had the opportunity to present this advice to the client. This was one of my favourite parts of the clerkship as the topic itself was super interesting and it was a really positive first experience presenting advice to a client. I have also been able to use the tools learnt from that program in subsequent pro bono projects within the firm.

Rotations I did rotations in the corporate, litigation, intellectual property and environment & planning practice groups. It’s a great idea to put some variety into your rotations preferences as you never know what will spark your interest. The work The clerkship was a great balance between guided learning practical experiences. Corrs and the teams I worked with also took the time to find out experiences I wanted to be a part of. The firm’s culture Corrs are very engaged in the progress of the firm and understand that their people are part of that, so there is always opportunity for learning and development outside of the work immediately before you. The firm also has a social and friendly attitude, which it maintained despite the limitations on physically socialising in the past couple of years.

Why I chose Corrs I was impressed by both the work and the attitude of Corrs throughout the process. The people I interacted with during the application and interview process made me feel welcome and excited to work with them. I also appreciated the representation of female leadership and that the practice groups I was most interested in were led by female partners. Advice to students applying There are so many amazing applicants with great resumes, don’t be afraid to show that you have a personality and other interests outside your studies.

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05.

interview tips & tricks

Your interview is a chance to showcase all your talents that cannot be effectively captured in your CV; those skills that can’t be measured in numbers or scores. The firm you are interviewing with has already seen your grades and experience. What they want to see in your interview is how you speak,

how you carry yourself, and how you think on the fly. A great interview could be what sets you apart and makes you stand out from the crowded pool of applicants. Preparing for an interview is possible and encouraged.

S H A RE O U R V I S I O N

S H A PE YOU R F UTU RE

Our goal is simple. We want to create the future leaders of the firm. That means giving you the skills you need to become a successful lawyer, but also the experiences to discover where your true interests lie. Find out more at

DLAPIPERGRADUATES.COM

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How to prepare

But what makes a “great” interview? Here are a few tips for making the most of an interview: 1. PREPARE ANSWERS:

Later, you will see some of the questions you can expect to be asked in an interview. Use these and more to prepare how you are going to respond. This doesn’t mean you have to memorise your answers to regurgitate later. But, preparing ahead of the interview should save you from being thrown any curveballs where possible. 2. CHECK-IN:

It is easy to forget to check in with yourself in the whirlwind of adrenaline, nerves and speaking that is an interview. But remember, your interviewer is assessing you based on your body language. Being nervous can make you avoid eye contact, talk too fast, stutter or forget your words, all of which are not ideal. Don’t let your nerves stop you from coming across as the calm and confident person you are every other day! To do this, make sure you regularly check in on how you are feeling. Take deep breaths, reset and try to calm down when you feel your nerves getting the better of you. Just like you monitor what you’re saying, monitor what you are doing too! 3. KNOW YOUR CV:

Clerkship Guide

4. DON’T BE AFRAID TO PAUSE:

Many people want to come across as smooth in an interview and this includes when answering questions. Although it can be tempting to try to pull a sharp response out quickly, it may not always be the best approach. If you are thrown by a question or just want to think about your answer before giving it, don’t hesitate to communicate this to your interviewer! Saying, “Can I take a moment to think on that?” is a lot better than saying something you don’t mean, forgetting key points, stuttering, or just going completely off-topic and not answering the question at all. 5. BE SOCIABLE:

Social interactions are an important part of everyday life, including the workplace. Once you begin your clerkship, you will be seeing a lot of your co-workers both in formal and informal settings. Try to be comfortable and relaxed rather than stiff or awkward. Just make sure you still stay professional! 6. DON’T BE LATE:

There is no worse feeling than running late for an interview. Not only does it create a bad impression, but it will probably make you feel frazzled before your interview. This can affect how you conduct yourself, answer questions and much more. Spare yourself the headache and make sure you arrive at your interview at least 15 minutes ahead of time. Make sure you are aware of anything that could affect your travel time and adjust your plans accordingly. And if your interview is online, that doesn’t mean running late is impossible! Make sure you have tested your internet connection and background a few hours before your interview.

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Questions to expect: Examples of questions you can expect are: 1. WHY US?

There are so many firms that offer clerkships. Just like you want to feel like you were selected because of what you have to offer, so do firms! Research the firm you are interviewing with. What opportunities does the firm offer that you are hoping to benefit from? Are there certain areas of practice they engage in that interest you? Are there cases they have handled that do? This will require some research but is essential towards showing your interest. 2. WHAT AREAS OF LAW INTEREST YOU?

Speaking of areas of law, be prepared to be asked which areas of law you are interested in. This is not a trick question, there is no “right” answer. Most firms have multiple practice areas, and you are more likely to succeed in working with your interests. So, be as honest as possible here as it could inform where you are placed for your clerkship if successful. 3. TELL US ABOUT A TIME YOU OVERCAME A CHALLENGE?

This is a common question asked in many interviews as it allows your interviewer to gauge how you conduct yourself when faced with difficulty. Your answers should showcase some of your soft skills such as problem-solving, time management, determination and resilience. This demonstrates that you have the necessary tools to succeed, or even thrive, under pressure! 4. TELL US WHAT YOU DO IN YOUR SPARE TIME/HOBBIES?

This question may seem easy but if you’ve only been preparing for “serious” questions, you could be completely thrown off and come up blank. Make sure you have one or two answers prepared that show that you have interests outside of the law. Remember, your CV may already contain some of these personal interests and you may be asked to further elaborate. Ensure you don’t contradict or dismiss any personal interests mentioned in your CV. 5. DO YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS FOR US?

This is another question that could leave you wordless if you weren’t expecting it. Try to have a few responses prepared. For example, if there’s anything you came across in your research that you would like to know more about, take the opportunity to ask! But if you don’t have any questions, don’t try to force one out for the sake of it. Not only could this come across as unprepared, but it could undo all the genuine rapport and interest you have built up throughout your interview. So, try and have a pool of questions and key talking points to show diligence and interest.

Clerkship Guide

STAR Question Template

1. Situation —

When answering questions, it is important to implement examples from your CV. What steps did you take to accomplish some of the achievements you have highlighted in your CV? What did you do right, what would you do differently, what did you learn? These are all insights that an interviewer will be looking to gain from you. The STAR framework is a great way to structure your answers to provide these insights. It requires you to describe:

What were the circumstances of the example you are providing?

2. Task —

What task arose from this situation? What was it that you had to do to address the situation?

3. Action —

What strategy/approach did you take to complete this task?

4. Result —

What was the outcome of your strategy? How have you learned from this or showcased a strength?

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Soft Skills

As mentioned earlier, interviews are the perfect opportunity for you to showcase your soft skills. Whereas hard skills such as “research skills” can be affirmed by your grades, soft skills rely on you to support your claim to them. Examples of soft skills include communication, attention to detail, problem-solving, crisis management and relationship building. If done correctly, your interview can be a chance to show your potential employers that you do have these skills and they’re not just buzzwords on a CV!

What to wear/ presentation

It is important to make sure you dress professionally for your interview. This is doubly important to remember for an online interview where you could feel less pressure to dress the part. You should still ensure that your attire is clean and simple corporate wear. Try to have your outfit ready the night before (to avoid the horror of discovering a stain or rip just as you were about to leave!). If your interview is online, not only do you have to think of what you are wearing but also where you are. Be sure to conduct your interview in a quiet environment; avoid any loud voices or general background noise. As more than your face will be visible in the camera shot, keep your background as plain as possible. A blank wall or tidy office space is ideal for this. But remember to check if your attire blends in with the background too much! If it is too difficult to find a space that fits these criteria, there are rooms on-campus that are available to book up to seven days in advance. Try to book an enclosed Study Room and make sure you are ready as they can get booked up very quickly!

Clerkship Guide

06.

psychometric testing

Introduction to psychometric testing

As law firms increasingly emphasise cultural fit, psychometric assessments are becoming a more common and significant part of a legal clerkship selection process. Psychometric tests examine an individual’s capabilities and preferences to provide data that can help assess a candidate’s “fit” for a clerkship within a firm. Psychometric testing ensures law firms can identify candidates with specific skill sets that would benefit their workplace, which is not always apparent on an individual’s academic transcript or employment application.

