LSM
LAW SCHOOL MANUAL
© 2018 UTS Law Students’ Society This publication is copyright. Except where permitted under the Copyright Act, no part of this publication may form or by any means (electronic or other wise) be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted by any process without specific written consent of the UTS Law Students’ Society. Enquiries are to be addressed to the publishers. Disclaimer All expressions of opinion published in the LSM are not the official opinion of the UTS Law Students’ Society unless expressly stated. The UTS Law Students’ Society accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of any opinions or information contained herein and readers should rely on their own enquiries to make decisions in their own interest. EDITORS Tom Brennan, Publications Director DESIGNED BY Issy Quigley WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO Margaret Cai, Vice President (Education), and Katya Shliapnikoff, President of the UTS LSS, for their help throughout the publication process.
Print Portal, Factory | Unit 4, 102-112 Edinburgh Rd, Marrickville, NSW 2204. www.printportal.com.au Law School Manual (LSM) is published in Sydney annually by the UTS Law Students’ Society PO Box 123, Broadway NSW, 2007 Room CB05A.01.08, UTS Haymarket Campus Cnr of Quay Street & Ultimo Road Ph (02) 9514 3448 Fax (02) 9514 3427 www.utslss.com * Where unspecified, all photos and images have been contributed by the UTS Law Students’ Society.
Contents 2 4 6 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 17 18 19 21 23 24 27 29
Dean’s Address President’s Welcome Navigating UTS Wellbeing Director of Students Education Tips for Surviving Law School Peer Mentoring Buddy Program Social Justice The Brennan Program Sports Careers Socials Post Graduate Statement Competitions Inspiration or Procrastination? What I Wish I Had Known When I Started Law
Dean’s Address Written by Leslie Hitchens
February 2018 A very warm welcome to UTS: Law and congratulations on being offered a place at UTS. I hope 2018 will be a rewarding year for you and the start of a life-long connection with UTS: Law. As Law Faculty Dean, I am responsible for the management of the Faculty, staff, and students, as well as the future direction of the Faculty’s vision. I feel very privileged to be Dean. I am constantly amazed by the dedication of the academic and professional staff and their ongoing commitment to your learning experience. It is a privilege also to know and work with students in the Faculty. Their enthusiasm, energy, and commitment are infectious. Many of the UTS Law Students’ Society (LSS) activities complement what we do formally in the Faculty: the competitions promote skills which are embedded in each of our subjects through the Graduate Attributes; Social Justice activities encourage you to consider law critically in its broader real world context; and, the social events are a good reminder that you need to take time away from study and work to relax. Looking after your health and wellbeing through rest and relaxation is an important aspect of developing your professional self. 2
I encourage you to get involved with the activities offered by the LSS, the Law Faculty and the University. These can be as important as what happens within the formal classroom for your understanding of law, the development of your professional profile, and your future career. And, additionally, be sure to get involved early on in your university studies. I have often heard students express regret that they left these activities until late in their degree.
There will be opportunities for you during your time at UTS to meet our talented alumni who are using their legal knowledge and skills to pursue a diverse range of careers.
One of my priorities as Dean is to connect with our alumni. We are building a life-long partnership with them, one which supports them and allows them to continue to engage with the Faculty community. UTS: Law offers an excellent legal education, and our alumni are enthusiastic champions for us.
Finally, I would like to commend the ‘Law School Manual’ to you. Take the time to read it as it provides a wonderful introduction to the life of a law student – both the serious side and the fun. The Manual also gives you an early insight into the professionalism and dedication of the LSS Executive.
I also think that as Dean it is important to find ways to connect with the student body and to hear from you. I try to attend as many Brennan Program and LSS events as possible. I am also on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Alumni may seem remote to you now, but a vibrant alumni community also offers benefits for current students through professional links and support. Alumni already help us in many ways such as judging competitions, giving guest lectures, offering internships, and mentoring students.
I look forward to meeting many of you during the year and I wish you all the best for 2018 at UTS.
Lesley Hitchens
Dean, UTS Faculty of Law Lesley.Hitchens@uts.edu.au. 3
President’s Welcome Written by Katya Shliapnikoff My name is Katya Shliapnikoff and I am the President of the UTS Law Students’ Society (LSS) for 2018. On behalf of the UTS LSS, I’d like to extend a warm welcome to everyone starting their law school journey. Congratulations on your acceptance into UTS Law School!
The discipline of law is fascinating as it underpins everything around us. This degree will arm you with a wealth of knowledge applicable to everyday life and unique skills. Such an education will open many doors for you throughout your degree and beyond graduation. Whether you want to be the next Harvey Specter, work in a non-government organisation, or anything in between, your degree will prepare you for this.
We can’t wait to your fresh faces around campus. At UTS: Law, we have a diverse and supportive community that I invite and encourage you all to become involved in. This year marks the beginning of an exciting journey where you will be exposed to several opportunities and where you will meet lifelong friends and future colleagues. The next few years will involve long hours of hard work and balancing multiple commitments while creating new memories. You will find that your legal education, whether as an undergraduate or postgraduate student, will be an incredibly demanding yet highly rewarding experience.
