First Year Guide

DLSS

2024

FIRST YEAR GUIDE

FORWARD 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 responsible for the actions of the reads based on the information, errors or omissions in the publication. The views given in the publication do not necessary represent the views of the editors, DLSS, or Deakin Law School.

This publication is subject to Copyright. Except where permitted under the Copyright Act; no part of this publication may in any form or by any means (electronically 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:

Madeleine French Jordan Cook

thank you to our sponsors

CONTACT US

Email: secretary@deakinlss.org Website: Deakinlss.org

CONTENTS President’s Welcome................................................................................................... 4 What is DLSS?................................................................................................................. 6 Get Involved!...................................................................................................................... 8 Herbert Smith Freehills............................................................................................... 10 Travel to Deakin.............................................................................................................. 12 Getting Around............................................................................................................... 13 Study Resources............................................................................................................. 14 College of Law..................................................................................................................16 Tips and Tricks................................................................................................................. 18 Mentors.............................................................................................................................. 20 Legal Experience........................................................................................................... 21 Admission.......................................................................................................................... 22 Careers................................................................................................................................ 23 Law Institute of Victoria............................................................................................ 24 What is Corporate Wear?......................................................................................... 26 Wellbeing.......................................................................................................................... 28

president’s welcome Dear First Years, Firstly, I want to offer my sincere congratulations. Regardless of if you have come straight from Year 12 or taken a more circuitous route, getting into Law School is by no means a small feat and it is important to recognise such a fantastic achievement.

Now that you're embarking on this exciting journey, the real adventure is just beginning, and I couldn't be more excited to welcome you to the DLSS. Allow me to offer a glimpse into the myriad of opportunities awaiting you at Deakin, extending far beyond the confines of your law degree.

Courtney McKenzie Deakin Law Students’ Society President 2024

The DLSS is a student-run organisation, aimed at providing Deakin Law students with a platform to explore their legal interests, make lifelong connections and leave university confident and prepared for the legal profession. We do this by conducting events run by our numerous portfolios, releasing a variety of publications and hosting a range of legal competitions. Embarking on a law degree can undoubtedly be daunting, as it's perfectly normal to feel a bit overwhelmed. However, fear not, as there are several steps you can take to not only pave the way for success but also inject some enjoyment into your academic journey.

1. Engage in as many opportunities as you can! It may seem straightforward, but the path to involvement varies for everyone. Whether it's participating in law competitions, attending First Year Law Camp, or simply showing up to all your classes in person, taking that initial step can be intimidating. However, I assure you that it will pay off in countless ways. When I arrived at Deakin, I didn't know a soul. By pushing myself beyond my comfort zone and getting involved, I formed genuine friendships and transformed university from a place I had to go to into a place I wanted to be.

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2. Take full advantage of the resources at your disposal. Looking back, I truly wish I had realized the wealth of resources available to students when I first started.

Beyond the standard facilities offered by Deakin University, the Library is an invaluable resource. Legal research is a significant aspect of the degree, and it's completely normal not to have mastered it right away. Instead of struggling as I did, investing some time in exploring research guides on the Library website or attending DLSS study sessions will not only save you time but also improve your academic performance.

3. Feeling overwhelmed is completely normal, so don't be too hard on yourself. The best advice I can offer is to focus on running your own race. I understand it's easier said than done, but constantly comparing yourself to others, whether it's regarding grades, extracurricular activities, or anything else, will only detract from your university experience. It's no secret that law school presents its challenges, but I assure you that even during the toughest times, success is possible.

Experiencing feelings of stress and time constraints is all part of the learning curve. Give yourself the chance to discover study habits that work for you and allow you to maximise your degree experience while still enjoying yourself.

Lastly, in a shameless plug, I must emphasise that the DLSS is indeed a valuable resource to tap into as you commence your degree. I encourage you to dedicate some time to explore the DLSS website, peruse this guide, and browse through the events page to discover the myriad opportunities available. Whether you're seeking social connections or career guidance, rest assured that we host events designed to address your queries and interests.

Welcome to Deakin and I look forward to meeting as many of you as possible.