UTS LSS 2022

Aptitude

Aim of the tests:

An aptitude test assesses your reasoning skills to determine if you are suitable for a role. This type of testing is separated into three different tests: verbal reasoning tests, numerical reasoning tests and abstract reasoning tests.

VERBAL REASONING TESTS

NUMERICAL TESTS

A verbal reasoning test measures your oral and written capabilities by analysing your interpretation of work-related concepts. Verbal psychometric tests challenge your ability to think constructively and use written information to create accurate conclusions under timed conditions. You may be presented with multiple statements and passages that vary in difficulty depending on the offered role. However, a high-level score on this test within law firms is ideal. This is because it is expected for a candidate to have critical thinking skills and a strong ability to communicate to be successful.

A numerical test requires you to solve issues using numbers. It is significant to measure how accurately and efficiently you can analyse numerical data, interpret graphs, and draw conclusions and recommendations from the data provided. This test may also be under timed conditions, so make sure to remain calm and be weary of your progression throughout the question set. You’ve got this! ABSTRACT REASONING TESTS

Abstract reasoning tests assess the ability of an individual to reach a logical conclusion based on abstract information such as symbols, shapes or pictures. This test usually involves visual puzzles and sequences which must be solved by identifying a pattern. These tests require good judgement and measure how well you follow information and apply it to a work-related situation. It is expected from a law firm that a candidate test receives a high-level score for an abstract reasoning test. This is because the capability to obtain information effectively and then apply it to issues is a skill that can be used in every scenario.

Clerkship Guide

Personality

Personality tests allow an employer to see your characteristics and behavioural style. This may require you to indicate whether a statement is ‘true’ or ‘false’ or answer ideas on a specific point scale. This is highly significant within a law firm. It can display your ability to work alongside numerous clients and co-workers, deal with stress, and use creativethinking skills. It is crucial to answer the questions truthfully as they will be compared to the firm’s values and culture, determining compatibility with the workplace.

BE BOLD BE PART OF THE ACTION Gilbert + Tobin is a leading transactions, regulatory and disputes law firm, committed to outstanding citizenship. We guide our clients through defining moments in their business and are renowned for our ability to get things done.

We employ a diverse mix of talented and ambitious people who are attracted to the firm because of its entrepreneurial spirit, creative approach and capacity for change. These are the reasons we enjoy a reputation as the most successful corporate law firm to emerge in Australia in many years. We advise many of Australia’s and the world’s leading organisations and focus on the most dynamic sectors. Our clients and projects span Australia, Asia and emerging African markets. Located in the heart of the CBD, the partners and lawyers in our Sydney office include some of Australia’s leading practitioners in: + Banking + Finance

+ Disputes + Investigations

+ Competition + Regulation

+ Pro Bono

+ Corporate Advisory

+ Real Estate

+ Energy + Infrastructure

+ Technology + Digital

+ Intellectual Property If you want to challenge your thinking and stretch your abilities, this is the firm for you. There has never been a better time to be a part of our story and enjoy the stimulating challenge of working with Australia’s most innovative corporate law firm.

WE DELIVER ON OUR PROMISE TO PROVIDE REAL OPPORTUNITIES TO ADVANCE YOUR CAREER. WE PROVIDE THE CHANCE TO BE DEEPLY INVOLVED IN INTERESTING, CHALLENGING WORK MUCH EARLIER IN YOUR CAREER, ACCELERATING YOUR OPPORTUNITIES AND EXPERIENCE.

Find out more at www.gtlaw.com.au/bebold DANNY GILBERT, MANAGING PARTNER

WHO ARE WE LOOKING FOR? The G+T clerkship experience is open to students in their penultimate year of study, as well as final year for our Melbourne and Sydney offices. We’re not a prescriptive firm when it comes to our people; we invite individuality and diversity. We also hold ambition, creativity and entrepreneurial spirit in high regard. Our people are collaborative, passionate and dedicated – but most of all they enjoy what they do and never forget to have fun. We seek clerks and graduates who will complement our practice groups and don’t feel the need to take themselves too seriously.

WHAT WILL YOU EXPERIENCE? Depending on your location, you’ll complete two, four-week rotations across the firm’s practice areas in summer, or a seasonal clerkship over a number of weeks in winter or summer. All clerks are assigned a supervising partner, mentor and buddy to assist with on-the-job training for each rotation - an immediate support network to help smooth the transition from university and assist with your professional development. While your main focus will be corporate work, everyone has the opportunity to assist on pro bono matters, innovation projects and participate in firm-wide activities.

HOW WILL YOU LEARN?

WE’RE BIG ON BOLD Standing up for what you believe in and standing out in the crowd. Having the confidence to take risks and the courage to say no. Trusting in the tradition of embracing innovation. Being adventurous, spirited and unexpected. At Gilbert + Tobin, we believe in being bold.

During the clerkship you’ll take part in our customised in-house training, and cover topics such as research, analysis, drafting, developing technical skills, interpersonal effectiveness, teamwork, business development and client orientation. As you progress through your rotations you’ll develop invaluable skills and knowledge and gain first-hand experience of our various practice groups. Understanding the mechanics of legal practice through research, drafting memos, attending court and meeting clients will all help to build your confidence. And we’ll encourage you to contribute ideas and your own fresh perspective.

GRADUATE PROGRAM Our clerkship program is the primary pathway for graduates at G+T, however we also invite interest from graduating students who may have clerked elsewhere or taken up other opportunities in their penultimate or final year of studies. Keep an eye on our website for active graduate vacancies.

KEY DATES OFFICE

APPLICATIONS OPEN

APPLICATIONS CLOSE

Sydney

6 June 2022

10 July 2022

Perth

27 June 2022

31 July 2022

Melbourne

4 July 2022

14 August 2022

CONTACT KRISTIE BARTON

Early Talent Manager

+61 2 9263 4575 | kbarton@gtlaw.com.au

gtlaw.com.au/careers

MY BUDDIES AND MENTORS DURING BOTH OF MY ROTATIONS WERE SUPPORTIVE, FRIENDLY AND INVESTED IN MY GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT, WHICH MADE ME MORE MOTIVATED TO LEARN AND WORK HARD.

My clerkship experience with Gilbert + Tobin was extremely fascinating, enjoyable, and rewarding. Since completing my summer clerkship, I have felt very fortunate to have completed the program alongside 25 other amazing, kind-hearted and genuine people. In my eyes, this is largely a testament to the recruitment team for doing a fantastic job in selecting amazing individuals who are genuinely good people. Some of the main highlights of my experience involved the instances where myself and the rest of the summer clerk cohort met as a group and spent quality time together. In particular, I cherished the interfirm sports competition on Monday nights at Rushcutters Bay Park, and pizza making on King Street Wharf. The times where we got together as a cohort, both inside and outside of the working day, provided us with opportunities to make memories and build friendships. The clerkship experience was such a memorable one given I learned so much. Going to work every day and being exposed to so many interesting transactions and matters, to me, was a privilege. My buddies and mentors during both of my rotations were supportive, friendly and invested in my growth and development, which made me more motivated to learn and work hard. For my first rotation in Corporate Advisory, I particularly enjoyed sitting in on meetings with the lawyers in my team, and I loved asking questions afterwards about the key details of the meeting, along with general questions about the transactions they were involved in. I felt as if I learned so much from this process. For my second rotation in Disputes and Investigations, I was unable to meet my team in person or physically sit in on meetings given the whole rotation was online. However, I was fortunate enough to have had some very interesting virtual catch ups and conversations with some amazing lawyers, where I learned about their pathway to G+T and the type of work they have been involved in – both at G+T and elsewhere. My experience in the disputes team was nonetheless very enjoyable, as I was involved in some very interesting matters and legal research tasks. Notably, the training and development workshops I attended throughout the clerkship made the experience so much more compelling. Some of the training sessions that stood out to me involved the ‘Presenting with Impact’ and ‘Being a Professional’ workshops. These were immensely enjoyable and valuable because they provided me with a realistic and practical overview of working and navigating life at a large commercial law firm. These workshops also provided me with many useful pieces of advice and strategies that I will utilise and incorporate for my own personal and professional benefit. The Innovation and Pro Bono projects we were involved in were also very fascinating and stimulating. These projects allowed us to think critically and work together in teams to find solutions to difficult, real-world problems. Overall, I am grateful for the summer clerkship experience with G+T, and for all of the work, training sessions, activities and social events I was involved in. I am also extremely grateful for all of the lovely people that I was able to meet during the program. JOSHUA GIESSER, 2021 SUMMER CLERK

gtlaw.com.au/careers

Clerkship Guide

online & cocktail night etiquette

07.

