2012 Clerkship Guide

summerclerkshipguide

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CONTENTS

EDITOR

03. MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR

Isabelle DUGGAN

04. MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN

CONTRIBUTORS

05. MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

Katherine AGAPITOS

06. GLOBALISATION AND THE LARGE AUSTRALIAN LAW FIRM

Helena ASHER

08. AN INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE

Codie ASIMUS

11. UTS LSS CLERKSHIP SCHEDULE

Tess COOK Kathryn CROSSLEY Jamesina McLEOD Natalie NASTEVSKA Professor Paul REDMOND Amy SIMPSON Michelle SMERDON Maryanna VASILAREAS Emma WHITE Ingrid WOON DESIGNER

CONTENTS

Jessica AYE

Linda HOANG ACTING DEAN OF LAW Professor Lesley HITCHENS UTS LSS PRESIDENT Emma BECHARA UTS LSS VP (SPONSORSHIP & CAREERS) Amy SIMPSON WITH THANKS TO Kwik Kopy Neutral Bay

THE FIRMS 14. ALLEN & OVERY 17. ALLENS 20. ASHURST 23. BAKER & MCKENZIE 26. CLAYTON UTZ 32. CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH 37. DIBBS BARKER 38. DLA PIPER 41. FREEHILLS 44. GADENS 49. GILBERT & TOBIN 53. HENRY DAVIS YORK 56. HERBERT GEER 58. JOHNSON WINTER & SLATTERY 59. KING & WOOD MALLESONS 63. LANDER & ROGERS 64. MIDDLETONS 65. MINTER ELLISON 68. NORTON ROSE 71. WEBB HENDERSON TIPS FOR APPLYING 72. THE APPLICATION 76. THE COVER LETTER 77. THE CV 80. THE INTERVIEW 86. CONDITIONS WHEN APPLYING 87. PARTICIPATING LAW FIRMS

UTS Law Students’ Society C/- Faculty of Law UTS P.O Box 123 Broadway NSW 2007 Australia P: +61 2 9514 3448

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2

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR

nd so another year group of law stu-

hopefully aide your decision making process

dents brings with it another year of

in those crucial last few days before applica-

clerkship applications. For many law

tions close.

A

students the lure of the shiny glass tower com-

MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR, ISABELLE DUGGAN

mercial law firm is all but impossible to resist,

Finally, some general tips. Be yourself. Make

but it is important to realise your law degree

a positive first impression. Let your application

opens doors to endless opportunities, from a

reflect the very best of your hard work and

career as a commercial lawyer to working in

extracurricular activities. Don’t forget to proof-

international human rights, as a public pros-

read and save your applications every few

ecutor or even in management consulting. Ad-

minutes. The interview is your opportunity to

ditionally, there has also been the shift towards

elaborate on the points made in your applica-

the globalization of some large Australian law

tion and to let your personality shine through.

firms, thus changing the legal environment in

In this Guide we have included tips about writ-

which as graduates we will enter.

ing a great application and being a star in the interview amongst other essential information

It is worth thinking closely about the direction

to ensure you are ready to attack the applica-

you want your law degree to take you when

tion process ahead.

deciding where to apply for a summer clerkship. The culture of every firm is different and

Remember, a summer clerkship is not the

as much as it seems to be about the law firms

be-all and end-all. Plenty of law students

choosing law students, it is equally, if not more

have been disappointed in missing out on a

important that law students choose the right

place, but other opportunities always open

firm or firms to apply to.

up, for example in social justice organisations, government, or even boutique law firms. The

What areas of the law interest you? What do

Careers Guide released in early September will

you value? Make sure you apply to firms that

showcase the very best of the variety of dif-

reflect this - whether it is important to you

ferent careers a UTS law degree can lead to.

that a firm has a large pro-bono practice or

The possibilities are endless so keep an open

is known for their excellence in capital mar-

mind. And some students choose to not do

kets. Each firm is very different and each has

any of that and just travel the world for a few

their own culture and legal specialisations.

months, which is pretty attractive too.

This Guide contains introductions to and clerk experiences at some of the firms running sum-

Whatever path you choose to pursue, I hope

mer clerkship programs this year. However I

you find your passion somewhere. I also hope

would also encourage you to attend the Clerk-

you find the Guide helpful in navigating a hec-

ship Networking Evening and the Clerkship

tic clerkship season.

Seminars run by the LSS to find out more about the individual firms, and how they might

Best regards,

be a good fit for your personality and interests.

Isabelle Duggan

As well as this make sure you talk to current

Careers (Publications) Director

graduates and past summer clerks about their

UTS Law Students’ Society 2012

experiences at different firms. All of this will

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

3

MESSAGE FROM THE ACTING DEAN

he Summer Clerkship Guide produced

UTS Law students are well regarded. How-

by the Law Students’ Society is a valua-

ever, the clerkship program is highly competi-

ble resource whether you are planning

tive and there will be many more applicants

to apply for a summer clerkship or perhaps

than places. Even if you are not successful

are still thinking about whether or not this

in obtaining a clerkship, the experience can

experience is for you. It will provide you with

still be valuable. Preparing your application

information about the firms, the process, tips,

can help you to identify your strengths and

and you can also read about the experiences

to refine how you present relevant informa-

of former summer clerks. The Guide will also

tion about yourself. Interviews provide useful

provide you with information about the proper

practice and experience. They will give you an

procedures to be followed. You should make

idea of what is expected of a law interview and

sure that your applications follow the require-

a chance for you to see how you manage the

ments of the scheme and the firms to which

interview. Take time after the interview to re-

you are applying.

flect on it: what went well and what could have

T MESSAGE FROM THE ACTING DEAN, LESLEY HITCHENS

been improved. Use the tips in this guide as Applying for clerkships can be quite an intense

an aid for that reflection (as well as a guide

experience from the application stage through

to preparing for the interview). But don’t be

to interviews and finally offers. However, it is

too hard on yourself, we can all look back on

important to keep this in perspective. The

interviews and wish we had said something

clerkship program and the firms engaged in

differently! So whether or not you decide to

the program represent only a very small share

participate in the program, and whether or

of the career and employment opportunities

not you are successful, the clerkship period

which will be available to you as a graduate.

can assist you to reflect on what type of career

According to the Law Society of NSW’s 2011

you want and/or improve your application and

Profile of NSW solicitors, only about 22% of

interviewing skills. And for those of you who

NSW solicitors employed in private practice

are successful in obtaining a clerkship, the

work in firms with 40 or more partners and

experience will also offer you the chance to

law firms with more than 20 partners repre-

consider whether that is the career path you

sent only 0.5% of all law firms in NSW. And,

want to pursue when you have qualified.

of course, of those in practice, around 30% will be employed by Government or by cor-

And finally, good luck with the process!

porations. Your law degree will equip you for

Professor Lesley Hitchens,

a diverse range of careers which may or may

Acting Dean

not involve the formal practice of law – not to mention the international career opportunities.

You may not even be aware at this stage of the diverse possibilities.

4

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

at their firm, with the view of being offered a

3. Attend the Clerkship Networking Evening

graduate position at the said firm. More often

– this evening will provide you with an oppor-

than not, students are successful in securing

tunity to network in an informal context with a

a graduate offer after their clerkships. Clerks

vast range of law firms, and learn more about

then typically complete their final year of study,

each firm – whilst enjoying complimentary

before commencing at the firm as a graduate

drinks and canapés.

solicitor. The penultimate year requirement is

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT, EMMA BECHARA

applicable to both undergraduate and post-

As a penultimate year student, I reflect on this

graduate/Juris Doctor students.

guide, and am appreciative of the work and commitment that the editing committee have

To be accepted into a clerkship program, is a

contributed in order to produce this informa-

testament to your hard work and commitment

tive, accessible and assistive book. I thank

to your studies, extra-curricular activities and

the publications team, the contributors, and

your work-life balance. It is an invaluable expe-

particularly, the UTS LSS Sponsors, for whom

rience that will provide you with an insight into

without - this publication would not be pos-

lerkship season is upon us.

both the firm you have been invited to clerk

sible.

I hope this introduction - and this guide

at, and the corporate world generally. The ap-

as a whole - provides those of you who

plication and interview processes are rigorous.

I would like to extend a special thank you to

know a great deal about the clerkship process,

Whilst no two firms are the same in terms of

Isabelle Duggan, the 2012 Careers (Publica-

with just a bit more information – and arms

application requirements, they all share two

tions) Director, who stepped so effortlessly into

those students who know very little about the

commonalities: academic transcripts & extra-

her role so late into the piece, and made it

clerkship process, with a wealth of information

curricular activities. If you are considering ap-

her own.

that will assist you throughout your clerkship

plying, I would advise reviewing your CV and

experience.

list of extra-curricular activities, to ensure that

To those of you embarking on the clerkship

you have noted all activities you deem relevant

journey this year, I wish you the very best of

In brief, a clerkship is a 12-week long “intern-

to your character and experiences. This will

luck. To those who have a while longer – whilst

ship” that students in their second last year

prepare you for when the applications for the

I am jealous of the time you have left at uni-

of law school can apply to be a part of, at a

various firms officially open.

versity, I hope this guide proves informative to

C

vast range of Australian and international law

you also.

firms. This period is called a clerkship. At

ARE YOU FEELING A LITTLE LOST?

the end of the clerkship, “clerks” (i.e. those

THINGS TO DO:

I trust that this guide will be of assistance to

students who have undergone the clerkship),

1. Read this guide – this guide has been pro-

you all throughout the process.

are generally invited to attend a final interview

duced for your information and the articles in this guide will assist you with the fundamen-

Good luck - I hope to hear of many UTS:Law

tals of the clerkship process;

students in their positions of choice in 2012, whether or not that be as a clerk.

2. Attend the Clerkship Seminars – these seminars are an opportunity to meet with

Best wishes,

representatives from the various firms in a

Emma Bechara

one-on-one basis, and to learn more about

President

the clerkship process specific to an individual

UTS Law Students’ Society 2012

firm; and

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

5

GLOBALISATION AND THE LARGE AUSTRALIAN LAW FIRM

Globalisation and the large Australian law firm Paul Redmond, Sir Gerard Brennan Professor, Faculty of Law, UTS

T

his essay looks at the current global strategies of large Australian law firms as revealed by what is happening at Mallesons, Blakes, Allens and perhaps Freehills. The essay may help law students

thinking of working in firms with an exclusively business or government clientele (excepting always the odd billionaire or three). This is not, of course, a booster for corporate over individual client firm practice.

The major US and UK law firms see Asia as the area of growth in coming decades, especially in the post-GFC climate with a weakened economic outlook in Europe where so many of the UK firms have sunk resources.

This, after all, is said to be the Asian century. Australian law firms have been competing for the big transaction work in the region for a couple of decades now. They are well placed by geography and time zone, long presence and profile in the region, and the high quality of their lawyers’ training. But they face problems in being big regional players alone. The governing law of international business is either English or New York law, not Australian law. In Asia, English law has largely won out and so participating law firms need English law capacity. The major English law firms all have established Asian offices and a strong presence to exploit this advantage and their colonial connection, especially in the major financial centres of Hong Kong and Singapore.

Australian firms have been flirting with UK firms for a while. A major obstacle to a merger with a leading UK firm is the size of the big Australian law firms themselves. Elite UK firms fear that their partner profit shares, from the higher value and better remunerated transaction work in London, will be diluted if all those Aussie partners are taken on board although the strong Australian dollar, the mining and resources work here and the European downturn restore some balance. Freehills is

6

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

GLOBALISATION AND THE LARGE AUSTRALIAN LAW FIRM

reported to be having merger talks with Herbert Smith, a major UK firm.

King & Wood Mallesons is a very different merger, the first between a

Recently Norton Rose merged with Deacons and the US firm DLA Piper

Chinese and a western law firm. King & Wood was founded in 1993 by

with Phillips Fox. On 23 April 2012 Allens Arthur Robinson announced

Chinese principals and is the third largest firm in Asia by lawyer num-

they had entered into an ‘integrated alliance’ with the leading UK firm

bers. Chinese law prevents Chinese and foreign lawyers from sharing

Linklaters under which the firms will remain independent save for a

profits so that, until an exemption or relaxation is granted, King & Wood

series of joint ventures in Asia.

Mallesons will keep the bulk of their operations financially separate in three separate profit pools, one for Mallesons’ Australian practice, an-

Other UK firms have targeted key people from the big Australian firms

other for King & Wood’s Chinese offices and the third for the merged

to give them a practice base here through smaller local partnerships.

Hong Kong office. Separate profit pooling means business as usual for

This happened recently with the blue chip Allen & Overy and Clifford

Mallesons’ Australian operations but will presumably see more staff

Chance. The focus here is on particular practice areas, principally

moved to Chinese and Hong Kong practices over time. There are sig-

banking and finance, and the opportunity to leverage UK firm expertise.

nificant implementation risks: three of Mallesons’ four Beijing partners

But these specialist partnerships face formidable competition from full

left for other firms within days of the merger announcement. They may

service, long established Australian firms.

not be alone. Global firms generally offer staff better pay and conditions than Chinese firms and there are concerns about more intrusive

On 1 March 2012, two leading Australian firms, Blake Dawson and

government and Communist Party regulation of Chinese firms. However,

Mallesons Stephen Jaques, entered into ‘mergers’ with overseas

this combination probably makes King & Wood Mallesons more attrac-

firms, Blakes with Ashurst, an old UK firm with global operations,

tive to a major US or UK firm as a potential global merger partner. That

and Mallesons with the People’s Republic of China firm King & Wood.

seems the strategy.

Blakes has become Ashurst Australia and Mallesons has become King & Wood Mallesons. Both link-ups have an initial regional focus but are

What about those large Australian firms that remain national? Many

steps in a wider global strategy.

clients, especially governments, do not need global representation. But most have smallish offices in Asia and the competition from global firms

Blakes and Ashurst have ‘combined their practices in Asia’ with a view

there is getting stronger by the day. And cross-border work is often more

to a full merger in 2014 after a further vote of the partnerships. This

intellectually challenging as well as lucrative. The pressure to go global

seems a conventional law firm merger between two firms with a similar

ratchets up with each new firm merger or quasi-merger.

history and culture although with practices in different regions. The next step seems to be a merger with a major US firm.

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

7

AN INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE

AN INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE CODIE ASIMUS LINKLATERS

BACKGROUND Applying for a clerkship at a domestic or in-

edge and commercial awareness. Whilst the

ternational firm can be a daunting process. In

process is rigorous, the reward at the end is

my experience, this was because of the com-

thoroughly rewarding, irrespective of whether

petitiveness of the application process and the

or not you are offered a clerkship, as the expe-

importance of the clerkship as the primary

rience itself is highly valuable.

gateway to securing graduate employment at a commercial firm. Whilst the application and

MY EXPERIENCE

interview period will always be challenging, in

The two rotations I completed were in the

this article I hope to assist students who are

Mainstream Corporate and Banking depart-

considering an international career with Lin-

ments. Despite having worked as a paralegal

klaters to determine whether the firm is right

for almost four years prior to the clerkship, I

for them. I will do this by highlighting the main

was surprised by how much of the firm’s work

factors traditionally taken into consideration by

was cross-jurisdictional in nature, as well as

students when making the ‘domestic vs. inter-

the enormous scale of the transactions. For

national’ decision, as well as provide an insight

example, when conducting research for the

into Linklaters specifically, through reference

Mainstream Corporate department on the

to my clerkship in the London office of the firm

transposition of the EU Solvency II Directive

from November to December 2011.

into domestic legislation throughout all member states of the EU, I was able to call other

To provide some context, Linklaters is a com-

Linklaters solicitors in Belgium, Sweden and

mercial law firm with a diverse range of differ-

the Netherlands to obtain immediate answers

ent areas of practice, with 27 offices (including

for those countries. In the Banking Depart-

affiliates) spanning across Europe, North and

ment, the first transaction I worked on was the

South America, Africa, the Asia-Pacific and

refinancing of a €6 billion facility agreement

Middle East. Its largest office is in London,

involving a 39 bank syndicate for one of the

where it forms part of the “magic circle” of top-

firm’s ‘blue chip’ clients. These are experi-

tier law firms. Fortunately for Australians, the

ences that can only be gained from a truly

firm conducts an annual clerkship specifically

international firm with a tier-1 ranking across

for Australian law students, with those clerks

almost all countries in which it operates.

having an automatic right to an interview for a two year training contract. If offered a train-

One of the primary reasons I chose to com-

ing contract, the student can choose a com-

mence my career at Linklaters is because of

mencement date within 24 months of gradua-

the strong emphasis the firm places on com-

tion, depending on whether or not they wish to

mercial education, in addition to substantive

defer their commencement. I have accepted

legal knowledge and skills. Throughout the

my offer and will be commencing my training

four weeks I spent on my clerkship, I learnt

contract in London in March 2013.

more about the inter-operation between different departments within a commercial firm

8

If you are offered an interview on the basis of

than I had over the previous 46 months of my

your application, the interview process takes

experience as a paralegal. The firm places a

place in Australia and involves a Watson

strong emphasis on its lawyers understanding

Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal, standard

the commercial drivers behind each type of

‘HR-style’ interview (e.g. behavioural and

transaction so that its solicitors have industry-

experience-based questions) and a commer-

specific knowledge and can adapt their legal

cial interview focusing on your legal knowl-

advice to suit the commercial objectives of

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

AN INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE

their clients. Whilst I am unable to comment

during my clerkship who had undertaken

• AM I WILLING TO RELOCATE? Whilst some choose

on what commercial education is offered by

secondments to both clients and other

to move overseas forever and others return

comparable firms, this was something I val-

Linklaters offices, between 6 and 24 months

home after a few years, I would recom-

ued highly when I chose to accept my offer

in duration. Whilst there is a very wide range

mend not pursuing a career in London

of a training contract from Linklaters as the

of potential secondment locations, the cities

straight after graduation unless you see

firm’s emphasis on commercial education was

of those I spoke to included Hong Kong,

yourself working there for a minimum of

clearly evident to me.

Moscow and New York. The vast majority of

4-5 years. This is because you won’t have

trainees spend at least one of the four six

any significant skill level in a particular area

Before my departure to London, I was told by

month rotations in their training contract on

of law after the 4 x 6 month rotations that

some of my friends working for the firm that

secondment.

comprise your training contract.

the solicitors adopt a “work hard, play hard” mentality, which was a cultural description

• ‘BLUE CHIP’ WORK: Whilst Linklaters services

• DO MY LEGAL INTERESTS ALIGN WITH MY DESIRE TO

that held true in my experience. During the

the most prominent global corporations

WORK IN MORE THAN ONE JURISDICTION THROUGH-

clerkship, we were treated to a social func-

and financial institutions, it often advises

OUT MY CAREER? If you wish to work in more

tion every Monday and Thursday evening,

clients on emerging areas of law, such as in

than one jurisdiction throughout your career

including several dinners, a trip on the Lon-

relation to new structured financial products

(e.g. the UK and Australia), you should be

don Eye, ice skating at Somerset House and

that have never been seen in the market

conscious of the fact that most areas of

a cocktail making class. Whilst it would be a

before. Access to this kind of work is excit-

law are not capable of being practised in

mistake in my opinion to choose a firm on the

ing, as it has never been done before, which

multiple jurisdictions. For example, Tax and

basis of added benefits, they are nonetheless

is something that in my view should keep

Litigation are predominantly jurisdiction-

significant at Linklaters. During the clerkship

the work stimulating in the long-term.

specific, in contrast to Banking, Capital

alone, the firm paid me a salary, reimbursed my return flights to London and paid for high

Markets and Mergers and Acquisitions, • DUAL TIER-1 RANKING: Linklaters is the only

which can be practised globally.

quality serviced apartments in Islington, a vi-

‘magic circle’ firm with a tier-1 ranking in

brant area of central London, which was within

both Corporate and Banking, as its competi-

walking distance of the office.

tors each rank in the top-tier in only one of

Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?

those areas. This means the firm is a safe

Do you wish to work in a particular country?

BENEFITS OF AN INTERNATIONAL CAREER AT LINKLATERS

option for those who know they have an

Do you want to specialise in a particular

interest in commercial law, however aren’t

area of law? You should only choose a firm

In my view, the primary benefits of a career at

yet sure of which area they would ultimately

that is consistent with your career ambitions

Linklaters are:

like to specialise in.

and will help you to achieve professional

• WHAT ARE YOUR LONG-TERM PROFESSIONAL GOALS?

satisfaction. Having said this, Linklaters is a globally recognised and re spected firm,

largest transactions in the world, involving

CONSIDERATIONS WHEN CHOOSING WHICH JURISDICTION TO START YOUR CAREER

multinational clients and often requiring

Whilst an international career can be exciting

career there.

travel and/or cooperation with solicitors in

and filled with lots of opportunities, it is not

other jurisdictions. No domestic firm can

for everyone. A successful relationship will

• WHAT RELEVANCE DOES THE ECONOMIC DOWNTURN

offer a comparable level of transactions on

require a mutual fit between the firm and ap-

IN EUROPE HAVE FOR MY DECISION? Some adopt

the same scale and geographic spread as

plicant, which is dependent upon a range of

the view that there has been a paradigm

Linklaters.

factors. That said, it is worthwhile considering

shift to Asia and Australian lawyers are

the following questions, as I know they have

better placed commencing work in Asia

• SECONDMENTS: Secondments can vary in both

been relevant considerations to other students

rather than London or New York, despite

duration and location. However, to illustrate

when making the decision to stay in Australia

these two cities being the largest financial

the opportunities available, I met solicitors

or head to London before:

centres in the world. Whilst on a long-term

• CROSS-JURISDICTIONAL TRANSACTIONS: The solicitors at Linklaters are exposed to some of the

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

which means it is unlikely for you to make the ‘wrong decision’ by commencing your

9

AN INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE

scale there is an undeniable economic

financial centres and emphasis on emerging

MY DECISION

shift, it is important to note that Linklaters

markets.

Different considerations concerning graduate employment will be relevant to different stu-

performs strongly in economic downturns, as evidenced by the firm emerging from

Whilst Linklaters is certainly well placed to

dents depending on their career ambitions,

the 2008/09 Financial Year as the largest

withstand any future movements in the global

personality and motivations behind becoming

law firm in the world by revenue, at ÂŁ1.298

economy in comparison to its competitors, no

a commercial lawyer. I accepted my offer to

billion.

firm is entirely impregnable. In this regard, it is

undertake a training contract at Linklaters be-

important to remember the widespread lateral

cause of the exceptional training, commercial

In my opinion, it is important to choose a firm

hiring freezes during the last financial crisis.

and legal education and cross-jurisdictional

that has strengths in both Corporate and Bank-

As a consequence, if you are sure that you

career opportunities the firm can offer me in

ing, and which has a global capability across

wish to pursue a career in London, whether

the long-term. If you have international ambi-

existing financial centres as well as emerging

on a permanent or semi-permanent basis, I

tions in a top ranking commercial law firm,

markets, to ensure resilience to global eco-

believe it sensible to attempt to secure a train-

then I would highly recommend considering

nomic movements. Not many ‘international’

ing contract by participating in the Australian

Linklaters. However, ultimately the decision of

firms satisfy both of these criteria. Whilst the

Clerkship, as the prospect of being recruited

where to commence your career will be a per-

global economy is a relevant consideration for

laterally a few years after graduation is uncer-

sonal choice, requiring a mutual fit between

students considering an international career,

tain. For this and the reasons above, I view the

you and your prospective employer.