With upmost admiration, Courtney

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what is dlss?

The Deakin Law Students’ Society (DLSS) is a student-run organisation, operating on behalf of all Deakin University Law Students. The DLSS is one of Deakin’s biggest and longest-standing societies, with a primary goal of maximising the university experience for all law students. The DLSS has many portfolios, and runs various activities, events and competitions to help you all enjoy your university experience beyond academics.

University is more than just studying and the DLSS is here to help you enjoy your time at university. It is our hope that you can make the most out of your experience in Law School and make long-lasting memories and friendships you can take with you beyond the completion of your degree.

Becoming a Member A Deakin Law Students’ Society membership costs just $5 and can be renewed annually. Becoming a members comes with huge benefits!

Enjoy: Discounted tickets for DLSS events; An email subscription to the DLSS; Access to Exam Revision Sessions; Voting rights at our Annual General Meeting; and Much, much more!

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what is dlss?

Joining a Portfolio Joining a portfolio is a great way to become a more interactive member of the DLSS! It will give you the opportunity to directly contribute to all the events, competitions, activities and publications organised by the DLSS, whilst assisting you in making heaps of new friendships that could last you a lifetime.

Portfolio applications tend to open towards the end of each year, so be sure to follow our social media pages to stay informed of when applications open and how to apply!

The Memo Curious about the people and portfolios that make up the DLSS committee for 2024?

Check out our publication ‘The Memo’ on the DLSS website!

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get involved!

First Year Representatives Each year, the DLSS hires two students to fill the positions of our First Year Representatives. In this role you will have the chance to advocate for First Year students and organise events for your cohort whilst reporting to our VP, Bailiejean. All students in their first year of law can apply and they will be selected by their peers to fill the role during Tri One. *Follow our socials to keep track of when applications open!

Activities Bar Hop The best opportunity to meet new people before the year starts is at our first social event of the year, our annual Bar Hop! This year, our theme is ‘Swing & Serve’, so come in your best tennis or golf outfits and get ready to make meaningful connections with your cohort and other year levels before starting Tri One! Locations are revealed the day before & tickets are already selling fast so get in quick!

First Year Law Camp Our well loved First Year Law Camp is the best way to strengthen your friendships with your cohort whilst making new friends. In your first year, FYLC is an absolute must!! An all expenses included weekend away with lots of fun activities planned, our FYLC is a fan favourite to relax, have fun, meet lots of DLSS Committee members and, this year, get your competitive side out! (No spoilers…)

Law Ball & Boat Party Our Law Ball is the most anticipated and biggest evening of the year! Hosted at Crown Palladium later in the year, it is the perfect opportunity to get dressed up and dance the night away with all of your friends!

Our Boat Party is hosted at the end of T2 Exams and is the best send off of the year you could ask for! *Stay tuned for more details and ticket information on our socials!

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get involved!

Competitions Junior Moot is the perfect opportunity for First Year students to become involved in competitions run by DLSS! This competition is specifically aimed at first and second year students and focuses on Contract Law. Mooting provides many opportunities to develop your advocacy skills, but more importantly, to hone your ability to interpret legal facts and law, and apply them in a practical forum. Even if competing isn’t something that interests you, attending the Junior Moot Grand Final which will be held at Clayton Utz is a great way to network and become more familiar with competitions!

Another competition we recommend for First Year students is Client Interview! This competition requires minimal preparation and does not involve you competing against another team or facing questions from the bench. It is simply your team, your client and a judge as you work to obtain as much key information from your client as possible!

The Competitions Portfolio runs a number of other competitions throughout the year which are open to all students including Bail Application and Witness Examination.

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YOUR GROWTH. OUR AMBITION.

Ready to shape the future?

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

About us With over 24 offices spanning Asia, Europe, Australasia, and the Middle East, careers at Herbert Smith Freehills offer our graduates the opportunity to experience being part of a truly global law firm. Working with some of the most significant organisations in the world, opportunities to have social impact, and learning from our world-class team every day will enable you to create solid foundations on which to build your career in law.

