First Year Guide 2022

FIRST YEAR GUIDE 2022

A COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE TO YOUR FIRST YEAR OF LAW SCHOOL

Foreword This publication is provided free of charge from the Deakin Law Students' Society (DLSS) on the understanding that the editors, all contributors and any other persons related to this publication are not repsonsible for the actions of readers based on the information, error or omission in the publication. The views given in the publication do not necessarily represent the views of the editors, DLSS or Deakin Law school.

This publication is copyright. Except where permitted under the Copyright Act; no part of this publication may, in any form or by an means (electronic or otherwise) be reproduced or stored in a retrieval system or transmitted by any person, without special written consent of the Deakin Law Students' Society.

Acknowledgements Design + Editor Editor-in-chief

Megan Sanidad Patricia Clarke

Contact Us Email

secretary@deakinlss.org

CONTENTS President's Welcome

(1)

The DLSS

(2)

Portfolio Introductions

(3)

Getting to Deakin

(5)

Textbooks

(7)

Study Tips + Academic Glossary

(8)

Assignment/Exam Tips

(9)

First Year Testimonies

(11)

Wellbeing

(12)

Gaining Legal Work Experience While You Study

(14)

Corporate Wear

(16)

Admission to Practise

(17)

Law School Tricks of the Trade

(18)

PRESIDENT'S WELCOME Congratulations on beginning your journey at Deakin Law School! I wish you a warm welcome to the beginning of the next chapter in your life.

My name is Claire Taylor and I am the 2022 President of the Deakin Law Students’ Society (DLSS). The DLSS is the representative body for Deakin Law Students. We are run by law students, for law students, with the aim to support and advocate for the interests of the entire Deakin Law cohort.

Transitioning from high school to university is an exciting turning point in your life where you are, probably for the first time, in charge of which direction you embark. You will grow immensely in the next 4/5 years, both in your legal knowledge and skills as well as your understanding of yourself and the world you’ve found yourself in. However, having endless opportunities as you commence your law degree can leave you overwhelmed and concerned about the implications of each step you take. We endeavour to provide you with the resources and support to discover what you wish to achieve, and the opportunities to realise your intentions.

The Australian university experience is at odds with the media we’ve been exposed to growing up – it can be lonely if you’re not careful. I encourage you to get involved with the First-Year Law Camp, Crash Course, and Competitions because you will not only obtain the insight to help the rest of your time at university but also meet people that can make this tumultuous journey a little smoother.

I don’t believe the cliche that ‘your university years are the best years of your life’. These past five years have been the best years of my life so far, but I know that the knowledge I’ve obtained in the process will help me make the next five years even better. Use this time to discover what you don’t want so that you can chase what you actually seek wholeheartedly.

I look forward to watching you develop into the next generation of Deakin Law graduates to make their mark on the world. Should you need any help to make that happen please feel free to contact me at president@deakinlss.org.

Claire Taylor 2022 President Deakin Law Students Society

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WHAT IS THE DLSS? The Deakin Law Students’ Society (‘DLSS’) is a student-run organisation that operates on behalf of all Deakin Law Students. The DLSS is one of Deakin’s biggest and long-standing student societies, and our goal is to maximise the university experience of all law students.

In achieving this goal, the DLSS hosts a variety of events each year that are tailored to enhance the social and academic opportunities that Deakin Law School provides.

You can find us online at https://www.deakinlss.org/

Memberships A DLSS membership is only $5 and comes with great perks including: Discounted ticket prices for DLSS events; An email subscription to the DLSS (where we advertise internships and paid positions within law firms); Access to Exam Revision sessions; Voting rights at our Annual General Meeting

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PORTFOLIO INTRODUCTIONS

President: Claire Taylor Vice-president: Surina Sood Secretary: Natasha Tasios Director of Finance: Macy Brown, and Finance Officer: Jacob Denvir Director of Sponsorship: William Hettrick, and Sponsorship Officer: Olivia Gatsios

Activities Activities fosters social interactions between students and runs informal social events, allowing students to take a break from the busy life of law school. Keep an eye out for events such as Bar Hop, First Year Law Camp and Law Ball!