Linklaters is one of the best-positioned firms

training contract as an offer of certainty in one

in the world to cope with drastic economic

of the largest legal and financial centres of the

movements due to its dual strengths in Corpo-

world.

rate and Banking, existing coverage of global

10

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

THE SCHEDULE

UTS LSS CLERKSHIP SCHEDULE

mongst its other portfolios, the careers

A

questions you may have. In doing so you will

function of the UTS Law Students’ So-

gain invaluable insight into not only the firm’s

ciety (‘UTS LSS’) is to ensure students

clerkship process and program, but also tips

are aware of career opportunities available to

regarding your application.

them.

A further benefit is that you will have an option It is because of this that the UTS LSS organ-

to compare firms, who are all gathered in the

ises and facilitates events each year to assist

one location at the one time.

penultimate year students with their applications for the Summer Clerkship Program (as

3. THE SKILLS WORKSHOPS

well as students not yet eligible for clerkships

In 2012 the UTS LSS, in conjunction with

in respect of their future applications).

certain law firms, will be facilitating three skills workshops: Allen & Overy Networking

In 2012, the UTS LSS will be holding:

Workshop, Minter Ellison CV Workshop, and Clayton Utz Interview Workshop.

1. THE CLERKSHIP SEMINAR SERIES A number of law firms will attend UTS in May

These workshops are intended to provide

in order to hold clerkship seminars which

you with highly useful information in respect

provide an invaluable insight into life at these

of preparing your applications, and may also

firms as a summer clerk, as well as present-

provide insight as to what commercial firms

ing a unique networking opportunity with firm

look for in respect of each skill.

representatives, which may include recruiting partners, human resources employees and

Whilst these workshops are open to all

former summer clerks.

UTS:Law students, they have been intentionally scheduled to coincide with clerkship ap-

These seminars will also provide you with in-

plications.

formation you can use to increase the quality of applications.

Dates for all of these activities are below and it is highly recommended that all students

Seminars typically run for one hour, compris-

interested in applying for the 2012 Summer

ing of a presentation by the firm and an oppor-

Clerkship Program attend as many of these

tunity to ask questions, concluding with food,

events as possible.

drinks and an opportunity to network with firm representatives.

Should you have any further questions in respect of these activities, please do not hesitate

2. THE CLERKSHIP NETWORKING EVENING

to email me at careers.activities@utslss.com.

The Clerkship Networking Evening will provide

All the best in your applications and I look for-

you with an opportunity to meet and network

ward to seeing you at these events!

with representatives and lawyers from some of the top law firms in Australia over free

Emma White

canapés and drinks, as well as ask any further

UTS LSS Careers (Activities) Director 2012

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

11

THE SCHEDULE

SCHEDULE OF SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM EVENTS & IMPORTANT DATES

7 MAY 2012

17 MAY 2012

BAKER MCKENZIE CLERKSHIP SEMINAR

ATTORNEY-GENERAL’S DEPARTMENT CLERKSHIP

11.00am, CM05B.1.14

SEMINAR 3.00pm, CM05C.1.21

NORTON ROSE CLERKSHIP SEMINAR 3.00pm, CM05C.1.21

21 MAY 2012

ALLEN & OVERY CLERKSHIP SEMINAR

DLA PIPER CLERKSHIP SEMINAR

5.30pm, CM05B.01.13

11.00am, CM05C.1.29

9 MAY 2012

CLAYTON UTZ CLERKSHIP SEMINAR 3.00pm, CM05C.1.21

HENRY DAVIS YORK CLERKSHIP SEMINAR 1.00pm, CM05D.1.14

23 MAY 2012

TRESSCOX CLERKSHIP SEMINAR

KING & WOOD MALLESONS CLERKSHIP SEMINAR

3.00pm, CM05C.1.21

1.00pm, CM05D.1.14

ASHURST CLERKSHIP SEMINAR

GADENS CLERKSHIP SEMINAR

5.30pm, CM05C.2.44

3.00pm, CM05C.1.21

14 MAY 2012

FREEHILLS CLERKSHIP SEMINAR 5.30pm, CM05C.1.29

MINTER ELLISON CLERKSHIP SEMINAR 11.00am, CM05C.2.46

24 MAY 2012

GILBERT & TOBIN CLERKSHIP SEMINAR

UTS LSS CLERKSHIP NETWORKING EVENING

3.00pm, CM05C.1.21

6.30pm, Aerial Function Centre (Level 7, UTS Building 10 – 235 Jones Street, Sydney NSW

16 MAY 2012

2007)

ALLENS CLERKSHIP SEMINAR

Please refer to the UTS LSS website

1.00pm, CM05D.1.14

(www.utslss.com) for further information including how to register.

CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH CLERKSHIP SEMINAR 3.00pm, CM05C.1.21

12

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

THE SCHEDULE

4 JUNE 2012

13 JUNE 2012 Applications for summer clerkships through

MINTER ELLISON CURRICULUM VITAE (CV)

the NSW Law Society open.

WORKSHOP 11.00am, CM05B.03.27

13 JULY 2012

Please refer to the UTS LSS website

Applications for summer clerkships through

(www.utslss.com) for further information

the NSW Law Society close at 5.00pm.

including how to register.

13 AUGUST 2012 ALLEN & OVERY NETWORKING WORKSHOP

Summer clerkship interviews commence.

5.30pm, CM05C.02.44 Please refer to the UTS LSS website (www.

21 SEPTEMBER 2012

utslss.com) for further information including

Offers for summer clerkships can be made.

how to register.

Please note that this schedule may change.

6 JUNE 2012

An up to date schedule for the above events will always be available on the UTS LSS

CLAYTON UTZ INTERVIEW WORKSHOP

website (www.utslss.com) under the ‘Careers’

1.00pm, CM05C.02.40

tab.

Please refer to the UTS LSS website (www. utslss.com) for further information including how to register.

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

13

THE SCHEDULE

14

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

ALLEN & OVERY

FIRM PROFILE

A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY As one of only a small number of global elite firms, Allen & Overy Aus-

offices. This will give you a greater understanding of our global network

tralia offers you something truly different. Joining Allen & Overy means

and a taste of future opportunities available to you at Allen & Overy.

playing a part in a diverse domestic and international team spanning a

Whilst it’s by no means compulsory, a large proportion of our lawyers

fully integrated network of 39 offices in over 27 countries.

will choose to take up the opportunity to spend time working in another office at some time during their career, whether that’s a rotation as a

We focus on complex and strategic domestic and cross-border transac-

junior lawyer, a longer term secondment or a permanent transfer.

tions for a high profile client base of market leading private and public

& International Capital Markets, Corporate and Litigation. Within these,

LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT OPPORTUNITIES

the practice areas are diverse, including Mergers & Acquisitions, Private

Allen & Overy is renowned for high quality training and development.

Equity, Projects, Structured Products, Investment Funds, Competition,

During your career you will have the opportunity to attend comprehen-

Asset Finance, Tax, Energy & Resources, Litigation and International

sive training both domestically and globally to meet and learn with col-

Arbitration. Clients increasingly need global service providers and we

leagues here and overseas, starting with our “Global Universities” run in

are currently one of the only firms in Australia able to provide a fully

London for lawyers with approximately 2 years of experience.

organisations. Our Australian practice has three core groups: Banking

integrated domestic, regional and global offering.

WHO WE LOOK FOR Our culture and the values we share inspire the way we work and be-

There is no typical Allen & Overy lawyer. We realise each person has

have: excellence in everyone and everything, dedication to our clients,

their unique skills and qualities. While you should have excellent

helping our people to achieve their potential, respecting and including

academic results, beyond this we want to see evidence of teamwork,

every individual, working together as one firm, entrepreneurial spirit and

communication skills, planning and organisation skills, problem solv-

energy.

ing, commercial awareness, and commitment to a career in law and a career with Allen & Overy.

WHAT TO EXPECT As a Summer Clerk you’ll complete two rotations within our core prac-

We accept applications from overseas students, however applicants

tice groups. You’ll be allocated a supervising partner and will work

must demonstrate a commitment to starting their legal career in Aus-

closely with that partner and the senior associates and lawyers who

tralia and have the right to live and work in Australia.

make up the team. You will be exposed to premium quality domestic and international work and will also participate in various exercises that

We invest in hand-selecting our Summer Clerks each year and were

simulate real transactions from beginning to end, providing a valuable

pleased to offer graduate positions to all our Sydney Summer Clerks in

insight into the role of an Allen & Overy lawyer. Informal feedback and

2011 and 2012.

guidance will be given to each summer clerk throughout the process.

For further information, please visit our website Uniquely we also offer the opportunity to all our Sydney Summer Clerks

www.allenovery.com/careers (select Australia) or contact us at

to spend one week of the program working in another of our Asia Pacific

australianrecruitment@allenovery.com

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

15

SUMMER CLERK PROFILE

LLB (HONS), BA INT STUDIES (MAJOR IN CHINA) UTS LAW STUDENTS’ SOCIETY PRESIDENT 2009 A&O SUMMER CLERK 2010/2011 GRADUATE-AT-LAW 2012 AARON KO

ALLEN & OVERY

wo years ago during the clerkship ap-

sociate in which we refinanced a major inter-

plication process, I was looking for a

national telecommunications company. This

firm that was going to provide me with

matter involved six of our international offices,

excellent training, exciting work and had a

which proved to be an interesting challenge in

genuine global outlook. Since then, during my

managing time-zones and different deadlines;

time as a summer clerk, a paralegal and now

but from the client’s perspective, A&O was

as a graduate, Allen & Overy has surpassed all

working on the matter 24 hours a day. Work-

of my expectations. In addition, I have uncov-

ing so closely with the Senior Associate was a

ered a genuinely open and supportive culture

great learning experience, as he would explain

which has proven so vital in the early stages of

each of the steps we were doing and why we

my development as a lawyer.

were doing them. I felt comfortable asking

T

any questions I had regarding the transaction,

THE CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE

whether they were specific about a task at

During the clerkship I was exposed to a wide

hand or just general questions about protocol

variety of local and international transactional

or deal structure.

matters as well as the opportunity to work with several different partners and their teams.

Reflecting upon my clerkship application and

The learning curve was steep, but the work

interview process I remember feeling uncer-

was enjoyable and help was never far away.

tain about which firm would be right for me.

Highlights of my clerkship include my visit to

What I can say now that it is all over is that

a client’s coal terminal in Newcastle and my

Allen & Overy is a leading global law firm with

rotation to the A&O Singapore office. As part of

a wealth of history and experience that cannot

the clerkship, each clerk rotated through one

be understated. The Sydney office draws on

of our Asian offices including Tokyo, Beijing,

the firm’s huge international network of train-

Shanghai, Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok

ing and human resources, precedents and ex-

and Singapore. This was a great experience,

pertise. It is a firm large enough to offer you a

not only in a legal sense, but also experiencing

leading global experience, yet has a close-knit

and appreciating first hand the subtle differ-

office which lets you stand out and feel like

ences in work practices throughout the world.

part of the firm. A&O also has an impressive client list, acting for the premier investment

As a Graduate, I have been through a very

banks, financial institutions, and blue chip

comprehensive training program, which in-

companies all over the world. As globalisation

cluded everything from legal drafting, work

becomes irreversible and with many Australi-

management and practice group specific

an firms now reaching out to the global market,

skills training to IT and office procedure. Since

A&O is well placed to serve the largest clients

training, I have been thrown in the deep end,

on the largest deals and this makes the work

but thankfully with a great deal of support.

inevitably interesting.

Just recently I ran a matter with a Senior As-

16

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

ALLEN & OVERY

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

1177

FIRM PROFILE

ALLENS

WHO ARE WE AND WHAT MAKES US UNIQUE IN THE INDUSTRY?

INTELLIGENCE:

Allens is a major legal force in Asia, with lawyers and business services

we value excellence in all that we

colleagues and clients to deliver a

employees working in Beijing, Brisbane, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong

do. We want people who strive to

commercial and solution-driven

Kong, Jakarta, Melbourne, Perth, Port Moresby, Shanghai, Singapore,

do their best. We look to recruit

approach. We look for people

Sydney and Ulaanbaatar. Seventy-seven of Australia’s, and 55 of the

people who are not only techni-

who are innovative and creative,

world’s, top 100 companies choose Allens as their legal adviser.

cally excellent, but also capable of

and will thrive in our environment.

building strong relationships with On 1 May 2012, Allens entered into an integrated alliance with leading global law firm Linklaters. The alliance expands the Allens network to 36

CLERKSHIP PROGRAM

offices across 26 countries.

Our clerkship programs are run for students in their penultimate year Our lawyers unashamedly love the law. We also understand that our

of study.

clients want succinct answers that achieve their commercial aims. At Allens, you will find yourself working alongside colleagues from diverse

The clerks are involved in an intensive orientation program including

backgrounds. Although our teams are made up of people with count-

library and research skills. Clerks also participate in skills development

less individual differences and life experiences, common to each of

seminars, departmental and practice group meetings and informal per-

them is the ability to distil simplicity from complexity and to provide

formance reviews. There is also a social aspect to the program, enabling

clear solutions to our clients.

clerks to network with internal and external clients.

WHAT OTHER ASPECTS ASIDE FROM WORK CAN ALLENS OFFER EMPLOYEES?

GRADUATE PROGRAM Allens is committed to ensuring new recruits develop a legal knowledge

At Allens, our values are the foundation cornerstone of our culture. Our

of each practice area and get the experience and training to form the

people want to make a difference not only in law and business but in

basis of a successful career.

the wider community. This passion to make a difference drives our Pro Bono, Charity, Footprint and Reconciliation Action Plan committees’ ini-

You won’t be waiting years for interesting work and responsibility. Our

tiatives. These committees are comprised of a wide spectrum of Allens

lawyers work in teams, and you are part of a team from day one. You

staff, who use their involvement enrich their experience at the firm. We

will also have a ‘buddy’ - a junior lawyer who will answer your day-to-day

offer opportunities for secondments to both clients (including pro bono

questions and help you settle in.

clients) and our international offices.

We offer a single rotation for the duration of our law graduate program.

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR IN AN EMPLOYEE? IMAGINATION INTERESTS INTELLIGENCE

Junior lawyers may then undertake two 12-month rotations before spe-

At Allens, we want people who want to excel and fulfil their potential.

knowledge of each practice area, giving law graduates an opportunity

We want lawyers who can analyse legal issues from diverse perspec-

to develop strong relationships with partners and other lawyers in their

tives and arrive at solutions that provide the greatest value. The three

practice group.

cialisation. We believe that a longer rotation provides a comprehensive

key things we look for are: We’re looking for people who are passionate about their profession.

IMAGINATION:

INTERESTS:

Strong academic performance is important, and so is your ability to

we are a firm of multi-dimensional

imaginative people often have var-

think laterally, be flexible, see the bigger picture and work as part of a

individuals and teams. We cel-

ied interests outside of the law and

team.

ebrate diverse perspectives and

exciting opportunities available to

aim to attract individuals who will

them. Our policies support employ-

MORE INFORMATION

add to the unique fabric of our

ees who seek high-quality work,

For more details on all our programs please visit and apply on our web-

firm.

along with time for outside interests.

site www.allens.com.au/careers

18

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

ALLENS

CLERKSHIP TESTIMONIAL NICOLE MEYER

SUMMER CLERK PROFILE

hen I chose Allens for my summer

of things. Throughout my clerkship I learnt

clerkship, it was honestly a gut

so much and felt so lucky to work alongside

feeling. I had attended numerous

lawyers who were just as interested in impart-

interviews, cocktail parties and spoken to what

ing their knowledge as meeting their billable

felt like hundreds of different people, but there

targets. Having now returned to the firm as a

was always something that was drawing me

paralegal, it’s no different.

W

back to Allens. Now I realise what it was – the people. The people are honestly the most im-

However, the clerkship was definitely not all

portant part of your decision and the thing that

about work. The clerks were involved in every

will inspire you and make you look forward to

aspect of the firm from casual group catch

going to work every morning.

ups and birthdays to the Allens Annual Swimming Carnival, Christmas parties and firm

Allens is a top tier firm and alongside that

drinks. One particular highlight was the clerk

comes the high profile matters, the big clients,

charity event. As a group we organised the

the million dollar deals and the opportunity to

entire event culminating in ‘Allens’ Got Talent’,

be a part of the cutting-edge legal issues. Any

a talent quest whereby each department com-

top tier firm will provide you with that and so

peted by donating $1 to vote for their favourite

in my opinion, it is the people that you work

act. We had singers, string ensembles, come-

with, and the people that you learn from that

dians and even a magician. It was a fantastic

distinguish a firm.

night and a great opportunity to have a few drinks and a laugh with people from all over

The people at Allens are phenomenal. The

the firm.

most you can ask for from a clerkship is to gain an insight into the firm, learn as much

The clerkship was such an incredible experi-

as possible and enjoy yourself whilst doing

ence and a lot of fun – there was never a lack

it. From my first to last day, I never stopped

of opportunities to socialise with colleagues

learning. All the lawyers I worked with were

and develop some great friendships with your

friendly, approachable and spent time explain-

fellow clerks. I strongly recommend a clerk-

ing every matter they got you involved in. Even

ship at Allens, and if I haven’t already given

where you were completing the most basic of

you enough to look forward to, I should note

research tasks, the instructing lawyer would

that Allens has an amazing art collection,

make you feel like you had made a significant

beautiful offices and a free coffee shop (which

contribution and make sure to show you where

you will no doubt visit daily).

that piece of research fit in the large scheme

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

19

matching ambition

with opportunity You’ve worked hard. Done well. You have ambition.

You can match your ambition with the many opportunities at Ashurst. Ask us how.

Sydney – Amy Foulcher People Development Consultant – Graduate Programs Tel +61 2 9258 6924 amy.foulcher@ashurst.com

blake dawson is ashurst, australia’s new global law firm.

www.ashurst.com/graduates

Firm profile About us

Areas of legal practice

Ashurst is Australia’s new global law firm. On 1 March 2012, Ashurst and Blake Dawson combined their practices in Asia and Blake Dawson changed its name to Ashurst Australia, adopting the Ashurst brand. Together we have created a powerful global legal presence as one team with one brand and a shared vision, paving the way for a planned full global merger in 2014.

We are a top tier full service global law firm with a particular focus on financial services, energy and resources, and projects and infrastructure. Our Australian office practises in over 30 different service areas including:

This coming together of equals significantly strengthens both firms. We have over 1,700 lawyers across 24 offices around the world. We are a full-service firm, advising corporates, financial institutions and governments, and our core businesses are in corporate, finance, energy and resources and infrastructure.

s Competition & Consumer Protection

The collaboration also gives the Australian marketplace ready access to UK and US law capabilities, and seamless cross-border service around the clock. With an expanded depth and breadth across our region, clients have access to legal teams across the globe providing tailored, commercially astute solutions for all of their transactions and projects.

s Energy & Environment

With more than 3,500 people working in 24 offices across Australia, Asia the Middle East, Europe, UK, the US and an associated office in Indonesia, our reach, presence and global growth aspirations provide our people with the platform on which to develop and foster a deep understanding of local markets and industries, with the benefit of a global network and international insight.

s Litigation & Dispute Resolution

Our clients

What do we look for?

We are a full-service firm, advising leading corporates and financial institutions, and governments, and our core businesses are in corporate, finance, energy and resources and infrastructure.

We look for abilities and strengths which experience tells us are critical to success as graduates and clerks and in the longer term. In particular we seek graduates and clerks who can demonstrate an ability to build rapport with a range of people; an ability to work in a teambased environment; the academic capacity to excel; a demonstrated interest or expertise in a commercial legal environment; the willingness to learn; resilience, motivation and a commitment to excellence in both work and client service.

We have the privilege of advising on some of Australia’s and the world’s largest and most complex deals. Our clients include 73% of the top 100 ASX companies and 93% of Australian companies in the Forbes Global 2000.

s Banking & Finance s Commercial Property

s Construction & Infrastructure s Corporate s Employment

s Government s Hotels, Tourism & Gaming s Intellectual Property s IT, Communications & Media

s Mergers & Acquisitions s Resources s Restructuring & Insolvency s Tax

Australia Belgium China France Germany Hong Kong SAR Indonesia (associated office) Italy Japan Papua New Guinea Singapore Spain Sweden United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States of America

BLAKE DAWSON IS ASHURST, AUSTRALIA’S NEW GLOBAL LAW FIRM WE’RE MATCHING AUSTRALIAN LEGAL EXPERTISE WITH GLOBAL CAPABILITY.

www.ashurst.com

The Summer Clerk experience

Angela Vo I was initially apprehensive about completing a summer clerkship at a commercial law firm, suspecting that I might be working in a rather reserved environment.

However from the very first day at Ashurst my concerns were dispelled. The week long induction program provided the opportunity to get to know everyone and become familiar with the extensive resources and services available. Throughout the clerkship I felt part of a supportive team that was interested in my development and interests and ensured that my clerkship was tailored especially for me.

I completed two five week rotations in the Employment and Intellectual Property, Communications and Technology teams. The supervising lawyers and partners always aimed to allocate work that was within my area of interest. I was involved in a diverse range of tasks from research for client presentations and advices to reviewing legislative reforms. During my first rotation I was fortunate to attend court for an industrial relations matter, which also involved the opportunity to sit in on discussions with the client and counsel. I also gained experience in the area of workplace health and safety and discrimination.

Halfway through my second rotation, I had the opportunity to go on client secondment, and spent a week in the Technology, Media and Intellectual Property team at the Commonwealth Bank of Australia. Media law is a particular interest of mine, so I was delighted to gain in-house experience in that area which also complemented the work I had been involved in during my second rotation.

During my summer clerkship at Ashurst I felt that I was consistently supported in shaping my career goals and developing as an individual. My time at the firm offered an insightful look into the commercial law world and provided me with opportunities and experiences which were tailored to my personal learning. I was continuously amazed to meet so many people who demonstrated a genuine interest in my ambitions and progress as an aspiring lawyer.

blake dawson is ashurst, australia’s new global law firm. we’re matching australian legal expertise with global capability.

Australia Belgium China France Germany Hong Kong SAR Indonesia (associated office) Italy Japan Papua New Guinea Singapore Spain Sweden United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States of America

www.ashurst.com

BORN GL BAL At Baker & McKenzie we are different in the way we think, work and behave.

Like no other law firm we were born global.

Right from the beginning we’ve been offering a genuinely global perspective and operating without boundaries around the world.

Our established global reach offers you an extraordinary career in the global economy, exchanging rich local insights and knowledge with the best legal minds from all over the world every day.

And our unrivalled regional and local development programs will make you a truly global lawyer. Fast.

We’re an entrepreneurial firm where new ideas and innovation are encouraged at all levels. A place where small teams and a personal approach to your career means you can go as far and fast as your talents and drive will take you.

