Obiter Edition Two 2021

She has a world of ready wealth, Our minds and hearts to bless— Spontaneous wisdom breathed by health, Truth breathed by cheerfulness.

'The Tables Turned' Fifth verse ― William Wordsworth

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Acknowledgement of Country Dictum Society would like to acknowledge the Woiworung and the Boonwurrung people of the Kulin nation, who are the Traditional owners of our University land.

We extend our acknowledgements to the traditional custodians of Australian land and pay our respects to their culture, and their Elders past, present and emerging.

We recognise that sovereignty has never been ceded, and pay our respects to the diversity of indigenous peoples , their communities and cultures, and the intrinsic connection to the land and waters as the Traditional Owners to Country.

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CONTENTS Nature and Law: Quote of the Issue..................................................................................................2 Acknowledgement of Country.............................................................................................................3 Editor's Note............................................................................................................................................5 The Introduction.....................................................................................................................................6 Dictum Membership Packages...........................................................................................................7 Meet the Dictum Committee...............................................................................................................8 Events of the Season.............................................................................................................................9 A Lawyer's Conundrum.......................................................................................................................10 Seasoned Artist.....................................................................................................................................16 The Seasonal Law School Existential Crisis....................................................................................19 Discussing Future Careers.................................................................................................................20 The Mood to Moot................................................................................................................................25 Cross Laws..............................................................................................................................................27 Law School Housekeeping.................................................................................................................28 Leo Cussen: Preparing your CV.........................................................................................................30 Human Rights - Internship and Volunteering................................................................................32 Law School Gradman...........................................................................................................................35 Junior Moot 2021 Winners.................................................................................................................36 Under the Covers.................................................................................................................................38 Obiter Cover (Issue 1)..........................................................................................................................39 Gratitude to Sponsors.........................................................................................................................40

Editor's Note Dear Reader, Hello, if you are new to this side of Dictum, and welcome if you are a returning reader of The Obiter. Our first issue explored the nuances of art and creativity that while an unconventional attribute to associate with Law, add valuable substance to the law written and implemented in our legal world.

In Issue No.2 of the Obiter, we divulge in the Laws of nature and the nature of laws. Our Seasoned Artist, doles out advice on navigating through law school as well as the legal industry.

Peep into written pieces, the brainteasers, and narrative experiences shared in this Issue as we move towards the final half of our first Semester in 2021.

I hope this experience will be as enjoyable for you to read as it was for me to write.

Sincerely, Malaika Nambiar Director of Publications

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D I C T U M

S O C I E T Y

THE INTRODUCTION Dictum Society was established in 2012, and has successfully engaged and serviced a wide variety of external and internal stakeholders in this short time. We are a Society which aims to represent the diverse aspirations and attributes amongst our law students and improve their university experience.

We achieve this by hosting a combination of initiatives and events, ranging from careers, competitions, social events and education programs.

Dictum Society is affiliated as a College Society through Victoria University’s Student Union (VUSU).

This means that Dictum Society is the peak student representative body for Victoria University’s College of Law and Justice.

THE

OB IT ER

The Obiter is Dictum Society's official magazine. The magazine provides its readers with content that is fresh, stimulating, and diverse.

In 2021, the magazine aims to keep its readers on their toes. From students to professors to legal legends, each issue passes the baton to one renowned law veteran who will be sharing valuable advice and riveting anecdotes in our 'Seasoned Artist' Series.

You don't want to miss our 'Dictum Editorials' where the Committee expresses their creativity through a plethora of topics all of which aim to spark new conversations.

Our content also caters for the lighthearted with our brainteaser puzzles and fun facts that are peppered through out the magazine. As well as our newly introduced 'LOL: Laugh Out Law' column which aims to publish funny legal cases and narratives for the entertainment of our readers.

The Obiter Magazine is more than just a publication stuffed with articles. It is a reflection of the innovation and tenacity that the Society and its people embody.

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DICTUM MEMBERSHIP PACKAGES STANDARD MEMBERSHIP

$10

Includes: Access to our exam prep sessions Access to the Society’s exclusive social events Access to free food during social events Eligibility to participate in mooting competitions Access to exclusive careers events and programs Access to exclusive networking events Access to our 2021 Careers Law Guide Eligibility to be mentored in our Peer 2 Peer mentoring program Eligibility to become a Dictum Society volunteer Eligibility to partake in our Leadership training programs , such as Speech Master Eligibility to partake in our society’s competitions such as the Writing Competition Discounts tickets to our Law Ball, Trivia night, Halloween dress up party, movie night & many more!