Director: Kathryn Bourozikas Officers: Elise Ralph, Isabelle Schinagl, Xhoana Mullaymeri

Commercial Careers

Commercial careers provides information and opportunities to students interested in pursuing a career in commercial law. Be sure to keep an eye out for Firm Insight panels and the Meet The Professionals event.

Director: Samantha Hodgson Officers: Campbell David, Melika Modarresi Clerkship Guide Officer: Zara Seyfort

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Communications Communications is responsible for many DLSS publications such as the Unit Guide, Damages Incurred and Et Cetera. There are opportunities for all students to contribute to Damages Incurred and Et Cetera - so contact us!

Director: Patrcia Clarke Officers: Zoe Ellis, Megan Sanidad, Maggie Robinson Design Officer: Alex Ward

Competitions Competitions is responsible for orchestrating all DLSS competitions to provide students with an immersive academic experience and gain firsthand practical skills, such as research and public speaking. Be sure to attend competitions workshops and sign up for the Junior Moot!

Director: Julia Fittipaldi Officers: Gabriel Stripp, Rocci Pitasi, Milla Gleeson, Kateryna Korobeyko, Nicholas Allen

Education The Education Portfolio connects the student body, the University, and the Law Society. This portfolio aims to ensure that students have a positive academic experience by creating events that fall under the three pillars of the Education Portfolio.

Director: Courtney McKenzie Officers: Hanne Deleu, Ellie Hondrakis, Marietta Stents

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Marketing The Marketing Portfolio ensures that the DLSS successfully promote events and initiatives to assist Deakin Law Students. Throughout social media platforms we are able to connect and uphold a positive relationship with our members.

Director: Annelise Croker Officers: Chloe Galileos, Alannah Rodi, Neha Vellu

Social Justice and Equity The Social Justice & Equity portfolio updates the student body on contemporary issues and developments in the law, and discusses the legalities of topical social justice issues. Keep an eye out on the Gender Diversity in the Law event, and Volunteering in the Law panel.

Director: Brigitte Fraser Officers: Laura Mayne, Bukhosi Masango, Lily Joslin-Boyle, Celia Kate Pratt

Industry Careers This portfolio covers all areas of law outside of commercial and aims to create events and initiatives that provide students with the opportunity to learn about different areas of the law, and network with legal professionals.

Be sure to attend their "Evening with the Professional's Event."

Director: Britney Phillips Officers: Bailiejean Hohnberg, Bethany Joel, Deeksha Nitin Patil

Refer to The Memo for more information on each of the portfolios.

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GETTING TO DEAKIN Public Transport BUSES 201 Box Hill to Deakin University 281 Templestowe to Deakin University 732 Box Hill to Upper Ferntree Gully 767 Southland Shopping Centre to Box Hill

Full time students at Deakin are entitled to PTV transport concession cards, which you can apply for on StudentConnect. For more information, click here

TRAMS 75 City to Vermont TRAINS Box Hill Station via Lilydale and Belgrave line (The Deakin shuttle bus 201 runs every 20 minutes from Box Hill Station to Deakin!)

Parking Through the Cell-O-Park app, parking costs $1.60 an hour, or $6.40 a day.

Parking inspectors monitor parking very closely - make sure you enter your parking into the Cell-O-Park app or you could risk paying a $99 fee!

Long term permits are also available: $162.50 for a 120-day permit $365 for a 365-day permit

Carpooling Deakin has launched carpooling app 'Liftango' which provides opportunities for students and staff to share similar journeys to and from Deakin campuses.

Liftango matches you with ride sharers based on commute time and location, organises your carpool trip and rewards you for travelling more sustainably.

You can find more information about Deakin carpooling here.

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TEXTBOOKS Throughout your first year, you’ll familiarise yourself with how textbooks fit into your study habits and whether you prefer hard copies or online copies. Your use of textbooks will depend on whether the textbook is recommended or prescribed, and what/how the content is being taught.

We recommend going through the booklist for your units and figuring out which textbooks you will be prescribed/recommended. There are two main ways you can do this: Go to the Deakin Library website and enter your unit code in the search bar or Go to the DUSA Bookshop website and fill out the 'Textbook Search' bar

Where can I get my textbooks?

Online: All textbooks are available online through the Deakin Library Some textbooks have limits on how much content you can download and how many people can access it at once - something to keep in mind especially during busy study periods such as exam season.