Cocktail nights are a great opportunity for firms to get a sense of your personality, and whether you will match the culture of a firm. That being said, be sure to not put too much pressure on yourself and take a relaxed approach. Firms have already been impressed by you on paper, so soothing your nerves will allow firms to get to know you more authentically.

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Do —

Don't —

• Engage in lively and interesting conversations. Bringing up unique talking points will make you stand out, and make for a more interesting night overall. • Remember to make polite conversation. • Keep conversation topics nonpartisan and respectful, and try to avoid political or religious topics. • Work the room and enjoy conversations with many people in the room. • Show off some of your soft skills. This can involve you exercising your common sense and emotional intelligence to read the room, speaking clearly to those around you and fully listening to those around you when spoken to. • Cut others off - it will be easy to get carried away with conversations, especially if you feel pressured to put yourself out there, but ensure you listen, and let others speak too. • Place too much pressure on the night — this will cause your nerves to get the best of you, and will prevent you from showing your authentic self.

Clerkship Guide

Online Etiquette

Given the times we now live in, many firms have and may continue to hold cocktail events or interviews online. Accordingly, it is important to exercise online etiquette. Here are some things to keep in mind if you are preparing for any online events:

1. Ensure you are comfortable and proficient with the technology being used. Although we may all be familiar with Zoom and other digital platforms, still allow yourself time to check that your sound and audio are working well. Have some measures in place if anything goes wrong, such as a mobile hotspot or a second device.

2. Have a quiet space. If you live in a louder or shared space, think about booking one of the spaces in the university to mitigate sound, for both yourself and the attendees.

3. Ensure your background is neat and preferably plain, to avoid background distractions. If this is not possible, you may want to use the blurring options available on digital platforms.

4. Treat the process as if you were participating in an in-person interview Keep good posture, remain engaged and make eye contact with the camera, not the screen.

5. Consider having notes on your screen if possible Apps like Transparent Note can allow you to transpose these notes over your screen, allowing you to maintain your eye contact.

ELEVATE YOUR EXPERIENCE CAREERS IN COMMERCIAL LAW careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/au/grads

@HSFGRADUATESAU

ELEVATE YOUR EXPERIENCE ABOUT US

With over 25 offices spanning Asia, Europe, Australasia, and the Middle East, careers at Herbert Smith Freehills offer our graduates the opportunity to experience being part of a truly global law firm. Working with some of the most significant organisations in the world, opportunities to have social impact, and learning from our world-class team every day will enable you to create solid foundations on which to build your career in law. We’re proud to say that we put people first. Our firm is built on a diverse culture, reflective of the societies in which we live and work. That’s why inclusivity is key to our success. At Herbert Smith Freehills, you’ll be valued for what makes you different and accepted for who you are. We recognise the power of diversity and inclusion to drive innovation, collaboration and business outcomes. So, whether it’s working on the latest advancements in digital law, taking part in some of the biggest mergers and acquisitions around, or helping people through our extensive pro bono work – you’ll develop the skills to solve the most complex challenges in thoughtful and innovative ways.

WE WELCOME DIFFERENT

Great lawyers are both curious and creative. We encourage you to challenge assumptions and open yourself up to new ideas. So, what exactly are we looking for? There’s no single path to becoming an exceptional commercial lawyer. We look beyond your academic record and your technical aptitude. We’re focussed on finding people who have the curiosity to explore all the angles and the empathy to place themselves in their client’s shoes.

HERBERTSMITHFREEHILLS.COM

We're Herbert Smith Freehills, one of the world's leading international law firms. Join us and you'll be at the centre of high-profile cases, highimpact deals and you'll grow from new experiences every day.

In line with our 10 Actions for Change we are proud to use the Rare Contextual Recruitment System (CRS). The CRS allows us to understand each applicant’s achievements in the context that they have been gained. We understand that not every candidate’s achievements look the same on paper – and we want to recruit the best people, from every background.

JOINING US

CLERKSHIP PROGRAM

KEY DATES/DEADLINES

We select many of our graduates through our vacation clerkships. During this immersive experience, you’ll receive hands-on practical experience, as you work on some of the diverse challenges facing the team you’re collaborating with. You will gain a deeper understanding of life at the firm and what your future could look like if you join us. Some key features include the opportunity to: • Sit within a specific team, delivering real work for key clients • Before you join, submit a preference for a team to tailor your experience • Navigate the first step of your career with partner and graduate mentoring support

We offer a range of summer and winter clerkships across our Australian offices. If you have queries about graduate or vacation clerk positions, please visit our website: careers.herbertsmithfreehills. com/au/grads/vacation-clerkships or contact one of our graduate recruitment consultants.

SYDNEY Positions

30-35

Clerkship programs

1 Summer

Applications for all 2022/23 programs open

6 June 2022

Applications for all 2022/23 programs close

10 July 2022

Offers made

14 September 2022

Please note: An application should only be submitted to the office where you intend to start your career as a graduate. Multiple applications will not be considered.

• Attend workshops and presentations covering all our practice areas • Contribute to our pro bono practice • Work with cutting edge technology through our innovation projects • Networking opportunities to meet people across the firm

Contacts Elizabeth Pittaway-Burnell Graduate Recruitment Consultant T +61 417 399 400 GraduatesSydney@hsf.com

MY APPLICATION AND CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE Nicola Magyary Graduate (Vacation Clerk 2019/20)

My name is Nicola Magyary and I am currently on my second rotation on the HSF Graduate Program. I studied a Bachelor of Law and Public Communications at UTS. I believe my pathway to Herbert Smith Freehills (HSF) as a Vacation Clerk was deﬁnitely alternative.

I started my legal studies with no connections within the legal profession. My first position in law was a paralegal role with a sole practitioner in my third year of university. Following this, I was offered a secretarial position in Project Finance at HSF. Working in an administrative capacity at HSF gave me an unique insight into how the firm operates and confirmed that I wanted to pursue a career in commercial law. After over a year as a secretary, I was successful in receiving a Vacation Clerkship offer for the 2019/2020 cohort. Following my clerkship, I was a paralegal in Disputes for 18 months. I am now in my second graduate rotation.

Expectations before joining Before obtaining an administrative role at HSF, I never thought working at HSF was available for a law student like me. I was aware of the firm’s excellence across multiple areas of law and sectors. I was also aware that HSF worked on matters that are at the forefront of society. The impressive reputation of HSF definitely made me hesitant about how I would fit in. What surprised me about starting at HSF was the diversity of the people (and their working styles) that I had the opportunity to work alongside. Similarly, I greatly appreciated how down to earth and supportive my team were. These experiences were only furthered by undertaking the Vacation Clerkship where I was able to work in two different teams who were also invested in my development.

What surprised me during my time at Herbert Smith Freehills In a ﬁrm like HSF, it is easy to be intimidated by the brilliant people you are surrounded by. However, working at the ﬁrm has allowed me to become aware of my own ability and potential. I have been thrown in the deep end multiple times and have thrived being challenged. I note that during these experiences, I have always been supported by both the instructing individual and the rest of my team if I have asked for help or guidance.

Transitioning from Vacation Clerk to Graduate Something that really assisted me preparing to be a graduate was my experience as a paralegal at HSF. Being a disputes paralegal allowed me to develop a core skills and knowledge base. I was provided with further insight into the ﬁrm and how different teams operate (which helped me to decide where I wanted to rotate as a graduate). Further to this, being a paralegal allowed me to build relationships with lawyers across the ﬁrm which has been invaluable to my wellbeing and development. However, even if you are unable to work as a paralegal before starting as a graduate, continuing your employment and extracurricular commitments will also provide you with transferrable skills which will assist the transition to being a graduate.