Eligible to make submissions to the Society’s student publications The Obiter & the E-Newsletter Receive a Membership pack full of goodies ! (may be available when campus opens) Most importantly, to be a part of a student team dedicated to making your law school experience the best !

VIP MEMBERSHIP

$15

Includes: Access to our exam prep sessions Access to the Society’s exclusive social events Access to free food & tap during social events Eligibility to participate in mooting competitions Access to exclusive careers events and programs Access to exclusive networking events Access to our 2021 Careers Law Guide Eligibility to be mentored in our Peer 2 Peer mentoring program Eligibility to become a Dictum Society volunteer Eligibility to partake in our Leadership training programs , such as Speech Master Eligibility to partake in our society’s competitions such as the Writing Competition Bigger discounted tickets to our Law Ball, Trivia night, Halloween dress up party, movie night & many more!

Discounts on any merchandise Priority given to VIP members who are on the Peer Mentoring waitlist Eligible to make submissions to the Society’s student publications: The Obiter & the E-Newsletter Receive a Membership pack full of goodies ! (may be available when campus opens) Most importantly, to be a part of a student team dedicated to making your law school experience the best !

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DICTUM COMMITTEE PRESIDENT Aayushi Patel

VICE-PRESIDENT Falak Sakak

DIR. ACTIVITIES Arvin Ravindran

DIR. EDUCATION Nomvula Ndhlovu

SECRETARY Farriz Roslan

TREASURER Barsha Bhandari

DIR. PUBLICATIONS DIR. COMPETITION Jakob Hunt Malaika

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Events of the Season

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"You are not in the business of justice, you are in the business of law'.

A Lawyer's Conundrum The lawmakers were rattled but their mask remained unmoved, Lips coated with unbias, their judgment set the truth.

The mother wept for justice, her boy now kept under Earth. The other half of the courtroom showed, the Lawyer with a man unhurt.

An innocent victim, a guilty man, a house of maxims and watchful eyes, To weigh the proof and weave the laws, to pass decisions on their demise.

That night the Lawyer laid awake, questioning if justice was truly delivered, While the murderer lay warm in bed and the boy under Earth shivered.

Heavy lay the head that wears the duty of serving citizen's justice, and heavier still for law-keepers that embody laws and trust it.

With an unraveled spool of troubled thoughts, the lawyer stood before lady justice, questions in mind.

Have I play the role of law-keeper, if I fought for the wrong side?

The lady sighed, the lady saw, the lady smiled a woeful smile. She placed the balance on the ground, for she'd awaited this question a hopeful while .

Dear lawyer, you are not a justice-keeper, but a keeper of all laws designed. You are not the people's messiah, but the vessel of laws you find.

You seek the truth and not true justice, For if you did, you'd truly trust it.

Don't just chase the right, you may run into the wrong. But be a lawyer in honest, justice will follow along.

-- By Malaika Nambiar

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Seasoned Artist Desi Vlahos (Ms) She/Her LLB, Grad Dip Ed, Grad Cert Literary Studies

Desi is an Australian Legal Practitioner and Mentor at Leo Cussen, Centre for Law, Victoria, Australia. She was admitted as a solicitor in the Supreme Court of Victoria in 2005 and has practiced in mid-tier, suburban and private firms. In 2013, Desi completed a Graduate Diploma of Education with a focus on legal studies and literature. As a certified mental health first aid trainer, Desi is a strong advocate for mental health, the well-being of new lawyers and the profession as a whole. She regularly presents at conferences in Australia as an ambassador for mentally healthy workplaces. In 2019 she contributed to a book chapter on time perspective in relation to wellbeing and productivity in Lexis Nexis’ ‘Wellness for Law: Making Wellness Core Business.’ Most recently Desi joined the International Bar Association’s Wellbeing Taskforce charged with tackling the problem of poor mental health among the world’s lawyers and in promoting policies and working practices to help to improve wellbeing within the legal profession.

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Seasoned Artist What inspired you to pursue work in the field of law?

As long as I can remember I have always had a ‘justice’ streak in me. I have a distinct memory as a 6-year-old witnessing a classmate being teased at school. Even though I don’t recall us being close friends, I simply wasn’t going to stand for it and intervened. In the same vein, I was on the receiving end of bullying in high school for something as simple as having a “different” name – I stood out. I knew from relatively young that I couldn’t sit back and watch injustice without advocacy. This would often mean challenging the dominant paradigm and yes - this did result in a few locked-horn situations with some teachers!