Hard Copy: Textbooks aren't cheap - we recommend buying them second-hand Ask former students of your unit Keep an eye out on Facebook marketplace, or Facebook groups such as Deakin Business & Law Second Hand Books Look on websites like Book Depository or Booktopia Monitor the textbook buyback program on the DUSA bookshop website You can also buy books brand new from the DUSA bookshop website Law changes fast - make sure you are buying the correct, most up to date edition of your prescribed textbooks.

Refer to the Unit Handbook for more information on unit specific textbooks.

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STUDY TIPS Do your readings. Failure to prepare is preparation for failure. Read and understand the prescribed material, and you'll be giving yourself the best chance at success.

Don't skip classes. It's a slippery slope. Ensure you attend classes to help you understand the practical application of the content and prepare you for assessments.

Study with other law students. Maximise your study time. Challenge each other with study questions, compare notes and keep your study sessions consistent.

Stay ahead, or at least don't fall behind. Stay consistent throughout the trimester you'll be in good stead when exams come around.

Take pride in your notes. Nobody likes rereading textbooks through the last weeks of the trimester. Constructing clear, concise and consistent notes.

Reach out. Post any questions you may have about content on the unit discussion board - there's a very high chance that someone will have the same question as you.

ACADEMIC GLOSSARY Confused by all the uni jargon? Don't fret! Here's a small academic glossary to get you started: Contact hours - The number of hours you are expected to attend university.

Credit point - A unit in which a study point is allocated. Generally, one unit = one credit point. Each degree requires students to achieve a certain amount of credit points.

Lecture - A presentation that conveys critical information on a particular subject; generally held in large lecture theatres.

Seminar/Tutorial - Smaller discussion groups led by a tutor, generally to go over the content presented in lectures.

Unit - A component of a course that covers one particular 'subject' in detail.

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Assignment Tips Make a plan. Figure out roughly how long the assignment will take you - consider any other upcoming assignments or events occurring at the same time. Take it step by step, create checklists and goals to help you stay on top of your work. If it's a group assignment, figure out how you will ensure that each group member will do their part.

IRAC. Issue, Rule, Application, Conclusion. IRAC is the basis of almost all legal methodology - learn it early and master it as well as you can. Attend the extra classes/events that go over IRAC and legal research skills.

Reference as you go. Keep a document or table or references - compile and format them as you go. The majority of law units use a more in depth referencing system called the 'AGLC' which you will become very used to. Familiarise yourself with the AGLC requirements - referencing as you go will help you track your references easier and get you those easy marks on your assignments.

TIP: Softwares like EndNote can be very useful for keeping track of your references.

Exam Tips Stay on top of your notes. Take notes early on in the trimester - make weekly summaries of the content learnt in class and develop your notes as you go. There is nothing worse than scrambling to get your notes together a few days before the exam. Try to review content as the trimester progresses - don't fall into the cramming trap.

REMEMBER: Keep your language clear and concise. Trying to 'sound smart' by using fancy words in your writing has the risk of straying away from what's really important - your application of the law to the facts.

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FIRST YEAR TESTIMONIES As exciting as your first year of law school may be, it can also be very daunting – especially if it's your first year of uni too. We've collected some testimonies from law students across a range of year levels, and they've got all the info you need on how to get through your first year of law school. Whatever your first year has in store, we're here to support you all the way.

"My favourite thing about my first year was being able to meet an amazing group of friends and form such strong connections with them (which have continued). I found it so refreshing to find like-minded people with similar goals and aspirations to myself. The most challenging aspect of my first year was adapting to being independent and self-sufficient. I'd grown accustomed to having teachers 'spoon feed' us in high school, and was quite shocked at the difference in university. It was a shock to the system, but a lot of people were in the same boat as me. We were able to rely on each other and help one another out with deadlines, seminar materials and assessments. The most valuable thing of my first year experience was definitely these connections I made, and the way in which they have allowed me to grow into the person I am today.

I wish I knew that grades aren't everything, and that you don't need to do ALL the material to be able to do well. " - Surina Sood (First year in 2019) "I intially found first year overwhelming. I was used to getting 80s and 90s in every assessment and it was a shock to receive a 68 for my first university essay.