Ready to explore our world? www.bakermckenzie.com/careers

Natalie Pinto in Melbourne: +61 3 9617 4349 Posy McGrane in Sydney: +61 2 8922 5482

FIRM PROFILE

BAKER & MCKENZIE

ABOUT THE FIRM

CLERKSHIP PROGRAMS

Baker & McKenzie is an instinctively global law firm. Our Australian

Right from the start, our clerks get involved in real work. You will be

practice is the fourth largest in our network of 70 offices in 42 countries

exposed to our Australian and international clients through client meet-

around the world.

ings, short client secondments, shadowing, research and other everyday activities within your assigned practice group. Our clerks work closely

With 90 partners and 199 lawyers in Sydney and Melbourne, Baker &

with other lawyers and, in each rotation, are guided by a Supervising

McKenzie Australia can offer you access to complex, market-leading

Partner and Associate ‘Buddy’. You will develop practical and legal skills

matters working with some of the world’s best legal minds – people who

through our national learning program and by attending workshops

know the law and who understand business.

specifically designed for seasonal clerks, as well as firm-wide sessions.

We have an unrivalled ability to provide training and secondment op-

Clerks who accept a graduate role with the Firm are eligible to apply for

portunities across our global network. Locally, we have an inclusive

an International Clerkship, with the opportunity to work for up to four

culture of learning, coaching and opportunity where you will work in

weeks in one of our overseas offices in the year following their clerkship.

small teams on matters that often cross borders. We value people who

APPLICATION DATES AND PROCESS

think ahead and get noticed.

Applications for seasonal clerkships should be submitted online at www.

Baker & McKenzie’s key Australian specialist areas – set out below –

cvmail.com.au and should include a cover letter, details of your work

cover a broad range of expertise:

experience, extra curricular activities and interests as well as academic results. Applications for Clerkships open on 13 June in Sydney and on

• Banking & Finance • Capital Markets

• Financial Services &

16 July in Melbourne.

Structured Transactions

• Commercial Real Estate

• Hotels, Resorts & Tourism

CONTACT DETAILS

• Construction

• Intellectual Property

For more information, head to our website www.bakermckenzie.com/

• Dispute Resolution & Litigation

• Mergers & Acquisitions

careers or contact:

• Employment &

• Private Equity

Industrial Relations • Energy, Resources, infrastructure & Corporate

• Taxation

SYDNEY

MELBOURNE

• Technology, Communications

CONTACT NAME

CONTACT NAME

Posy McGrane, Talent Manage-

Natalie Pinto,

ment Consultant - Graduates

Talent Management Consultant

EMAIL

EMAIL

posy.mcgrane@bakermckenzie.com

natalie.pinto@bakermckenzie.com

PHONE

PHONE

02 8922 5482

03 9617 4349

& Commercial

• Environmental Markets

CLERKSHIP AND GRADUATE PROGRAMS WHAT DO WE LOOK FOR IN OUR CLERKS AND GRADUATES? Our Graduate and Clerkship programs are designed for people who enjoy a challenge and seek new opportunities; who share our global perspective; who have sound academics and are practical in their approach; who like taking responsibility and getting things done; who express themselves confidently while staying open to new ideas; and who seek a friendly and inclusive culture that encourages making a difference to our local and global communities.

24

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

BAKER & MCKENZIE

NEXT STOP… HONG KONG MY INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE AT BAKER & MCKENZIE MICHELLE SIEKIERKA

SUMMER CLERK PROFILE

fter completing her summer clerkship

A

I was excited to discover that the global nature

at Baker & McKenzie, Michelle Sieki-

of Baker & McKenzie was even more palpa-

erka was selected for an International

ble in Hong Kong, with all of the matters that

Clerkship at one of Baker & McKenzie’s 70

I worked on involving a cross-border party,

offices around the globe. Below, Michelle

being it a party in China, Britain, Singapore,

recounts her unforgettable experience in her

the British Virgin Islands or even Ireland. As

destination of choice -- Hong Kong.

well as this, Hong Kong is a cultural hub, with lawyers from all over the world choosing to

WHY AN INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIP?

work there for the cutting edge work that such

I applied for an international clerkship in Hong

a large and open financial centre in Asia can

Kong because I thought that it would provide

provide.

an invaluable opportunity to gain experience in a truly global Baker & McKenzie office.

Outside of work, while I was in Hong Kong I

With Australian firms operating in China, and

was encouraged to, and took, great advantage

Chinese firms investing in Australia, I was of

of the opportunity to explore a new city and

the opinion that a heightened awareness of,

culture: I saw the sights (such as the tallest

and experience in, the Chinese culture could

outdoor, seated bronze Buddha and numer-

only be a useful asset to possess. I hoped to

ous temples), tasted new foods (like snake)

gain insights into the legal systems of different

and completed such activities as going for a

jurisdictions, in particular the regulation of cor-

ride on a junk (a traditional fishing vessel),

porations and commerce, believing that this

Hawaiian dancing (yes, in Hong Kong!) and

would deepen my understanding of Australian

visiting Macau.

law, the possible challenges and barriers to entry into markets, and the conduct of interna-

LOOKING FORWARD

tional trade. I am proud to say that I achieved

My experiences leading up to and during my

all of this, and more, during my clerkship in

international clerkship confirmed that Baker &

the Hong Kong office.

McKenzie is a truly global law firm – not just because it has 70 offices in 42 countries – but

HONG KONG EXPERIENCE

in the cross-border work that is performed, the

I undertook two rotations in the four-week pe-

mix of staff and its outlook on clients’ matters.

riod of the international clerkship, commencing in the Commercial and Securities Group,

I am sure that I will continue to appreciate this

working almost exclusively on real estate in-

throughout my career at Baker & McKenzie,

vestment fund (REITs) matters. Despite REITs

and am excited that I might yet be able to take

being a new area to me, I was able to assist

advantage of further opportunities to work in

with preparing offering circulars, drafting

offices in other jurisdictions.

agreements and deeds, undertaking research and providing advice to clients.

The international clerkship program has allowed me to establish contacts and relation-

I rotated into the Finance Practice Group for

ships with lawyers in the Hong Kong office,

the latter half of my stay, where I undertook

which I believe will be mutually useful in times

a variety of work such as drafting resolutions

to come.

and documentation for loans, providing legal opinions on enforceability and governing law, and writing comparative memorandums.

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

25

Want the inside scoop on landing a role at Clayton Utz? Find it on Facebook!

www.facebook.com/ClaytonUtzCareers

CLAYTON UTZ

FIRM PROFILE

FIRM BACKGROUND

FIRM CULTURE

Clayton Utz is one of Australia’s most successful and dynamic com-

At Clayton Utz, you will experience a work environment in which indi-

mercial law firms, with over 200 partners and 1700 employees working

viduality is embraced and innovation is actively encouraged.

across seven offices in Australia and Asia.

Progressive and dynamic, Clayton Utz is very much its own firm, where We have a reputation in the market for our innovative approach to com-

people are valued for who they are and what they contribute. Our people

plex transactions and litigation, and for our exceptional client service.

come from a diverse range of backgrounds and bring with them differ-

Our focus is on building our capability in key and evolving practice areas

ent experiences, which is part of what makes Clayton Utz an exciting

and attracting the best lawyers in the market to work with us.

place to work.

Clayton Utz is a trusted legal adviser to a diverse private and govern-

PRO BONO AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY

ment sector client base operating in a range of industry sectors.

Clayton Utz is a leader of Australian law firms in Pro Bono practice and Social Responsibility. These are important parts of who we are as a firm.

AREAS OF LEGAL PRACTICE Our four core departments – Corporate, Litigation/Dispute Resolu-

OUR PRO BONO PRACTICE

tion, Banking and Financial Services and Property, Environment and

Pro bono is an integral part of legal practice at Clayton Utz. Every mem-

Construction – house a diverse and comprehensive range of practice

ber of our legal team, at all levels of seniority, in every office and in every

groups, each comprising recognised and award-winning experts in their

department of the firm is involved in our Pro Bono practice.

respective areas of law.

Since 1997, we have provided more than 350,000 hours of pro bono

AREAS OF LAW

INDUSTRIES

legal assistance to disadvantaged people and to the non-profit organisa-

Banking and Finance

Advertising and Marketing

tions which support them.

Capital Markets and Securities

Agribusiness

Competition

Banking and Finance

OUR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY PROGRAMS

Construction and Major Projects

Climate Change

Our Community Involvement program connects our people, resources,

Corporate / M&A

Constructions and Major Projects

skills and enthusiasm through volunteer work and in-kind support to

Energy and Resources

Energy and Resources

over 20 Community Partners across our offices.

Environment and Planning

Government Services

Governance and Compliance

Healthcare Life Sciences

We also provide strategic financial support to charities through the Clay-

Insurance and Risk

Leisure and Entertainment

ton Utz Foundation. Since its establishment in 2003, the Clayton Utz

Intellectual Property

Private Equity

Foundation has made around 400 grants totalling almost $5 million.

International Arbitration

Real Estate Markets

International Trade

Telecommunications,

In March 2010 we took the step of strengthening our commitment to

Legal Technology Services

Media and Technology

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by developing a Reconcilia-

Litigation and Dispute Resolution

Transport and Logistics

tion Action Plan which formalises our commitment to reducing inequal-

Native Title

Water

ity between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, and which

Private Equity

contains targets that we hold ourselves to meeting.

Product Liability Real Estate

Our Footprints program commits Clayton Utz to environmentally friendly

Restructuring and Insolvency

initiatives and practices, including quantifying and auditing our emis-

Taxation

sions on an annual basis, and embedding sustainability into our pro-

Telecommunications,

curement policies. In 2011 we became a foundation member of the

Media and Technology

Australian Legal Sector Alliance to promote sustainable environmental

Workplace Relations,

practices across the profession.

Employment and Safety LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

27

FIRM PROFILE

CLAYTON UTZ

ATTRIBUTES & SKILLS OUR PEOPLE

ROTATIONS

People are our competitive edge and Clayton Utz partners are known

through our diverse practice areas. Our graduates experience both the

for being market leaders in their areas of specialisation. The firm and

contentious and non-contentious areas of law. To help you with your

our partners are consistently recognised in respected international le-

preferences and rotation areas, our People and Development team will

gal directories such as Asia Pacific Legal 500, Chambers Global and

work closely with you. At the end of each rotation, you and your super-

IFLR1000. However, we know that awards are only part of the story.

vising partner will review your performance.

Graduates will have the opportunity to gain experience by rotating

Delivering the best possible results for our clients requires technical expertise, resources, commitment and understanding their definition of

CLERKSHIP PROGRAM

a superb outcome.

We offer a unique Clerkship Program that is both challenging and comprehensive. We provide an environment which will encourage you to

WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR

extend yourself and expand your knowledge. The Clerkship Program

Our people come from a wide range of backgrounds, skills, interests

is carefully planned and designed to ensure that you gain experience

and competencies. We are looking for people who can contribute new

in a wide range of areas of law and on real client matters. Your work at

ideas and who take a creative approach to solving problems.

Clayton Utz will allow you to put into practice the knowledge and skills you have acquired at university.

We also look for individuals who are personable, practical, commercially savvy and flexible. Our lawyers do complex and innovative legal work, so

Under the supervision of a partner and with the help of a buddy who will

it’s important that our employees are intelligent and motivated individu-

be there to provide ongoing support and guidance, you will experience

als who aren’t afraid of a challenge.

the office environment and culture at Clayton Utz first hand. Part of the Clayton Utz experience is being involved in the kind of client services we

WHAT WE OFFER

provide. You will have the opportunity to work with our clients, including

Working within a friendly, dynamic and highly collaborative team at

some of Australia’s biggest companies.

Clayton Utz, our lawyers benefit from the extensive experience and re-

some of the most challenging cases at the front lines of business and

LEGAL TRAINING DEVELOPING YOUR CAREER

the law.

We believe learning and development are critical to helping our people

sources of our national firm, while making a meaningful contribution to

achieve in their careers and to reach their full potential.

Partners and senior lawyers are readily accessible to offer advice or assistance. Our lawyers are encouraged to set goals and test themselves,

We provide a range of tailored and comprehensive professional develop-

knowing that support is there if needed.

ment programs suited to the individual needs of each employee through our national training program Learning@Clayton Utz.

Clayton Utz offers a vibrant and supportive work environment. We recognise the need for balance and provide a range of flexible work options,

WE SUPPORT YOUR LEARNING WITH:

health and wellbeing initiatives, as well as sporting and social activities.

• intensive orientation programs

• regular Continuing Legal Edu-

GRADUATE PROGRAM

at the beginning of the

cation sessions led by special-

We can offer you a great start and the opportunity to build an excellent

clerkship period and graduate

ists sharing their knowledge

legal career at Clayton Utz.

program;

and experience;

• on-the-job guidance and We give our graduates a comprehensive orientation program and the

support from peers and senior

support of a buddy to help them grow and develop in the role. From

lawyers;

• tuition assistance for further study; and • external courses and seminars

the outset, entry-level solicitors are part of our team and are involved in

relevant to your professional

real legal work. Because you will be working closely with partners and

and personal development.

solicitors who are recognised as leaders in their fields, the Clayton Utz Graduate Program provides a solid basis for future success.

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LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

CLAYTON UTZ

SUMMER CLERK EXPERIENCE STEPHANIE-KATE BRATTON

SUMMER CLERK PROFILE

WHAT ONE WORD BEST DESCRIBES YOUR CLERKSHIP? WHY?

mal. But, the lawyers and partners also have

Affirming. For me, the clerkship was one of

always ready and willing to help you learn.

incredible legal minds. On top of that, they are

those experiences where you realise you made it. My hard work throughout university was af-

The other drawcard is the office building.

firmed in my getting a spot. My choice to study

It may seem indulgent to list this as one of

law was affirmed by how much I enjoyed actu-

the reasons Clayton Utz should be your first

ally practising the law. Most importantly, my

preference, but it is visual proof that Clayton

decision to work at Clayton Utz was affirmed

Utz takes care of its own. The building is one

by the wonderful people I worked with – from

of the most beautiful corporate spaces I have

summer clerks and lawyers to partners.

ever seen. It’s like entering a contemporary museum twenty light years into the future.

WHAT WAS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE WITH CLAYTON UTZ?

When you’re working bathed in natural light, it’s hard not to love your job!

My most memorable experience with Clayton

fortunate enough to be sent to the Hong Kong

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR FUTURE CLERKS?

office on a two week secondment. I had an

The first thing I would recommend is that you

absolute blast! I spent my days working with

take each person’s clerkship advice with a

the construction team, not only learning

grain of salt. The most important thing is that

about legal practice in Hong Kong but also

the firms get a feel for who you are and there’s

developing an understanding of cross-cultural

no point worrying that you’re not a sporting

business relations. During the nights, I got to

hero or that you haven’t joined any on-campus

explore the city!

clubs!

WHAT WAS THE MOST STRESSFUL EXPERIENCE DURING YOUR CLERKSHIP?

That leads into my next bit of advice. You’ll

The most stressful experience for me was

to ‘just be yourself’. It sounds cliché, but it’s

learning how to account for my time. I was ter-

absolutely true. The interview process is not

rified by the thought of having to calculate the

about trying to be ‘what the firm wants’. The

time spent on each task and charge it to the

clerkship opportunity is about you too - and

correct matter! Fortunately, we received lots of

you need to find your fit!

Utz is definitely working in Hong Kong. I was

be told many times in the next few months

training and I got the hang of it in the end.

NOW FOR SOME ON-THE-JOB TIPS. HAS YOUR CLERKSHIP CHANGED YOUR VIEWS ON A CAREER IN LAW?

Firstly, remember that you’re here as a sum-

Definitely not. If anything, my clerkship expe-

and the people you work with have a vast

rience has made me feel stronger about my

amount of experience. So be open to criticism

decision to pursue a career in law.

and be willing to learn.

WHY SHOULD CLAYTON UTZ BE AN APPLICANT’S FIRST PREFERENCE?

Secondly, be open to any practice group. I

Clayton Utz should be your first preference

to be a media lawyer. But, during my clerkship

because a firm is only as good as the people

I was presently surprised by my experience in

that work there - and the people here are

Real Estate and discovered I absolutely love it!

mer clerk to hone those legal skills of yours

thought I knew beyond any doubt that I wanted

great! They’re friendly, well-balanced and norLSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

29

SUMMER CLERK PROFILE

SUMMER CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE MARK CHAHINE

CLAYTON UTZ

WHAT ONE WORD BEST DESCRIBES YOUR CLERKSHIP? WHY?

HAS YOUR CLERKSHIP CHANGED YOUR VIEWS ON A CAREER IN LAW?

Insightful. The clerkship process at Clayton

Working as a seasonal clerk has made me re-

Utz really opened my eyes at what a career in

alise that the law isn’t as cut dry as you would

law entailed. It wasn’t all work and no play, but

think. There are often a number of solutions

rather a mix of interesting and thought provok-

to a problem and a number of commercial

ing work and a healthy dose of sports, social

considerations to take into account. After my

activities and all round fun.

clerkship I realised that your legal work was often shaped by commercial and economic

WHAT WAS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE EXPERIENCE WITH CLAYTON UTZ?

not be the same solution now in light of recent

My most memorable experience at CU was

economic times.

factors. A legal solution 10 years ago might

definitely winning the interfirm sports com-

great to have a side activity that allowed you

WHY SHOULD CLAYTON UTZ BE AN APPLICANT’S FIRST PREFERENCE?

to take your mind of things and interact with

Clayton Utz should be an applicant’s first pref-

your colleagues in a completely different en-

erence because it can provide a clerk with the

vironment. One of the best parts about it was

type of experience only a top tier firm can, with

meeting like-minded people from other firm

clients ranging from large multinational corpo-

and coming up with your best friendly com-

rations, banks, government organisations and

petitive jeer.

projects and other corporate heavy weights.

petition. While the work was interesting it was

The training given to you by the firm is sec-

WHAT WAS THE MOST STRESSFUL EXPERIENCE DURING YOUR CLERKSHIP?

always in the know. What makes CU special

One of the most stressful parts of doing a

with a permanent full time partner and team

clerkship in my opinion was meeting partner

dedicated to helping the people who can’t

expectation. I think there are a lot of ques-

help themselves.

ond to none and ongoing, ensuring you are

is its industry leading Pro Bono department

tions in the back of your mind that nag at you; should I have read over that contract one more

Other than work, CU organises a range of so-

time? Was my response detailed enough? Was

cial and sporting activities which gives you that

my email too informal? Should I have brought

much desired balance.

the partner a cupcake to soften the blow of

from the knowledge that the partners will in-

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR FUTURE CLERKS?

evitably decide whether you remain with the

Go into the clerkship process with a positive

firm or not. It didn’t take me long however, to

and open attitude ready to give everything a

realise that the partners were anything but the

shot at least once.

not finding an answer? I think the stress stems

big scary monsters I had once thought. They were friendly and understanding of the fact that as clerks we pretty much knew nothing.

30

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

WHAT MAKES A LAWYER WORLD CLASS?

AT CORRS, WE’RE DEVELOPING LAWYERS WHO DELIVER REAL IMPACT IN A NEW BUSINESS WORLD. TO SEE HOW VISIT CORRS.COM.AU/GRADUATES

CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH

CONTACT

OFFICE LOCATION

AREAS OF PRACTICE

Sara Benvenuti

Level 32

Corrs operates within three main operating divisions:

Human Resources Adviser

Governor Phillip Tower

Sara.Benvenuti@corrs.com.au

1 Farrer Place

(02) 9210 6164

Sydney NSW 2000

FIRM PROFILE

• Corporate and Finance (Taxation, Corporate Advisory, Banking and Finance) • Property and Development (Construction, Planning, Environment and

ABOUT CORRS

Local Government, Property and Infrastructure)

Corrs Chambers Westgarth is one of Australia’s largest law firms. We have around 1,000 people throughout Australia, but our vision is not

• Litigation and Workplace Relations (Litigation, Workplace Relations, Intellectual Property, Technology and Competition)

just about size. Our vision is about being the leading law firm in target industries that are driving Australian and international business. In-

With an integrated network of offices throughout Australia (Melbourne,

dustries like energy and resources, financial services, communications

Sydney, Brisbane and Perth), Corrs acts for many of Australia’s largest

and media, property, infrastructure and construction, and Government.

companies and is regularly involved in major transactions of national

It’s about delivering a new level of legal service that bridges the gap

and international significance.

between legal advice and business challenges to create success for our clients. And it’s about building an inspiring workplace where our people

LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT

are engaged and empowered to make this happen.

Achieving our goals as a world class law firm requires people with vision, ambition, courage and commitment. We have a workplace that

Corrs has been an ALB Employer of Choice for three successive years.

is engaging and truly inspiring, and what we consider to be the most

We’ve made BRW’s list of 50 Great Places to Work in Australia and

innovative, progressive and supportive people development program in

are the only large national law firm to be awarded ALB Gold Employer

the industry.

of Choice 2011. We’ve also earned an EOWA Employer of Choice for Our extensive in-house learning and development program will keep

Women citation for five successive years.

your professional skills and technical knowledge up to date. We have a Our goal is to always create an inspiring workplace and ensure people

Legal Excellence program, practice group training sessions and career

who work at Corrs have the opportunity to build successful careers

path programs tailored to each level of lawyer. We provide generous

through undertaking challenging and interesting work in a friendly and

support for further undergraduate and postgraduate study. The Corrs

supportive environment. This objective underpins everything we do at

Scholarship for Individual Excellence program also gives high perform-

Corrs. We engage staff and give them the recognition, rewards and

ing employees the opportunity to attend short training courses at world

support to make this happen.

class institutions such as Harvard, Columbia and INSEAD.

An inspiring workplace where people can build rewarding careers, means investing in our people as well as recognising and rewarding excellence. We do this through a range of innovative people initiatives over and above our standard processes.

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

33

FIRM PROFILE

CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH

GIVING BACK AND PRO BONO At Corrs, we recognise the importance of contributing to our community

OUTSIDE OF WORK, WHAT DOES THE FIRM OFFER ITS EMPLOYEES?

and facilitating access to justice. We feel that it is important to ensure

It’s not all about work! At Corrs we encourage staff to be socially ac-

legal services are available to everyone including those who cannot pay,

tive and participate in social and sporting events as well as learning &

those who are disenfranchised and to those who have genuine legal

development activities.

issues of a public interest nature that need to be pursued.

Some of our activities include our Mind, Body & Soul series, touch footCorrs provides pro bono legal advice to charities, non-profit organisa-

ball, cricket day, Friday night drinks, family days, trivia nights, End of

tions and, when the need arises, to individuals. Our pro bono activities

Financial Year party and Christmas Party. Corrs also provides flexible

are diverse. Nationally, we are the principal legal partner for the United

work arrangements, paid study leave, salary sacrificing and opportuni-

Nations Refugee Agency in Australia (UNHCR), and do commercial

ties to give back to the community.

legal work for other charitable and not-for-profit organisations including the Aboriginal Legal Service (NSW/ACT), Australian Children’s Trust,

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM

Consumer Action Law Centre, Inspire Foundation, Oxfam, Painaustralia,

The Corrs Seasonal Clerkship Program is a great opportunity for you to

SecondBite and the RSPCA, among others.

experience the people, clients, work and culture that differentiates Corrs from other law firms.

We have established legal clinics in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.