We are fortunate that maturity teaches us to pick our battles and to approach these situations from a place of collaboration and professionalism.

Were there any myths or misconceptions busted when you entered the industry?

It’s interesting, at university you spend a good part of 5 years studying theory and case law and these are entirely necessary to provide you with the foundations for each practice area. I did my articled clerkship in 2004 and was very surprised to learn that ‘being a lawyer” was vastly different to ‘studying law’. Effective communication (both verbal and written), client management and time mastery became the zenith of successful advocacy for my clients. Whilst my articled year provided me with invaluable experience, I think the Practical Legal Training (PLT) course far outweighs the benefits for students in priming them with practice-ready skills to enter the workforce with confidence. The PLT course at Leo Cussen is a pivotal “safety bridge” between the theoretical knowledge gained from university to actually working as a lawyer in the profession.

Who is your role model from the industry and why?

I am a magnet to authentic human experience.

Ask anyone who knows me well - if you share your heart with me or demonstrate vulnerability, I will always be there to lend an ear. In an industry where stigma around mental health and wellbeing continues to be pervasive, I am always inspired by people who support the “real and authentic human” in all aspects of our lives – including work. Whoever thought they were mutually exclusive? Work IS a part of our lives. I met The Hon. Associate Justice Mary-Jane Ierodiaconou at a Wellness for Law conference in 2019 and was immediately struck by her personable and humble demeanour. As a member of the judiciary, Associate Justice Ierodianconou has been an active contributor in policy and practical initiatives to improve wellbeing in the legal profession. Her advocacy and thought papers continue to be a source of inspiration for me in driving sustainable transformation in the industry. She tells us that “each of us can create a positive wellbeing ripple as it is imperative for ourselves, our communities and future generations that we do”.

What is an experience you took on as a result of law that you loved and would do again?

A colleague and I taught a time management workshop to university students in 2019. There is a profound connection between time management behaviour and our productivity and wellbeing.

We generally receive no instruction how to best manage our time in practice and in this workshop, we unearthed those factors that impede our progress and inherent personality characters that law students tend to possess.

Using a kitchen analogy, we demonstrated the parallels between the pressures and organisation

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Seasoned Artist needed by a head chef to that of an early lawyer in practice.

What do you do to stand out or hold ground in the industry as a woman?

For me “standing out” isn’t gender specific. There will be supporters and critics in any walk of life regardless of gender. I think it’s about finding like-minded individuals who foster similar values to yours and are willing to support and promote one another in your collective efforts. We also need to be introspective and ask ourselves, what is our ultimate goal in “standing out”? What is our purpose? What are we trying to achieve? Is there virtue in our efforts to stand out? I read a quote that said “attach yourself not to a job but a purpose, as that is where true peace and happiness will be found.” Finding purpose and meaning is one of the attributes of ‘flourishing’ in positive psychology.

How do you cope stress, pressure, and/ or feeling unmotivated?

And hasn’t the pandemic really tested us? The way stress affects us is a paradox. Too little leaves us feeling unmotivated and bored, but too much can result in us feeling anxious, on edge and even burnt out.

The key is how we interpret stress. If we view stress as something negative to be avoided, we find ourselves suffering or ‘languishing’ as sociologist Corey Keyes put it. If we view stress as something positive to be embraced, we flourish. It turns out that instead of feeling inadequate in the face of anxiety these stress emotions become a signal that we are striving to reach our goals. The reality is that having a meaningful life, one that includes multiple commitments, goals and relationships will undoubtably result in stress.

The more meaningful our lives are, the more

stress we experience. Worrying about the future means that you are focused on building a better one.

Our mental health is something we need to be constantly checking-in on. If you look at stress from a ‘demands versus resources’ perspective, you will then be able to implement healthy coping mechanisms to the stressful situation from your own personal resource toolkit. This might be exercise, taking your dog for a walk or even 5 minutes of mindfulness. It will be different for everyone. I’ve recently taken up scuba diving and try to get down the Peninsula when I can for a dive. The main focus of diving in the early days is on your breathing. The breathing pattern you utilise underwater not only improves buoyancy and overall diving experience but also creates a more relaxed mind and body. Even the rhythmic sound of our bubbles as we breathe out contributes to a more relaxed and meditative state of mind. I find this helps to fill my cup and de-stress.

What would you change about our industry? If yes, why. If no, why not?