Adjusting my expectations for marks and understanding that you could never get 100% for a law subject took a while but has made my life a lot easier. I also found it difficult initially to make friends especially while working a lot meaning I couldn't spend every day at Uni. Going to First Year Law Camp and eventually joining the DLSS turned this around and now every event/class I attend, I at least know someone.

I wish I knew about the Deakin Writing Mentors, that it's okay to request extensions, that you have to get involved to make friends (DLSS, law camp, bar hop etc.), and that law competitions are the best way to develop your skills early."

- Claire Taylor (First year in 2018)

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"First year, being online and in lockdown, was not what I’d expected and came with plenty of challenges, but there were things I’m glad I learnt through experiencing first year in that way. My favourite aspects were, of course, wakingup five minutes before a lecture/tutorial and being able to eat during it as well.

Online learning was easier than in-person in terms of time management - I never had to account for time getting to/from uni or other things that take time away from uni when lockdowns aren't happening. Having a routine, precise to-do lists, and watching all lectures/seminars live helped me not fall behind in units.

Interacting with others online can be difficult, but if you're willing to get over the awkwardness that comes with zoom seminars, you can be really productive and get lots of help from tutors and other students. My main tips would be to have a structure and be as involved and present as you can - but also don't be too hard on yourself if you fall behind or find that you're lacking motivation here and there.

I wish I knew that there are still plenty of ways to get involved in uni life online. " - Maggie Robinson (First year in 2020)

INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS Warmest of welcomes to all international students commencing their law degrees!

Moving away from home can be very challenging and we're aiming to make yout experience as enjoyable as possible.

We highly recommend attending our events to network with other students.

Additionally, the International Student Centre (located in building C) provides great resources at: https://www.deakin.edu.au/international-students/why-study-in-australia/living-inaustralia/support Please do not hesitate to contact us if you need further support!

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WELLBEING Uni can often become difficult and overwhelming. The most important thing is to know that you're not alone and that help is always available. No matter what issues you're experiencing, there are many support systems available at Deakin to help you, and we have a few tips ourselves. Here are some tips that may help you stay on top of your wellbeing needs.

Step away from the books. As much as we all love studying law, you should schedule in time to do other things. Try playing a sport or learning an instrument, or consider adding a brisk walk to your daily routine. Take some time to relax, treat yourself to a night in or have a fun night out with friends.

Maintain a study/work/life balance. As busy as everything can get, try not to let one aspect of your life take over another. If you're working, know how many hours you can take on whilst studying - don't burn yourself out. Separate your rest and work spaces, and don't sacrifice sleep! Law students often choose caffeine-fuelled study sessions over sleep, but try and resist this temptation. Sleep is your friend.

Engage with extra-curriculars. There is more to law school than textbooks and aiming for high grades. Attend events, join clubs, get coffee with the people in your class. The more involved you get, the more fun you will have - and you'll make friends along the way.

Use Deakin's wellbeing services. The new Law School Building (Building LC) is now home to the wellness centre including a psychologist, a physiotherapist, DeakinACTIVE (the uni gym), and offers vaccinations and medical certificates. You can visit them directly or make appointments under DeakinSync.

You can also access DeakinSync's online services under the 'Health and Wellbeing' tab.

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GAINING LEGAL EXPERIENCE WHILE YOU STUDY Throughout law school, you'll develop your reading, writing, and critical thinking skills, and learn how to best apply the law to various fact scenarios. However, as much as we love attending lectures and doing our readings, there are skills that cannot be acquired through a textbook and must be developed through practical experience.

These include communication skills, workload management skills, commercial awareness, creative problem solving skills and work independence. These skills can be developed through work experience (both in a non-legal or legal setting) and/or entering DLSS competitions such as Junior Negotiation or the Junior Moot.

When applying for legal roles, be sure to tailor your cover letter to the particular firm/legal centre you are applying for. You can find resources on how to write CV's and cover letters under the 'Career Resources' tab on DeakinSync. That being said, here are ways you can gain practical legal experience while you study:

Networking Networking is a great way to get your foot in the door, a and you'd be surprised with how many boutique firms there are in your area. It's worth reaching out to these firms through LinkedIn, phone or email. Introduce yourself and your interest in the law, and ask for potential volunteer/work placements at the firm. You can even offer to buy a coffee for any lawyers working at the firm, and ask if they could possibly have a chat with you and discuss what it is like working in the legal sector.