But beyond your career aspirations, the UTS LSS is here to support your Law School woes and highs on campus. The UTS LSS is the largest student society on campus and is your primary association as law students. Consider it the ‘other half ’ of your law degree.
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The UTS LSS aims to enrich the law student experience by providing you with many social events, legal skills competitions, careers events, sporting functions, publications and social justice initiatives.
not emphasise enough how important and valuable it is to engage with the UTS LSS. I hope you take the time to explore this wonderful publication. The ‘Law School Manual’ is filled with essential information about the UTS LSS, as well as tips and tricks for surviving your law degree. Please feel free to contact me throughout the year with any questions or just for a chat. You’ll find me around campus or you can email me at president@utslss.com. I look forward to meeting you all around university and hopefully at law camp!
As President, I am responsible for the overall management and direction of the UTS LSS, as well as providing leadership and support to the brilliant UTS LSS Council. The outstanding 35 person Council volunteers countless hours to organise and run initiatives across seven portfolios. We are always here to help, so please don’t hesitate to send us an email or drop by our office.
On behalf of the UTS LSS, I wish you the very best of luck in your first year of law.
Personally, being involved in several UTS LSS initiatives has been the highlight of my degree. Without the UTS LSS, I would not have met as many wonderful peers or have access to as incredible opportunities. I can
Katya Shliapnikoff
UTS LSS President 2018
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Around UTS Haymarket Attractions & Classic Eateries: - Dodgy dumplings - Chambers Coffee - Woolies - Market City of Paddy’s - Markets - Mocca coffee
- Darling Harbour - Kensingtom St Cafes - Lightrail - Bar Broadway - Spice Alley
Navigating UTS Student Centre: Call 1300 ASK UTS (1300 275 887)
UTS Student Centres can help with: - Subject and course information - Study plan, enrollment and class allocation enquiries - Progression and academic caution - Exam related and acadamic progress applications - Leave of Absence and concurrent study applications - Recognition of prior learning and subject substitution applications - Graduation matters
Art by Kimberly Luo
Welbeing Written by Julia Wyatt I’m sure many of you included a wellbeing goal (or goals) on your New Year’s resolution list. Perhaps like many of us, you want to work out more or included the generic ‘eat healthy’ statement. Maybe even focus on your mental health or start practicing mindfulness.
Career and university goals become more easily achieved when your physical, mental, and spiritual health are aligned.
But whether you actually wrote a list or not, the success of these promises always relates to your personal wellbeing.
Without giving too much away, you will be especially interested if you enjoy free food, cute animals, and interesting conversation starters. Our previous Smile Week will be expanding to the Smile Project, with events running across both semesters.
This year, the UTS Law Students’ Society (LSS) has made some resolutions of its own. As a founding signatory of the Tristan Jepson Memorial Foundation’s ‘Psychological Wellbeing: Best Practice Guidelines’, the UTS LSS acknowledges that mental health is a serious concern facing the legal industry and pledges to make mental health a priority.
We are also plan to increase our online presence. We’re keen to elevate our social media interaction and will redesign of the Wellbeing Blog with the help of the Student Wellbeing Committee.
We’ve decided to organise initiatives that support and encourage all members to achieve their wellbeing goals. Not to mention a little bit of fun and relaxation in the face of our chaotic lives at Law School. We believe that all aspects of your life can benefit from a greater emphasis on health.
Keep an eye out for these events on our social media and on campus throughout the year!
Julia Wyatt
UTS LSS Student Wellbeing Director 2018 wellbeing@utslss.com. 8
Director of Students
Written by Francis Johns
There’s an old riddle which goes something like this: ‘What is the one thing you can say to make a sad person happy and a happy person sad?’ The answer is ‘This too shall pass’. The point is that whatever our current situation, our fortunes will change. The Director of Students role exists because the faculty acknowledges that a student’s plans can be disrupted by illness, accidents, or family issues. Or maybe a single wrong decision can lead to a series of unpredictable and uncontrollable outcomes.
Sometimes a student’s academic results will require an appointment with me. We understand that we’re not always in complete control of our lives or are able to make fully informed choices. If you ever need to see me, or have been asked to see me, any meeting is going to focus on how you can be assisted.Your ultimate success is the focus.
Francis Johns francis.johns@uts.edu.au.