We’re proud to say that we put people first.

Our firm is built on a diverse culture, reflective of the societies in which we live and work.

That’s why inclusivity is key to our success.

At Herbert Smith Freehills, you’ll be valued for what makes you different and accepted for who you are. We recognise the power of diversity and inclusion to drive innovation, collaboration and business outcomes.

So, whether it’s working on the latest advancements in digital law, taking part in some of the biggest mergers and acquisitions around, or helping people through our extensive pro bono work – you’ll develop the skills to solve the most complex challenges in thoughtful and innovative ways.

We welcome different Great lawyers are both curious and creative.

We encourage you to challenge assumptions and open yourself up to new ideas. So, what exactly are we looking for?

There’s no single path to becoming an exceptional commercial lawyer. We look beyond your academic record and your technical aptitude. We’re focussed on finding people who have the curiosity to explore all the angles and the empathy to place themselves in their client’s shoes.

In line with our 10 Actions for Change we are proud to use the Rare Contextual Recruitment System (CRS). The CRS allows us to understand each applicant’s achievements in the context that they have been gained.

We understand that not every candidate’s achievements look the same on paper – and we want to recruit the best people, from every background.

• Contribute to our pro bono practice • Work with cutting edge technology through our innovation projects • Networking opportunities to meet people across the firm

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

Key Dates & Deadlines MELBOURNE

Clerkship program

Positions

60-65

We select many of our graduates through our vacation clerkships. During this immersive experience, you’ll receive hands-on practical experience, as you work on some of the diverse challenges facing the team you’re collaborating with.

Clerkship programs

1 Summer & 1 Winter

You will gain a deeper understanding of life at the firm and what your future could look like if you join us. Some key features include the opportunity to: • Sit within a specific team, delivering real work for key clients • Before you join, submit a preference for a team to tailor your experience • Navigate the first step of your career with partner and graduate mentoring support

HERBERTSMITHFREEHILLS.COM

• Attend workshops and presentations covering all our practice areas

Applications for all Mon 1 July 2024 2023/24 programs open Applications for all Sun 11 August 2024 2023/24 programs close Offers made

Wed 16 October 2024

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

Contacts Hong Le raduate Recruitment G Consultant GraduatesMelbourne@hsf.com

careers.herbertsmithfreehills.com/au/grads

@HSFGRADUATESAU

travel 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 Trams: 75 City to Vermont (Stop 63) Trains: Box Hill Station (Lilydale and Belgrave Lines) (The Deakin Shuttle Bus 201 runs every 20 minutes from Box Hill Station) Burwood Station (Alamein Line) Jordanville Station (Glen Waverley) Concession Cards If you are a full-time student you can get a Concession Myki for discounted fares on public transport. Fill out the application form found online and take it to a train station service desk to obtain a Concession ID. Take this ID with you whenever you use your Concession Myki on PTV to avoid a fine.

Parking at Deakin University Short Term Parking You can pay for parking through the ‘Cell-O-Park’ app: Hourly rate = $1.60 Daily rate = $6.40 Long Term Parking You can get a long-term parking permit that is managed through the vPermit app: 120-day permit = $162.50 365-day permit = $365 Visit https://www.deakin.edu.au/about-deakin/locations/campuses/parking for more information on parking at Deakin.

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getting around ROOM NUMBERS It can be quite confusing getting your head around room numbers! Here’s an example: LC2.105 Building LC - Floor 2 - Room 105

PRINTERS Printing on campus is easier than you might think. There are printers scattered around campus including in LC and the Library. You can also download software to print from your own device!

For more info visit: https://www.deakin.edu.au/students/ new-students/digital-setup/printingon-campus

App: Lost on Campus ‘Lost on Campus’ provides you with directions to any building or room number!

Fun fact: LT refers to ‘Lecture Theatre’ and is not a building name. If you need directions on how locate a Lecture Theatre, on the LOC app, click on the category labelled 'Lecture Theatres' and tap the one you need.

Lost on Campus also has directions for bathrooms, food places, bars, labs, university services, parking, sport facilities and study spaces.