A typical day at the office In Disputes, your typical day could include preparing documents such as research notes, briefs, court books, witness analysis, chronologies and sector updates for clients. It may also entail attending court, conferences with counsel and experts, and meetings with the client and other parties on the matter.

Making meaningful contributions The highlight of my time in disputes was working on a signiﬁcant criminal cartel / white collar crime case with a cross practice HSF team. I

loved having the opportunity to observe and work with partners of different specialities as they came together to achieve a successful outcome for our client. As the graduate on the matter, I had the opportunity to be involved with various work streams, including lay witness analysis, expert evidence, court preparation, and client and project management. My roles on these workstreams allowed me to attend multiple hearings and conferences. I was also able to work alongside and gain exposure to multiple barristers (including highly regarded silks) and expert witnesses.

Why non-legal experience and skills are important Firstly, I have always juggled sport with my education and employment. Maintaining my dedication to extra-curricular commitments has developed my time management skills and resilience, as well as my ability to respond under pressure. It has also allowed me to remain balanced during my transition to being a graduate. Similarly, my determination to perform well in all facets of life has extended to my ability to assist with challenging work. Secondly, I think my variety of experiences prepared me for communicating clearly and adapting to different working styles and expectations within my team.

My recommendation for the clerkship process My ﬁrst recommendation is to make your unique qualities shine in your application. Nearly all candidates will have strong marks and extra-curricular experience so it is good to self-

HERBERTSMITHFREEHILLS.COM

reflect and find something that will make you stand out. As an example of this, in my applications I focussed on my commitment to sport, and the qualities and experiences this commitment provided me with. My second recommendation is be conscious of the time you can dedicate to your applications, particularly when you will likely be balancing the application process with university and employment. Often, some applications will require a combination of CVs, cover letters, short answer or video questions and psychometric testing which can require a lot of time to do properly. Upon reflection, I wish I had applied to less firms so I could have dedicated more time to each application.

Advice for excelling at the start of your career My first piece of advice is be dedicated and enthusiastic towards all types of the different work you can get involved in. Through my own experiences, I have observed how appreciated it is by senior lawyers when you bring a positive attitude and determination to all tasks you assist with (particularly the non-glamorous ones). Secondly, I always endeavour to try nail the little things when working on something new. As a clerk or graduate, you are not expected to have prior knowledge. However, it is really valued when you can demonstrate you have attention to detail (e.g. proofing your work and using the firm styles) and that you followed the instructions provided. Doing these things increases confidence in your work and will open the door to more advanced and interesting tasks.

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Simply a better Place to work Johnson Winter & Slattery was started by three lawyers who wanted to do things differently. We’ve grown rapidly to become one of Australia’s leading independent firms and now have offices in Adelaide, Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney and Perth. Working with us will give you all the benefits that come with working for a large corporate law firm and much more. We will put you at the forefront of Australian commerce, working with our clients on their most complex and business critical legal work – it’s what we do best. It’s our people that really sets us apart. We pride ourselves on being down to earth, approachable and, quite simply, a better place to work.

PRACTICE AREAS

• Competition & antitrust

• Corporate governance

• Dispute resolution

• Energy & resources

• Funds management

• Media

• Projects & construction • Corporate Employment • Intellectual property & IT • Regulatory

• Restructuring & insolvency • Debt finance • Foreign investment • Private equity • Tax

Clerkship Guide

ACCELERATE YOUR CAREER Our flexible team structure means you will not be held back. Our lawyers take on the work that reflects their ability, not their job title. You’ll also benefit from your own structured and bespoke professional development program. There are no barriers to your success with us.

GO YOUR OWN WAY Our business model is different to other firms. We want our lawyers to focus on the quality of their legal work and client experience. That means you won’t be under pressure to meet billing targets and you will not compete with your peers.

IT’S A VIBE THING What truly sets us apart is our people. We pride ourselves on being down to earth, approachable, and simply, a better place to work. Our ethos is: “we’re in it together” – it’s the cornerstone of our business and and it’s what we live by.

LET’S CHAT Wilma Lewis, Senior People & Development Consultant on email Wilma.Lewis@jws.com.au or phone 02 8247 9630. www.jws.com.au/en/firm/careers

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A SNAPSHOT OF YOUR FUTURE Associate Blake Hunt shares his story and experience as part of the team. What does your role entail? As an associate at Johnson Winter & Slattery, my role covers a wide variety of legal work across different practice areas including intellectual property, dispute resolution, and competition law to name a few. At Johnson Winter & Slattery, junior lawyers are encouraged to get as much experience as possible in different areas of law to become more knowledgeable and to eventually find your ideal specialty. On a day-to-day basis, I review contracts, prepare court documents such as affidavits and do a range of legal research and drafting tasks.

very different to actually working in the field, whether that be law, HR, or any other career. It can really help to gain experience during university to make sure it is the right career for you. It can also be really difficult to land your first full-time graduate job, and I had to make countless applications before I found the right fit for me. Don’t let rejection dishearten you as everyone goes through it and often there are just so many good applicants that it can be hard to get noticed. Keep putting in the effort and take in the feedback that is given and the right opportunity will eventually come to you.

What is the most rewarding aspect and the most challenging aspect? For me, the most rewarding aspect is also the most challenging. Working across multiple areas and experiencing different parts of law, I don’t have one day that is the same as the last. I am constantly being exposed to new legal issues and challenges to solve for our clients. I find it extremely rewarding to have a role with such variability, but it also requires me to manage my time and workload effectively in order to switch between tasks.

What have you learned? The role has taught me so much more about the law, managing full-time work and even just myself as a person. I have definitely found a love for the challenge that the legal world presents, particularly the variability of a lawyer’s role and the ability to work with a range of different people and clients. It has also taught me the importance of time management, communication, and the need to maintain a good work life balance.

What lead you to this role? I definitely didn’t take the “standard” path to becoming a lawyer. I studied a Bachelor of Psychology (Honours) and Law (Honours) at Macquarie University, while working part-time. During my first few years of uni, I interned for a couple of different law firms and even worked in a bottle shop. However, I primarily worked as a Legal Recruitment Consultant, learning the legal world from the other side of the interview chair. After a psychology honours year in 2018, I finished my degree in 2019 and landed my first full-time role at Johnson Winter & Slattery as a summer clerk. From there, I started as a Law Graduate in 2020 and became an Associate in November 2020. What advice would you give your university aged self? Try and gain as much experience as possible in the field you want to work in and don’t get disheartened if jobs are hard to come by as a graduate. While university gave me a great foundation of knowledge, studying from textbooks is often

Why this role? I was really attracted by the culture that JWS presented and the opportunity to gain experience in many areas of law. Johnson Winter & Slattery has a high partner to lawyer ratio, which has meant I get to work directly with senior lawyers who have great experience in their fields. Johnson Winter & Slattery also has a great collegiate culture and everyone is happy for you to knock on their door and ask any questions you have. What personal qualities are required for success? Life as a lawyer requires a lot of dedication and hardwork to make sure you are always best representing your client and fulfilling your duties as a legal practitioner. It also requires adaptability to changing circumstances, great communication skills and a passion for learning new things.

Clerkship Guide

Embrace your ambition. CLERKSHIP PROGRAM

WHAT’S NEXT?

Gain a realistic snapshot of what your future with us would look like.You will:

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a ‘get to know us’ session and an interview with one of our partners and the people & development team.You’ll also be invited to a drinks and networking evening, where you can meet our partners and lawyers to find out why they think Johnson Winter & Slattery is such a great place to work. If you’re successful, we’ll be in touch to let you know when you start!

• work closely with partners and senior lawyers across all of our practice areas • from day one, you will work on high profile, complex matters • benefit from your own structured and bespoke professional development program • receive guidance and mentoring from a strong support network

HOW DO I APPLY? Just submit your CV, covering letter and current official academic transcript via our website www.jws.com.au/en/firm/careers. You can address this to Wilma Lewis, our Senior People and Development Consultant.

LET’S CHAT Wilma Lewis, Senior People & Development Consultant on email Wilma.Lewis@jws.com.au or phone 02 8247 9630. www.jws.com.au/en/firm/careers

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08. diary

entry

A random day in the Funds team (on-site) 9 am – 9:20 am:

Hue Pham ARRIVED AT OFFICE

Grabbed some coffee and breakfast from the café with the lawyers in my team.