The Director of Students is here to assist those who might be having difficulties with their studies or may simply need help in navigating the university bureaucracy. The help could involve referring students to support such as Counselling or Accessibility Services; or helping with subject selection where their standard progression sequence has been interrupted; or assisting with explaining to other staff what might have gone wrong. 9
Education Written by Margaret Cai
The UTS Law Students’ Society (LSS) Education portfolio has an enviable depth and diversity to its initiatives. Law School isn’t always easy peasy lemon squeezy; so, we’re here to address your academic, networking, and mentoring needs like an additional limb of the classroom. In 2018, we will challenge and engage you in mainstream and niche legal perspectives while grounding this process in the practical approach UTS: Law is known for. Our events are fine-tuned to nurture your professional curiosity in their varied social contexts. First Year Peer Mentoring Program Take advantage of the First Year Peer Mentoring Program, a joint initiative run by the UTS LSS and UTS: Law Faculty. Available in both Autumn and Spring semesters, the Program features weekly, interactive classes facilitated by high-achieving Law students between weeks three and eight. This is an ideal way to supplement your learning of foundational legal concepts and skills as introduced in ‘Foundations of Law’ and ‘Ethics, Law and Justice’. The Buddy Project The Buddy Project pairs you with a more ‘seasoned’ law student to be your real-life Law School Manual. Coffee or lunch catchups are popular - Be sure to attend our Buddy Project launch to break the ice! Subject Tutoring Database For those who are looking for private tutoring, visit our subject tutoring database http://www.utslss.com/education/sub ject-tutoring/ and get in touch with the
high-achieving students who will, most definitely, run the world one day. Speaker Series The Speaker Series is the exciting series of interactive, legal seminars which are rooted in topical and controversial issues at the forefront of society and the profession. We invite esteemed guests to lead the spirited dialogue. Past topics include ‘The Law on Terror’, ‘International Relations and Clemency’, and ‘Technology, Telecommunications and the Strain on Privacy’. The Smile Project The UTS LSS recognises that physical and mental wellbeing is the cornerstone of a great community.The Smile Project is an initiative that aims to ameliorate some stress that comes with Law School. There are opportunities to have breakfast smoothies, morning yoga, and puppy sessions as well as Wellbeing packs with plenty of exciting items. Publications When you’ve re-read the ‘Law School Manual’ and ‘Camp Survival Guide’ for the hundredth time and exhausted all your light-reading options, our Publications team have you covered. The UTS LSS annual law journal, ‘The Full Bench’, is comprised of articles written by peers and academics which examine the state of the complexities within the law. Margaret Cai
UTS LSS Vice President (Education) 2018 vpe@utslss.com.
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Tips for Surviving Law School Written by Tom Brennan Get involved in Law School
Join societies and go to events! This will help you meet people and give you plenty of socializing to complement your studies. You may even discover a tangent of law that captures your interest and takes you on a whole new career trajectory.
Study!
We know the temptation is there to cut class. However, it’s a big mistake if you do. Your tutors can prove invaluable in walking you through some of the trickier parts of your course. Going to class and staying on top of your studies always helps in making exams that little bit easier!
Keep writing and listen to feedback
Joining a competition or submitting an article for publication is a great way to expand your knowledge of the law and put what you’ve learned into practice! This will also provide you with opportunities to get feedback on your ideas and, in turn, develop your legal thinking and writing skills.
Make friends and network
Law School sometimes takes a joint effort to soldier on through. Be sure to catch up with friends and swap notes with them to see their take on a subject you have trouble getting through. Additionally, don’t be afraid to approach an older law student for guidance as they can provide invaluable support and wisdom!
Don’t centre your whole life around law
If you have a hobby or job that you enjoy doing, be sure to keep at it to maintain a good balance with Law School. That way, you won’t fall into the trap of always thinking about uni and study. Hanging out with friends and exercising also helps, as well as reading books that aren’t your textbooks! 11
Peer Mentoring Are you feeling nervous about the unfamiliarity of university? Would you like to learn from the experiences of older law students that have been exactly in your position? Are you interested in an opportunity to socialise and meet like-minded students? Then Peer Mentoring is the perfect program for you! Peer Mentoring is the joint initiative between the UTS: Law Faculty and UTS Law Students’ Society (LSS) that is the perfect platform to help you as you commence Law School. What is Peer Mentoring? Peer Mentoring refers to the weekly classes that are run by older student mentors that strive to help first year undergraduate and Juris Doctor students. These classes provide students with the opportunity to gain insight, knowledge, and helpful hints in accordance with their studies. Why should you attend? Peer Mentoring is an accessible program that is designed to help and support you as you undertake your initial law subjects. It is the perfect informal setting to ask any questions that you may have and gain some useful tips from students who have been exactly in your position. In particular, classes are complementary to core content
and mentors are able to share their experiences and skills in an engaging platform. Whether you want to ask questions about your assessments, understand what IRAC means, or just meet a familiar face then Peer Mentoring is perfect for you. The topics covered are: - How to read and analyse legal authorities. - Legal research – strengths and weaknesses of databases and when to use them. - IRAC method for problem questions. - Time management skills. - Study skills and note taking. When does it run? Peer Mentoring is run from week three to week eight in both the Autumn and Spring Semesters. It is a drop in system whereby students may visit any of the classes at any of the available times. There is no registration and no requirement to attend every single lesson. Feel free to drop by whenever you like. More information will be available closer to the launch date and can be found on http://www.utslss.com/education/first-yearpeer-mentoring/.The date for the Autumn Session Peer Mentoring program launch will be Tuesday 27 March 2018. 12
Buddy Program Written by Gabriella Lubrano
Are you wanting a mentor? Looking for some guidance or a familiar face to ask all of your questions? The Buddy Project is perfect for you! The Buddy Project is an initiative designed by the UTS LSS that links first year students (‘Junior Buddies’) with students in their second year or above (‘Senior Buddies’). The program strives to connect individuals across various years and embodies the sense of community amongst the Law Society. The program is an invaluable opportunity to meet new people and allows older students to impart guidance from their own experiences. It allows older students to connect with first year students and make the transition into university a little easier and a little less daunting. For first year undergraduate or Juris Doctor Junior Buddies, the program is an excellent way to make a new friend and have a familiar face around university.The ability to hear helpful hints and tricks first hand make the transition into law and university life that much easier. Having someone to guide and provide reassurance can make a world of difference in those first few weeks of university. Buddies are able to learn more about their law subjects, UTS LSS initiatives, events, and overall university life.