This work was recognised when we received the Victorian Law Founda-

As part of the Program, you’ll have the opportunity to work with some

tion Distinguished Pro Bono Service Award.

of Australia’s leading lawyers on high-profile work for major Australian and international clients across all industries. You’ll soon discover the

HOW DOES THE FIRM ENCOURAGE A WORK/LIFE BALANCE?

standards of quality and commitment to clients required to succeed at

We believe in fostering a work environment that promotes flexibility and

this level.

diversity. It’s an essential part of our strategy – because our differences You’ll be exposed to a broad range of interesting matters, plus you’ll

help us to think differently.

perform tasks such as conducting research, reviewing documents, At Corrs we want the best people, full stop. As a law firm seeking com-

presenting documents, attending client meetings, mediations and set-

petitive advantage in the global economy, diversity is the reality of our

tlements. It’s the perfect way to discover the area of law that excites

environment and we are making it our strength. Corrs aims to provide

you most.

a workplace that champions differences to ensure a richer and more engaging environment that encourages and retains talented people. We provide flexible working arrangements to support our people as their needs change throughout their lives and careers. We have a dedicated Diversity Manager, we have set ourselves goals and we’ve put in place the plan to achieve these.

34

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH

FIRM PROFILE

The Program involves a unique rotation system, whereby you will partici-

LAUNCH GRADUATE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM

pate in four two-week rotations, which gives you the opportunity to work

Your time as graduate at Corrs starts with the Graduate Academy. This

across the whole firm. There are also structured learning opportunities

is an off-site training program attended by all Corrs graduates nation-

that include a comprehensive orientation program, and presentations

ally that gives you an opportunity to get to know Corrs and your fellow

on relevant legal, business and workplace issues.

graduates better. It is also a great foundation for your Sydney office orientation that follows immediately – then you are into the work.

As a clerk, you will be closely supervised by allocated Clerk Co-ordinators; who are Senior Associates at the firm. You will also have a mentor;

We are committed to developing world class lawyers. Our new Gradu-

a junior lawyer who is there to answer any questions you may have

ate Development Program, Launch, lays this foundation by providing

about the firm, and who can settle you in and provide you with an infor-

rich, on the job training with a greater opportunity to work directly with

mal level of support and guidance during your time at Corrs.

partners and senior lawyers; structured learning; mentoring; and regular feedback.

APPLYING FOR CORRS CLERKSHIP All applications for Seasonal Clerk positions should be made via: www.

The new Launch program is specifically designed to expose you to the

corrs.com.au/careers

experience, skills and expertise you need to become an outstanding, highly-skilled practitioner.

All application dates are in accordance with the 2012 NSW Legal Graduate Employment and Summer Clerkship Guidelines.

Supervised by partners, you will complete three six month rotations through divisions covering a variety of practice areas including corpo-

Applications for 2012 seasonal clerk positions open on Thursday, 13

rate advisory, banking and finance; litigation and workplace relations;

June 2012 and close at 5.00pm AEST on Friday, 13 July 2012.

intellectual property and tax; property, infrastructure, construction, planning, environment, and government. You will get the opportunity to

WHAT DOES THE FIRM LOOK FOR IN A CLERK?

work with a greater number of partners and senior lawyers.

Corrs looks for intelligent people. But being intelligent and being able to provide intelligent legal solutions are not always the same thing. We

You will be allocated a Graduate Mentor who will provide you with day-

want individuals with common sense and an instinctive mind for busi-

today guidance, including clarifying what is expected of you, helping

ness, outstanding communicators who can define the essence of any

you build your skills and develop your career, You will also have a junior

issue in a simple way. We also want clerks who are mature enough to

lawyer as your buddy, who can help you settle into the firm.

know they don’t yet have all the answers.

Your development is overseen by a dedicated Graduate Development Manager who works with Division Leaders, partners, graduate mentors and human resources, to provide you with guidance, ensuring your success.

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

35

SUMMER CLERK PROFILE

2011/12 SUMMER CLERK SHEETAL BALAKRISHNAN

CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH

WHY CORRS?

clerks were given various opportunities to be

Finally, after endless applications, cocktail

involved, which was very important to me as

nights and interviews, the summer had started

I have a strong interest in community legal

and so had my clerkship at Corrs.

work. As part of a pro bono project, the clerks compiled a social media guide for the Inspire

There are many reasons why I chose Corrs.

Foundation. Every clerk was also given the

Undoubtedly the firm has a strong national

opportunity to attend a legal centre with one

presence. This has given me the opportunity

of the graduates, dealing with matters vastly

to learn from and work alongside leaders in

different from those in the corporate law en-

the profession. I was also attracted to Corrs

vironment.

because their rotation system was different to other firms - they offer four two-week rotations.

LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT

Even though I was equipped with plenty of

It is evident that the people at Corrs want to

information about each practice group, there

help you grow as a professional. Learning and

was no pressure to make any choices. With

Development started from Day 1 at Orienta-

the opportunity to rotate through each practice

tion. During the clerkship there were numer-

group, I am now even considering areas of law

ous training sessions to develop our research,

I may not have considered before (did some-

writing and communication skills. We also had

one say Tax?). Most importantly, I chose Corrs

sessions with partners from different practice

for their people. Everyone, from graduates to

groups to explain their role and the type of

partners were genuinely friendly and eager to

work they do. Each clerk was also allocated a

answer any and all of my questions.

buddy who would willingly pass on their pearls of wisdom.

TYPE OF WORK Each rotation was a new and different expe-

SOCIAL

rience with a multitude of tasks. The tasks

Amongst the research tasks, court visits and

involved going to court, compiling briefs to

training, numerous social activities were

counsel, research and proofreading contracts,

scheduled into our clerkship program – the

just to name a few. Regardless of the task, we

Christmas party (or in some cases parties),

were provided with a good balance of guid-

shopping nights, tours, bake sale, intra-firm

ance and independence.

touch football and attending other firms’ social events.

One of the most rewarding experiences of the clerkship was my involvement in an Ad-

In addition, there were plenty of events to

judication Response for a construction matter.

meet clerks from other firms. With the inter-

Expecting that the extent of my role would be

firm sporting competition on Monday nights,

researching areas of equity and contract law,

we tested our skills at soccer, touch football,

I was taken by surprise when I was asked to

volleyball and netball. There were also drinks

also draft part of the submissions. While this

events, a TV-themed trivia night and a cruise.

was overwhelming, I am grateful to have been given such a worthwhile task!

Corrs is a great place to do a summer clerkship and start your career. All my expectations were

36

PRO BONO OPPORTUNITIES

met and exceeded. Best of all I was able to

It was great to see Corrs actively engaging

share the clerkship experience with my fellow

its employees in pro bono work. Summer

clerks – people I am truly grateful to have met!

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

DIBBS BARKER

FIRM PROFILE

SUMMER CLERKSHIPS Getting a taste for what life is like working inside a law firm before you

It is important to remember that studying a subject at University and

complete your studies is important to help you make the right choices

working in that area in practice can be very different! Sometimes aca-

about the sort of firm you would like to work in and which practice area

demically interesting subjects are not quite as interesting in practice

you are best suited to. To help you get the most information you can,

and sometimes subjects that seemed a little dull at University can actu-

DibbsBarker runs a Summer Clerkship program for Law Students in

ally be very rewarding in practice. The important thing is to remember to

their penultimate year of studies.

keep an open mind and experience as many different areas as possible to enable you to make a really informed choice.

WHAT TO EXPECT The DibbsBarker Summer Clerkship program involves working full-

WHO WE LOOK FOR

time for approximately three months over the summer holidays. You

Deciding who to interview from the hundreds of excellent applications

will be fully immersed in life inside a law firm including the day-to-day

is no easy task and unfortunately we don’t have the manpower to meet

work activities and also the social and sporting opportunities. You will

everyone!

be assigned a supervisor and a buddy in each division. The supervisor will be a senior Lawyer who will be responsible for delegating work to

At the CV stage, we are looking for a well structured CV that displays a

you and ensuring that you are exposed to the full gamut of tasks in

combination of academic excellence and leadership and people skills.

that practice area. The buddy will be a more junior Lawyer who can

Being technically brilliant at the law is a definite asset but excellent

answer all your questions and be a friendly face. We will try and ensure

communication and people skills are equally as important. At the end

that you get a real flavour for what is involved in day to day practice,

of the day, a career in the law involves dealing with a diverse range of

including attending court, meeting with clients and undertaking legal

people and communicating sometimes technical legal information into

research. The idea is to equip you with the information you need to

plain language. Being able to get along well with both colleagues and

decide which areas of practice interest you most and whether you

clients is also very important.

could see yourself fitting into the firm.

At the end of the clerkship we aim to offer our summer clerks part-time

Once you reach the interview stage, we will be looking to assess how

paralegal positions in their last year of study. To date, many of our Grad-

you carry yourself and how you interact with others. Your enthusiasm

uate Lawyers have been recruited from our Summer Clerk program.

and energy are also highly regarded, so make sure they shine through!

OUR ROTATION PROGRAM

FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:

To ensure that you are exposed to a variety of practice areas within

LIBBY TOOHEY

the firm, you will undertake three rotations across the various divisions.

People & Development consultant

We encourage our clerks to think about whether there are particular

TELEPHONE

practice areas they are interested in and we try and accommodate those

(02) 8233 9525

interests as much as possible. We also recommend that our clerks are

EMAIL

exposed to a combination of both litigious and non-litigious groups, to

careers@ dibbsbarker.com

really get a feel for the differences between the two.

WEB www.dibbsbarker.com

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

37

EXPERIENCE THE INTERNATIONAL FLAVOUR OF OUR BUSINESS Join a law firm that is truly going places With 4,200 lawyers in 76 offices and 30 countries around the world, working at DLA Piper means opportunities to work with world class companies on major projects both here and overseas.You’ll also benefit from cutting-edge learning and development programs, and work alongside some of the best legal minds around.

Take the first step to a global career and visit www.dlapipergraduates.com.au to learn more.

DLA Piper is a global law firm operating through various separate and distinct legal entities.

For further information, please refer to www.dlapiper.com Copyright Š 2012 DLA Piper. All rights reserved. AZP11| DLA465 | 0112

DLA PIPER

FIRM PROFILE

Last year our lawyers undertook more than 190,000 hours of pro bono legal work globally, making us one of the largest providers of pro bono legal services in the world.

DLA Piper is the truly local, truly global law firm where everything mat-

SYDNEY SUMMER CLERK PROGRAM

ters.

During our structured eight week rotation program, Summer Clerks are provided with the opportunity to work on real legal matters alongside

Joining DLA Piper means not only joining an experienced local team,

our partners and staff in two areas of the firm. On-the-job training and

but also being part of a global network of 4,200 lawyers in 77 offices and

practical experience may include tasks such as undertaking complex

31 countries around the world.

legal research, attending client meetings, going to court, drafting advices and other legal memoranda, assisting with strategy plans - and

Globally, our lawyers provide clients with trusted local knowledge as well

more. Weekly ‘Lunch & Learn’ sessions provide an opportunity to speak

as seamless multi-jurisdictional legal capabilities across a full range of

with partners and gain a real insight into what is involved in each of

critical services and sectors.

our practice group areas. Both firm social events and those held with Summer Clerks from other firms help facilitate networking amongst your

In Asia Pacific we have offices in Bangkok, Beijing, Brisbane, Canberra,

colleagues and broader peer group. All of this is supported by regular

Hong Kong, Melbourne, Perth, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney and Tokyo.

feedback to help you grow and develop so you can advance your career beyond your clerkship. Below is what two recent Summer Clerks had to

In Australia, our lawyers advise approximately a third of ASX 100 com-

say about their experience.

panies or their subsidiaries and all levels of government as well as inter-

THE SUMMER CLERK EXPERIENCE

national clients looking to enter the Australian market.

“For me it was extremely important that I was exposed to as many as-

AREAS OF PRACTICE

pects of working in a commercial law firm as possible during my clerk-

Commercial contracts; Construction; Corporate; Finance; Intellectual

ship. My experience as a summer clerk at DLA Piper provided just that.

property; International trade; Litigation; Projects and infrastructure; Real

From the start of my first rotation in Intellectual Property and Technology

estate; Regulatory and government affairs; Restructuring; Tax; Technol-

Litigation group I was helping draft advices on personal property securi-

ogy and media; Workplace relations, employment and safety.

ties legislation, researching interesting pockets of law regarding online defamation, sitting in on client meetings and court hearings, and at

GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES

all times reporting directly to partners. In my second rotation with the

DLA Piper is a firm with worldwide opportunities. A career with us

Finance and Projects group I had greater exposure to the transactional

means being an integral part of an exciting global team. We support

side of commercial law reviewing contracts for animal charities, helping

our people’s desire to experience working life in other parts of the world

draft tenders for legal work with a value of $200,000+, and prepar-

through the global DLA Piper network - giving them opportunities to

ing a research paper on the use of “best endeavours” in commercial

work on multi-jurisdictional, international matters with quality clients

contracts.

and colleagues around the world. In recent years we have placed lawyers in DLA Piper offices in London, Hong Kong, Singapore, Washing-

In summary, the experience has provided me with a comprehensive

ton, Chicago and Dubai. Currently we have three Australian graduates

cross section of life in a commercial firm that has sparked an even

undertaking their third rotation in Hong Kong, Beijing and Tokyo. We

greater interest in a career in law. Combined with social activities, sports

also host international trainees from the UK and Asia.

and a cooking class with the other summer clerks, I was afforded the opportunity to relax and meet new people. I also managed to fit in a

OUR COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY

game of golf with the Projects team partner on a Friday afternoon. I lost

Our ‘everything matters’ approach applies not only to how we sup-

(deliberately).”

port our clients but also to the communities in which we operate. Our community investment program achieves meaningful community en-

WILLIAM DOYLE, 2011/2012 SYDNEY SUMMER CLERK

gagement via a broad array of initiatives, focussed on disadvantaged

(UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, SYDNEY)

children, poverty, and people living with disabilities.

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

39

FIRM PROFILE

DLA PIPER

“After researching DLA Piper and attending the initial interviews and

ANNE BIHANCOV, 2011/2012 SYDNEY SUMMER CLERK

cocktail evening, there were numerous things that stood out about the

(UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, SYDNEY)

firm. Not only is it the world’s largest global commercial law firm, that provides you with a wealth of opportunities to work both locally and

GRADUATE PROGRAM

internationally, but it is also a firm that places a strong focus on com-

Every graduate’s career journey will be different, but our Graduate Pro-

munity values through its pro bono commitments. The most striking

fessional Success (GPS) program has been developed to help gradu-

aspect however, was DLA Piper’s strong focus on individuals within the

ates navigate their career. This includes a rotation program allowing

firm. From the very beginning, it was clear that DLA Piper is a firm that

graduates to experience up to three different practice areas of the firm;

truly acknowledges that (surprise, surprise) lawyers have a life, and that

a dedicated supervisor and buddy for each rotation and on-the-job

allowing them to balance all aspects such as social, family, and health

training from partners, senior lawyers and other peers. A tailored learn-

is key to having happy employees who turn over high quality work, and

ing and development program complements on-the-job learning, rang-

maintain strong relationships with each other as well as with clients.

ing from non-technical skill development and graduate CLE program to mentoring. Regular feedback is also provided to help you to grow and

The summer clerkship provides students with an invaluable opportunity

develop, including both informal and formal performance and develop-

to get a taste of what it is like to work in the legal field, explore different

ment reviews.

areas of law, and get a head start in employment opportunities in the area of commercial law. My first rotation was in Corporate (Mergers and

WHAT WE LOOK FOR

Acquisitions) and my second rotation was in Intellectual Property and

At DLA Piper Australia we are seeking people from a diverse range of

Technology (IPT). Starting the first rotation was a little nerve-racking

backgrounds who are as engaged and dedicated as they are inventive,

for all of us, however, you are given all the training you need to settle

balanced and friendly. We value intellectual ability, curiosity, commit-

in nicely and the HR Team and the Corporate group were so incredibly

ment, ambition, commercial and client awareness, smart thinking, team

supportive. In this rotation I did everything from effecting share transfers,

skills and leadership potential, communications skills and experiences

to sitting in on conferences with directors in Sweden, to doing lengthy

outside of academic life.

research tasks. During my rotation in IPT, I wrote advices on copyright, trade mark, and franchising issues, attended CLEs and helped work on matters for film corporations located in Paris.

HOW TO APPLY: SYDNEY SUMMER CLERK PROGRAM 2012/2013 Applications open 13 June 2012 and close 13 July 2012 at 5.00pm.

Working at DLA Piper, in any team, means you will be exposed to a diverse range of work, which is interesting, challenging and relevant to

Applications must be submitted online via our job board (www.dlapiper-

students who are approaching graduation. And it doesn’t stop there!

graduates.com.au) and should include a covering letter, your current CV

Every week you have a “lunch and learn” session - which means you

and your academic transcript.

get free lunch (bonus), you get to re-group with the other clerks, and learn from a range of partners, senior associates, and solicitors at the

WANT TO KNOW MORE?

firm about every area of law that you can work in at DLA Piper. These

For more information regarding our recruitment programs,

sessions are enlightening, making you realise just how many different

please contact:

opportunities are available, opening your mind to new possibilities, and informing you about what you are likely to experience when working in

KRISTIE BARTON

that team - which ultimately gives you a greater sense of direction and

HR Consultant

choice for your career.

TELEPHONE +61 2 9286 8585

DLA Piper looks for students who are well-rounded, are able to balance

EMAIL

their various interests, and want to work hard and achieve results. If

kristie.barton@dlapiper.com

you are a friendly, enthusiastic, adaptable, open-minded individual who

VISIT US AT

wants to gain an invaluable experience working at a large global law

www.dlapipergraduates.com.au

firm, then DLA Piper is for you.”

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER http://twitter.com/#!/DLAP_CareersAus

40

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

LIKE A TRAPEZE ARTIST, I CAN PUSH BEYOND MY COMFORT ZONE, KNOWING THERE’S A SAFETY NET.

Senior Associate Corporate, Sydney

THERE’S MORE TO US Visit our Careers pages at www.freehills.com/careers/grad

FIRM PROFILE

FREEHILLS

ABOUT US

CLERKSHIP PROGRAM

Freehills is one of the leading commercial law firms in the Asia-Pacific

The aim of our summer clerkship program is to provide students in their

region. We have offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane and Sin-

penultimate year with a taste of how a large commercial law firm goes

gapore, and associated offices in Jakarta, Beijing, Shanghai, Hanoi and

about meeting the needs of its clients. The program includes a detailed

Ho Chi Minh City. Nationally Freehills employs approximately 1900 staff,

introduction to the firm and to each practice group, as well as the op-

including around 200 partners and 800 legal staff.

portunity to work with our legal teams on real matters.

We are proud to act for a majority of Australia’s top 100 companies,

In Sydney we invite approximately 30–35 penultimate year law students

some of whom have been clients of the firm for much of our 160-year

to participate in our annual summer clerk program. We offer a 10-week

history.

clerkship with two rotations over the summer vacation. The program includes a detailed introduction to the firm and to each practice group,

Our summer clerks and graduates have told us that they value the firm’s

as well as the opportunity to work with our legal teams on real matters.

down-to-earth style, the unparalleled training and development, the chance to work with inspiring clients and some of the best legal minds

WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?

in the country, and the ability to explore the many different directions

We are interested in who you are and the strengths you can bring—we

their career can take them. Time and again though, they tell us it’s about

do not look to fill a particular mould. We recruit employees from a wide

the people: real, warm, smart and interesting people who will welcome,

range of backgrounds who we think exemplify our core values of fulfil-

support and challenge you. With us you can be yourself.

ment, teamwork, excellence and commerciality. We look for students who want to pursue a career in commercial law and who demonstrate

If you’re looking for the right place to start your legal career, talk to

a commercial awareness. We are interested in your academic record

Freehills.

as well as strong communication and interpersonal skills; evidence of a balanced university life and evidence of ability to work effectively in

OUR WORK IN THE COMMUNITY

a team.

At Freehills, we believe that a law firm can be a dynamic force for change. As well as our longstanding pro bono legal practice, we have a

HOW TO APPLY

strong community program. The Freehills Foundation combines these

Applications should be submitted online via cvMail at

two programs, with an overall mission of increasing access to justice

www.cvmail.com.au

and opportunity. Each year we assist more than 1000 clients on a pro bono basis. All Freehills lawyers are encouraged to do pro bono work

Please note that most of our graduate positions are filled through our

and all pro bono work is billable. Our community program includes vol-

summer clerkship program and we do not currently have an additional

unteering, workplace giving and fundraising. Volunteering is a part of

graduate recruitment program planned.

Freehills culture; all staff are encouraged to volunteer and able to take one working day a year as volunteer leave.

RECRUITMENT CONTACT LEIGH DUNLOP Graduate Recruitment Adviser leigh.dunlop@freehills.com (02) 9322 4792

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LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

FREEHILLS

2011/2012 CORPORATE (PRIVATE EQUITY) AND LITIGATION (INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY) MITCH HILLIER

SUMMER CLERK PROFILE

ast year at this time, many of my friends

magistrate question the family members of the

at university were asking me “which

client in the back of the court room. Given that

firm is your top preference for a clerk-

this was one of the highlights of my summer, I

ship?” Given that previous law assessments

am delighted that I have been able to continue

had emphasised that my gut instinct was not

doing work for The Shopfront as a paralegal

a fantastic reference, I would feebly attach

at Freehills.

L

generic nouns such as ‘excellence’ to practice groups or policies that I could remember to

To my great relief, the passion for social activi-

justify my choice. In retrospect, my gut instinct

ties at law school is matched, if not exceeded,

was a fantastic guide. If you’re like me and

in the legal industry. The vacation clerk events

can’t place that amount of trust in an instinct

of a cruise, trivia night, scavenger hunt, inter-

however, I have provided a snapshot of experi-

firm competitions, and barefoot bowls, along

ences from my clerkship at Freehills that may

with the firm events of multiple Christmas

be able to assist you with your decision and

parties, drinks, the partner–clerk debate and

campus banter.

sport, meant that I usually had a ridiculous costume or uniform on my desk each morning

Prior to starting at Freehills, we were afforded

for the night ahead. Thankfully, a quick scan

the opportunity to submit preferences for

of the floor revealed that everybody else was in

which two practice groups we would like to

the same position.

rotate through over summer. As I didn’t know which area of commercial law I would enjoy

Most importantly however, I have really enjoyed

most, I requested two disparate groups, being

working with the people at Freehills. There are

Private Equity and Intellectual Property Litiga-

an incredibly wide range of personalities, with

tion, and was placed in both. The partners I

a few common characteristics—they are all

worked for were fantastic and allowed me to

technically excellent, down-to-earth and pos-

be involved in every step of a matter: from the

sess a genuine interest in their colleagues.

initial research and document review, to cli-

This stood out to me most on two occasions:

ent conferences, settlements and court. I was

first, whilst sharing a Guinness with the former

also ‘buddied’ with a junior solicitor in each

managing partner discussing our respective

rotation, giving me both a person to ask inane

lack of ability in AFL, and second, getting

questions to, such as ‘how do I get out of the

laughs and thumbs ups from solicitors whilst

building?’, and gain an insight into the work of

being dressed as ‘the Todd’ from Scrubs at

a graduate.

3.00pm in the office.

Freehills also has a strong focus on the com-

The best approach to adopt for the vacation

munity, and this extends to the work of the

clerkship application process is to take every

vacation clerks. Much of this is done through

opportunity you can to meet people from dif-

The Shopfront Youth Legal Centre, a free le-

ferent firms. Personally, those encounters as-

gal service for disadvantaged and homeless

sured me that Freehills was the firm that would

people under the age of 25, which Freehills

provide me with the most diverse experience

helped to establish and continues to fund.

and excellent training with people that I would

During my clerkship, I was taken to the local

really enjoy working with. My vacation clerkship

court by the principal solicitor of The Shopfront

and paralegal work has certainly proven that to

to witness a hearing for one of their clients. To

be the case, and as such, I am looking forward

my surprise, this involved meeting the client

to commencing as a graduate at Freehills.

in the docks of the court, and listening to the LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

43

It’s your career.