Clerkship Guide

9:30 am — 10:15 am:

10:15 am — 10:30 am:

10:30 am — 11 am:

11:00 am — 12:00 pm:

12:00 pm — 1:00 pm:

1:00 pm — 2:30pm:

TEAM MEETING

As usual, most of the time is spent bantering on non-work-related matters, news, weekend plans. Ended with a whip around the team where each person gave an update on what they will be working on for the day, how a matter has progressed or what work they anticipated will come through. Team meetings are also an opportunity for work to be distributed or for people to get involved in new matters.

MEETING BRIEF

In the team meeting, my partner let me know that he would be pulling me into a client meeting. He sends through an email chain with some documents attached for me to read so that I can understand the context of the meeting. He asks that I take note of any action items that arise during the client meeting.

CLIENT MEETING

My partner leads the meeting. The client walks us through their response plan to a regulatory issue relating to statutory duties under the Superannuation Industry (Supervision) Act 1993. They explain that they are unsure about what evidence would be most appropriate to demonstrate that they have discharged their statutory duties, particularly in relation to quantified financial benefits exchanged in irrevocable transactions.

LEGAL RESEARCH

I noted the client’s question from the meeting as an action item to follow up. My partner asks me to research this area of law with reference to the Corporations Act 2001 and relevant ASIC publications. I draft a short memo to be sent back to the client and discuss it with my partner.

LUNCH

Lunch with the other clerks in the kitchen before taking a walk outside to grab a coffee. DRAFTING ADVICE

My partner forwards me an email chain and asks me to draft an opinion about our interpretation of APRA’s statutory power to conduct performance assessments on certain regulated financial service providers, and what, if any, investment products would be exempt from APRA’s assessment and why.

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2:30 pm — 3:00 pm:

MEETING BRIEF

3:00 pm — 3:45 pm:

CLIENT MEETING

3:45 pm — 4:00 pm:

COFFEE BREAK

4:00 pm — 5:00 pm:

ACTION ITEMS FROM MEETING

5:00 pm — 5:30 pm:

5:30 pm — 11:00 pm:

My partner forwards me another email chain and tells me that there’s another matter for me to get involved with. He explains that we had already provided legal advice to the client in relation to superannuation issues, and the client is now looking to act on that advice to minimise potential liability. I read through the email chain and the legal advice provided to the client to familiarise myself with the context of the meeting.

My partner leads the meeting. The client explains how they have progressed, and what is outstanding, with remediating the issue on their end. They have a question about how to go about disclosing the issue to the relevant regulator. My partner explains that we have handled this issue before and that we can assist with the pro forma of the voluntary disclosure.

After settling back at my desk, my partner asks me to contact another partner from the Melbourne office and ask for a voluntary disclosure letter used in a similar scenario. He asks that I use this letter as a template to draft the voluntary disclosure letter for our client, and to identify what information we need from the client in order to complete the letter on their behalf. I obtain the template from Melbourne, and draft an email to the client asking for information so that I can complete the draft.

ENTERING BILLABLE TIME

I open the billing software and enter in my times for the day before heading out.

CLERK DRINKS

It never matters what day of the week it is: someone — somewhere — is going to ask who is down for after work drinks. Today is no exception.

Clerkship Guide

A random day in the Financial Markets team (working from home) 9:00 am: 9:10 am — 11:00 am:

11:00 am — 12:30 pm:

12:30 pm — 1:00 pm:

LOGGED ON

CORPORATE RESEARCH

There’s an email from a solicitor. Our client is looking to launch a new metaverse product but is unsure how to structure corporate ownership. The solicitor sends through a number of similar companies to research. She asks me to investigate how each of these companies have structured their gaming divisions and to compile my findings into an email memo.

MARKET RESEARCH

My partner rings me. She explains that a client is looking to produce a proof of concept to launch a new cryptocurrency. She asks that I research examples of digital currencies, and other blockchain based projects led by governments and international organisations. She wants me to compile a list of technical partners such as technology consultants, DLT-providers etc. that could assist our client in getting their project off the ground. She notes that this research will take a few days to complete, but I get a start after our call.

TEAM MEETING

Today’s team meeting is a brief one. We jump straight into a whip around the team where each person gives an update on what they will be working on for the day and what work they anticipate will come through.

1:00 pm — 2:00 pm:

LUNCH AT HOME

2:00 pm — 3:00 pm:

CONTINUING WITH MARKET RESEARCH FROM BEFORE

3:00 pm — 5:00 pm:

LEGAL RESEARCH

Another solicitor buzzes me on email. She explains that a company is looking to enter into a joint venture in a foreign jurisdiction but is not familiar with its local laws, particularly with respect to

UTS LSS 2022

criminal law. She adds that it was flagged that this jurisdiction has a very strict political crimes and anti-corruption regime and asks me to research statutory developments and case law of that jurisdiction that are relevant to the joint venture so that this can be passed onto the client.

5:00 pm — 5:30 pm

ENTERING BILLABLE TIME

I open the billing software and enter in my times for the day before heading to the couch.

Clerkship Guide

‘your questions’ & words of wisdom

10.

DISCOVER Looking for a law firm that really is different? Where you can be empowered to DISCOVER quality work and clients, DEVELOP through opportunities to learn more while growing your career, and THRIVE in a diverse and inclusive culture? Then join our global community of talented visionaries. To learn more about how you can discover, develop, and thrive in a dynamic global law firm, visit klgates.com/careers.

THE K&L GATES EXPERIENCE. K&L Gates LLP. Global counsel across five continents. Learn more at klgates.com.

DISCOVER. DEVELOP. THRIVE. THE K&L GATES EXPERIENCE. K&L Gates is a fully integrated global law firm with lawyers located across five continents. In Australia we have four offices in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. FULLY INTEGRATED

OUR PRESENCE

INNOVATION

We are a fully integrated network of lawyers and legal professionals who believe that clients need more than technical legal skills; they need insightful and practical advice on the diverse issues that affect their businesses, delivered with unparalleled client service. Our combination of practice strength, global platform, and unsurpassed client service is a true differentiator in the legal services marketplace.

With a strong presence in key capital cities and world commercial and financial centres, we represent a broad array of Global 500, Fortune 100, and FTSE 100 corporations in nearly every major industry, including energy, financial services, health care, infrastructure, life sciences, manufacturing, sustainable development, technology, telecommunications and transportation amongst others.

Our Innovation Committee is comprised of partners, lawyers, IT and support staff. It is committed to creating innovative legal services, fostering behaviour that enhances innovation and assisting our lawyers to deliver innovative legal work solutions for our clients.

A BROAD RANGE OF PRACTICE AREAS

FORMAL TRAINING PROGRAM

COLLABORATIVE CULTURE

In conjunction with on-the-job experience, we provide formal training sessions. On day one, you will receive an in-depth induction to the firm as well as training on relevant IT systems, followed by other sessions over the course of the clerkship and graduate programs. These sessions have been designed to develop your legal knowledge and business skills, as well as to give you a broader insight into the various areas of law in which we practise.

We truly believe that working together is better. Your supervisor and buddy will help you settle into the office and you will work closely with the partners, special counsel, senior associates and lawyers in your team. You will be provided with opportunities to build strong relationships, both within your team and the wider firm network. We provide and encourage a collaborative environment in which you can grow and develop.

We have nine core practice areas across Australia. As part of your clerkship you will complete rotations within at least one of these. In your graduate year, you will experience multiple areas across three rotations.

HANDS-ON EXPERIENCE You will be embedded into the practice areas and be involved in real legal work right from the start, giving you an in-depth experience and providing a real insight into life as a commercial lawyer at K&L Gates.

K&L Gates is about more than practising law or making a living. It’s about building something amazing - creating a legacy for you, the firm, our clients and the communities we serve. We are looking for smart, imaginative and hard-working people with diverse backgrounds, experiences and ideas to join us. Perhaps our search for talented visionaries and your search for important and impactful work lead to the same place.

APPLICATIONS

Learn what makes our global law firm different:

Contact details

Check out our Facebook page: /klgatesgraduaterecruitingau Check out our brand video on YouTube: /klgateslaw Or visit our Careers page at www.klgates.com for application details.