I prefer to refer to it as ‘transformation’ rather than change. We must acknowledge that our profession is constantly evolving and with rapid technological advancement, this is inevitable. We must not however leave behind the importance of legal ethics as the foundation of our system including our functioning as healthy lawyers. I often feel that legal ethics may have spent too much time focusing on the social role and function of the legal profession that it sometimes forgets the humanity of the lawyer themself. In this regard, my vision is that we reinforce how the individual lawyer can maintain their humanity and relationships whole exercising

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Seasoned Artist their public professional role. The experience of being a lawyer should not just be about individual wellbeing but should be about the wellbeing of the profession and the law as a whole.

Favourite movie that you believe accurately or effectively represents our industry? Or is your favourite depiction of the same.

That's a hard one! I have a number of favourite legal movies but none that are really accurate representations! Some favourites include: To Kill a Mockingbird (classic). I haven’t seen On the basis of Sex but I hear it’s fabulous! Always get a great laugh from my favourite legal series ‘Rake’ and mostly recently ‘Fisk’.

Do you have any professional tips to recommend to upcoming graduates?

There seems to be a common-held view that the successful career path of a law student is defined by the amount of clerkships one secures or the graduate offers one receives. I know that this process can create a lot of anxieties and often, unhealthy competition. So you didn’t get a clerkship? Sure, you may feel disappointed and undoubtably be hit with waves of negative selftalk. You’re human after all. It is important to remind yourself that a successful career doesn’t have to be a linear progression to partnership.

There may be twists and turns, lateral moves in your pursuit for “what you want”. And what do you want? This is a question I ask my students all the time. Perhaps you want to work in the community legal sector, maybe you’d like an inhouse role, you may even decide that the law is not for you. These formative years are about consolidating your values and working out “what you want”. And that’s going to be very different to what someone else will want. Don’t

compare yourself to others. The old adage “comparisons are odious” couldn’t be truer. Find your purpose, use your influence, maintain your professionalism and integrity and do good for the world. And it is this virtue, that makes the law an honourable profession.

Are you currently involved in any upcoming workshops that may help our students, through your role in the industry?

I have previously delivered interactive time management workshops to a number of LSS at universities as they relate to our productivity and our wellbeing. I was privileged to deliver the first of the mental health first aid courses to members at ALSA last year.

I am currently involved as a member of the International Bar Association (IBA) Wellbeing Taskforce charged with tackling the problem of poor mental health among the world’s lawyers and in promoting policies to help to improve wellbeing within the legal profession. In 2020, the pandemic highlighted the strain on the mental health of lawyers around the world. This prompted the launch of a global project to address the mental wellbeing of professionals around the world. The key initial phase of the project consisted of two global surveys, one for individual lawyers and the other for law firms and other institutions, including bar associations, law societies and in-house legal departments. The interim results of the surveys have now been published and I am now garnering support from the wider profession to assist in sharing the findings. Phase two of the project will involve an analysis of the data in addressing the key issues with a view to create a set of internationally recognised best practice guidelines.

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The Seasonal Law School Existential Crisis My first case as a lawyer was at the tender age of four. In my final year of kindergarten, I came in dressed in a makeshift black robe fashioned out of my mum’s old tablecloth. I marched into my school’s annual fancy dress competition with a lawyer’s arrogance, my pretend criminal and fellow friend in tow to sell my dramatic narrative. I had a scrunched up paper in the pocket, filled with elaborate dialogues written by my mum, her favourite crime films an inspiration for the gasp-inducing, tear jerking lines for the spectators in my class. When I finally stood before the Judge, the courtroom was moved and the criminal sent to prison as that evening I came home as the first prize winner and proud owner of a bright, red double decker lunchbox. But more importantly, I had gained an unwavering confidence in the belief that I would simply become the best lawyer of the century a handful of years down the line.

Today I am 21. My dreams remain the same, my penchant for dramatic speech still constant and the makeshift black robe a nostalgic inspiration for what I always hoped to be. But somewhere along the line, I lost a hold of the unwavering confidence that had me believe in my capability of achieving my dreams and aspirations. I refer to this as the seasonal law school existential crisis that almost all of us have loyally subscribed to over the years.

And that might just be where the problem lies. We look at kids and their way of seeing things as childish, like there is no strength in wholeheartedly believing in yourself. Instead, we should learn from the kids we were. and embody the same confidence when we work hard and go above and beyond to pursue these goals.

I have learnt over time a very obvious and straightforward truth. I am not anybody else but me. I am on a path no one else can take. Therefore, my experience through law school and any other dreams that come along the way will not follow the same trajectory as any other student.