It’s all about you.

What matters to you?

Kate Summer Clerk, 2011

Being sent on secondment to a major client helped me to better understand the client’s needs and how I can be a better lawyer.’

Edwina Summer Clerk, 2010

For me, it’s important to enjoy coming to work everyday. Like all lawyers, we work hard but we have fun while we’re at it.’

Abi Summer Clerk, 2008

Gadens works for a large number of ASX 100 companies which meant I got exposure to major clients from day one.’

www.gadens.com.au follow us on twitter @gadenslawyers

GADENS

FIRM PROFILE

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER TO SOMEONE APPLYING TO GADENS? When you join Gadens Lawyers, you will be working in a firm where

Be yourself and to let your personality shine through. We are looking for

success is determined by the character and spirit of our people.

well rounded individuals who like to excel in everything they do. While strong academic results are important, they are only part of the picture

At Gadens, everyone has a voice and your experiences, knowledge and

and we believe that people who have interests outside of work will be the

insight will be valued and respected. We are a place where fresh think-

best fit to our team oriented environment.

ing and new ideas are championed daily.

The firm provides opportunities to work in our interstate offices and

HOW DOES GADENS ENCOURAGE EMPLOYEES TO LEARN AND DEVELOP?

secondments with some of our corporate clients. We are also happy to

Gadens has an extensive learning and development program that is

explore opportunities for personal growth in disciplines outside the law

offered to all staff, not just professional. Employees are encouraged to

that enrich your capacity to grow.

constantly develop their skills.

If you want to be challenged, and to have the opportunity to make a real

We also have fortnightly inhouse Continuing Legal Education (CLE)

difference, come and join us.

seminars to assist all lawyers to obtain their mandatory points in compliance with the law society.

AREAS OF PRACTICE: • Aged care and retirement

• Intellectual property

HOW DOES GADENS ENCOURAGE A WORK/LIFE BALANCE?

• Agribusiness

• Licensing and hospitality

Fun is also strongly on the agenda. We encourage everyone not to park

• Banking and finance

• Life sciences

their personalities at the lift door. We believe that a lively workplace

• Charities and not-for-profit

• National mortgage services

reduces stress and improves learning, productivity and creativity.

• Competition and consumer

• Native title

• Construction

• Planning and environment

• Corporate advisory

• Property

DOES GADENS ENGAGE IN PRO BONO, VOLUNTEER OR OTHER COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES?

• Dispute resolution

• Superannuation

Gadens recognises that our enduring success requires economic

• Employee relations and safety

• Sustainability

growth that both protects and promotes social equity and ecological

• Energy and resources

• Taxation, regulation

sustainability. Our sustainability program encompasses this philosophy

• Infrastructure • Insolvency

and compliance

in the four spheres in which we operate including our workplace, the

• Workouts and restructures

marketplace, the community and the environment.

• Insurance Within each of these spheres we aim to achieve the following sustain-

WHAT SIGNIFICANT WORK HAS GADENS DONE RECENTLY?

able outcomes:

Our commercial litigation group is currently defending one of the parties in the Welker v Rinehart family litigation. This high-profile and com-

1. WORKPLACE

2. MARKETPLACE

plex matter has already been to the High Court of Australia twice and

engaging with all of our people to

consistent excellence in our

the Court of Appeal four times in 2012.

create an environment that pro-

delivery of legal advice and

motes individuality and diversity

services, focused on commercial

WHAT DOES GADENS LOOK FOR IN A POTENTIAL EMPLOYEE?

while instilling pride in the firm

solutions for our clients.

We are looking for talented people who approach their work with pas-

and its collective values.

sion and who excel at establishing quality relationships with clients and colleagues. We value intellect, collaboration, openness, integrity, respect and excellence. We seek independent, rigorous thinkers.

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

45

FIRM PROFILE

GADENS

3. COMMUNITY

4. ENVIRONMENT

WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR?

interacting with the wider com-

minimising our impact on the

8-10 Summer Clerks

munity and promoting emerging

environment and taking respon-

arts, youth initiatives, community

sibility for our environmental

WHAT DOES GADENS LOOK FOR IN A CLERK?

projects and providing pro bono

footprint.

We are looking for mature individuals who can demonstrate the highest level of professional commitment, but who might also make our firm

legal services.

an even more interesting and enjoyable place in which to practise law.

Many of the programs and initiatives that make up our sustainability program have developed organically over several decades, such as our

The successful applicants will have a strong academic record, an inno-

support for the arts which has grown and evolved since the 1960s.

vative mindset, and a track record of collaboration and teamwork. Our

More recently we have joined the Australian Legal Sector Alliance and

summer clerks are also likely to have a range of diverse interests and a

have committed to publicly reporting on our sustainability initiatives.

history of seeking and accepting responsibility.

OUTSIDE OF WORK, WHAT DOES GADENS OFFER ITS EMPLOYEES?

WHAT WORK DOES GADENS OFFER A CLERK?

Gadens offer employees the opportunity to represent the firm at inter-

have plenty of responsibility. At Gadens, exposure to clients happens

firm sporting competitions, as well as hosting a number of health and

quickly. You will be able to take the initiative and express your ideas

wellbeing seminars. Gadens is also involved with various corporate so-

from the outset. You will not be working away in a back office. Gadens

cial responsibility programs and encourage employees to help out those

is a place to thrive, not hide.

Your work will be interesting and challenging, and from day one you will

who are less fortunate.

WHAT DOES THE FIRM OFFER ITS GRADUATES? HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY FOR CLERKSHIPS TO GADENS THIS YEAR?

Graduates are offered 3 eight month rotations over a two year period.

Please email a covering letter together with your CV and a copy of your

actional and litigious based areas of law to ensure they are receiving

academic transcript to:

a well rounded experience and therefore able to form a better idea of

We strongly suggest that our graduates complete rotations in both trans-

where they might choose to specialise. Whilst undertaking their roJulia Bucci

tations our graduates have the opportunity to participate in the firm’s

Human Resources Officer

extensive learning and development program. From day one the gradu-

E: jbucci@nsw.gadens.com.au

ates will be exposed to real work and have the opportunity to interact

http://www.gadens.com.au/sydney/joinus/summer-clerks/Pages/De-

with the firm’s clients.

fault.aspx

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LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

GADENS

FIRM PROFILE

DOES THE FIRM ASSIST GRADUATES TO COMPLETE THEIR PRACTICAL LEGAL TRAINING (PLT)? IF SO, HOW? Many of our summer clerks work as casual law clerks while completing

ness development when it is felt they are ready. Whilst some solicitors

their final year of university. If they require extra hours to complete their

have progressed to senior associate level after just three years, typically

PLT this can be accommodated. Depending on the student’s availability

solicitors with four years post admission experience should be on the

they would work either on a part-time or full-time basis as a law clerk/

path to senior associate. There are a number of criteria that our solici-

paralegal undertaking real legal work to ensure they had the required

tors must meet to be promoted. Our promotion process is transparent

hours. Their work is always supervised by a senior lawyer or partner

and solicitors are made aware of the standards required from an early

who will sign off on their PLT work.

stage.

WHAT IS THE TYPICAL PROGRESSION PATH OF GRADUATES IN THEIR EARLY YEARS AT THE FIRM?

WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED GRADUATE INTAKE THIS YEAR?

Gadens’ internal structure is fairly flat so we don’t have many “layers”.

fered, we typically have 8-10 starting each year. If the firm’s needs

Graduates are known as graduates internally when they first join us

require additional graduates, we would recruit on an ad hoc basis. On

however have the title of “solicitor” from admission when dealing with

average we may take on another 8-10 graduates throughout the year

clients. Whilst they take part in the graduate rotation program over their

depending on our needs.

As our returning summer clerks take the majority of graduate roles of-

first two years, they are treated like any other solicitor within the firm.

They will have the opportunity to participate in presentations and busi-

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

47

SUMMER CLERK PROFILE

GADENS

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROFILE EDWINA OLIVER

The clerkship led to this graduate job which

During my second rotation I was offered, and

is the start of what I hope is a long and happy

accepted, a secondment to eBay. This was

career. The rotations and flexibility of this job

particularly exciting to me as I have a real

provide a great opportunity for me to find my

interest in the law of eCommerce and the ef-

area of interest. These things are important

fects of globalisation. I loved it. I had support

to me and I’m lucky that Gadens provides this

from Gadens at my fingertips and was even

flexibility and opportunity, but this is not why I

asked to go back there late last year to help

love my job.

with more work.

I love my job because I am supported, I am

PEOPLE

challenged, I am valued, and I get to work

We were encouraged to attend social functions

with lovely people. Anyone who has worked

and to get to know everyone in the firm and

at Gadens will tell you the same. The summer

each other, which we did. Gadens seek out

clerkship at Gadens was simply an introduc-

people who are friendly and inclusive rather

tion to this continuing experience.

than just academic and we have an open door policy. And when I say ‘policy’ it doesn’t refer

hen I applied for a clerkship I

W

SUPPORT

expected it to be a steep learning

When I applied for a summer clerkship, I

curve, and it was, but not in the

expected to be challenged, but we were also

All of my fellow summer clerks are some of my

way I expected.

given the necessary support. We were given

best friends! We have a real bond and though

several days of dedicated training to learn

we all now work in different areas of the firm

I was a summer clerk at Gadens in 2010/2011

about the firm, its systems, its ethos and what

we have kept up our friendships and from that

while I was studying at UTS.

we could expect.

we get a personal perspective on different ar-

I’ve since

to some dusty manual in the corner!

graduated from uni and work as a solicitor at Gadens.

eas of law and the firm as we go through our We each had a ‘buddy’ in each summer clerk

graduate rotations together.

and graduate rotation who was a solicitor or senior associate who would help us in any way

We all felt a special bond to the summer clerks

they could. These are people who volunteer;

who followed us in the year just past and now

who want to help. My buddies took me for an

I get to be a buddy for a post summer clerk-

introductory drink to find out my interests and

ship graduate and follow the example of my

aspirations, introduced me to people in the

buddies!

firm who gave me high level work in my area of interest, for example drafting pleadings, and

I would recommend all the enthusiastic

were always keen and interested to answer

people out there who are looking for a great

any questions or just have a good chat.

opportunity to expand their knowledge, meet great people and get invaluable experience

VALUE

to apply for a clerkship at Gadens. You will

We were asked where we wanted to go in our

be pleasantly surprised by the willingness,

clerkship and our time here was tailored as

helpfulness and inclusive nature of the people

best it could to suit our interests.

here. Working in law is often challenging, but with the right people and support it’s far from

A partner from every practice area took the time to speak to us about what they do, why it interests them and the type of law and work that is involved in their area.

48

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

scary and can be really fun too!

SYDNEY MELBOURNE P E RT H

Make the smart career choice Be part of a young, flexible first-tier firm that has built its success on innovation and having a heart.

If you’re among the best and brightest law students, make the smart career choice and begin your legal career at Gilbert + Tobin.

FIND OUT MORE AT ME.GTLAW.COM.AU Hannah Quadrio, Lawyer

SYDNEY

A career with Gilbert + Tobin is the smart choice

MELBOURNE P E RT H

Why is a career with Gilbert + Tobin the smart choice? Because we are a first-tier firm where you can make a name for yourself, through the transactions and projects you work on and by participating in our extensive community activities.

At G+T you’ll work on transactions that define and shape the market in Australia and around the world. Our clients and projects span the Asia Pacific and African regions.

WHAT WE OFFER

ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRIT

From our offices around Australia, our lawyers work across the following practice areas:

Gilbert + Tobin has become the legal adviser of choice for industry leaders that value our determination to succeed. Our diverse team of highly talented and ambitious people are attracted to the firm because of its entrepreneurial spirit, creative approach and capacity for change.

+ + + + + + +

Banking + Finance Capital Markets Communications + Technology Competition + Regulation Corporate Advisory Dispute Resolution Employment

+ + + + + + +

Energy + Resources Intellectual Property Litigation Mergers + Acquisitions Pro Bono Real Estate + Projects Tax

WORK IN DYNAMIC SECTORS Gilbert + Tobin specialises in dynamic and evolving market sectors, including charities, climate change, government, infrastructure, natural resources, renewable energy, technology, telecommunications and water. We advise leading domestic and international companies on transactions that impact and shape these areas.

We are also community lawyers. Gilbert + Tobin is known for the high-quality advice we give to organisations and individuals in all parts of Australian society. For those in need, we provide this advice pro bono.

“We are very impressed by the firm’s strategic approach, expertise and ability to provide advice in a timely manner.”

Over the past 10 years, many prominent partners have joined Gilbert + Tobin to build and strengthen our practice groups.

The firm employs more than 450 lawyers and professionals, and we still have the highest proportion of female partners (38%) of any major Australian law firm.

ARE YOU READY TO MAKE THE SMART CAREER CHOICE? If you are among the best and brightest, Gilbert + Tobin is the smart choice for your career. Our lawyers are entrepreneurial, ambitious, commercially aware and self-motivated. Although our backgrounds and talents are different, we have a common goal: to build a first-tier corporate law firm and be the best provider of legal services in our chosen areas of practice.

FIND OUT MORE For more information on employment opportunities in our Sydney, Melbourne and Perth offices, please visit me.gtlaw.com. au or email humanresources@gtlaw.com.au. G+T’s People Team can arrange for you to chat with one of our recent summer clerks or graduates about their experience.

Intellectual Property group, Chambers Asia Pacific, 2012

me.gtlaw.com.au

SYDNEY MELBOURNE P E RT H

A career with Gilbert + Tobin is the smart choice Why is a clerkship with Gilbert + Tobin the smart career choice? Because from day one, you’ll work on top-tier transactions and collaborate closely with industry leaders. G+T focuses on dynamic, evolving industry sectors. Our lawyers work on transactions that define and shape the market in Australia and around the world. Be part of a firm with a unique culture where you can make a name for yourself.

The G+T clerkship experience is open to students in their penultimate year of study. Our Sydney clerks complete a 10-week placement that consists of two five-week rotations across the firm’s practice areas. It’s a fantastic opportunity to work directly with partners and lawyers who are experts in their fields, and to develop core skills and experience in your areas of interest.

During your time with your practice groups, you’ll be mentored by a lawyer who will help you develop your skills and build relationships within our practice groups. You’ll gain a greater understanding of the mechanics of legal transactions by researching legislation and case law, preparing and drafting memos, assisting in litigation processes, attending court, observing negotiations and meeting clients.

Your G+T clerkship is an opportunity to be part of a talented group of people who will become your peers as you continue your legal career.

You’ll have plenty of time to attend training, practice group events and firm lunches, and to build relationships with people across the firm.

As well as becoming immersed in the practice areas of their choice, our clerks have the opportunity to contribute to the Pro Bono practice. You’ll be assigned a pro bono task and work closely with our lawyers to follow it through to completion.

“It’s clear to me that G+T values excellence, encourages ambition and supports the talents and aspirations of its employees.”

Prue Mewburn, 2011 Summer Clerk

THE AURORA PROJECT: NATIVE TITLE SECONDMENT OPPORTUNITY The Aurora Project is a not-for-profit initiative funded by Australian government and corporate bodies. Each year, we offer two summer clerks the opportunity to work as interns in a native title office during their university winter break. The placement lasts for five to six weeks and is fully funded by Gilbert + Tobin.

Interns are chosen and placed in consultation with Aurora Project representatives and placements can be anywhere around Australia.

For example, our most recent summer clerks were seconded to the Kimberley Land Council in Perth, Western Australia; the Torres Strait Regional Authority on Thursday Island, Queensland; and the Cape York Land Council in Cairns, Queensland.

ARE YOU READY TO MAKE THE SMART CAREER CHOICE? For more information on clerkship opportunities in our Sydney office, please visit me.gtlaw.com.au, or contact Emma Garmston on 02 9263 4067 or email clerkships@gtlaw.com.au. Emma can arrange for you to chat with one of our recent summer clerks or graduates about their experience.

Applications for 2012–13 clerkships are open from Wednesday 13 June to Friday 13 July. To apply, please visit www.cvmail.com.au during the application period and share your details with us.

me.gtlaw.com.au

SYDNEY MELBOURNE P E RT H

A clerkship with Gilbert + Tobin is the smart choice Why choose Gilbert + Tobin for your clerkship? Ask Prue Mewburn. She spent her summer 2011/12 university break in our Sydney office, working in the Communications + Technology and Litigation groups.

Spending the summer at Gilbert + Tobin was a challenging and rewarding experience, which I’d recommend to any student looking to join a leading Australian law firm.

The work in Communications + Technology was diverse, challenging and interesting. I attended client meetings, conference calls and functions that helped me understand clients’ businesses and realise the importance of this knowledge in providing outstanding legal services.

During my rotation in the Litigation group, I enjoyed the opportunity to shadow lawyers and partners to court and client meetings. I researched and drafted a memo explaining newly enacted legislation and its effect on the group’s work. The lawyers gave me feedback and explained how my work fitted into the bigger picture within the group. I was excited to see my memo published and glad my work was useful and valued.

Both rotations were supported by a comprehensive induction to the firm and an ongoing training program that introduced us to the key skills a junior lawyer needs. We were also matched with a ‘buddy’—a junior lawyer—as well as a senior lawyer and a partner within each practice group. They were always available to provide me with advice, assistance and support.

I drew inspiration from the lives and work of some of G+T’s senior lawyers, who mentored us during the clerkship. For example, Christine Burke isn’t just a G+T partner – she’s also the 11th Australian woman to have climbed Mount Everest!

Working alongside people like Christine showed me it’s possible to achieve your personal and professional goals. It’s clear to me

me.gtlaw.com.au

that G+T values excellence, encourages ambition and supports the talents and aspirations of its employees.

The firm is genuinely committed to assisting disadvantaged and marginalised people. During my clerkship, I worked on a research project on recent changes to refugee law. At the Redfern Legal Centre, I helped develop a repairs campaign for public housing tenants.

I attended a weekly outreach advice service run by the Homeless Persons Legal Service, which is staffed with volunteers from G+T. I’m also looking forward to participating in the Aurora Project – in July I’ll be on secondment with a native title representative body, which is fully funded by G+T. During my clerkship, I had lots of opportunities to build relationships with fellow clerks and lawyers. In the first week of the program, all the clerks were invited to G+T’s Christmas party.

And the flair displayed at G+T’s charity talent quest a few weeks later unearthed some superstars within the firm!

Prue Mewburn For more information on clerkship opportunities in our Sydney, Melbourne and Perth offices, please contact Emma Garmston on 02 9263 4067 or email clerkships@gtlaw.com.au. Emma can arrange for you to chat with one of our recent summer clerks or graduates about their experience.

Prue Newburn, previous G+T clerk

ONE SPECTRUM OF OPPORTUNITY One Vision

One Purpose

One Firm

One Decision

One Journey

Visit http://summerclerks.hdy.com.au for more information

FIRM PROFILE

HENRY DAVIS YORK

HENRY DAVIS YORK

You will need a sound academic record, some work experience in a

Henry Davis York has a different feel and that’s deliberate.

legal or non-legal environment, and have a positive disposition and demonstrated leadership skills.

With more than 50 partners and more than 200 professionals, we have the advantage of being big enough to attract high-end clients and

THE SUMMER CLERK PROGRAM

top-quality work, but small enough to remain personal and to provide

During the program you will have the opportunity to rotate through three

hands-on advice and experience.

practice groups with designated support in each rotation from a supervising partner, senior associate and mentor. You will receive regular

OUR CLIENTS

feedback and advice from your supervising partner and others you work

We are proud to partner with an impressive list of clients who recog-

with plus a more formal review at the end of each rotation.

nise our unique approach to delivering technical excellence with the commercial edge that creates real value for their business. Our clients

Working with our partners and senior lawyers who are recognised and

include the top four Australian banks, international financial services

respected as experts in their fields, you will experience real, meaningful

organisations and fund managers, market authorities, ASX and foreign

work and gain valuable insights into what it’s like to practise as a lawyer

listed companies, NSW Government agencies, property groups and a

in a top quality firm that works hard, has a friendly inclusive culture and

diverse range of privately held companies.

celebrates both individual and team endeavours.

PRO BONO AND COMMUNITY

LIFE AFTER YOUR CLERKSHIP...

Henry Davis York is committed to delivering pro bono services to dis-

We carefully select our clerks with the intention that they will become

advantaged and under-represented groups and individuals who would

our graduate lawyers. Of course, any offer of permanent employment

otherwise be unable to afford legal assistance.

depends on how you perform during your clerkship, and on the needs of the firm.

Our pro bono and community programs include organisations such as the Homicide Victims’ Support Group, Homeless Persons’ Legal

Successful candidates who accept graduate roles with us can discuss

Service, Northern Rivers Cooperative Legal Services Delivery Program,

opportunities for part-time paralegal work in their final year of university.

Community Legal Centres, Learning Encouraging and Assisting Promis-

From 2013, we will be providing an in-house Practical Legal Training

ing Students and Reach Out and Read.

program in conjunction with the College of Law.

WHAT WE LOOK FOR

APPLICATIONS

People are our success. For that reason, we invest substantial time and

Henry Davis York’s Summer clerk applications open on 13 June 2012

energy in recruiting and retaining the right people. As clerks are integral

and close on 13 July 2012 and all applications should be made via CV

to our future growth we look for people who:

Mail.

• share our commitment to excellence in what we do and how we do it

For further information about employment at Henry Davis York or our

• communicate well

summer clerk program please contact:

• are team players • are lateral and innovative thinkers

LENA RISTEVSKI

• demonstrate balance in their life outside of work or study

People & Development Officer

• are intelligent and commercially-minded lawyers in the making.

T: +61 2 9947 6532 E: lena_ristevski@hdy.com.au

54

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

HENRY DAVIS YORK

SUMMER CLERK PROFILE

n the 11 weeks of the clerkship I attended court hearings and client meetings, worked directly

HENRY DAVIS YORK SUMMER CLERK 2011/2012 NICOLA TARGETT

I

on fascinating matters and went to great firm and inter-firm social events. From the outset, Henry Davis York was an interesting, exciting and most of all, fun place to work.

Completing a clerkship at Henry Davis York was an incredibly exciting, challenging and satisfying experience. From the first day of training to the farewell party 11 weeks later, I received highly diverse and interesting tasks and worked with extremely friendly, fun and encouraging people.

I completed rotations in three different, but equally fascinating practice areas. This gave me the opportunity to see how different practice groups function and to get a better understanding of the nature of work in a corporate law firm. In these groups, I attended meetings and even social events with clients, assisted in the discovery of documents, attended court, drafted documents for clients, incorporated companies and did a diverse range of research tasks.

Not only was I able to work on such interesting and varied tasks, but I was able to work with people who generously explained new concepts, answered any questions and explained how my work contributed to the firm and its practices. The training and support we received from the outset was incredible and really added to the experience of being a clerk. This support and enthusiasm is what makes Henry Davis York special and it immediately became apparent why the firm is renowned for its unique culture.

Finally, the friendships I made with the other summer clerks throughout our various sporting and trivia endeavours and numerous social events made the clerkship even more enjoyable.