App: SafeZone SafeZone is a free app that connects you with security services 24 hours a day.

You can send your name and location to security in an emergency, ask for assistance or first aid, request an escort, receive important updates and more!

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study resources University Handbook Every course at Deakin has a University Handbook that sets out your core and elective units and, most importantly, your course rules! Here you can also find your course map which sets out your degree. If you are ever unsure about your units and the course rules you can always reach out to Student Central who can provide you with information and help you complete your course map.

Library The library website contains books, peer-reviewed journal documents, and many other useful documents which can help you when completing your studies. You’ll also be able to find useful resource guides that can help you hone your research, referencing and study skills. Follow the ‘resource guides’ tab on the library home page to uncover these incredible materials.

You can also book booths and spaces on the library website if you require a quiet place to study or have group assignments you need to complete.

Deakin Skills Resources and Planners Unistart is a forum of resources that you can find on your Cloud Deakin or DeakinSync (where you also find your unit pages). Here you will find welcome information, learning modules, discussion forums, checklists, general information on units, assessment tips and orientation sessions.

Deakin has also created workload planners, study planners and assessment planners to make organisation easy for you! Check them out at: https://www.deakin.edu.au/students/study-support/studyresources/academic-skills Exam Revision Sessions The DLSS social media pages provide information on exam revision sessions for certain law units. Be sure to follow us on social media to know when these are and for what subjects they are being offered!

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study resources DLSS Skills Guide Check out our Skills Guide for detailed overviews of the resources available to law students as well as information on how to develop your research and referencing skills!

StudentVIP Student VIP is a website for students where you can access cheap textbooks, notes, and helpful tutors. You can create a membership for free to access these services! Just make sure you are up to date on Deakin’s Academic Integrity policy so you don’t accidentally engage in academic misconduct.

Judicial College of Victoria Check out the resources page on the Judicial College of Victoria website for overviews of legal principles, processes and laws as well as interesting discussions on various areas of law.

Law Institute of Victoria The LIV have a library through which you can access journal articles that can assist you in your studies.

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5 TIPS

FOR FIRST YEAR LAW STUDENTS

By the College of Law

Be Smart About Your Readings In your first semester, it might feel like you need to tackle every single reading, even the ones that aren’t compulsory. But here’s the secret: it’s okay to prioritise!

You’ll soon figure out which readings are crucial and which ones you can skim through. Train yourself to spot the key information in your readings to save time.

Find Your Note-Taking System Typing notes during lectures can sometimes lead to mindlessly jotting down everything the lecturer says.

Try switching it up and handwriting your notes instead.

It forces you to actively engage with the material and focus on the important points. If handwriting isn’t your thing, aim to only type up the key points to stay focused.

Attend Your Tutorials Tutorials are important for applying what you’ve learned in real-world scenarios. Even if they’re not mandatory, attending tutorials regularly is highly recommended.

Skipping tutorials may leave you struggling in exams because you haven’t practiced applying the law.

Get into a Study Routine Find a study routine that clicks with you and stick to it. Some students find it helpful to follow the reading guide and compile notes from lectures, tutorials, and readings. Make sure to type up these notes so you can refine them as you go. Closer to exams, create condensed notes focusing on key principles and cases to streamline your study sessions.

It’s common for students to spend too much time making their notes look nice, which leaves them with less time to actually study. To avoid this, review your material weekly to deepen your understanding.

Get Involved Early Don’t wait too long to dive into extracurricular activities or seek work experience. Getting hands-on experience in the legal field early on can give you a leg up when you start job hunting. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to develop essential skills and expand your network. Even if you don’t have legal experience yet, jump at any opportunity that comes your way—it’ll pay off down the road!

Starting law school is more like a marathon than a sprint. Take these tips on board, stay organised, and don’t forget to enjoy the ride!

COLLAW.EDU.AU/PLT

HOW TO

TAKE NOTES IN LAW LECTURES

By the College of Law

Follow these tips to create more effective and organised notes, making your study sessions more efficient and your exam preparation a breeze:

Prepare Ahead

Be Selective

It might sound basic, but preparing before class is crucial. Read the assigned materials and review your previous notes. This sets the stage for what you’ll learn next, allowing you to focus on new concepts during the lecture.