There are days that I feel demotivated and unsure of my ability to manoeuvre my way through law school.. It is on those that I remind myself of the four year old in a black tablecloth for a robe convinced of her legal prowess. if I can emulate a percentage of that confidence through my experience, I am halfway there to my end goal.

As students in a competitive industry, it is not surprising for many of us to periodically develop a negative attitude towards our capabilities and achievements especially since we have been taught to measure our progress by comparing our strengths and weaknesses to others. I have on so many occasions caught myself feeling inadequate and missable in a sea of straight A’s, awards, and glittering resumes. Unlike four year old me who never doubted the prospect of victory, I was consumed by insecurities hand picked over my formative years to create a person who is full of doubt and indecision.

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Discussing Future Careers Karina Heikkila (Ms) She/Her Dr Karina Heikkila PHD, LLB (Hons), GDLP

Karina is a Proposal Architect and Senior Bid Manager at a large, exciting global tech company with a great culture and commitment to important social causes. She did her LLB (Hons) and then my PhD in animal law at VU. She has worked in different lawrelated jobs (academic, barrister’s assistant and Senior Associate in the Court of Appeal) for a total of 4 years before she decided that law is not her ultimate goal.

Karina sought a role that would employ her broader skills including developed in law. She also wanted flexibility and rewards, which she was able to find in her current role.

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What’s your future career?

Think about this: Bid and Proposal Management

By VU Alumni - Karina Heikkila PhD, LLB (Hons), GDLP, CF APMP Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP) : ANZ Intentional Career Path Taskforce

Of course, you might have set your heart on becoming a solicitor or a barrister to actually practice law. Good for you! You might want to try it, and see what happens – see if it suits you, and the lifestyle you want to lead.

Ideally, we need to find professions that: utilise our talents, generates the income we want, and provides us with work we love.

Did you know that many qualified lawyers choose not to practice, and many leave the profession after some time? There are many reasons for that. So… wouldn’t it be a good idea to know what other options are out there?

Yet, it still gives me room to exercise my thinking, creative and writing talents – all honed at law school.

The skills are in demand – globally. Have a look on Seek or LinkedIn. Search for ‘Proposal Manager’, ‘Proposal Writer’, ‘Bid Coordinator’, or ‘Bid Manager’. There are always vacancies across Australia, and internationally. In fact, international headhunters seek out the skills. I have the privilege of working for a massive multinational corporate with offices all over the world. Who knows what the future might bring!

You can of course go into policy work, court and other administrative and management roles, and there are many other choices.

The good news is that your law skills will be transferable to other careers. One to consider is bid and proposal management. his is what I have chosen – because, I LOVE to write, and I enjoy the elevated income. It is exciting to be the conductor of an orchestra to bring all the pieces together to help my great employer bring in business.

TIt’s quite social. I get work with international teams. It is rewarding, and it provides me with opportunities for professional and personal growth.

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What’s your future career?

Think about this: Bid and Proposal Management

By VU Alumni - Karina Heikkila PhD, LLB (Hons), GDLP, CF APMP Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP) : ANZ Intentional Career Path Taskforce

Work in the tech sector. Bid and proposal careers are often available in law, consulting, engineering, health, facilities management, and virtually every sector you can think of. So, if you have a double degree, a special interest outside of law, or an earlier career elsewhere – think how you can employ the double! If you have project management experience and qualifications – all the better.

You could also find work in local, smaller businesses if that is your thing. If you are an early career seeker, you can see if you can start as a bid coordinator, content writer, or other. There are a variety of roles – see below. It is something to consider – to set yourself up for a long lasting career with great earning potential.

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What’s your future career?

Think about this: Bid and Proposal Management

By VU Alumni - Karina Heikkila PhD, LLB (Hons), GDLP, CF APMP Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP) : ANZ Intentional Career Path Taskforce

I get to exercise my highly valued law skills. I write to build compelling proposals. I absorb the rules and constraints of the deal, identify opportunities, gather evidence on why we should win, and then write persuasively. I change the style to suit the audience. I ensure precision and eliminate ambiguity to reduce commercial risk.

Just because you study law, that doesn’t mean you have to practice law. You have developed sought after skills. Just one option is bid and proposal management.

You can do it across industries – law, technology, construction, health, not-forprofit, government services, engineering, and the list goes on. You will see there are always openings across Australia and internationally. You can visit the global professional association at www.apmp.org for further information – including how you can become a member, get training and access to resources, and get accredited.

You can also seek mentorship via our Australia chapter.