Henry Davis York really is a firm filled with like-minded people who are committed to producing excellent work for first rate clients while providing an encouraging, friendly and fun environment for its employees.

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

55

At Herbert Geer, our aim is to put YOU at the centre of everything we do. We will support YOU with a dedicated supervising partner and mentor. YOU will be exposed to a wide variety of work. We offer YOU a range of benefits including subsidised gym memberships and our NOTLAW program. We will provide YOU with an in-house CLE program to help YOU learn, and YOU can become involved in our community and pro bono work.

To find out more visit www.herbertgeer.com.au

2011

HERBERT GEER

FIRM PROFILE

OFFICE ADDRESS

WEBSITE

DESCRIPTION OF THE PROGRAM

Level 12

www.herbertgeer.com.au

At the commencement of our Seasonal Clerkship Program you will

77 King St

Ph: 02 9249 4600

receive a principal, mentor and buddy to assist you during your clerk-

Sydney

NUMBER OF PARTNERS

ship and provide you with an opportunity to develop your network. Our

NSW 2000

Firm Wide: 47

Seasonal Clerkship runs for 4 weeks with a rotation in one practice unit,

In Sydney: 10

receiving supervision from partners and senior practitioners.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIRM

In addition, you will receive formal training through ongoing internal and

Herbert Geer is a commercial law firm with offices in Melbourne, Sydney

external workshops and training sessions. This will develop your skills

and Brisbane. Our dedicated team of over 300 people provide services

and assist you in becoming a more effective practitioner and help you

to a wide range of corporate, private and government clients.

accelerate your career.

Our success in building a respected and trusted law firm is driven by the

In addition to this training and mentoring, you will have various oppor-

commitment to our clients. As we have grown, we have remained true to

tunities to attend mediations, court hearings, client functions and client

our values and to building a culture which supports our aim to put our

meetings with your supervising partner or mentor. This will provide you

clients at the centre of everything we do. Quality, innovation and person-

with hands on experience, real exposure to matters and the chance to

alised service remains paramount in everything we do at Herbert Geer.

learn how to manage the financial side of working in a law firm.

LOCATION OF OTHER OFFICES:

Number of positions: 4 approximately

Brisbane, Melbourne

Winter: 0 Summer: 4 approximately

PROMINENT AREAS OF PRACTICE IN SYDNEY:

Interview Process:

• Banking and Finance

1st Round Interview - Member of Human Resources

• Corporate

Cocktail Party - meet the firm

• Employment, Workplace Relations and Safety

2nd Round Interview - Practitioner and HR

• Property Services

Will the firm be making priority offers? Yes

• IP, Technology and Entertainment

APPLICATIONS

• Projects and Construction • Planning, Government, Infrastructure and Environment

HOW TO APPLY WHAT DISTINGUISHES THE FIRM TO OTHERS?

Through CV mail and our website. Attach a cover letter, resume and

Our people are committed to each other, the firm and our clients. To our

academic transcript.

credit, we were named the 2011 Law Firm of the Year by the BRW and

Please refer to our website www.herbertgeer.com.au for more informa-

Employer of Choice. As we have grown, we have actively worked hard

tion.

to protect and grow our culture, our commitment to quality, innovation and our client service. We appreciate each person brings something dif-

Contact: Claire Donnelly

ferent to Herbert Geer and encourage our people to continually develop

Human Resources Consultant

their professional and personal interests. This philosophy, and our legal

Email: careers@herbertgeer.com.au

track record, helps us to attract the best people.

Applications Open: 13 June 2012 Applications Close: 13 July 2012

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

57

CAREER, YOUR CHOICE Our lawyers thrive in an environment that fosters collaboration with few internal administrative boundaries, free from the burden of fee budgets that dominates the culture of so many other law firms.

Johnson Winter & Slattery is a national law firm where young lawyers play a meaningful role in strategic and complex transactions and disputes, and build relationships with executives from Australia’s most successful companies through close client contact.

Strong technical and client service skills are developed through structured mentoring and professional development education programs.

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We are a dynamic, commercial firm offering opportunities for development and advancement for lawyers at all levels as we pursue a clear strategy for growth in our principal practice areas across Australia.

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“JWS is different because of the low leverage business model – I have access to high level work and excellent mentoring opportunities.�

Jonathan Whybird, Associate

FIRM PROFILE

KING & WOOD MALLESONS

Level 61, Governor Phillip Tower

We’ve designed a program to help you make the most of your time with

1 Farrer Place

us. During your clerkship, you’ll learn:

Sydney NSW 2000 • The day-to-day skills to get you started – taking instructions, meeting

www.kwm.com

with clients, drafting memos and documents, managing your practice

CONTACT:

and professional relationships.

Sam Garner

• The core practice teams at King & Wood Mallesons – who they are,

Graduate Resourcing Manager

what they do, how they’re structured, the clients they work for, and of

Phone: +61 2 9296 3579

course, your role within them.

Email: sam.garner@au.kwm.com

• Our culture – working within your team, you’ll be exposed to (and encouraged) to get actively involved in the many activities and events

With a vision to create a global law firm in Asia and a history of bold innovation, it’s only the beginning for King & Wood Mallesons. Right

that help create our unique culture.

• Our people – you’ll find that people from every part of the business

now, you can become part of this “game changer” for the legal industry

will help you along, sharing their knowledge, and ensuring you have

– as we deliver a new legal choice and help our clients realise their new

everything you need to fit in, and do well.

world opportunities.

WHAT DO WE LOOK FOR? For those who don’t know us well, here’s a snapshot of what we offer you

The four key capabilities we look for in our clerks are:

today and tomorrow…

• A passion for commercial law and clients – that’s what we do every

VISION: to create a global law firm in Asia

day. It’s key that you have a genuine interest in the law and the

TEAM MATES: over 380 partners and 1,800 lawyers (biggest international

clients that need those services.

• A strong interest in business and industry – we work in our clients’

legal network in Asia)

REPUTATION: over 100 international and Asia-focused awards and 50

worlds and are striving to help them achieve their objectives. You

top-tier rankings

need to be interested in this and willing to commit time and energy to

LOCATIONS: strategically positioned in the world’s growth markets,

really understand our clients and their businesses.

financial capitals and the home of information technology (21 offices

• The self-awareness and desire to understand and work well with

globally and the only international legal network to be head quartered

others – we don’t build widgets. We deliver legal solutions to people

in Asia)

through people, so we have to be really good at working with and

CLIENTS: global financial and corporate powerhouses to new industry-

understanding others.

makers and all levels of government (some for over 200 years)

• Adaptability to live with change – our ability to move as quickly as the world around us is getting more important every day. We need

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM

people who think quickly, learn fast and adapt well.

Applications open: 13 June 2012 How to apply: Via our online application system at

If this sounds like you, why not talk to one of our graduate resourcing

www.kwm.com/careers

consultants or contact us by visiting our website, www.kwm.com

60

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

KING & WOOD MALLESONS

CLERKSHIP PROFILE 2011/2012 SUMMER CLERK AREAS OF ROTATION BANKING & FINANCE AND DISPUTE RESOLUTION LAUREN CHAPE

SUMMER CLERK PROFILE

or most of my adult life I have spent my

I rotated in Banking & Finance and Dispute

summer holidays overseas but over the

Resolution. I worked in two great teams for

most recent summer I went on a ‘journey’

helpful and approachable partners who always

of a different kind. Like travelling overseas, this

made time to give me feedback and make me

particular adventure took months of prepara-

feel included. We were also given buddies

tion to research and plan and there were dif-

who, much like a tour guide, were there to an-

ficult decisions to make about where to go and

swer our questions, navigate us through tasks

who to travel with. Fortunately, I made the right

and take us for coffee.

F

decision, I chose to spend my summer seeing the sights of King & Wood Mallesons.

I did lots of different activities and saw many sights: I had the chance to attend client meet-

While you are going through this guide, treat it

ings, listen to conference calls, write advice

like a Lonely Planet. You will find that as you

for clients, prepare evidence for trial, attend

read about different places some will stand

a High Court hearing, prepare submissions to

out to you as ‘must see’ destinations! For me,

government, write a research memo for coun-

King & Wood Mallesons stood out in the clerk-

sel...and the list goes on. One major highlight

ship guide, at the clerkship seminars, at the

was attending a client meeting to advise them

cocktail parties and during the interviews as

on whether their ads were misleading and

being a firm which had struck the illusive bal-

deceptive. Not only was my opinion taken

ance between friendliness and success. The

into consideration but the changes we recom-

partners and lawyers were warm, encouraging

mended were made to the ads and they are

and inspiring. I expected to feel intimidated

now running on TV.

but instead I felt comfortable because I was chatting to people like myself – people with di-

The other clerks on the adventure with me

verse interests, who work hard and who like to

were wonderful and we quickly became close

have a laugh. The more I learnt about King &

friends. At times the clerkship was like a Con-

Wood Mallesons from these people, the more I

tiki Tour with the clerks spending many nights

couldn’t wait to get there. (I felt the same way

out together after work. At other times it was

about Paris!)

a 5 star experience, including the firm Christmas party and my buddy lunch at Rockpool.

Once we landed we started training and induction, we did team-building activities and were

Much like an overseas trip, the clerkship at

introduced to many of the firm’s pro bono initi-

King & Wood Mallesons was great, the itiner-

atives. The training also continued throughout

ary was jam-packed and the end result was an

the clerkship, with many opportunities to learn

incredibly rewarding summer.

about the different practice groups and industry sectors we may not have been exposed to throughout the summer.

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

61

FIRM PROFILE

KING & WOOD MALLESONS

SECTOR PROFILE ENERGY, RESOURCES AND PROJECTS

The firm’s combined Energy, Resources & Projects team comprises

Bringing together specialist resource lawyers throughout our interna-

throughout Asia. Headed by Scott Gardiner in Australia, Joshua Cole in

tional network, we focus on providing strategic counsel on all legal as-

Hong Kong and Carolyn Dong and Harry Du in China, the team provides

pects of project development and operation, including:

a full service offering for clients requiring seamless cross-border and

more than 60 partners and approximately 150 lawyers in Australia and

also local advice.

• M&A and joint venture arrangements • project finance

As the presence of foreign entrants into the local market increases, the

• project approvals, environment and planning

firm is well positioned to assist our Energy & Resources clients capitalise

• construction

on opportunities in multiple jurisdictions across Asia, Africa, India, the

• competition and infrastructure access

Middle East and South America. We are able to mobilise market leading

• inbound and outbound investment including FIRB approvals

teams across Australia, Hong Kong and China and focus on M&A, the

• native title and cultural heritage

development of major projects, financing and major litigation - no other

• employment, industrial relations, health and safety

firm is able to offer this depth of expertise across the Asia-Pacific region.

• property • tax

King & Wood Mallesons is perfectly positioned to capitalise on the

• dispute resolution

growing importance of the Asian economies. The combination of the

• climate change and clean energy

two firms is driven by the desire to support clients who are seeking a streamlined service to help them realise the significant opportunities in

The recent combination of Mallesons Stephen Jaques and King & Wood

Asia-Pacific markets. Energy & Resources is a key priority sector for the

has created a market leading Energy, Resources & Projects team with

combined firm.

the most meaningful China capability of any international law firm.

62

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

FIRM PROFILE

MIDDLETONS

In the modern commercial world, standing still is not an option. Choos-

a number of ways to build internal networks and become involved in the

ing a career at Middletons is choosing to be a part of a progressive

Middletons community.

and innovative law firm that continues to grow year on year. We have extensive experience acting for industry leaders, major corporations

SUMMER CLERK PROGRAM AT MIDDLETONS

and government on groundbreaking legal transactions in Australia and

A clerkship is the ideal opportunity for you to explore what we have to

internationally.

offer. Not only will you gain insight into a career in law, you will meet our people, sample our culture and determine if Middletons is the right

A national commercial law firm, Middletons has offices in Sydney, Bris-

career choice for you. As a law student in your penultimate year at uni-

bane, Melbourne and Perth. Nationally Middletons employs over 550

versity, this is an opportunity to gain practical work experience through

staff, including 71 partners and 260 lawyers. Our key practice groups

participation in client meetings, court visits and involvement in real legal

include banking & financial services, commercial litigation, corporate &

work.

commercial, property development & construction, transport logistics & Professional development is provided throughout your clerkship. It

defence and workplace relations & safety.

begins on your first day with a comprehensive induction program and

FIRM CULTURE

continues through your clerkship enabling you to learn important skills

Our values, focused on people, clients and practice, underpin our re-

that lay the foundation for your legal career.

laxed and friendly culture. We operate in a collegiate atmosphere where people feel valued and contributions are recognised and rewarded.

Your supervising partner or senior associate will be responsible for as-

Informality and approachability are key aspects of our culture and team-

signing your work. A graduate or junior lawyer will also be there to pro-

work is actively fostered.

vide buddy support throughout your clerkship. In addition to the daily on the job feedback and guidance you receive, you will also be involved

From our networking forums such as our Young Professionals Network

in a structured performance review at the conclusion of your clerkship.

(YPN) and Women’s Information Network (WIN), to our Sports@Middletons program, Vitality program, social club and firm events, there are 64

Further information about Middletons and our clerkship program can

be found at www.middletons.com/careers LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

YOUR PASSION YOUR CAREER OUR FIRM Our vacation clerkships open a window on what it’s like to be a lawyer in a large commercial law firm.

Interested?

Find out more at www.minterellison.com/careers

ADELAIDE AUCKLAND BEIJING BRISBANE CANBERRA DARWIN GOLD COAST HONG KONG LONDON MELBOURNE PERTH SHANGHAI SYDNEY ULAANBAATAR WELLINGTON

SYD10 0313

or email liana.hurry@minterellison.com

www.minterellison.com

FIRM PROFILE

MINTER ELLISON

world’s leading energy and resources companies, handle financing and capital markets work across Australia, in Hong Kong and in London, and are principal lawyers on iconic projects such the Melbourne Dockland redevelopment, Brisbane’s RNA Showgrounds development, and

ADDRESS:

OFFICE LOCATIONS (15):

88 Phillip Street

AUSTRALIA

Sydney NSW 2000

Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra,

COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS

CONTACT PERSON:

Darwin, Gold Coast, Melbourne,

Each of our offices has developed partnerships with community organi-

Liana Hurry

Perth, Sydney

sations to address local need and the overall themes of our Community

Graduate Resourcing Consultant

ASIA

Investment Program. For example, our focus on disadvantaged youth in

Phone: 02 9921 4017

Beijing, Hong Kong, Shanghai,

Australia has led to the Sydney offices partnership with James Meehan

Email: liana.hurry@minterellison.

Ulaanbaatar

High in Macquarie Fields.

com

NEW ZEALAND

NUMBER OF LAWYERS:

Auckland, Wellington

OUR COMMITMENT HAS INCLUDED:

1000+

EUROPE

• Hosting student visits to our office

NUMBER OF PARTNERS:

London

• Providing work experience and career advice

King Street Wharf in Sydney.

290 +

• Active membership of the Australian Business and Community Network

AREAS OF PRACTICE

• Taking part in the Principal for a Day Program

Our Sydney office has 12 practice groups: Commercial & Regulatory,

• Creating networks between our partner schools for the benefit of

Financial Services, Mergers & Acquisitions and Private Equity and Capital Markets (Corporate groups), Commercial Disputes and Insurance & Corporate Disputes (Litigation groups), Environment & Planning and

students and staff • Developing mentoring projects for our staff to provide practical assistance to students.

Property (Real Estate), Tax, Finance, Construction and Human Re-

The benefits of these partnerships extend both ways. Students are ex-

sources & Industrial Relations.

posed to the world of professional life. Equally, our staff derive enormous satisfaction from creating opportunities for students to reach their full

ABOUT THE FIRM

potential.

Our origins date back to 1827 in Sydney, Australia. Today, Minter Ellison is one of the six top tier commercial law firms in Australia – with a cli-

Minter Ellison believes that lawyers have a responsibility to ensure ac-

ent base that includes 26 of the country’s Top 50 companies – and is

cess to justice for disadvantaged and marginalised citizens. We assist

ranked as one of the largest legal groups in the Asia Pacific.

individuals without the means to pay for legal services and non-profit community organisations whose work helps those in need. We are com-

Our strong growth and success have been driven by the energetic vision

mitted to developing a strong pro bono culture in the regions where we

of our leading partners, in-depth industry expertise and a commitment

operate. Each of our offices undertakes pro bono legal work in response

to working closely with our clients – wherever they need us. It is this

to local need.

commitment that led us to moving offshore and building up offices in the UK and Asia.

Our flagship pro bono project in Australia is our strategic commitment to the development and growth of the Homeless Persons Legal Clinics

TELL US ABOUT AN INTERESTING NEW PROJECT THE FIRM IS CURRENTLY WORKING ON:

in Brisbane and Melbourne and the Homeless Persons Legal Service in Sydney.

We have been at the table of some of Asia Pacific’s headline transactions – the National Broadband Network rollout, SingTel’s new satellite

Some of our most resource-intensive pro bono matters are conducted

acquisition and launch, global outsourcing projects for BHP Billiton and

on behalf of individuals who would otherwise be denied access to jus-

strategic business acquisitions for Qantas. Our teams work with the

tice.

66

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

MINTER ELLISON

WHAT OTHER BENEFITS AND ACTIVITIES, ASIDE FROM WORK DOES THE FIRM OFFER?

FIRM PROFILE

CLERK PROFILE

JANE SLATTERY – SUMMER CLERK 2011-12 AND UTS STUDENT

WELLBEING • Free corporate gym membership • Employee Assistance Program providing confidential counselling and support to staff and other immediate family • Discounted health insurance • Health & Wellbeing seminars and exhibitions

A

sking the other summer clerks in our group why they decided on Minter Ellison for the 2011/2012 Summer Clerkship, the overwhelming consensus was simply, “the people”. And I have

to say, that was the influencing factor in my decision to clerk here.

• Parenting information sessions • Social and sporting events and activities (including Christmas parties,

From my first interview, Minter Ellison’s focus was on getting to know

Friday Night Drinks, corporate sports teams)

who I was as a person, as well as a potential employee. In addition to be-

• Discounted shopping, entertainment and travel

ing asked about my legal experience and interests in commercial law, I

• Business Casual Dress Fridays

was often asked about the band I play in and found myself having great discussions about music. I found that the partners who interviewed me

CAREER DEVELOPMENT

throughout the recruitment process (and whose impressive and varied

• Cutting edge learning and development programs, including:

careers were somewhat daunting) were always open and friendly and

• Regular continuing legal education seminars

it was great to see that such a culture permeated throughout the firm.

• ‘Core skills’ programs • Life skills programs

The benefit of clerking at Minter Ellison is that you partake in three

• Graduate Development through to a

different rotations. For someone unsure of the type of law they may like

Leadership Development Programs

to practice, the rotations provide an invaluable opportunity to test out

• Post-graduate studies support

different areas of commercial law. My first rotation was in Environment

• Workgroup retreats

and Planning. From the get-go I was assisting on large litigation matters, attending client meetings, drafting briefs to counsel, researching the le-

SECONDMENTS

gal implications of contamination on neighbouring lands and attending

Secondment opportunities between offices, to clients and international

the Land and Environment Court to see the work I was assisting on play

locations

out in the courtroom. I was happy to find that the interesting and diverse nature of work continued throughout my second rotation in Commercial

CLERKSHIP WHAT DOES THE FIRM LOOK FOR IN A POTENTIAL EMPLOYEE?

Disputes and third rotation in Human Resources and Industrial Rela-

At Minter Ellison our lawyers come from very diverse backgrounds but

Service also meant that I was able to attend the Women’s and Girls’

what they share are the key attributes we look for in our clerks: a drive

Emergency Centre with lawyers from the firm who provided legal advice

for excellence and technical achievement, commercial awareness, en-

and took carriage of the women’s matters. Personally, it was really posi-

ergy and initiative.

tive to see such a large proportion of lawyers volunteering their time to

tions. Minter Ellison’s involvement with the Homeless Persons’ Legal

pro-bono work.

DO YOU INTEND TO OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR?

My clerkship at Minter Ellison involved hard work, but I also had a great

No, Minter Ellison will only be taking penultimate year students.

time. From competing in Minter’s Amazing Race, to singing (almost always off key) at karaoke, and attempting to act in our clerk video,

ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE FOR THIS YEAR?

I’ve had lot fun and have made some really great friends. My time at

20-25 Summer Clerks

Minter Ellison has been invaluable and I can’t wait to see what the future brings!

HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY FOR A CLERKSHIP? Apply online via our website www.minterellison.com/careers

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

67

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NORTON ROSE

FIRM PROFILE

anything from legal research to attending client meetings or court visits.

Norton Rose Australia is a member of Norton Rose Group, a leading

Another aspect of your clerkship with us will be the social activities that

international legal practice offering a full business law service to many of

you can participate in. As a summer clerk you will be included in firm

the world’s pre-eminent financial institutions and corporations.

specific activities including sporting events, lunches, dinners and various other social events.

We are the largest international legal practice in Australia, with offices in Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. Our international

GRADUATE PROGRAMME

reach, and in particular our significant presence in the Asia Pacific, sets

The Norton Rose Australia graduate programme runs for a 24-month

us apart from our competitors.

period and consists of four six-month rotations, which allow you to experience a wide variety of legal work and develop a comprehensive skill set.

Knowing how our clients’ businesses work and understanding what

With this breadth of experience, you will be able to confidently identify

drives their industries is fundamental to us. Our lawyers share industry

the area that best suits your talents and career goals.

knowledge and sector expertise across borders, enabling us to support our clients anywhere in the world.

As part of our national graduate programme, we now provide graduates in their second year of the programme with a unique opportunity to

Norton Rose Group has one global set of values or business principles,

undertake a four month rotation in one of our international offices. This

based around quality, unity and integrity and apply to all Norton Rose

formalised learning opportunity introduces you to the broader Norton

Group activities and staff worldwide.

Rose Group, including regional and global clients, partners and staff, and gives invaluable experience of different cultures and legal work.

We take the view that we are only as strong as our people – which is why quality training and flexible work programmes are paramount to our

Throughout the programme, you will also be involved in a regular feed-

business. We deliver an extensive range of training programmes targeted

back process. This provides an opportunity for ongoing communication

at specific stages of our lawyers’ professional development.

between partners and staff and ensures you maximise your learning experience.

We are also proud to be certified by the EOWA as an Employer of Choice for Women 2012.

APPLICATION DATES FOR NEW SOUTH WALES All applications should be submitted online at

SEASONAL CLERKSHIP PROGRAMME

www.nortonrosegraduates.com Applications Open - 13 June 2012.

This year we are recruiting 20 seasonal clerks for the Sydney office.

Applications Close - 13 July 2012. Offers Made - 21 September 2012

The seasonal clerkship programme runs for 10 weeks in Brisbane, Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney over the summer and will commence on

THE APPLICATION AND INTERVIEW PROCESS

Monday 26 November 2012.

If you are interested in applying for a seasonal clerk position at Norton Rose Australia, you should apply online. You will need to submit your

As a Norton Rose Australia seasonal clerk, you will have the chance to

academic transcript, an up-to-date CV and a covering letter. The inter-

spend five weeks in one practice group and then rotate into a different

view process consists of two interviews and an information session over

practice area for a further 5 weeks, to broaden your knowledge as much

a number of weeks. You will have the opportunity to meet partners and

as possible. Our clerkship programme is your opportunity to start build-

associates from different groups across the practice, as well as contacts

ing a career with a global legal practice, doing meaningful work of value.

in Human Resources.