The ability to mentor is an invaluable opportunity that is immensely rewarding. Students are able to empathise with the struggles and anxiety that are present when starting university. Mentors are able to impart guidance and reassurance as they help others. Most importantly, mentoring allows you to become part of the unifying community of UTS: Law. Send us an email at edu.internal@utslss.com with your name and contact details to let us know if you’re interested in becoming a Junior Buddy or Senior Buddy. The date for the Autumn Session Buddy Project Launch will be Tuesday 3 April 2018. Subject Tutoring: Are you looking for some extra help in your subjects? A formal tutoring program is also available for any student wanting to get ahead of their subjects. Just log onto http:// www.utslss.com/education/subject-tutoring/ and contact the tutors listed. The list of experienced UTS: Law students can help you get on the right track and start your degree on the right note! For further information, please feel free to access the LSS website at http://www.utslss.com/education/ or contact: Gabriella Lubrano UTS LSS Education (Internal Engagement) 13
Social Justice Written by Luma Khatib and Lachlan Woods The Social Justice portfolio of the UTS LSS is your opportunity to understand how to use your passion for social justice, equity, community service, and legal know-how for good. We run a variety of initiatives to support students who might find aspects of the Law School experiences difficult, as well as many initiatives to support the greater community. If you have any questions, or want to find out how you can help, please find more at our website at www. utslss.com/social-justice. Justice Action Committee (JAC) The JAC is the dedicated subcommittee of the Social Justice Portfolio. UTS: Law students can apply to join the committee, and all applications are then processed and selected by the Social Justice portfolio directors. The JAC work on government submissions, letters to Members of Parliament, and play an important role in supporting our events including the Social Justice Conference, Charity Trivia Nights, the Homelessness Clothes Drive, and the Asylum Seeker Support BBQ. Students are also encouraged to take advantage of the opportunity to recommend and develop
ideas that the JAC can pursue over the year. Last year, the JAC helped us raise almost $20,000 for different community organisations. All work is eligible for Leadership Through Service and/or Reflection on Justice Points under the Brennan Program. Equity & Diversity Our first ever Diversity Director, Luma Khatib, wants to ensure that students of all backgrounds are able to do their best at law school, and are not disadvantaged as a result of a minority status. A core value of Diversity in the Social Justice portfolio is the fostering of mutual understanding, respect and communication to all UTS students. For more information about our specific Inclusion Policy see it in full at www. utslss.com/social-justice/inclusion-policy. Our Equity Director, Lachlan Woods, can assist students in contacting various support services across UTS, such as the UTS Equity & Diversity Unit, UTS Student Support Services, and external organisations, such as Centrelink and youth support services. Contact the Equity Director if you require assistance. 14
Also look at the UTS LSS Resources Guide at www.utslssresourcesguide.wordpress.com for other contact information. Textbook Equity Scheme (TES) The TES functions to assist financially disadvantaged students by providing free semester-long textbook loans, and runs through Autumn, Spring and Summer sessions. An accepted application is valid for one academic year. The scheme is governed by terms and conditions that can be found on the application form and confirmed at the time of receiving the textbooks. To apply, students must complete the online application form and submit the necessary documentation to the Equity Director, who will assess your eligibility for the program. Applications open Monday 19 February for the Autumn session and Saturday 02 July for Spring session! Textbook Rental Scheme (TRS) The TRS also provides semester-long textbooks loans. The key difference is that it is open to ALL UTS: Law students. Students will be pay half of the total RRP to the LSS,and upon returning the book in good
condition, half of your initial payment will berefunded. The application process is quick and easy, and is accepted on availability of required books (priority is given to students accepted under the TES). Applications open 5 March for Autumn session and 16 July for Spring session! If you have any questions, feel free to contact us: Inga Neilsen UTS LSS Vice President (Social Justice) 2018 vpsj@utslss.com. Lachlan Woods UTS LSS Equity Director 2018 equity@utslss.com. Luma Khatib UTS LSS Diversity Director 2018 diversity@utslss.com.