We accept graduate and clerkship applications in line with law society guidelines in the relevant state. Please check our website for application dates by office location. Tania Brierley Recruitment Consultant P +61 3 9640 4214 W www.klgates.com

TAKE CHARGE OF YOUR CAREER PATH

We’re King & Wood Mallesons. The top tier international law firm, from Asia, for the world. The world’s leading organisations turn to us to unlock opportunities and deliver smart, considered, and confident advice. Where others see problems, we see possibilities.

Global reach Our commitments:

Reduce our emissions by: •

Innovation is in our DNA. We equip our people with the skills to partner with our clients and bring to life pioneering solutions which will help them to adapt, reinvent and evolve. We believe innovation comes from giving our people room to grow. At KWM, our people are encouraged to shape their own career path, supported every step of the way with world-class training, coaching and hands-on experience. Diversity of thought, perspective and experience is critical to our culture. We provide a broad, inclusive and open environment in which our people are fully supported to bring their whole selves. There is no ‘one size fits all’ career model, and we offer multiple opportunities for our lawyers to gain experience and thrive.

Planning for a sustainable future A core value for KWM is to grow our business sustainably and responsibly and leave a positive impact.

•

Becoming certified carbon neutral by December 2022 Setting science-based targets by December 2023 and reaching net zero emissions by 2050

The King & Wood Mallesons network extends across the following regions: •

Asia Pacific (Australia, Mainland China including Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore)

•

Europe

•

Middle East

•

North America

Our programs SEASONAL CLERKSHIP PROGRAM Source 100% renewable energy for our Australian operations before 2024.

Update and re-certify our Environmental Management System by June 2022.

Applications open: 6 June 2022 Applications close: 10 July 2022 How to apply: Via our online application system at kwm.com/careers We offer clerkships that give you insight into what it’s like to be a lawyer at King & Wood Mallesons. You’ll get to know our people, the way we work, our culture, practice areas, clients and more. What you’ll learn: •

Undertake various energy, paper, water and waste reduction initiatives (ongoing).

The day-to-day skills to get you started – taking instructions, meeting with clients, drafting memos and documents, managing your practice and professional relationships.

•

The core practice teams at King & Wood Mallesons – who they are, what they do, how they’re structured, the clients they work for, and of course, your role within them.

•

Our culture – working within your team, you’ll be exposed to (and encouraged) to get actively involved in the many activities and events that help create our unique culture.

•

Our impact:

We are making progress towards our target of 40% female representation at partnership level. Females currently represent 31% of our partnership.

Our people – you’ll find that people from every part of the business will help you by sharing their knowledge and supporting you through the early stages of your career and beyond.

Our LGBTIQ+ Inclusion Network at KWM (LINK) raises awareness of and advocates in relation to LGBTIQ+ issues and concerns, and promotes inclusion, provides support and builds a sense of community for LGBTIQ+-identifying people and allies.

GRADUATE PROGRAM We offer a unique future-focused experience and invest heavily in your development to support you throughout your journey. You will benefit from a bespoke comprehensive learning and development program tailored specifically for our graduates. You will take part in our graduate technology bootcamps. These bootcamps will provide you with exposure to the many different types of emerging legal technologies, which are available at our firm. These skills will help prepare you for the future and ensure that we continue to evolve to meet our clients’ changing needs.

Delivered more than 50,000 hours of pro bono legal service in FY21. More than 91% of Partners & Lawyers assisted in these pro bono hours.

333 organisations + 2,680 individuals received legal assistance in FY21.

$740,913 was raised & donated via DigDeep® (workplace giving project) to 27 community organisations in FY 21. We have raised over $13.6M since 2001.

associates and solicitors Meaningful work covering a wide range of practice areas

•

Client contact and an in-depth understanding of how they operate in a commercial and regulatory environment

•

The opportunity to work as part of a team with a range of partners, senior

The industry-makers, nation-builders and market-disrupters to drive growth and power innovation. KWM is a launchpad for endless opportunities. We want to help you think differently about yourself and the possibilities of where a career in the law might take you.

We offer: •

Culture of innovation, collaboration and high performance.

•

Multiple career pathways where you can shape your future.

•

World-class training and coaching to unleash your full potential.

•

High impact work for the world’s leading organisations.

•

Relationships that last a lifetime.

Key contact

PEOPLE & DEVELOPMENT MANAGER SYDNEY

The program also promotes and supports the mobility of our people by giving you the opportunity to apply to go on exchange in one of our interstate or overseas offices or undertake a client or pro bono secondment. Through these opportunities, you can access greater on-the-job experience and create a positive impact.

•

We work with

KELLIE MILDRED

We also offer our graduates a Practical Legal Training (PLT) course with the College of Law, ensuring that you meet the requirements for admission to legal practice.

What you will receive:

Experience Program (VEP). The platform features learning modules curated by KWM based on real life firm matters and activities. Through this program you can build real skills and the confidence to excel in a commercial law career before you even step into one of our offices.

•

A practical understanding of areas of our legal practice

•

Training in the latest legal technology.

VIRTUAL EXPERIENCE PROGRAM No matter where in the world you are or what stage in your law degree, you can now experience what it is really like to be a lawyer at KWM with our Global Virtual

TEL EMAIL

+61 2 9296 3592 KELLIE.MILDRED@AU.KWM.COM

careers.kwm.com/en/graduates-australia

kwm.com

VICKY KUO SEASONAL CLERK INTAKE: 2021/2022 Area/s of rotation: Mergers & Acquisitions (Tech & IP), Projects & Real Estate University: University of Technology Sydney Degree: Bachelor of Laws, Bachelor of Communication (Social and Political Sciences)

What kind of work did you complete during your clerkship?

What is the culture like at KWM?

What was the highlight of your clerkship?

I was involved in a wide range of interesting legal work. For example, in Tech & IP, I joined many client calls and assisted with reviewing Commonwealth procurement agreements on a big confidential matter. In Projects, I worked directly with the Special Counsel to draft clauses for a sale and purchase agreement…despite never having seen one before that week!

KWM is a firm where the people work hard but also understand the importance supporting one another and having fun. Everyone is friendly, down-to-earth and incredibly generous with their time. No two people are the same at KWM – it is clear that the firm really values diversity of thought and experience.

My highlight was definitely the M&A Tech & IP Christmas Party, which started as a team lunch but somehow ended at a karaoke bar. Belting out Adele’s ‘Rolling in the Deep’ with the Tech & IP solicitors was definitely not something I was expecting to experience during my clerkship!

What was the application and interview process like? In the written application, I was asked straightforward questions about my background, my interest in the firm and my passions outside of law. The interviews are very laid-back and are all about getting to know you. They feel more like an informal chat than an interview! The entire recruitment process is specifically designed to engage and inform, not to trick or test you.

Why did you choose KWM? KWM is a firm that has stood out to me since the start of my degree. I was attracted to the firm’s values, friendly people and clear position as a market leader both domestically and internationally. My positive experience with KWM throughout the clerkship recruitment process confirmed my choice.

Do you have any advice to give to prospective clerks? Be true to yourself throughout the recruitment process. KWM aren’t looking for a specific type of candidate, so being genuine will ensure that you end up at the right firm for you. During the clerkship, be open-minded and say yes to every opportunity, even if you think you won’t like it, because you might just be surprised!

What was your clerkship experience vs. your expectations? My initial expectation was that I would be thrown into the deep end in each rotation and be expected to already know a lot about the practice area. My actual experience was that lawyers of all levels would patiently explain tasks and matters to me, no matter how busy they were. The teams expect you to know nothing and are very willing to teach you.

careers.kwm.com/en/graduates-australia

Clerkship Guide

How did you narrow down which firms to apply to? Albert Swann I narrowed down my list by speaking to

people from the different firms I was interested in. These conversations gave me a good sense of the culture, and the type of people I would be working with, at each firm. In turn, this helped me decide whether the firm was the right fit for me.

Georgia Dixon I talked to students or alumni that have

clerked or worked at the firms I was interested in outside of the firm presentations. I found hearing first-hand experiences allowed me to really understand their cultures and what it is actually like to work at them day to day behind the curtain of recruitment advertising. I also found it helpful to write a list of pros and cons for each firm that noted whether they met my interests and desired attributes in a firm. For example, I want to work internationally at some point in my career and at a firm that champions women, so despite the prestige of a firm, I only applied to ones that met those two requirements.