You will also be able to get to know our people, working closely with – and learning from – our associates, senior associates and partners. All in all,

Please apply online at www.nortonrosegraduates.com

it is an opportunity to experience what life is really like as a graduate.

LOCAL CONTACT DETAILS: Name: Yvette Revell, Recruitment Advisor

You will attend various induction sessions, as well as firm wide CLE train-

Email address: yvette.revell@nortonrose.com

ing and talks from graduates about spending time on secondment to

Telephone number: +61 (2) 9330 8945

one of our Asian offices. During your time at Norton Rose Australia you

Office address: Level 18, Grosvenor Place, 225 George Street, Sydney,

Australia will get to participate in actual work with clients – which could involve LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

69

SUMMER CLERK PROFILE

LLB (UTS) SUMMER CLERK 2010/2011 GRADUATE LAWYER 2012 NIALL WATSON-DUNNE

NORTON ROSE

With a great number of applications to finish,

Security, and secondly in Insurance. Over this

cover letters to tweak and interviews to pre-

time I was exposed to wide variety of local and

pare for, the clerkship process is a frantic time

international work, and given the chance to

that can catch the unsuspecting law student

work with several different partners. Some of

off guard. Knowing what to expect from a sum-

the opportunities I was given included drafting

mer clerkship will assist potential candidates in

an Issues Paper on draft legislation, attending

making a fully informed decision about clerk-

client meetings, sitting in on a Coronial Inquest

ing at a particular firm, and hopefully ease the

and preparing a presentation for my Partner

pressure of this otherwise stressful time. From

on proportionate liability. I also particularly

the very first university information session I at-

enjoyed working on pro bono matters and at-

tended, through to the firm’s roundtable meet-

tending the Homeless Peoples’ Legal Shelter.

ing, my Norton Rose clerkship experience was

There was a definite sense of satisfaction to

made all the more easier through the quality of

see documents that I had helped draft, or even

information I received and the staff that I met.

contributed to in a small way, go out to clients.

The interviews were conducted in an environment where I felt comfortable to be myself and

Whilst my experiences in each rotation were

THE CLERKSHIP PROCESS

express my personal interests beyond the law.

vastly different, the commonality between the

The decision to apply for a summer clerkship

The drinks evening presented me with one

two was this: highly capable professionals who

is a daunting and at times, overwhelming ex-

last opportunity to gauge the culture of Norton

genuinely cared about ensuring that my time

perience which all penultimate year law stu-

Rose, and interact with members of the firm

at the firm was enjoyable and a highly valuable

dents must consider at one stage or another.

that I had not previously encountered – not to

learning experience.

The decision is made all the more difficult in

mention sample a canapé or two.

light of the diverse range of domestic com-

Work aside, the summer clerkship was also a

mercial law firms participating in the summer

CLERKING AT NORTON ROSE

highly sociable experience - with the oppor-

clerkship scheme. With so many options, it

When I first started my summer clerkship at

tunity to attend monthly and quarterly drinks,

is important to choose the law firm that’s the

Norton Rose, I came to the firm with an in-

and the odd Christmas party or two, I was able

right fit for you, as it will often be the first step

depth knowledge of how to pour a beer from

to get a real sense of the strong emphasis that

that you take in your legal career.

my years in the hospitality industry and a

Norton Rose places on maintaining a work/life

great number of hesitations about my virtually

balance. Additionally, over the summer I de-

nonexistent experience in the legal domain.

veloped some great friendships not only with

Thankfully, the clerkship was prefaced with a

my fellow clerks, but also with the lawyers and

training program designed to assist my fellow

administrative staff alike.

clerks and I in the transition from university into the world of corporate law. From Boolean

My clerkship at Norton Rose was engaging,

search terms to billable units, we were skilled

challenging, fun, and most of all enjoyable. I

in all the necessary fields so as to ensure that

genuinely felt that I was welcomed as part of

we wouldn’t be thrown into the deep end when

the team, that my work and time was valued,

we eventually reached our practice groups.

and that I was joining a firm that was truly international. If a clerkship experience like this is

During my twelve weeks at Norton Rose I was

something that you are looking for, I can gladly

given the opportunity to do two six-week rota-

recommend that Norton Rose is the firm for you.

tions, firstly in Occupation, Health, Safety and

70

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

THE APPLICATION

WHY A KILLER APPLICATION IS THE KEY TO YOUR CLERKSHIP DREAMS

E

very law student is looking for a career, whether it be in commercial law, family law or human rights. If it is the commer-

HOW TO MAKE YOUR APPLICATION STAND OUT: WHAT ARE THE FIRMS LOOKING FOR?

cial world your heart seeks, your greatest shot

An interest in the law firm you are applying for: a firm

is to secure a clerkship. How, you may ask, will

is looking for someone who actually desires to

you do that?

work at their firm specifically, as opposed to reading an application that is the replication of

STEP ONE: SUBMIT A KILLER APPLICATION.

the one you submitted to the other firms you applied for.

Without a killer application, there is no interview, and without an interview, there is no

A representative of Maddocks highlights that

clerkship.

firms are looking for clerks who “genuinely want to work and build a career” at the firm.

An application for a clerkship will usually in-

MICHELLE SMERDON

clude submitting a cover letter, a resume and

Human Resources Consultant at DLA Piper,

answering a series of firm-specific application

Kristie Barton, reiterates this idea, noting that,

questions. This article will give you some tips

“the best response is one which demonstrates

and tricks into what the typical application

both an understanding of our business as well

questions are, what the firms are looking for

as a genuine interest in having a career with

in a candidate, how best to write your applica-

us.”

tion, and, most importantly, what not to do in the application process.

Make sure you research the firm prior to writing your application, and address specific

WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL QUESTIONS THE APPLICATION MIGHT ASK?

areas of work the firm is involved in or interest-

Each firm will typically have core values they

ers you may have heard about in the media,

are looking for in their employees, and each

throughout the application. This will ensure

question will seek to discover how a candidate

the firm believes you are aiming to work in their

represents these core values in both their posi-

firm specifically, and this will have the added

tion as an employee and in their everyday life.

bonus of showcasing your ability to know the

ing facts about the firm, such as recent merg-

current legal climate, know how to research,

QUESTIONS USUALLY FALL INTO ONE

and will exert enthusiasm above and beyond a

OF THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES:

general non-firm-specific application.

1.

2.

Questions aimed at discovering your motivation for working at the specific firm

An all-rounded individual: while it is important to

and what you can offer the organisation;

address your academic achievements, a rep-

Questions addressing your work ethic,

resentative of Maddocks states that, “we do

achievements and key employee attrib-

not just assess you on your academic results.”

utes;

3.

Questions that test your commercial and legal awareness; and

4.

Personal questions involving your extracurricular activities and what you are interested in.

72

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

THE APPLICATION

WHAT TO DO WHILST WRITING AN APPLICATION: Ms Barton outlines that DLA Piper like to see

THOU SHALT:

THOU SHALT NOT:

candidates who are “as engaged as they are

1.

1.

Research the firm and tailor your ap-

Pinpoint only one favourite area of law in

inventive, balanced and friendly,” and that

plication to that firm, addressing the

your application that is not offered by the

each firm will be looking for “people from a

core values of the firm in all answers.

firm.

diverse range of backgrounds.” Ms Barton

Ms Barton warns candidates about sub-

states that firms want to know about “experi-

mitting a general application that is a

happened to you, such as wrestling a lion

ences outside of academic life,” so ensure to

clear replicate of applications submitted

in Africa, or you partake in community

include information regarding your hobbies

other firms, stating: “beware the ‘cut’ and

volunteer work, tell the firm in the ‘about

and extra-curricular activities.

‘paste’ function!”

you’ section of the application. This will

Ensure the name of the firm and the con-

work to your advantage as it is likely to

Jacqui Ellis, who completed a clerkship at a

tact person is spelt correctly (and know

make your application memorable and

top tier law firm this past Summer, noted: “it is

who the contact person is). This mistake

will give you an anecdote for your future

great if you can highlight your extra-curricular

is not looked upon favourably and it will

interview.

activities and then link this to how these ac-

create a bad first (and definitely last) im-

tivities will help you in a work environment,

pression.

knows what is on their website, they do

Exemplify your commercial awareness.

not need you to tell them.

2.

for example I compared my experience as a

3.

2.

3.

4.

Be boring. If something interesting has

Quote from the firm’s website. The firm

Use complicated words. The High Court

dance teacher to being a partner in a law firm,

A good starting point prior to writing your

mentoring the junior lawyers.”

application is to read the business pages

is urging for the use of plain English, so

of The Age, The Australian, and more

are the big law firms.

Use examples: it is easy for someone to say they

specialised publications such as The

work hard or can research, however, the firms

Financial Review.

are looking for you to prove the abilities and

4.

world limit. A representative of Maddocks

Use examples from your current or past em-

states: “you will be surprised how many

ployment, from everyday life or even from Uni-

applications come through that do not

versity (such as to prove your ability to work

actually address the question” and “we

in a team or independently). One of the best

are not looking for essays, but would like

ways to include this is: “I have X attribute. I

more than a one word response!”

5.

Fail to submit any applications…come on, time to start writing.

Answer the question and stick to the

attributes you haphazardly declare you have.

displayed this attribute effectively when I par-

5.

Triple or quadruple check your documents for correct spelling, grammar and

took in X activity.”

sentence structure – yes, correct spelling can change your life.

6.

Save, save, save. If the application is online, be sure to continuously save your application as a draft. To be safe, it is best to write your answers in a word document and then transfer them to the application when you are finished.

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

73

THE APPLICATION

HOW TO USE CVMAIL

ing dates appear. When applying for positions

TOP 5 TIPS AND TRICKS

in NSW you will be required to attach your

1.

curriculum vitae and covering letter along with

long questions, draft these responses in

your application. However, it is important to

Word first to avoid any spelling or

note that some firms have customised applica-

grammatical mistakes.

tion forms, which will require you to answer a

NATALIE NASTEVSKA

Some firms will require you to answer

number of specifically tailored questions.

2.

Upon sending your application you are

provided with a unique receipt number.

Keep it on your own personal file as a

The questions in the various application forms

record.

3.

cvMail is a free online application

help firms ascertain certain information about

service created by Thompson Reuters

your personal skills such as; what you can

that you can lodge a request with should

to assist students applying for jobs on-

offer their firm, your ability to work in a team

you encounter any technical difficulties. See

line. This service can be accessed at cvmail.

environment and examples of how you have

support@cvmail.com.au.

com.au. Students can upload their personal

contributed to work or other social activities.

and academic details and apply for a number

The application questions are really aimed

you have 90 minutes to respond to all ques-

of clerkship and graduate roles quickly and ef-

at working out how you as a prospective em-

tions. The system automatically logs you off

ficiently. cvMail is interactive and easy to use.

ployee will fit within the culture of the firm.

after 90 minutes. So always hit save.

C

5.

Registration takes about one to two minutes, then you are ready to create your profile.

When applying and filling out the forms, sav-

However, before you start applying for your

ing your responses is extremely important. The

dream positions there are two easy steps to

‘next’ and ‘last’ buttons save your responses

undertake.

at each step. After pressing the ’next’ or ’last’ buttons, you can at any time return to the page

First you will complete a personal profile,

you’ve completed in order to confirm your re-

which contains all your personal information,

sponses have been saved.

and an academic profile, which contains a library of information regarding your work

Furthermore, once you press either ‘next’ or

history and academic results. Once you have

’last’ the navigation bar at the top of the appli-

uploaded and saved all your information into

cation form will highlight the section and mark

your profile, including your academic results,

it with a tick. Should a red message appear,

this information will automatically be stored in

scroll down the page and check to see that you

the program. You can then apply for various

have answered all the questions. The system

positions.

will not let you send your application unless all the requisite fields have been completed.

On the cvMail page you will find tabs for graduate and seasonal clerkship positions.

Under these tabs tailored information about each firms’ requirements and application clos-

74

4.

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

cvMail has an internal support email

When completing the application forms

Apply as early as possible to avoid the

rush and good luck!!

THE APPLICATION

PICK ME! PICK ME! AMY SIMPSON

ADDRESSING SELECTION CRITERIA

SETTING YOURSELF APART

Before addressing selection criteria you must

Remember that knowledge of the law and your

ensure you understand what is being asked.

legal studies are only one component. There

For example, ‘demonstrate knowledge’ means

are many more skills required in the work-

demonstrate study of and familiarity with a

force, such as communication, teamwork, and

particular legislation, process or topic area,

conflict management. Organisations will look

while ‘demonstrate ability’ requires you to ad-

for people who not only demonstrate those

dress your practical abilities with regards to

skills and commitment in their working life,

that criterion.

but also in other social and familial contexts,

ADDRESSING SELECTION CRITERIA AND STANDING OUT FROM THE PACK

The Australian Public Service Commission

(crocheting, for example, could demonstrate

Have you ever noticed employers list their

recommends using the STAR method to walk

patience and attention to detail!).

ideal employee’s attributes in job advertise-

recruiters through your skills when answering

ments? This is the selection criteria; you must

selection criteria, giving them an opportunity

Language can also make a huge difference to

demonstrate you possess these attributes to

to pinpoint precisely why you are suitable for

the success of your application. Ensuring that

receive an interview (and hopefully land your

the job.

your spelling and grammar is correct is a fan-

so don’t forget to include that unusual hobby

dream clerkship or graduate position).

tastic start, but do not underestimate the effect The STAR method:

Selection criteria is a set of qualities and at-

of using powerful action words like ‘I have’ and ‘I am able to’. Similarly, don’t speak in round-

1.

SITUATION: provide an example, with con-

about terms; future employers and recruiters

service although use has expanded into the

text, of a situation in which you have under-

will be sorting through hundreds of applica-

private sector, use to short list those they

taken the particular skill or ability required

tions and you don’t want them overlooking you

would like to interview from those they won’t.

by the criteria;

because they have had to read between the

tributes that recruiters, primarily in the public

Rather than thinking of answering selection

2.

TASK: explain what your role was in the

lines.

criteria as a burdensome task, you should

particular scenario, for example were you

consider it a pre-interview opportunity and a

required to write submissions, research the

Remember, your selection criterion is different

mechanism by which to record examples of

background to a memorandum, or instruct

from your cover letter. Your cover letter should

skills and abilities you may not recall off the

counsel;

be used to emphasise your desire to work for

cuff in an oral interview.

3.

ACTION: how did you complete the above

task? For example, if you were required to

the firm and why. Your selection criteria shows why you would be good for the job.

research a point of law what databases or methods of legal research did you utilise; and

4.

RESULT: What was the end result in the

scenario and what did the scenario teach you that would be applicable to the role for which you are applying?

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

75

THE COVER LETTER

HOW TO WRITE A COVER LETTER

WHERE TO FROM HERE?

GENERAL TIPS:

Now it’s time to start writing. Here are a few

A COVER LETTER SHOULD:

steps which you may consider to take when

• Be succinct;

writing your cover letter:

• Be positive and upbeat. Make the hiring manager interested in reading your CV;

1.

INTRODUCE YOURSELF AND MAKE IT PERSONAL:

Tell your employers who you are. The key with any cover letter is to make it as personal as possible. This means addressing your let-

KATHERINE AGAPITOS

• Add to your CV not reiterate what the CV already says; • Address the name – don’t leave it as a ‘dear sir or madam’;

ter to a real person for a specific job. Avoid

• Be brief – no longer than a page; and

the temptation to send out a generic letter.

• Show how your skills can relate to the role

2.

THIS MEANS A BIT OF EXTRA WORK. You may

itself.

need to call an organisation and find out who riting a cover letter is an art. It is

W

you need to address your letter to. Spend

A COVER LETTER SHOULD NOT:

vital you understand exactly what

some time researching the company (a

• Be a summary or repeat of your CV;

you are applying for, before you

quick Google search can help) so that you

• Be a uniform letter you send with all job

commence drafting your letters. To ensure

can make your letter relevant to the specific

that you are on the right track in writing an

job and organisation.

effective cover letter, there are a few factors to consider.

3.

START SELLING YOURSELF: Use your previous

job experience and skills to enhance your

applications; • Have spelling mistakes or grammatical errors; • Address the wrong person or firm – that

application. You should demonstrate to a

would most likely lead to your application

WHERE DO I START?

potential employer that you understand the

going in the ‘NO’ pile. Mass produced cover

Before you start writing your cover letter, you

job requirements and can do the job. Include

letters, particularly during clerkship time,

must ask yourself the following:

the skills and experiences you have that are

are easy to spot by employers; or

relevant to the job description.

• Be generic – this indicates that you’re

WHAT IS THE JOB THAT I AM APPLYING FOR?

HINT: Using the direct wording of the employ-

playing a numbers game and that your

Read the job description thoroughly to identify

er’s advertised criteria will clearly illustrate

strategy is to send out as many applications

what the employers are looking for. An effec-

your suitability to their position

as possible. By all means, when you are

tive way of doing this is by deconstructing and

4.

ENCOURAGE THE READER: You also need to

applying for a number of different positions,

analysing the assessment criteria in the job

show that you are enthusiastic and have a

it might be a good idea to create a basic

advertisement or clerkship application criteria.

positive attitude towards the potential posi-

template for structural purposes but by the

Consider how the criteria that has been listed

tion and the employer’s workplace. This

time you have completed your letter, if you

relates to the skills and attributes you possess.

should make the employer reading your let-

do not think it is unique, don’t send it.

ter want to know more about you and what

WHO WILL BE EMPLOYING ME? Research the firm or workplace that you are

you could potentially bring to their position.

5.

THE FINAL CALL: following your encouraging

applying for; to ascertain what their firm ethos

description of yourself and your attributes,

is, and what they stand for. Look to their vi-

include a short paragraph showing the em-

sionary statements and practice aims to get an

ployer your enthusiasm by suggesting your

indication of the firm culture and environment.

willingness to speak with them further about

Take note of the wording used by the firms in

the position, through telephone conversa-

describing themselves. It may be a good idea

tions or an interview/meeting.

to use their ‘buzz’ words in your cover letter, indicating that you really have an understanding of the firm’s attitudes and work place.

76

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

THE CV

TIP #1 – KEEP IT HONEST

TIP #4 – KEEP IT FOCUSED

The golden rule: don’t include anything that

Your cover letter shows off your personal-

you wouldn’t be comfortable discussing or

ity, your CV gives it substance. It’s purpose

proving in an interview. The temptation to pad

is to snare you a clerkship interview and so it

out your skills or past activities is a strong one,

should clearly and concisely focus on experi-

but one that should be resisted at all costs -

ences and qualifications that make you suit-

you risk being found out in the interview or,

able for the role you’re applying for. All firms

worse, while in the role. Avoid using obscure

will provide a set of criteria for potential candi-

or misleading job titles like ‘Visual Clearance

dates to meet - make sure you clearly address

Engineer’ to describe your summer job as a

these points early on in your CV. Be discerning

window washer. They are more likely to ask

about which of your activities and experiences

o, having painstakingly proofed your

S

about it in an interview and you will look foolish

to list - you should be able to relate everything

cover letter, you now turn to your CV

when you tell them what it really means. Don’t

you mention back to the selection criteria in

- your good old curriculum vitae. But,

sell yourself short - all professional experience

some way. Be ruthless and ask yourself: “Does

even though it cinched you that Wendy’s gig

is relevant, even if it isn’t legal-based. A job

a recruiter really need to know this to decide if

back in Year 10 and held true for your current

that might seem mundane and in need of jazz-

I’m suitable for the role?”

office job, will it cut it when it comes to landing

ing up is often already interesting to employers

a clerkship interview?

who will want to know what transferable skills

That’s not to say you need to be boring. If

you acquired. Work with what you already

you’ve got extra-curriculars, interesting or

HOW IS A CV DIFFERENT FROM A RESUME?

have going for you.

unusual hobbies, or ongoing commitments

Most people would think the terms were inter-

TIP #2 – KEEP IT RECENT

showing that you lead a balanced lifestyle and

changeable, but a resume tends to be shorter,

All achievements, experience and qualifica-

are able to manage time effectively. They’re

more general and less detailed than a CV. You

tions should be set out in reverse-chronolog-

looking for quality skills and presentation, but

are looking to create a tailored document of

ical order with the most recent first and the

amidst that they’re also hoping for a glimpse of

maximum four pages which canvasses your

oldest last.

personality which they would ideally like to see

HOW TO WRITE A GREAT CV JAMESINA MCLEOD

to non-law activities, these are still relevant in

education, aspirations, experience and why

more of in an interview. Use your discretion - if

you would be suited for the role. It’s not just a

TIP #3 – KEEP IT CONSISTENT

an activity or achievement was important to

chronological list of things you’ve done, it’s the

There is no ‘one size fits all’ rule for how a CV

you and what you stand for, then keep it in

firms’ first introduction to you.

should be structured or presented, but there

and evaluate how it would make you an even

are some ground rules that all applicants

better choice for a firm.

should follow. Keep fonts and formatting simple and consistent - stick with Times New Ro-

TIP #5 – KEEP IT READABLE

man, Arial or Calibri and leave your fancy fonts

Avoid using long or multisyllabic words just

for the party invitations you’ll send out when

because you can. Keep sentences concise

you get into the firm. Do not reduce margins

and favour bullet points where possible. You

and ensure font is at least size 11, preferably

should not be writing great passages of in-

size 12. Do use boldface, italics, sub-headings

formation, your chance to express yourself is

and bullet points. Avoid excessive use of col-

in your cover letter. Make sure to spell check

our or the inclusion of a photograph - neither

it yourself. Twice. At least. Autocorrect is far

are necessary and both can distract from the

from perfect and will change many words to

actual content.

American spelling without you realising it.

Read it aloud -if you have to pause for breath more than once during a sentence, you’re either heavily asthmatic or it’s too long.

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

77

THE CV

SAMPLE CV Use your name as the main heading rather than writing “Resume” or “CV”

ELOISE SNELL

Ensure you include your name, address, professional email address and your

PERSONAL DETAILS

contact number. It is up to you whether you include your date of birth.

Eloise Elizabeth Snell 5 Hawthorne Circuit, Taralga, NSW 2400 0412 392 001/ 9894 9044 e.snell@gmail.com

This section is optional but allows you to show any long-term aspirations for your

CAREER OBJECTIVES

professional career path. Ideally have

I would like to combine my interest in social justice with my desire to establish a career in a

it tailored to the specific firm. Keep it

corporate firm. I would ideally like to play a part in managing in-house pro bono initiatives for a

specific, brief and factual. If unsure, it is

large commercial firm to enhance the company’s profile and the accessibility of legal services to

better to leave this section out - your cover

the broader community.

letter will often be enough.)

Most relevant for students who often don’t have legal experience.

EDUCATION AND ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws - University of Technology Commenced March 2009, expected completion in December 2013 The University of Technology, Sydney

AWARDS: 2011 - Awarded First Place in Contracts Law Check with the firm if they need your

2009 - Awarded Leslie H. Lino Prize for Commendable Effort in Perspectives on Law

official transcript before the interview

Transcript available upon request.