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2018
FIRST YEAR LAW CAMP BROKEN BAY SPORT & RECREATION CENTRE 23 - 25 MARCH
JOIN US FILLED WITH
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UNFORGETTABLE WEEKEND ACTIVITIES, MISCHIEVOUS PRANKS FOR AN
AND
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Brennan Program Written by Milena Mitic The Brennan Program is a joint initiative between the UTS Law Students’ Society (LSS) and the UTS: Law Faculty. It is an ideal platform for law students to strengthen their social justice awareness and professional leadership capacity beyond the academic curriculum. The program consists of two components: Reflections on Justice and Leadership Through Service. Reflections on Justice (ROJ) Reflections on Justice allows law students to critically engage with complex concepts of justice and their social contexts through personal reflection and diverse events. Opportunities to earn ROJ points include attending film screenings and panel discussions, partaking in the annual Brennan Justice Short Film and Photography Competitions, participating in the Brennan book program, and attending the various student-led Discussion Groups. Students are also encouraged to attend external events of interest that may count towards the Program. Leadership Through Service (LTS) Leadership Through Service calls for students to contribute in community volunteering (both legal and non-legal in nature) that focuses on providing service to others and developing individual leadership capacity. Participants can experience opportunities ranging from working with Indigenous Australian organisations as a teacher of English literacy to child refugees to simply offering their time at a legal clinic or community legal centre such as the Refugee Advice and Casework Service (RACS). Through this, participants can earn LTS hours which double up as valuable practical life and legal experience. By accumulating enough LTS hours and ROJ points in the course of your journey, you will ultimately be eligible to receive an invaluable Leadership Award presented annually by the Brennan Program Staff!
Why Join? The Brennan Program enables students to engage with the meaning of justice in different social contexts in a holistic way. However, the program is also flexible to suit individual passions and is accommodating to any opportunities outside of The Brennan Program that have a social justice concern. If there is a social justice related initiative or work opportunity that you would love to get involved in, get in contact with either me or the Brennan Program Team to have it count towards your journey! Issues of social justice and equality are intrinsically linked to the law, its study, and our role as future practitioners of law. The Brennan Program encourages students to expand their learning and engagement with the law and discover, hands on, where their legal skills interact with real world issues. By empowering students to explore their own interests in challenging and creative ways, the program helps to create compassionate and conscientious graduates who will carry their passion for social justice with them as they enter the professional world. The Brennan Program, being the only program of its nature existing throughout all NSW law schools, is an opportunity you cannot miss out on! For further information on the Brennan Program, visit us on Facebook at http://www.utslss.com/social-justice/brennan-program/. Alternatively, all information on The Brennan Program can be found in the 2018 edition of the ‘Brennan Justice & Leadership Program Handbook’. Opportunities to become involved in social justice activities or volunteering are also regularly posted on the ‘UTS LSS Legal and Social Justice Opportunities’ and ‘UTS LSS Discussion Forum’ pages on Facebook as well as on UTS Online. If you’re in any doubt, or have any queries, feel free to send me an email: Milena Mitić UTS LSS Brennan Program Director 2018 brennan.program@utslss.com.
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Sports Written by Lucy Slater Socialising with peers, stepping away from the books and caring for your physical and mental health is crucial in surviving the semesters ahead and what better way to do this then participating in SPORT! We have an array of exciting initiatives you can get involved in during 2018, some of which include: INTERVASITY SPORT COMPEITION: The Intervarsity competition provides a great opportunity to meet fellow sport enthusiasts from a range of other University law societies including: USYD, UNSW, MQ, Newcastle, Wollongong, ANU and many more. Although subject to change; Soccer, netball and touch football are normally battled out with a free BBQ provided at the end of the day, allowing for a mix of mingling and banter. BOOT CAMP: Don’t have the time or money to attend F45 classes? Don’t fret because LSS Boot camp is back and better than ever this year. Boot camp involves a weekly session with a trainer running a range of classes including cardio, hit training and yoga. Bring your friends and have a sweat! THE COLOUR RUN: This year we are looking to enter a UTS LSS team into the annual colour run held in August. This 5km fun run is a fitness event suitable for everyone! Look out for future updates on this event.
INTERFACULTY DODGEBALL/ NETBALL: The interfaculty competition is an opportunity to duke it out against fellow UTS societies such as BSOC and show off your law society pride. The competition consists of several netball and dodge ball games followed by a celebration at the loft upon completion. The interfaculty competition is a great way to get involved and meet new people across a range of year groups and societies. MATCH VIEWINGS: It is just as important to mix off field as it is on, which is why we are hoping to celebrate major sporting events throughout 2018! The aim is to bring a large group of students together to watch matches such as the state of origin as well as to attend various cricket, AFL and NRL games. Keep your eye out for plenty of emails and posts throughout the semester and if an event interests you; sign up, come along and make some new friends! No experience is necessary, there’s a chance for everyone to get active and be involved. For more information feel free to contact Lucy at sports@ utslss.com 18
Careers Written by Jackson Kang
Although you have just started your law degree, you’ll usually find that you don’t have a clear idea of where you want to be when you finish. While you might have dreams of being a solicitor in a commercial law firm or a barrister in your own chambers, you may also find yourself trying to figure out how to get there. Similarly, you may also wish to discover the steps to become an in-house lawyer for a company, a United Nations advocate for Human Rights, or an advisor for a legal-tech startup. Regardless of where you see yourself, the career opportunities a law degree opens are endless and the UTS Law Students’ Society (LSS) Careers team are here to help you through your journey at UTS: Law.