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How long did you spend on your application? Albert Swann I spent a few days preparing my clerkship

applications (inc. drafting CVs, cover letters, and answers to any application questions). I also spent some time researching firms and reaching out to lawyers in the weeks leading up to applications.

Georgia Dixon If I am completely honest, I spent 8 full

days approximately 9am-9pm working on them and this was a huge mistake. Do not do this!! The firms all require tailored resumes, cover letters and most also ask you to answer 2-6 questions in detailed paragraph form. It takes a lot of time to do well and if you spread yourself too thin you will have many mediocre applications, instead of a few very great applications. If I could do it again I would start as soon as applications open, even if it is just researching firms, fixing up your resume and collating the questions. That way you can keep editing and making changes right up until the due date.

Your career begins on

Day One

From Day One you will have challenging, meaningful work, gain exposure to clients, be given a good level of responsibility, work in a supportive and collaborative team and have regular access to our partners. The training you receive throughout your clerkship will ensure you are thoroughly prepared and ready to get involved in and contribute to client work straight away. The program begins with a comprehensive orientation which includes training and development activities. Join our clerkship program and become part of a firm where you’re involved from Day One.

Scan this QR code to find out what it’s like to work at Maddocks.

Clerkship and graduate programs

Unlocking success. Together

Each year, we offer clerkships to law students who want to be involved in the real work of a legal firm – not just to observe. We will provide you with the fundamentals to truly understand our business and clients, across all industry sectors and services. Our 18-month graduate program is an opportunity for recent law graduates to complete a structured training program in a highly supportive environment. Participants will gain exposure to different practice groups within our firm while completing the fully funded Practical Legal Training (PLT) program.

Clerkship program Our clerkship program is not only a great opportunity for law students to gain valuable practical experience, but it’s also a chance to understand our mission and the culture at McCullough Robertson. Many of our clerks will go on to join our firm through our graduate program. We offer clerkships to pre-penultimate and penultimate law students in our Brisbane office and clerkships to penultimate law students only, in our Sydney office.

Selection process Apply

Learn more about us

Interview(s)

Offers made

Submit your interest in a clerkship with us

Meet the team and learn more about the firm

Meet the Partners and Senior Lawyers

Congratulations, welcome to the team!

Graduate program Our graduate program consists of 2 x 9-month practice group rotations to complete a qualification to practice while undertaking invaluable on-the-job training. Participants develop their skills with exposure to a variety of legal work with the possibility of joining the firm permanently on completion of the program.

Program structure

Placement 1: Becoming a qualified lawyer February

Formal training:

• Fully funded Practical Legal Training (PLT) • Includes 9 study days • Learning and development framework

Support network: • Supervisor #1 (Partner) • Supervisor #2 (Senior Associate) • Graduate Buddy (Lawyer)

August November

• Senior Buddy (Senior Associate)

Placement 2: Developing your legal skills December

Work-based learning:

• Move to a new team for additional experience • Focus on practical application • Become more involved in client work

Support network:

August

Discuss options for placement 2

Complete Practical Legal Training (PLT)

• Supervisor #1 (Partner) • Buddy (Lawyer)

Congratulations!

Now you’ve successfully completed the graduate program, we’ll discuss opportunities to join the team permanently.

Apply to be admitted as a lawyer

Write your career story with us

If you see yourself taking on real responsibility and forming genuine professional relationships sooner, then connect with us today to start the first chapter in your legal career.

Visit www.mccullough.com.au for more information.

Clerkship Guide

What's your best advice for interview preparation? Albert Swann 1) Think about specific reasons why you

are interested in the firm – this is an important question that often comes up. 2) Come prepared with lots of questions – this shows you are interested in the firm, and it can make the interview more conversational. 3) Practice confidence – remember that the firms are already interested in you by the interview stage! 4) Practice positive body language (smiling, nodding etc) – this helps you appear/ stay engaged during an interview.

Georgia Dixon The trickiest questions are the situational

questions such as tell me about a time you showed leadership/initiative/worked in a team. Many of the questions you get will use different words but be very similar. Instead of having 20 different examples in your memory bank with set answers to each specific type try to think of 5-6 really good examples that can be interchanged between different situations. Such as a uni group project where you worked as a team to achieve XYZ but you also showed leadership because you were the team leader or took charge of a section of the project and also showed initiative by delegating tasks and keeping track of the team’s progress. Secondly, practice practice practice and you must say your answers out loud whether that be to another person or a mirror. While you can practice answering questions in your head you cannot practice your tone or delivery unless you actually speak. It will also help you to refine your answers. While it is super awkward at first and the part of preparation that I hate the most, it helped me the most.

DISCOVER

EXCEL

ASPIRE

Your future. Your choice. Choose to make an impact. At MinterEllison, we provide our clerks and graduates with exceptional training, development and experiences.

Learn by working on real challenges Right from the start you’ll work on real client engagements, preparing you for any challenge. Discover new areas of practice, and learn the technical knowledge and tools you need to achieve your career ambitions.

Discover industry and market insights Our industry programs span across all of our practice groups, ensuring collaboration amongst our teams that creates real impact for our clients:

Health & ageing

Financial services

Real Estate

Education

Energy & Resources

Government

Infrastructure

Bring your whole self to work We want our people to be exactly who they are at work by fostering an inclusive workplace. We want you to excel as a future lawyer. It’s all in your hands now.

Make an impact You’ll have the chance to work with our Pro Bono and Community Investment program and market-leading social enterprise practice:

Pro bono

63K+ hrs of pro bono services

RAP impact

Social impact

4,800+

over 100

pro bono hours supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander organisations

For information and to apply visit graduates.minterellison.com

MinterEllison Virtual Internship Want to experience a true-to-life day of a MinterEllison lawyer? Our interactive virtual internship offers you an insight into the commercial work we undertake here at MinterEllison. Curious?

graduates.minterellison.com

new social enterprise and Indigenous business clients engaged and supported

DISCOVER

EXCEL

ASPIRE Your future. Your choice. Choose to make an impact. Serge Nassif, Lawyer, Sydney shares his career journey, hints and tips. Tell us a bit about yourself. I am a lawyer in the Mergers and Acquisitions team. I clerked at MinterEllison in 2018/19 and have since completed the graduate program here. I grew up in Dubai and moved to Sydney to complete a Bachelor of Law and Commerce at Macquarie University. I am a big sports fan – football (soccer), rugby, cricket, basketball, F1 (literally everything). I also really enjoy travelling when the world isn’t in a pandemic and have been to some pretty cool places.

What rotations have you done? The MinterEllison graduate program offers candidates an opportunity to complete 3 rotations across the various teams at the firm. This allows junior lawyers to develop a strong understanding of different aspects of the law and how the various areas of practice at MinterEllison interact with each other, whilst also building a professional and social network within the firm. I completed rotations in Banking and Finance, Financial Services and Mergers and Acquisitions. My experience in these teams collectively has allowed me to gain exposure to key issues and processes across a broad area of practice, thereby enabling me to offer a distinctive perspective to my team and clients across each of my matters.

What do you love most about MinterEllison? The people. Through my clerkship and graduate program in particular, I have developed great relationships and friendships which have transcended the office place. The collaborative approach to work and active social culture has fostered a lively work environment, which has contributed to MinterEllison’s engrained reputation as a personable and friendly place of practice.

graduates.minterellison.com

I believe the diverse personalities here have developed a harmonious and engaging atmosphere at the firm, which makes MinterEllison a truly special place to work.

What was it that attracted you to a career in commercial law? I am fascinated by the intersection between the law and commerce. A career in commercial law provided an opportunity to develop an understanding of how legal mechanics and processes facilitate national and crossjurisdictional economic activity. The international nature of commercial law practice was also especially appealing. The prospect of working on matters of global significance with reputable and sophisticated international stakeholders was a big driver behind my decision to pursue a career in commercial law.