We also recommend attending DLSS networking events such as An Evening With the Industry Professionals.

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Volunteering Volunteering is an excellent way to give back to the community whilst being exposed to real legal work.

It can help you decide which area of law you would like to pursue, and is an great way to improve your practical skills and future employability.

Community Legal Centres (CLCs) are independent community organisations that aim to provide fiar and accessible legal services to all. CLCs heavily rely on volunteer support and often seek law student volunteers to take on legal administration, paralegal, and other legal support roles.

Volunteering is one of the first ways that many law students start to gain practical legal experience, so keep an eye out for any volunteer opportunities available at CLCs. It's also worth noting that some centres offer subscriptions to volunteer news or to apply for a spot on the volunteer waitlist.

You can find a list of CLCs in Victoria here.

Stay Updated It's always worth keeping an eye out on the 'Jobs, Career and Placements' tab in DeakinSync, and DeakinTalent emails all students weekly job alerts so you can keep in the loop with all job opportunities, work placements and internships.

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CORPORATE WEAR Many first years have never stepped into a law firm before - but don't fret! We've all stood in front of the mirror at least once asking ourselves, 'Is this right?' From participating in competitions or landing your first job, it's important to know how to look the part.

SMART CASUAL: Denotes something between jeans and a suit. Button down shirts without ties, blouses, neat pants and mid length skirts are all appropriate. Bright colours, simple patterns and bolder jewellery can be worn. Shoes must be tasteful.

BUSINESS CASUAL: The midpoint between smart casual and formal corporate wear. For shirts, aim for neat coloured shirts, tidy jumpers and blouses. Chinos, trousers and mid-length skirts are all acceptable bottoms. Footwear should be tasteful and workplace appropriate.

FORMAL CORPORATE WEAR: Appropriate for traditional and highly professional workplaces.

Suits with a light coloured shirt, tie, belt and dress shoes are generally expected for men. For women, corporate attire consists of a suit, a light coloured shirt or blouse, blazer, knee-length skirt or pants and closed toe dress shoes.

Where can I buy corporate wear?

You don't need to spend hundreds of dollars on corporate wear - you can find smart and business casual attire at your local Kmart, Target or Big W.

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ADMISSION TO PRACTICE To work as a legal practitioner in Victoria, you’ll need to gain admission to the Supreme Court Roll by going through the following three step process: Complete your LLB or JD You must gain a relevant qualification for the law such as a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or a Juris Doctor (JD) in law. Within this qualification, you’ll complete the ‘Priestly 11’ - a standardised array of law units which Deakin ensures are implemented into your course plan.

Complete your PLT Once you have attained a qualification in law, you need to complete your Practical Legal Training (PLT), which can be completed through a traineeship with a firm, or through a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice. This training will ensure that you are equipped with the practical skills required to complete legal work on behalf of clients.

Gain Admission Finally, you need to apply to be admitted to practice by the Legal Services Board.

This requires you to provide evidence that you are a ‘fit and proper person’. To illustrate this, you must disclose every legal discretion you have ever committed.

Once your application is accepted, you are officially able to practice law.

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LAW SCHOOL TRICKS OF THE TRADE Compete. Enter legal competitions to consolidate knowledge, meet new people and practice public speaking. For many, competing ignites passion for a particular area of law. Try our Junior Negotiation or Junior Moot!

Be informed. Subscribe to Et Cetera, our bi-annual magazine, which will update you on all things Deakin Law School related.

Get some 'real' experience. Whilst your grades are important, acquiring some practical work experience is essential for your CV. Volunteering, paralegal work or an unrelated part-time job are all looked upon favourably.

GET INVOLVED There is more to university life that lies outside the classroom. Speak up, be bold, attend events, make as many friends as you can. The sooner you get involved, the more enjoyable your uni experience will become.

Keep an eye out for events such as Bar Hop, First Year Law Camp, Law Ball and Junior Moot! You can even apply for 2022 First Year Representative vacancies - be sure to monitor the DLSS page for when applications open in a few weeks! Our First Year Reps often go on to hold important roles on the DLSS committee: notable mentions include officers of Marketing, Commercial Careers and Sponsorship, as well as our wonderful 2021 Vice President!

You can also become a member of the DLSS through the DLSS website or our social media.

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