such as personal branding, Curriculum Vitae (CV) writing, cover letter building, and interviewing skills. We also run other initiatives such as Clerkship Seminars, Networking Evenings, and a Clerk Panel. Although these initiatives are targeted at students in the final or penultimate year of their law degree, it’s recommended that you attend them as you’ll gain invaluable knowledge and potentially develop beneficial connections; giving you a great edge in the game of professional development.
Online Opportunities Our events and publications are designed to provide you with career information and networking opportunities relevant to you. We highly recommend liking our ‘UTS LSS Legal and Social Justice Opportunities’ page on Facebook and visiting our UTS LSS website (found at http://www.utslss.com/) to ensure you never miss an opportunity to gain some work or volunteering experience. Some of the opportunities posted on these pages include paralegal positions, international internships, clerkships, and graduate opportunities as well as a wide range of other UTS LSS Careers initiatives. Career Activities In the first semester, there are several Skills Workshops the UTS LSS Career portfolio runs that you are encouraged to attend. These workshops are run by industry leading professionals and focus on topics
Career Publications The UTS LSS will also be releasing career guides this year. As a first year, you will find that our guides will present to you comprehensive information about the many career paths you can choose from when armed with your degree. Regardless of what you decide to do with your degree, the UTS LSS and the Careers team are here to help equip you with useful knowledge and facilitate career opportunities. If you ever have any questions, queries or suggestions, feel free to email us at: Jackson Kang UTS LSS Vice President (Careers) 2018 vpca@utslss.com. Ravi Dutta UTS LSS Careers (Activities) Director 2018 careers.activities@utslss.com. Grace Wade UTS LSS Careers Publications Director 2018 careers.publications@utslss.com.
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Socials
Written by Anthony Guerrieri Whoever told you that studying law at UTS was all about tutorials and books clearly never attended a UTS Law Students’ Society (LSS) social event. If you’re looking to meet like-minded people, make unforgettable memories and get the latest flick for your Instagram, be sure to attend our exciting social events.
First Year Law Camp
Forget anything that you have been told about camp, the UTS LSS First Year Law Camp is a jam-packed weekend of fun activities, mischievous pranks for ‘camp cash’, and of course, partying. If you’re looking for friends to share the adventure that is Law School, then Law Camp is the place for you.The amount of lifelong friendships that have been formed at camp over the years would be enough to fill a football stadium. When? Friday 23 March to Sunday 25 March.
First Year Law Drinks & Start of Semester Party
If you’re unable to attend camp, First Year Law Drinks is another great opportunity to meet your fellow first years and celebrate your first few weeks as a law student. Want another incentive to come along? The event is free for first year law students. The good times continue with the Start of Semester Party directly after, where you can celebrate with law students from all years. When? Thursday 29 March.
Law Cruise
Get ready to seas the day at the UTS LSS Law Cruise. Arguably one of the most fun socials events on the LSS calendar, you will cruise Sydney harbour with endless food and drinks, great tunes, and hilarious costumes.You are going to need your floaties for the biggest boat bash of the year! When? Mid May.
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Socials Law Ball
Law Ball is the big ‘show stopper’ where law students from all year groups come together dressed to impress. A three-course dinner, live band, DJ, and celebratory drinks all make for a spectacular evening. Set at a breathtaking venue, this year’s Law Ball is set to be bigger than ever. Stay tuned. When? Friday 28 September.
End of Semester
After a huge first year, the End of Semester Party brings law students together to celebrate before the long summer break. With countless food, drinks, and tunes, be sure to join us for one last dance before the end of the year. When? November. For any further questions, feel free to contact me:
Anthony Guerrieri
UTS LSS Vice President (Activities) vpa@utslss.com.