Many people come to bid and proposal management from a wide variety of past careers, areas of study, and with and without prior experience. It offers you a chance to exercise a wider variety of skills – management, project management, design, research, writing, editing, content development, knowledge management, collaboration etc. It offers scope for growth, opportunities for international work with transportable skills, and it can be very well rewarded. I can assure you, it is a great way to see how business works at ‘the pointy end’, in business development. The lifeblood of every business.

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The Mood to Moot It was a week before the registration deadline, that I got into the mood to moot. After having been through three years of law school, I decided to bite the bullet and sign up for Dictum Society's Junior Moot Competition 0f 2021. I was a ball of nervous energy as I put in my details in the sign up form with no idea on what to expect.

Research and ask questions on how the memorandum should be structured, including what should be included to have a solid document.

Keep in mind that what you submit in your memo will only be what you can use to argue your case in the Moot Court.

Finding your Partner in 'Crime' The first step of participating in the Junior Moot is to find your partner or as we 'to be' lawyers feel thrilled to say, "my fellow co-counsel. After a panicked perusal of my handful of friends, my cocounsel was found in fellow student and friend, Manraj. I personally wanted to experience my first moot with someone who I am familiar with to share the comfort of being brutally honest with each other while researching case material, preparing arguments, and practicing our oratory skills. That being said, I had the good fortune of also interacting with other contestants who were just as green to the scene and was met with some very likeminded and easy-going individuals.

The Preparation The whole concept of mooting is to introduce us students to the practical experience of working the courtroom. A fairly straightforward case is given, with fairly straightforward instructions. The key is in going above and beyond what you are provided to stand out against your opponent.

While my partner and I did a really good job of being thorough in our research to identify the complexities of the case, our inexperience showed when we did not do the same to understand the structural necessities of memorandums.

My favourite process was to prepare and practice our verbal arguments for the day of mooting. My partner and I showed true diligence in this area by practicing our arguments, not just with each other, but also with our friends to have full control over all points, the time, and most importantly the nervousness we felt in doing something neither of us are comfortable or familiar with.

It was recommended by a friend that while delivering arguments, make it conversational yet assertive to achieve a natural yet, attention grabbing delivery, a hot tip we embodied to add pack power in the points we made.

As the event was conducted online, a lot of the ways we prepared for this event were structured differently. We conducted all our research and work on shared google docs and had our arguments also laid out before our computers on the day of the competition. We even went so far as to practice making eye contact with the camera to ensure that while present our arguments we are sure to appear confident, prepared, and ready to argue our case from the High Court and back!

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The Mood to Moot A few things we learned:

An Honest Opinion

- Always, always, always know what your submissions must look like - Manage your time well enough to allow time for last-minute panics. Trust me, they are truly unavoidable!

- Don't overthink your arguments. Make them short, snappy, and sweet. You will spend the rest of your life going back and forth on them, if you overanalyse the points you make.

- When practicing your arguments, leave room for questions that may be asked mid arguments.

It is likely that the Judge may stop you in between to ask them and may not pause the time while they do so.

Overall, we ensured to give it our all in our preparation. While we did not win or even make it to past the first round, we took this as the opportunity to see what we are capable of when put under pressure. We not only learned so much about courtroom experience, but we also learned about the background work that goes into preparing for a case. It is most definitely not as easy as Harvey Spector made it out to be my friends, but it was more thrilling and fun than what I expected from the whole experience.

- There is such a thing as leading questions, which the Judge may ask sometimes, to further support your argument. Do not go on defense for all questions asked only to repeat what they insinuated. Instead, pause to fully understand what they are alluding to before providing a response.

Rebuttals are made to make any new arguments you wish to introduce (within the scope of your memo) to either discredit the opposing counsel's statements or to further solidify your arguments with added information. If you do not have anything new to bring to the table, there is nothing wrong with foregoing your rebuttal time.

I am hoping to participate in any upcoming moots from hereon with even more gusto and with the valuable feedback I received by taking part in this competition.

If you are someone, who is curious and maybe mulling over whether mooting is for you, don't overthink it. Take the leap and sign up for the next opportunity you get! Most of us are in the same boat as you, but everyone is trying to fake it till they make it.

In the wise words of Michael Jordan, 'You miss 100% of the shots you don't take'.

In fact, if you are arguing for the Plaintiff and believe that the opposing counsel may benefit from having the opportunity to rebut your arguments, you can choose to forego your rebuttal time, eliminating the Defendant's opportunity for rebuttal by default!