You don’t need to write down every word the lecturer says. Focus on key points and concepts you’re not familiar with. Look out for emphasis, repetition, definitions, and anything written on the board. These are usually indicators of important information.

Organise Your Notes Keep your notes organised. Date each entry, give lectures clear titles, and use subtitles when needed. Avoid writing on random pieces of paper; instead, use a dedicated notebook or folder on your laptop to keep everything in one place.

Abbreviate Wisely Use abbreviations to speed up your notetaking. Make sure they’re meaningful to you and consistent throughout. For example, use “HCA” for High Court of Australia or “SC” for Supreme Court.

Choose Your Method

Review Within 24 Hours

Whether you prefer typing or writing by hand, stick to what works best for you. But watch out— laptops can be distracting. Handwriting can help you be more selective about what you note down and stay focused.

Type up your notes within a day of the lecture. This helps reinforce your memory and understanding of the material. Studies suggest that reviewing within 24 hours can help you remember up to 80% of the information.

Follow these tips to master the art of note-taking and elevate your study skills.

COLLAW.EDU.AU/PLT

tips and tricks Study Tips 1. Create a study plan: Everyone studies differently. Figure out what works for you, plan it out and stay organised. When will you do the readings? How will you take notes? When will you complete the seminar questions?

2. Complete the weekly readings: It is so easy to fall behind, especially with such a heavy workload. However, try to stay up-to-date on your readings and notes so that you don’t get stressed and overwhelmed later in the trimester!

3. Don’t skip classes: Attending lectures and seminars will help you keep an active engagement that will allow you to learn at your best. If you start skipping it’s unlikely you’ll ever go back so stay engaged, ask questions and form relationships with your lecturers and fellow students! This way you will get the most out of your studies at Uni. 4. Ask questions: There can be so many nuisances, tricky terminology and complicated principles in law. Whenever you come across something in the readings or lectures that you don’t understand take a note of it and ask! The best place to do this is in your seminars.

5. Complete the seminar questions: One of the first things that can slip is completing the seminar questions. Prior to class do your best to complete the seminar questions as it keeps you thinking about the content. If you feel you don’t have time, read over the questions so you feel prepared for class and take quick notes or dot points and any questions you might have.

Assignment Tips 1. Know the content: Attend lectures and seminars and ask questions. Make sure you take note on how lecturers answer questions or how they want you to approach questions. Try to replicate this in your assignments. Completing the seminar questions is another great way to get your head around the style of questions you may face.

2. Make a plan: Don’t wait until the last minute to do your assignments! Good legal writing takes time and drafting. Try to start your assignments as early as possible and take it step by step to ease the stress.

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tips and tricks 3. IRAC: Issue, rule, application, conclusion. This format is required for almost all law assessments at Deakin throughout your degree. Make sure you understand this method and can utilise it well in your writing. Practicing this is a great way to set yourself up for success during Law School!

4. Referencing: Make sure you reference as you go. Leaving it to the end can complicate and mix up your references. Depending on how good you are at referencing these marks can either be easy to get or can result in a worse mark than you would otherwise deserve. Referencing at Law School is consistent with AGLC 4, so familiarise yourself with this guide and practice using it.

Exam Tips 1. Practice Questions/Exams: Complete the practice exams and questions available to you. Make sure you know how to generally answer the range of questions that may come up and have structures ready so that you can utilise them during the exam.

2. Time Yourself: Before your exam check your Exam Instructions to determine your time constraint and marks allocated. Work out how long you should spend on each question and limit yourself to ensure you move on with enough time to finish the exam. Undertake timed practice exams to get an idea of how to approach your exam on the day.

3. Know your notes: Although comprehensive notes may be beneficial to you throughout the trimester, concise notes that are easy to navigate are so important for exams. Make sure you know where everything is and how to find the principles, cases and legislation you will need to state to get the marks.