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Post Graduate Statement Written by John Cousins Welcome back to Uni! Whether you graduated last year or last decade, you are in for an exciting and rewarding new journey as a postgraduate law student! One thing is certain, you have made a great decision choosing to study at UTS. I completed my undergraduate degree at Sydney University in B. Com (Liberal Studies) and begun a career in consulting before I made the decision to enrol in postgrad law at UTS. It is one of the best decisions I have ever made. The people, the classes, the staff, and the facilities are all in your favour! As the Postgraduate Representative for the UTS Law Students’ Society, it is my job to make sure that we have a supportive culture that helps our community be the best it can be for everyone involved.To help you make the most out of your time, here is some wisdom that has helped me make the most out of my time here:
Keep a balance – Although it can seem overwhelming at times when your life is busy, your job is demanding and you are steaming toward exams, it’s important to take a break. Whether unwinding for you means heading to the gym, hanging with some mates or sitting by the beach – make sure you do it! One of the best things you can do to maintain a positive state of mind is to make sure you have this downtime. Get involved –the UTS LSS provides a multitude of opportunities to have a lot of law related fun and meet some like-minded people. Whether it’s coming along to drinks, competing in a moot or negotiation, listening in at a speaker series or engaging at an employer networking evening, your law school experience will be greatly enriched the more you embrace it! Law school can be a great period of your life, so make the most of it! There will be times where the readings seem insurmountable and the legal principle might as well be in a foreign language, but stick with it. When it all clicks and comes to a close (which it will!) you will feel fantastic for doing so! If you’re ever at a bit of a loss, feel free to get in touch!
We are all in this together – One of the best things I have found at UTS is how collaborative and supportive the cohort of students can be. Marking isn’t done along a bell curve so ask the person next to you a question or answer theirs. We will all be better off if we help each other out!
John Cousins
Get organised! – Trying to manage life, a job, friends and law school is no mean feat. Assessments can creep up on you, your friend’s birthday or weddings can similarly sneak up on you so get a calendar (Google calendar) or a Diary and plan things out.
UTS LSS Postgraduate Representative 2018 postgrad@utslss.com.
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Competitions Written by Jack Collins
Competitions provide you with the opportunity to develop your speaking, research, and reasoning skills in a practical environment. It doesn’t matter how far along you are in your degree, the benefits associated with participation are immense. Competitions look fantastic on your CV, and provide you with the opportunity to interact with other law students, faculty members, and legal practitioners. How do I get involved? Junior Competitions are held in the Spring Semester and are directly aimed at students with no previous experience. They provide the perfect platform for you to develop the necessary skills without fear of being swept away by veteran competitors. Furthermore, this ‘sand-pit’ experience will prove invaluable when making the jump to Opens and Intervarsity Competitions later in your degree. Prior to the commencement of Junior Competitions, there will be workshops held for each competition. These workshops will allow you to get a firm grasp of the basics, while also providing you with the opportunity to have all of your burning questions answered. 24
What are the competitions? Mooting Mooting is the most prestigious and demanding competition offered by the UTS Law Students’ Society (LSS). In teams of two or three, you will be provided with a factual scenario from which you must develop written arguments. You will then present these arguments in a courtroom, where a judge (or sometimes multiple judges) will subject you to fierce questioning. Aside from the Junior and Open Competitions, there are subject-specific moots held throughout the year. Success in Mooting can lead to intervarsity opportunities locally, nationally, and internationally. Client Interview Developing a strong working relationship with clients will be the key to your success when you enter the legal profession. Client Interview presents you with the opportunity to hone these skills before entering the workforce. This competition requires little preparation and only basic legal knowledge, as the emphasis is instead placed upon using interpersonal and professional skills to build a strong rapport with your client. Negotiation As clients are increasingly looking for ways to settle disputes outside of the courtroom, the negotiation skills gained through participation in this competition are becoming essential. Negotiation involves a simulated legal dispute in which your team of two will aim to reach an outcome which not only satisfies your client’s needs, but also reflects the interests of the opposing side.
Witness Examination Are you a fan of ‘Law And Order’? Then Witness Examination could be the competition for you! This competition will see you act as counsel for either the Prosecution or Defence in a criminal matter.You must construct a plausible and convincing case, while simultaneously discrediting the case of your opposing counsel. The aim of the game is to argue your case to prove it beyond a reasonable doubt. In addition to these four competitions, you will also have the opportunity to compete in a range of more tailored competitions. These include Mediation, Paper Presentation, and Advice Writing. Student Volunteer Committee If you don’t quite feel ready to compete, but still remain eager to get involved in competitions, then you can sign up to become a member of the Student Volunteer Committee. The Student Volunteer Committee allows you to serve as either a volunteer client or as a witness. In doing so, you will be able to learn the ins and outs of various competitions, and pick up tips from more experienced competitors. Keep an eye on the UTS Law Students’ Society Facebook page for the call for volunteers in early 2018. For more information, please see the UTS LSS website (http://www.utslss.com/competitions/) or feel free to contact me:
Jack Collins
UTS LSS Vice President (Competitions) 2018 vpc@utslss.com. 25
START OF SEMESTER
START YOUR YEAR
WITH SOME BANGERS
Inspiration or Procrastination? Written by Tom Brennan When you finally get the chance to pull yourself away from the hectic networking, partying, and socialising that surrounds Law School, you’re faced with an abundance of literary and pop culture to help along your passion for law in a more individualistic setting. Some of these may have informed your decision to study law at UTS in the first place, but which ones are the best?