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27 1.Nineteen eighty six 2.Capacity 3.Affidavit 4.Trespass 5.Mabo 6.Caveat 7.England 8.Taxation law 9.High Court 10.Appellant 11.Tort 12.Habeus Corpus

Cross Laws

Law School Housekeeping Final year law student, Anoushka Patel shares golden rules and must-haves of law school Law school can get tedious and overwhelming especially during your first year. There are certain tips and tricks that will get you through your first year at university unscathed, follow them religiously.

1. Don’t compare yourself to others- You are just getting started, it is absolutely okay if you do not score distinctions or high distinctions just as long as you are giving it your best.

Transition into university can be difficult and adjusting to the changed environment, people and education deliverance is bound to send one scampering away. So, in the midst of all the newness stop comparing your grades with your peers and making your life more miserable, everyone learns at their own pace as do you.

3. Buy a pair or two of formals- Thinking that things will not get professional in your first year, might be a mistake you may not want to make.

There will be mooting competitions, networking events or seminars where you will be required to dress formal. So, instead of having to make end moment runs at pricey stores, explore and buy one now.

4. Set-up a timetable- You might want to organize your study schedule around your life so that you get enough reading in but don’t overload yourself. Do not leave your assignments for the last, it will only cause you grief and result in poor performance. Avoid late night studying and take sufficient breaks.

Remember: law students are humans too!

2. Socialize- Find new friends or mentors, someone who is journeying into law school with you can make things easier and less stressful. Attend events and new student meetups but also do so at your own pace. If too many people make you nervous, take it slow. Bonus, there will always be student mentors and the Dictum Society to aid you whenever you need.

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Law School Housekeeping Final year law student, Anoushka Patel shares golden rules and must-haves of law school

5. Make the most of resources available at university- There are several resources like the learning hub, writing mentors, peer-topeer mentoring programs and lots more that you can utilise while on campus. You are not in this alone, so do not hesitate to ask for help. If you are unaware of where to go, contact any member of the Dictum Society, we will be there to guide you.

6. Interact in class- Professors at university appreciate class interaction the most, it leads to student development. Key: University is unlike school, you will not be spoon fed by your teachers, you want answers, go get them. The legal world functions on communication, start with learning this in class and doing so outside will not seem so daunting anymore.

To summarize, during your first-year at law school you may feel extremely lost, but there is always help around the corner, ask for it. Take part in competitions, it will help build connections and teach you a thing or two, for there is no exposure like practical exposure.

"The legal world functions on communication, start with learning this in class and doing so outside will not seem so daunting anymore."

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Human Rights Intership and Volunteering Opportunities ALHR (Australian Lawyers for Human Rights) ALHR assists legal professionals to continue to develop their knowledge of human rights law and incorporate human rights principles into their areas of legal practice in Australia.

Members have access to a range of resources and publications and the opportunity to participate in high level research projects on human rights issues and law reform both in Australia and internationally. https://alhr.org.au/ Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission The Victorian Equal Opportunity and Human Rights Commission is an independent statutory body with responsibilities under three laws (Equal Opportunity Act 2010. Racial and Religious Tolerance Act 2001, Charter of Human Rights and Responsibilities Act 2006). A number of resources and publications are available as well as access to updates, events and newsletters http://www.humanrightscommission.vic.gov.au/ Castan Centre for Human Rights Law The Castan Centre is a non-profit, non-partisan centre focusing on the study of human rights law globally, regionally and in Australia. The Centre which is affiliated with Monash University works in the key areas of research, teaching, public education, policy and student programs.

There are a number of resources, publications, newsletters available to studentshttp://www.law.monash.edu.au/castencentre/ Human Rights Law Centre The Human Rights Law Centre is an independent, NFP, non-government organisation dedicated to promoting and protecting human rights in Australia and beyond through a strategic combination of evidence-based advocacy, research, litigation and educationhttp://hric.org.au/ Amnesty International Amnesty International is a worldwide movement of people campaigning to protect human rights. Amnesty offers a number of volunteering positions as well as internships.

For more information about ways to get involved, go to the volunteer’s page or contact the Office and Volunteer Coordinator in Victoria on (03) 9412 0700 or vicvolunteers@amnesty.org.au.

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Human Rights Intership and Volunteering Opportunities Justice Connect Justice Connect is involved in law and policy reform and pro bono legal services and works on a range of projects from Advocacy-Health Alliance to Prisons Project.

Refer to the website as there have been positions for up to 25 dedicated Legal Receptionist/Admin volunteers in the Melbourne office to work one day per week or every alternate week from 9am5:30pm, providing essential administrative support to Justice Connect and the Human Rights Law Centre Office.