4. Revision sessions: Revision lectures and DLSS revisions sessions contain the most useful tips on how to approach and undertake exams and assessments.

You don’t just need to understand the content but also know how to answer an exam question concisely and accurately to ensure you are hitting all the marks.

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mentors Business and Law Peer Mentors The Law Peer Mentorship program is another great resource to assist you in your transition into Deakin. The program will pair you up with more senior law students who can assist you in your journey throughout your first year.

Your legal mentor is not your tutor, however, so while they can provide you with information on how to study, they cannot help you with the content itself.

In the program you will have the opportunity to: meet with your mentor and a small group of new students every week make friends get study support access information to help you transition into Deakin ask questions to help you become familiar with university life

This mentoring program runs every trimester during weeks one to five on campus and online. It is available to all business and law students and is a fun and easy way to start your life at Deakin!

For more information visit https://www.deakin.edu.au/students/studysupport/faculties/buslaw/student-support/peer-mentoring

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legal experience Networking During Law School, networking allows you to meet professionals and develop connections. It’s a goof idea to create a page on LinkedIn and utilise it throughout your degree and professional life to maintain contact with professional connections who can assist you during University and into the future. Reach out to firms through LinkedIn, introduce yourself, ask questions and offer to buy individuals a coffee to talk about their work and your interests.

DLSS also hosts events such as ‘Meet the Professionals’ in which you will be able to connect socially and learn from people already in the legal field. To find out when these events run be sure to stay up to date with the DLSS website and social media pages.

Volunteering One way of gaining legal skills and practical knowledge is through volunteering. Community Legal Centres run on volunteer contributions and are often looking for people. Be sure to check out the websites of your local CLC’s and offer to become a general volunteer which can enhance your skills and make you more employable in the future.

WIL Units Every student must compete at least one ‘WIL’ unit as part of their law degree.

These units involve ‘Work Integrated Learning’, where you will work with legal professionals and become an active member of the legal field. WIL units provide you with the opportunity to work with law firms, CLCs or Research Assistants to obtain a taste of real-world legal work.

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admission to practice Sadly, you don’t become a lawyer as soon as you receive your LLB or JD. Aspiring lawyers must be ‘admitted’ to the Supreme Court Roll before entering the profession. You will learn more about the process during your degree, however, here is a brief overview: STEP 1: LLB or JD The first step of becoming admitted to practice is to complete your Bachelor of Law or Juris Doctorate. Whilst completing these, you will complete 11 units known as the ‘Priestley 11’. These law units are the same across all universities and courses in Australia and must be competed and passed to become a lawyer. You will also be able to study electives on top of these.

STEP 2: Completion of PLT PLT refers to Practical Legal Training. After you complete your LLB or JD, this is the necessary next step before you can be admitted to practice law. A PLT can be completed through a traineeship with a legal firm/Public System/ Community Legal Centre, or through a specialist institute such as ACAP, Leo Cussen or the College of Law. STEP 3: Gain Admission The last step is to gain admission to practice. You will be admitted to practice by the Victorian Legal Admissions Board. This requires you to provide evidence that you are a ‘fit and proper’ person suitable for the profession. In this step you must disclose any past conduct that might make you unfit for practice, including speeding fines, Myki tickets and parking fines.

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careers You may know exactly where you want to take you law degree after you graduate. However, those who are still unsure or questioning which pathway you will take after your degree you are not alone!

Whether you are just curious or want to investigate more about a career that may interest you - there are so many resources around you.

DeakinTALENT Deakin Talent is an incredible careers and employment service available to you throughout your degree and beyond! Here you will find everything from resume and cover letter writing guides and templates, online workshops and development programs as well as jobs and internships boards so you can keep track of the opportunities available to you.

DLSS Commercial Careers Portfolio The DLSS Commercial Careers portfolio holds a range of events throughout the year to provide information and opportunities to Deakin law students who have an interest in Commercial Law. Keep you eye out for events including panels, information sessions, career fairs and Meet the Professionals.