Movies ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ Based on Harper Lee’s seminal American novel, this classic coming-of-age film set against the backdrop of racial injustice in 1930s Alabama gave a good portion of law students everywhere their first hero in the form of Gregory Peck’s Atticus Finch. Although it’s well-meaning portrayal of said injustice has (inevitably) aged slightly problematically over the years, it’s still well worth a watch!
‘A Few Good Men’ Possessing an electric combination of an overwritten Aaron Sorkin screenplay and hammy acting by pretty much every actor involved, ‘A Few Good Men’ is nonetheless worth it for the climax alone. As well as delivering one of the few immortal lines of 1990s cinema (‘You Can’t Handle the Truth!’ Bellows Jack Nicholson), it also successfully conveys the satisfaction of working in a legal team and delivering justice when everything fits into place.
Books ‘To Kill a Mockingbird’ (Harper Lee) If you’re coming from the film and want to check out the book, it’s highly recommended that you do so! As great an actor as Gregory Peck is, the novel has the advantage of fleshing out the inner thoughts and actions of the characters involved in the trial in a more complex way. The sequel, ‘Go Set a Watchman’, is also worth a look to see the struggle of staying true to legal ethics in the face of cultural and social pressure.
‘The Castle’ Less influential than ‘To Kill A Mockingbird’ for law students generally, yet undoubtedly more familiar on a cultural level for us, this hilarious 1997 film provides a great overview of Australian law at both a high-minded, heroic level and a slightly sleazier, more ‘The Tall Man’ (Chloe Hooper) incompetent one (the latter being in the This book recounts the real-life years long form of Dennis Denuto, a lawyer with a search for justice when an Indigenous Palm slippery grasp of basic constitutional prin- Island resident is found dead in police cusciples). At the heart of it, though, is the tale tody. Although haunting in its ambiguity and of ordinary Darryl Kerrigan and his victory historical background, it is nonetheless recin learning the law and keeping his home! ommended reading for those who wish to 27
‘No Small Change: The Road to Recognition for Indigenous Australia’ (Frank Inspiration or procrastination Brennan) Constitutional buffs (or ‘Castle’ fans), this one’s for you! As one of the great Australian legal writers and human rights investigators, Frank Brennan (son of the Former Chief Justice Gerard Brennan himself!) gives a complex, yet optimistic overview of the steps needed to achieve constitutional reform in recognising Indigenous Australian statehood by starting small. Similarly, this book also acts as a good starting point for understanding Indigenous Australian rights under the law and how to make them more just.
TV Shows ‘Rake’ Controversy surrounding its real-life subject Charles Waterstreet aside, ‘Rake’ still remains one of the best legal dramas on Australian TV. The world of Richard Roxburgh’s rockstar barrister Cleaver Greene may be out-there for some, but the smart writing and nuanced characterisations will pull you in anyway.
‘Crownies’ Ever since the success of spin-off series ‘Janet King’, the original ‘Crownies’ has largely remained lost in the mists of time in the eyes of current TV audiences. However, if you’re interested in what it’s like working as a Crown Prosecutor, then it’s definitely worth a watch before you proceed to its more successful offspring.
Video Games ‘Ace Attorney’ series OBJECTION! Those of you into gaming may find yourself inappropriately spouting this often in your classes should you choose to pick up Capcom’s text-based adventure series. Still, attorney protagonist Phoenix Wright is a suitably heroic role model in a world where criminal attorneys must successfully defend their clients in trials that last as little as three days!
‘Suits’ Bland name, solid show. The manic energy of ‘Rake’ makes its leap to New York as you’ll find yourself gripped by the travails of rule-breaking lawyers Harvey Specter and Mike Ross. With more episodes than Rake, however, it’s recommended that you set aside a lazy weekend or stuvac day to binge-watch it before adjusting yourself back into study mode. 28 28
Things I Wish I Had Known When I Started Law Everyone else is also figuring it all out, and no one really has a clue what they’re doing. Don’t worry, we’re all in this together! Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask questions! The seminars, networking events, and range of programs that the LSS advertises are there to help you - take advantage of them as soon as you can. ALWAYS factor in time for referencing. Clear, short, and simple writing is best. Don’t make it harder for yourself or your marker/editor to try and parse out what you’re trying to say. Making thorough notes throughout the semester will not only equip you well for our open-book exams, but they’re also a sure-fire way of making you the most popular person in the cohort at the end of the semester (be ready for a million facebook messages!) Thanks for reading the 2018 Edition of the ‘Law School Manual’! If our quality content has reinvigorated your passion for writing from the slump of HSC English, then why not contribute to one of our publications? For more information, please follow the ‘UTS Law Students’ Society’ and ‘The Full Bench’ Facebook page for opportunities to contribute or even to join a committee. Alternatively, feel free to contact Publications Director Tom at publications@utslss.com for more information on these opportunities. One final word: From all of us at the UTS Law Students’ Society Council for 2018, we wish you the best of luck for your law degree! Congratulations on making it this far, and here’s to the next amazing step of your life! 29
Like what you see? Contribute to a UTS LSS publication this year! For more information, keep an eye on our website for calls for contributors or email publications@utslls.com.