Reprieve Australia Reprieve Australia helps provide legal and humanitarian assistance to impoverished people facing the death penalty. International Interns must be able to fund their own trip (approx. AUD$6000-$8000).

Normally, a Reprieve Australia Internship will last between three and six months. Due to the requirements of the offices in which interns are placed, each intern must commit to a minimum of three months of US internships and 6 weeks in South East Asia.

Reprieve accepts applicants at any time during the year, for departure at any time. However, most interns tend to undertake their volunteer work over the Christmas holidays.

What sort of volunteer/internship opportunities are available?

US internship program South East Asia internship program.

Domestic volunteers for various tasks on an ad hoc basis.

Australian National Internships Program (ANIP) The Australian National Internships program (ANIP) gives Australian and International undergraduate and postgraduate students an opportunity to work at the heart of australian policy and politics. The elite program arranges 13-week research oriented internships at a variety of Canberra and NSW locations. Interns develop career and research skills while building professional networks that can give them an advantage in a competitive employment market.

ANIP is the only program that offers Australian Commonwealth Parliamentary Internships.

Involved application process including Cross Institutional student an application to study at ANU is also required. http://anip.anu.edu.au/internships/anip

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Human Rights Intership and Volunteering Opportunities Liberty Victoria - Rights Advocacy Project (RAP) Liberty Victoria operates as a series of “pods” made up of student and young lawyer volunteers. Each pod focuses on a particular human rights theme such as criminal justice, discrimination law and refugee and asylum seeker policy. The pods produce advocacy and reform work directed towards decision makers, or towards promoting dialogue and change at the community level. This work allows volunteers to contribute to policy discourse and influence meaningful policy reform or systemic human rights issues. YLLR volunteers work together in a pod made up of 4-6 other volunteers for a period of 12 months, supervised by a volunteer human rights advocate. http://libertyvic.rightsadvocacy.org.au/the-rap-program/ Youth Law Youth law is Victoria’s state-wide free community legal centre for young people under 25 years of age and works to address the legal issues facing young people through legal services, advocacy, law reform and preventative education programs, within a human rights and social justice framework. Volunteers must be currently enrolled in a relevant tertiary course (law degree preferable); in 2nd year or above (i.e. have completed first year of LLB/JD); and available to volunteer on a weekly basis (half or full day) for a minimum of 12 months. http://youthlaw.asn.au/get-involved/volunteer Email queries to volapps1@youthlaw.asn.au or call 96112412.

Office of the Public Advocate The Office of the Public Advocate promotes the rights, interests and indignity of people with a disability. The minimum time commitment is 18-24 months. There are three program streams volunteers can join.

1. Community Visitors Program 2. Independent third persons’ program or 3. Community Guardianship Program. See the following link for further information: https://www.publicadvocate.vic.gov.au/our-services/volunteer-programs

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Law School Gradman!

Help Gradman graduate with a law degree by guessing the latin legal phrases below. Every incorrect answer brings Gradman's grade below a HD, so beware the N grade scholar!

1. "From the beginning"

__ _______

2. person who assists in the commission of a crime, but who does

_________

not actually participate in the commission of the crime

3. An item of personal property which is movable, as distinguished from real property

_______

4. Judicial doctrine that exists in various common law jurisdictions.

________

5. An order issued by a legal authority with administrative or juridicial powers, typically a court.

____

Gradman Grades

HD

D

C

P

N

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Junior Moot 2021Winners First Prize Winners adrian Jones Aimee-Ellar Charlotte Bye Runners Up Kathryn Mifsud Charlotte Thomson Best Speaker: Grand Final Charlotte Thomson Best Speaker:Semi Final Adrian Jones Best Speaker: General Rounds Laura Buckby Best Memorandum: Claimant Luchia Ador Sarah Newman-Driver Best Memorandum: Respondent Amir Farahat Bernadette Cortes

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Under the Covers Issue No.2 of the Obiter was inspired by the influence of nature on the elements of law.

The basics of legal theory revolve around the fundamentals of separating right and wrong and assumed by us all.

Nature also follows a similar principle where every action has some form of inherent consequence or repercussion The system of justice relies upon the same when holding citizens accountable for actions that prove to go against the grain of law.

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Issue No.1

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Thank You Sponsors!

The magazine has been published by Dictum Society, sponsored by The College of Law and Leo Cussen.

295 Queen Street, Melbourne 3000 Victoria University