Do you have any advice for those going through the clerkship process this year? Do not try to fit a certain mould of what you think firms are looking for. Your application should genuinely capture your personal interests and experiences. Having unique experiences or a distinct perspective may ultimately be your most valuable asset. Reach out to others who have gone through the process before you – hearing first-hand, personalised experiences might help humanise the process and hopefully provide some inspiration and further guidance!

Three words to describe MinterEllison. Authentic Innovative Collaborative.

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What was your experience with firm networking events? Albert Swann I had some great conversations with law-

yers at networking events. They gave me useful advice about my application and the firms I was applying for. Networking events can be intimidating but they are a great opportunity to meet people and to ask questions.

Georgia Dixon As my clerk recruitment was during 2020

all of our networking events were online, but they were fundamental to me deciding which firms I applied to and ultimately clerk at. Try to find out which people you click with and as much about the culture as you can. Personally I found that the firms all have very similar marketing or reasons why you should pick that firm, so actually networking with the lawyers helped me a lot. Also, it was quite daunting meeting the lawyers, particularly the partners, but remember that they are just people too. Try not to be too intimidated, be yourself and you’ll find the firm that you fit in best with. Chances are if you aren’t vibing with the lawyers, you probably wouldn’t like the firm culture regardless of what the brochures say.

Clerkship Guide

Is there anything you wish you had done differently through the process? Albert Swann I wish I had been more relaxed throughout

the process. Managing stress is a big part of the application process.

Georgia Dixon I wouldn’t have applied to all the firms, part-

icularly firms my friends were applying to just because they were. I should have conducted more research and put all of my effort into the applications for firms I really wanted to work at instead of applying everywhere and hoping that one of them wanted me.

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What words of wisdom do you have for applicants this year? Albert Swann The clerkship application process is tough

for everyone, but it can be incredibly rewarding. Be kind to yourself and trust yourself. If possible, don’t compare yourself to other people – focus your energy on your own applications. Remember that this process will not define your legal career.

Georgia Dixon This is a really stressful time, but a great

thing about clerkship applications is there are specific dates for applications, interviews and offers and therefore you have an end date for when it will all be over. Just do your best, be yourself and remember the firms aren’t looking for cookie cutter students anymore. They are looking for people with all different backgrounds, experiences, ages, genders, sexual orientations, and interests. There may be tears, (many in my case), but it all works out in the end and even if you aren’t successful there is always next year and thousands of successful lawyers across the world that were never clerks. It is by far not the only way to become a lawyer. Also consider applying to different cities if you have ever wanted to live and work somewhere else. I clerked in both Sydney and Perth so it is possible! Just be wary that each state has different application due dates and clerkship periods so do your research.

Norton Rose Fulbright Australia Together we are change navigators

We provide the world's preeminent corporations and financial institutions with a full business law service. We are based in more than 50+ cities across Europe, the United States, Canada, Latin America, Asia, Australia, Africa, and the Middle East. In amongst that global network, you’ll find some of the finest minds in the legal sector. Recognised for our industry focus, we are strong across all the key industry sectors: financial institutions, energy, infrastructure, mining, commodities & agribusiness, transport, technology & innovation, and life sciences & healthcare. Wherever we are, we operate in accordance with our global business principles of quality, unity and integrity. We provide the highest possible standard of service in each of our offices to maintain that level of quality at every point of contact.

Clerkship program Our clerkship program offers you a real taste of life as a graduate and is the primary source for our graduate academy which feeds directly into our international opportunities. Wherever you look, you will be immersing yourself into new opportunities such as attending client meetings, visits to court, and exposure to our deals, culture and practice areas. There will also be a lot of additional activities to take advantage of including: Key skills training sessions with our learning & development team

Discussions about practice areas, key sectors and deals with clients

Q&A sessions with heads of practice and our chief executive partner

Pro bono initiatives, various committee groups and networking events

Once you apply, your application will be reviewed taking in to account a variety of factors. If successful in securing an interview, you will also be invited to an information evening to learn more about our firm and meet our people.

Graduate academy This is the most important part of your journey with us. It is also a journey in itself. Over the course of the program, you will develop a vast range of knowledge and skills, gain exposure to different sectors and work environments, and will ultimately build up the experience you need to become a qualified lawyer.  We offer a 2 year program consisting of 4 x 6 month rotations. Our aim is for each graduate to complete at least one transactional and one litigious rotation  All graduates will be enrolled in their Practical Legal Training (PLT) with The College of Law and will receive continuous training throughout the program  All graduates will be admitted to practice within their first year of the program

 All graduates have the opportunity to apply for an international rotation and pro bono secondment  All graduates will be supervised by a partner and a mentor, in addition to being paired with a buddy who has recently completed the graduate program  12 months into the program, graduates can be permanently placed in a team of preference as a lawyer. Others will benefit from a 3rd or 4th rotation

International opportunities Working in a global firm means global opportunities – and that means getting the experience of working in our global offices. We are committed to our graduates building connections with their peers overseas, build upon their legal knowledge in a different jurisdiction and experience life on the other side of the world so that when they return, they can play a pivotal role in our global connectivity and contribute to our success as a truly global law firm.

Contact us If you would like to learn more about our opportunities and how to apply, please visit our website or contact us directly. australian.graduates@nortonrosefulbright.com | nortonrosefulbright.com/graduates

Law around the world

nortonrosefulbright.com

Reach your potential

Join a major Australian law firm. Starting your legal career at Thomson Geer will offer you real, hands-on experience across a wide variety of commercial disciplines and industry sectors, in a supportive and collaborative environment. We’re ready for you

Are you ready for us?

With over 560 people, including 127 partners across Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide, we’re one of Australia’s 10 largest law firms and its 5th largest independent one.

We’re looking for hard-working and motivated law students who have excelled academically, are customer focused, commercially minded, work well in a team environment and are ready to commence their career with a major law firm.

Our industry coverage and client work is diverse and we are regularly engaged on challenging, complex, commercial work.

We are especially keen to talk to students who have, or are working towards a second degree in technical fields, such as commerce, engineering and science.

We offer a flexible, friendly and professionally stimulating environment that puts both our trusting client relationships and our staff’s wellbeing and development at the forefront.

Who are we looking for?

From day one, you’ll be an active participant in the team, involved in all aspects of legal practice, and working directly with experienced practitioners.

All of our clerks are viewed as potential graduates, and all of our graduates as potential leaders. We therefore look for the same qualities in our clerks and graduates that our lawyers need to possess. Our lawyers are genuinely interested in our clients and their businesses. They need a critical and curious mind and are passionate about developing solutions in their commercial context.

“ I felt included and part

of the team from day one which made me comfortable being myself, and made it a pleasure to come to work.

What it’s like to work for us The law is an incredibly rewarding profession, but

”

we recognise it can be demanding. For this reason we create an environment that is flexible, friendly, personable, collegiate and professionally stimulating.

Developing you

Our clients are at the centre of everything we do; so it is not only the collaborative, supportive relationships we have with each other, but also the well-established, trusting relationships we have with our clients, which make Thomson Geer a great place to work.

We will dedicate time to your development as an upand-coming lawyer in our team: an investment in you is an investment in our future, and the future of our valued clients. You will find that our partners and staff are

Our wellbeing@work program supports employees to maintain a healthy, balanced lifestyle.

approachable and happy to share their knowledge and experience with you. We encourage our clerks, graduates and trainees to get as much exposure to

We also have an active social committee, providing lots of opportunities to develop close relationships with your colleagues.

different practice areas and ways of working as they can – this is a reflection of how we work as a fully integrated, cohesive, national team.

Our Graduate Program Students who complete a clerkship with us will be eligible to be considered for a position in our next

“ I applied with Thomson

graduate program. This program runs for 12 months and includes rotation among different practice areas

Geer because it is a large Australian corporate law firm that is continuing to develop even further. I very much wanted to be a part of that growth and development. The depth and nature of work was also significant.

”

to help determine the area of law which best suits you.

We want to hear from you If your ambition is to develop a career in commercial law and you possess the drive to make your ambitions a reality, we want to hear from you! Applications for our 2022/2023 Sydney Summer Clerkships open on 6 June 2022 through our website.

tglaw.com.au Thomson Geer @ThomsonGeer

Sydney | Melbourne | Brisbane | Perth | Adelaide

UTS LSS 2022

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