DLSS Industry Careers Portfolio The DLSS Industry Careers portfolio provides students with information and opportunities to learn about the areas of law outside Commercial Law. If you are interested in other areas of law including Criminal Law, Family Law, Sports Law and Personal Injury Law keep up with our socials throughout the year for when these events will be held!

Law Institute of Victoria The LIV have a range of career resources including job boards, newsletters and information about various legal careers. You can join the LIV for free and access heaps of amazing resources.

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With you every step of the way Whether you are a law student or a recent graduate, commencing your legal career can seem overwhelming. We understand this and through LIV membership you can unlock the resources you need for your future career.

Join 18,500 colleagues in the legal community, from law students to experienced practising solicitors, and become a member of the LIV today.

Membership is free for law students

Join now www.liv.asn.au/Membership

Don’t wait until you graduate!

There is much more to being a lawyer than what you learn at law school. Build important skills, knowledge and connections now to prepare for your career in law.

Start building skills and connections with a FREE LIV Student Membership: Access resources, events, and networks Join a supportive community of young lawyers offering mentorship Get discounts on law textbooks and study guides Engage in a profession dedicated to community service and advocating for justice.

what is corporate wear?

Most new law students have never stepped into a law firm before. It can be daunting trying to figure out what to wear, what’s appropriate and what can be classified as formal enough for certain legal workplaces. We’re here to help you out!

Smart-Casual: This refers to a mode of dress that is between jeans and a suit. This can include button down shirts without ties, blouses, neat pants and midlength skirts. Brighter colours, simple patterns and bolder jewellery can also be worn. Shoes must still be somewhat professional and are usually darkcoloured.

Business-casual: This is the mid-point between smart-casual and formal corporate clothing. Shirts should be neutral colours and present neatly.

Jumpers and blouses should also be kept tidy and clean. Chinos, trousers, and midlength skirts can all be worn. Shoes must be workplace appropriate and professionallooking. Jeans are generally off limits.

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what is corporate wear?

Corporate wear: This is appropriate for highly professional workplaces and going to Court. Suits with light coloured shirts are suitable, with ties, belts and dress shoes for men. For women, a suit, a light-coloured shirt or blouse, blazer, knee length skirt, pants and closed toe dress shoes are appropriate.

Finding corporate clothing: You can find smart and business clothing at shops such as Target, Kmart or Big W. You can also find clothes online at a cheaper price point.

For corporate wear, you might have to spend a little more money. You can always go to op-shops or check out places such as Forever New or Portmans.

Department stores such as David Jones, Myer, Gazman etc. can also be a great place to have a look!

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wellbeing University can become difficult and overwhelming.

The most important thing is to know that you are not alone and that help is always available. No matter what issues you’re experiencing, there are many support systems available at Deakin so please make the most of them!

Here are some tips that may help you stay on top of your wellbeing needs: 1. Step away from the books Go for a walk, go to the gym, hang out with friends. Give yourself a mental break from studying and assignments and do something else for yourself! This will help you feel refreshed and avoid any potential burn out.

2. Balance Continue activities outside of University. Participate in sport, music, acting, etc. as a much needed break from your studies. Be sure to focus on yourself as well as your studies. Keeping active, maintaining a healthy social life and ensuring you plan out time for yourself are all important in maintaining your mental health.

As well as organising and planning time for studying and assignments, put ‘me-time’ in your planner! This will ensure that you’re getting time to relax so that you don’t feel like you’re sacrificing your own life for your studies.

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wellbeing 3. See friends regularly University can be tough to navigate alone, so make sure you have other people in your corner. Talk to friends, family and other trusted people in your life to ensure that your mental, physical, social and emotional health and wellbeing is as good as it can be.

4. Healthy Body Simple things like ensuring you have enough sleep, keeping active and eating healthy can make a world of difference.

5. Deakin’s wellbeing services Deakin University’s new Law Building (LB) is now home to a Wellbeing Centre.

This includes a psychologist and physiotherapy, and provides access to doctors, vaccinations and medical certificates. Deakin also has a gym you can utilize to stay up to date with your fitness needs.

For more resources, check out the DLSS Wellbeing page at: https://www.deakinlss.org/wellbeing

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