You may or may not choose to include your secondary education

William Forrestor Comprehensive High School Class of 2008

HSC: 98 UAI First in the state in Modern History

78

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

THE CV

Give a brief description of your workplace, responsibilities and achievements relevant

PROFESSIONAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

to your application

Paralegal James Elliot Woods and Co. (Neutral Bay) February 2009 - Present

Working for a boutique firm of solicitors, specialising in intellectual property and media law.

RESPONSIBILITIES: research into current defamation laws and legal cases; delivery of documents to clients; general office duties ACHIEVEMENTS: created an educational pamphlet for prospective clients; discovered a factual error Don’t forget to include

on official court documents that was instrumental in successfully defending the client

your technical skills!

TRAINING: LEAP software, Dictaphone, typing speed 40wpm

MAI THAI RESTAURANT (CLOVELLY) June 2008 - January 2009

General floor and hospitality service in a large, busy, upmarket restaurant.

RESPONSIBILITIES: customer service; cash handling; complaints handling; receptionist work ACHIEVEMENTS: promoted to head supervisor after 6 weeks; created a digital rostering schedule that allowed staff to contact each other more directly and so ensure no shifts were left uncovered TRAINING: MYOB, Certificate in Retail Management IV

VOLUNTEERING AND EXTRA-CURRICULARS 2011 • Sports Director - UTS Law Students’ Society - liased with other universities and students to create intervarsity initiatives promoting fitness and wellbeing.

• Jeans4Genes Day - volunteer badge seller

2009 • Law Revue Music Director - UTS Law Students’ Society - co-ordinated 30 musicians and aided in advertising and band selection.

OTHER INTERESTS • Piano and guitar - 8th grade AMEB qualified • Field Hockey

Generally references are not imme-

REFEREES

diately required but make sure you

• Referees available upon request.

have some professional references lined up and that they know they may be contacted.

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

79

THE INTERVIEW

THE INTERVIEW PROCESS HELENA ASHER CAREERS CONSULTANT UTS CAREERS SERVICE

ing are some of the recruitment meth-

A

SO WHAT ARE RECRUITERS LOOKING FOR?

ods that law firms might use to rank

After the initial step of either a resume or

candidates, determining their suitability for a

cover letter screen to determine a candidate’s

clerkship. Interviews however are the main re-

suitability, you will receive your first contact

cruiting method, yet candidates often overlook

with the employer either by email or through

the important role that interviews play and are

a phone screen. Following this you may be

usually underprepared for an interview. How

invited to a first interview which is usually

do you make sure that you make it through to

conducted in person with either a partner or

the offer stage? You need to ensure that you

human resources representative. Individual

confident in mastering each stage of the re-

interviews may run between 30 minutes to

cruitment process, especially at interview.

an hour and are usually structured around

ssessment Centres and Aptitude test-

introductory, situational / hypothetical, and

WHY DO LAW FIRMS USE THESE METHODS WHEN RECRUITING?

behavioural questions. This first interview is

Clerkships are becoming increasingly more

to the interviewer by showcasing evidence of

competitive each year, requiring recruiters to

your previous experience and involvement

use a stricter set of criteria to further stream-

through related activities. This is also the time

line the recruitment process. The Law Society

to show your interest in the firm and the work

of NSW recorded from their survey of member

that they do. A panel interview may also be

law firms, a dramatic increase from 10,800

conducted when the law firm requires a sec-

applications in 2010 to 12,600 in 2011 of law

ond or third opinion. Instead of getting you to

clerkship applications received. This roughly

interview two or three times, a firm may have

accounts for an increase of 15% in applica-

at least two or three people (usually a partner

tions. This increase could be attributed to

and a human resources representative and

several aspects including that some students

sometimes a current graduate) interviewing.

may be applying for multiple firms, it could

Usually the panel members will take it in turns

also have something to do with the increase

asking questions, or sometimes you may have

of students studying law, placing a greater

one scribing and the other interviewing. The

value on the role that clerkships play in their

purpose of the panel is not to intimidate but

future career development. With this recruiters

to ensure fairness. Maintain eye contact with

are placing a greater emphasis on selection in

the person who asks you the question, but oc-

each stage of the recruitment process espe-

casionally look at the other panel members so

cially at interview stage, requiring each indi-

they feel you are engaging with them.

vidual applicant to meet all of the requested criteria.

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LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

the time to sell your abilities and achievements

THE INTERVIEW

HOW CAN YOU DEMONSTRATE THAT YOU WOULD BE AN EXCELLENT FIRST CHOICE AS A CANDIDATE FOR THEIR CLERKSHIP?

problem solving, team building, leadership,

Answer the interviewer/s’ questions in a clear,

mention is important, organisations usually do

enthusiastic and succinct way. One of the first

mention this is in either the job advertisement

questions you will be asked will usually be an

or position description.

communication, organisational ability and attention to detail. You may want to look at the law firm’s website to see what criteria they

introductory question such as “tell me about yourself”. This is a time to convince the inter-

Prepare a couple of questions for the inter-

viewer that you have confidence in your abili-

viewer that may draw on areas that demon-

ties and briefly mention what you are studying

strate your interest, for example “I am very in-

and how well you are doing academically. You

terested in the area of dispute resolution, as a

may also wish to mention your involvement in

summer clerk in what way would I be involved

any related groups and societies. It might look

with this area.” Even ask the interviewer about

something like: “I’m a penultimate year Law

their own experience with the firm and why

student doing a combined degree in XYZ at

they enjoy working there.

UTS with an interest in 1234 area of law. I am also the publications assistant of the UTS Law

Make sure you get some practice answering

Students’ Society, which I have been a mem-

interview questions, whether with a friend, a

ber of since first year.”

careers counsellor or even by recording yourself and listening back to your answers – prac-

WHAT IS THE INTERVIEWER LOOKING FOR?

tice makes perfect!

Law firms usually look for well-rounded in-

The Careers Service run workshops to help

dividuals who have a history of academic

you prepare for interviews and we also will

achievement but also people who can dem-

be running Resume Review sessions in July

onstrate that they have a healthy balance

where you can come and have your clerkship

of involvement in extracurricular activities,

resume and cover letter checked before you

including university societies, sporting groups

submit it to the firm.

and community work. In addition to this, employers like to see that students have done

The Careers Service provides a broad range

some form of casual employment for at least

of workshops and resources to help you get

six months and can demonstrate employability

career focused, have a look on our website:

skills such as teamwork, communication and

http://www.careers.uts.edu.au or like us on

problem solving.

Facebook and keep up to date with UTS Careers events and information: http://www.

You will usually be able to draw on these ex-

facebook.com/UTSCareers

periences to answer most of the interviewer’s questions, however you will need to prepare

Don’t forget about the list of law related job op-

a couple of specific examples to help you as

portunities that are advertised in the Law Stu-

it is often difficult to remember these on the

dents’ Society website too: http://www.utslss.

spot. Create yourself an interview journal or

com/careers/opportunities

notebook where you can write down examples where you have demonstrated skills such as

Good luck!

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

81

THE INTERVIEW

THE QUESTIONS INGRID WOON

INTERVIEW PREPARATION So, you’ve meticulously compiled an outstand-

TYPES OF QUESTIONS YOU MIGHT BE ASKED

ing curriculum vitae and cover letter, trawled

Employers will use the interview to assess your

through endless advertised clerkship and in-

capacity to meet the selection criteria so it is a

ternships, and wistfully sent your applications

good idea to use the position description and

out, waiting, hoping, for a response. Then, just

selection criteria as a guide to what questions

when you thought you would never hear back,

you may be asked. Keep the selection crite-

you receive a call! It’s a would -be employer!

ria in the back of your mind when answering

Inviting you for an interview– congratulations!

questions in the interview.

After the momentary elation you become

ALL ABOUT YOU

stricken with fear- you realise you must face

These sorts of questions are generally used as

the interview. How are you going to prepare

a bit of an icebreaker. They also give the inter-

and what should you expect from the inter-

viewer a good idea of your personal attributes

view? Well, stress no more. To help give you

and allow you to expand upon what is written

the edge needed to secure the clerkship that

in your application. When answering these

you’ve always dreamed of, we’ve sussed out

questions, make sure to demonstrate how

the types of questions you should be prepared

your studies, skills and experiences highlight

to answer and ask on the big day.

that you are a good fit for the firm. Think about how you might answer the following questions:

RESEARCH THE ROLE Any employer will want to see that you are mo-

• Tell me a bit about yourself?

tivated and that you want to work for their or-

• Why did you decide to study law and what

ganisation. In order to show this, it is important

have been your favourite subjects?

to research the position, the firm and demon-

• Would you say that your academic perfor-

strate your knowledge when you’re answering

mance is a good indication of how you will

your interview questions.

perform in this role?

• It says on your resume you have experience

YOU SHOULD:

in retail, how do you think that will help you

• Review the position description and key

as a summer clerk?

selection criteria • Check the firm’s website to familiarise yourself with its objectives and what it values in its people • Ensure that you know what the firm’s

• What are your strengths and why are you the best person to be included in our clerkship program?

• What are you weaknesses?

When describing your weaknesses, pick ones

areas of expertise are and are prepared to

that you have been able to overcome or are

demonstrate that you are interested in those

actively working on improving. This will dem-

areas

onstrate to the interviewer your strategy in

• Read about clients that the firm has

managing difficulties.

represented or cases that the firm has been

WHY YOU?

involved in • Read any journal articles that may have

Use these questions as your chance to con-

been written by current employees in the

vince the interviewer that you are the best

firm or newspaper articles written about the

candidate to be a summer clerk and that they

firm

should choose you over other potential summer clerks that have applied.

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LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

THE INTERVIEW

DO YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS? • Why did you decide to apply for a summer

Towards the end of an interview, you will likely

clerkship and why do you want to work

be given the opportunity to ask some ques-

here?

tions of your own. This is beneficial to both the

• Tell me what you know about the firm and why it interests you?

interviewer and to you – the interviewer can assess your interest in the firm and how seri-

• What do you feel you can offer to the firm?

ously you have been thinking about how you

• Describe your biggest achievement. How

will fit in their summer clerkship program. It

does it demonstrate that you will work well

also gives you the chance to clarify any un-

in our firm?

certainties that you might still have. Don’t ask questions that could have been found on the

BEHAVIOURAL QUESTIONS

firm’s website!

These types of questions are often based around the selection criteria and allow the

YOU COULD ASK ABOUT:

interviewer to assess how you will behave in

• Professional training and development

situations likely to occur in the clerkship you

opportunities that the firm provides

have applied for. They require you to use

• How your role as a summer clerk fits into

specific examples from your past experiences

the organisational structure of the firm

to demonstrate your employability skills such

• Specific details of the role such as what

as organisation, teamwork, communication,

systems you will be using or whether you

problem solving, interpersonal skills, initiative,

will be participating in client interviews

etc.

FINAL TIPS SOME EXAMPLES ARE: • Tell me about a time when you were

• Make sure that prior to the interview that you practice some responses. You might

involved in a team and a problem arose.

like to ask a friend or relative to ask you

What was your role? How did you contribute

some of the example questions above.

to finding a solution?

• Have you ever been in a position where you had to handle a difficult client or customer?

Tell me how you did this.

• Describe a time when you have had to use

• Get to the interview at least ten minutes early.

• Always be honest and confident in your answers to show your motivation and passion in a summer clerkship and the firm.

your existing skills to adapt to a new and unfamiliar situation. How did you manage?

Goodluck!

• Tell me about a time when you have shown initiative.

In answering these questions, a good approach is to use the STAR method:

SITUATION – describe the situation TASK – outline what needed to be done ACTION – describe what you did in the situation and the reasons for your action RESULT – reflect on the outcome of your actions and the benefits they created LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

83

THE INTERVIEW

CLERKSHIP INTERVIEW FASHION: THE FIRST IMPRESSION JESSICA AYE

R

eaching the interview stage for a clerk-

neutral colour hosiery, with no ladders. Shoes

ship application is quite an achieve-

should be closed-toed court heels with a heel

ment, but make no mistake- first

no more than 2.5inches high, preferably col-

impressions last. Your fashion sense will not

our matched to your suit jacket.

get you the job, but it will say a lot about your professionalism and presentation. The idea is

Both: As for hair, keep it groomed, neat and not

to dress professionally: conservative, simple

covering your face. Fragrance, makeup and

and neutral.

accessories should be kept to a light, modest and simple choice. Any facial or non-discrete

Men: Men should wear a suit, a buttoned up

piercings should be removed. As for a bag or

long sleeve shirt with a tie and polished dress

briefcase, it is a personal choice, but if you

shoes in a dark colour to match your suit. As

choose a bag try and make it a neutral colour

for the suit colour; dark and neutral colours

with a relatively simple design.

are appropriate. Ensure facial hair is properly groomed to look neat and professional.

Remember, the most important part of the interview is your performance, not your fashion

Women: Like men, a suit (either pants or skirts)

sense. You don’t want to distract the attention

are appropriate in dark and neutral colours. A

away from what you have to say. Play it safe,

shirt or conservative blouse should be worn

conservative, professional and respectable. A

with the suit. If wearing a professional dress,

nice and clean look will not restrict your per-

this should always be accompanied by a suit

sonality shining through in the interview. After

jacket. With dresses and skirts, ensure it is

all, you’ve made it this far on your words alone.

(at a minimum) knee length and worn with

84

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

THE INTERVIEW

ON THE DAY: SURVIVE LAW’S CLERKSHIP INTERVIEW GAME PLAN

T

he lead-up to a clerkship interview can

Towards the end of the interview you will be

be pretty nerve-wracking, but if a firm

given the opportunity to ask questions, so pre-

has contacted you for an interview,

pare a few insightful questions about the firm

that’s a very good sign that they believe you

and their clerkship program in advance.

have the right mix of skills, experience and personality to clerk with them; the interview is

INTERVIEW DAY

really about getting to know you better.

If you’re feeling anxious, try to start the day with some exercise to relieve stress and help

INTERVIEW PREP

you feel more alert. Eat a filling and healthy

Now is the time to re-read your clerkship ap-

breakfast to avoid a growling stomach or a fad-

plication (and be dazzled by the eloquence of

ing sugar high in the interview.

your cover letter). Brush up on your knowledge

KATHRYN CROSSLEY EDITOR SURVIVE LAW

of the law firm as the question, “what interests

When you arrive at the law firm, take a minute

you about a clerkship at our law firm” is almost

to check your appearance, turn off your phone

guaranteed.

and take a few deep breaths.

It is very unlikely that you will need to answer

Greet your interviewer(s) with a smile and a

a substantive law question in a clerkship inter-

firm handshake. It may be helpful to respond

view (phew!) but it is a good idea to practice

to their introductions with a “nice to meet you,

answering some standard interview questions.

(insert their name here)” to help you remem-

Get a friend to play the role of the interviewer

ber their names.

and ask for their honest feedback about your responses. It goes without saying that this

In the interview, sit up straight, speak clearly

practice interview is going to feel very nerdy,

and make eye contact. It’s okay to ask the

but it will help you to feel more confident in

interviewer to clarify the question or to take

the real interview.

a moment to consider your answer. Interview nerves make it hard, but try your best to come

But the big question seems to be “what will I

across as confident, positive and enthusiastic.

wear?” Try on different outfit options and get a second opinion from a fashion-loving friend.

At the end of the interview, shake the inter-

If you need to buy new clothes or have items

viewer’s hand and thank them for their time.

dry-cleaned or altered, avoid doing it at the last

WHAT NEXT?

minute.

Avoid spending hours analysing every moment Now to work out how you’re going to get

of your interview. Don’t beat yourself up if you

there. Check travel times on Google Maps or

think you’ve blown it – stay positive because

131500.com.au, and factor in a comfortable

you might be surprised!

buffer to allow for bad traffic and late trains. Always write down the name and phone number

Check out survivelaw.com for more careers

of your interviewer so that you can call ahead

tips, study advice and general law student

if you’re running late.

madness.

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

85

CONDITIONS WHEN APPLYING

CONDITIONS WHEN APPLYING

NSW LAW SOCIETY SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM The 2012 Summer Clerkship Program is co-

by the firm of their choice. The Student Ap-

ordinated by the Law Society of NSW for the

plication Form* is to be used only where

benefit of law firms in NSW and law schools.

specifically required by the firm. For firm requirements view the list of Participating Law

The Summer Clerkship Program is gener-

Firms for the Summer Clerk Program and the

ally open to penultimate year law students.

Graduate Employment Program.

Students should confirm with each law firm whether the firm intends to make offers for

For more details as to the Guidelines imposed

graduate or summer clerkship positions out-

on law firms and candidates, refer to the Law

side the desired year group before submitting

Society of New South Wales’ website (www.

their application to the selected law firm.

lawsociety.com.au)

Students should be mindful that the programs

The Law Society cannot accept lodgment of

are competitive in nature and recruitment is

student applications.

not guaranteed for either program.

Students should direct all enquiries to the law Each participating law firm has its own ap-

firm of their choosing, or alternatively, email

plication process. Students should send their

Roya Eizadi at llfadmin@lawsociety.com.au.

completed application in the format preferred

2012 PROGRAM DEADLINES YOU MUST ENSURE YOU MEET THESE DEADLINES

DATE

ACTIVITY

Wednesday 13 June

Applications for summer clerkships open.

Friday 13 July

Applications for summer clerkships close at 5.00pm.

Monday 13 August

Interviews for summer clerkships commence.

Friday 21 September

Offers for summer clerkships can be made.

Tuesday 25 September

Offers for summer clerkships must be accepted or declined by 5.00pm.

86

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

NOTES SUMMER CLERKSHIP OR FIRM

CONTACT DETAILS

CV MAIL OR INTERNAL APPLICATION

GRADUATE PROGRAM ALLEN & OVERY

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 25, 85 Castlereagh St,

Submit applications online via:

Sydney NSW 2000

www.allenovery.com/careers

Phone: 02 9373 7700

(Applications should include a covering

Fax: 02 9373 7710

letter, detailed CV and current academic

CONTACT: The Australian Recruitment

transcript)

Team Email: australianrecruitment@ allenovery.com ALLENS

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Deutsche Bank Place,

Submit applications online via:

Cnr Hunter & Phillip St,

www.allens.com.au/careers

Sydney NSW 2000 Phone: 02 9230 4000 Fax: 02 9230 5333 CONTACT: Ms. Tiffany Rogers (National Graduate Resourcing Consultant) Email: Student.Careers@allens.com.au ASHURST (formerly BLAKE DAWSON)

SYDNEY SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

CANBERRA

SYDNEY

Submit applications online via:

Level 36, Grosvenor Place,

http://www.ashurst.com/graduates

225 George Street,

(Please include a covering letter, detailed

Sydney NSW 2000

CV, current academic transcript and

Phone: 02 9258 6924

response to application questions)

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM AND

Fax: 02 9258 6999

GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

Courier to: Level 35, Grosvenor Place 225 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000 CONTACT: Ms. Amy Foulcher (People Development Consultant) Email: amy.foulcher@ashurst.com CANBERRA Level 11, 12 Moore Street, Canberra ACT 2601 Phone: 02 6234 4078 Fax: 02 6234 4111 CONTACT: Ms. Margot Kindley (People Development Manager) Email: margot.kindley@ashurst.com

AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT SOLICITOR

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM AND

50 Blackall Street, Barton ACT 2600

Application Form available from

GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

Phone: 02 6253 7286

www.ags.gov.au

Fax: 02 6253 7333

Submit applications via email:

CONTACT: Ms. Lynda Mathey

CanHR@ags.gov.au

(People and Career Development Manager) Email: lynda.mathey@ags.gov.au

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

87

NOTES

BAKER & MCKENZIE

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 27, AMP Centre, 50 Bridge Street,

Submit applications online via:

Sydney NSW 2000

www.cvmail.com.au

Phone: 02 8922 0200 / 02 8922 5482

For more information go to:

Fax: 02 9225 1595

www.bakermckenzie.com/Australia

CONTACT: Ms. Posy McGrane (Talent Management Consultant – Graduates) Email: posy.mcgrane@bakermckenzie. com BANKI HADDOCK FIORA

BROWN WRIGHT STEIN

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 10, 179 Bridge Street,

Submit applications via email:

Sydney NSW 2000

haddock@bhf.com.au

Phone: 02 9266 3412

(Applications should include a covering

Fax: 02 9266 3455

letter and detailed CV)

CONTACT: Ms Kate Haddock (Partner)

For more information go to:

Email: haddock@bhf.com.au

www.bhf.com.au/Careers.html

GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM ONLY Level 6, 179 Elizabeth Street, Sydney NSW 2000

Submit applications online via: http://www.bwslawyers.com.au/careers.aspx

Phone: 02 9394 1065 Fax: 02 9394 1011 CONTACT: Ms. Karen Appleby (Human Resources Director) Email: kca@bwslawyers.com.au CLAYTON UTZ

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

SYDNEY

Submit applications online via:

Level 15, 1 Bligh Street,

http://www.claytonutz.com/careers/

Sydney NSW 2000

graduates_and_clerkships/home.page

Phone: 02 9353 5426 Fax: 02 8220 6700 CONTACT: Ms. Catherine Craven (Graduate Recruiter) Email: cacraven@claytonutz.com CANBERRA Level 8, Canberra House, 40 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra ACT 2601 Phone: 02 6279 4000 Fax: 02 6279 4099 CONTACT: Mrs. Vicki Thompson (Human Resources Manager) Email: vthompson@claytonutz.com CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 36, Governor Phillip Tower,

Submit applications online via:

1 Farrer Place,

www.makingcareersense.com

Sydney NSW 2000

For more information go to:

Phone: 02 9210 6164

www.corrs.com.au

Fax: 02 9210 6611 CONTACT: Ms. Sara Benvenuti (Human Resources Co-ordinator) Email: sara.benvenuti@corrs.com.au 88

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

NOTES

COSGRIFF ORCHARD LEGAL

GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM ONLY PO Box 858, Echuca VIC 3564

Submit applications online via:

Phone: 03 5480 6344

www.colegal.com.au/careers or

Fax: 03 5480 6393

www.cvmail.com.au

CONTACT: Mr. Colin Height (Business Manager) Email: admin@colegal.com.au DEPARTMENT OF ATTORNEY GENERAL

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

AND JUSTICE – NSW

Level 14, Swire House, 10 Spring Street,

Student Application Form to be sent via

Sydney NSW 2000

email: lpclrd@agd.nsw.gov.au

Phone: 02 8061 9235 / 02 8061 9238

Further information is available

Fax: 02 8061 9370

from the website at

CONTACT: Ms. Julia Carland

www.lpclrd.lawlink.nsw.gov.au

(Policy Officer) Email: julia_carland@agd.nsw.gov.au Ms. Julia McNamara (Policy Officer) Email: julia_mcnamara@agd.nsw.gov. au DIBBSBARKER

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 8, Angel Place, 123 Pitt Street,

Submit applications online via:

Sydney NSW 2000

www.cvmail.com.au

Phone: 02 8233 9525

For more information go to:

Fax: 02 8233 9555

www.dibbsbaker.com

CONTACT: Ms. Libby Toohey (People and Development Consultant) Email: libby.toohey@dibbsbarker.com DLA PIPER AUSTRALIA

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

SYDNEY

Submit applications online via:

201 Elizabeth Street,

www.cvmail.com.au

Sydney NSW 2000

(Applications should include a covering

Phone: 02 9286 8585

letter, detailed CV and current academic

Fax: 02 9283 4144

transcript)

CONTACT: Ms. Kristie Barton (HR

For more information go to:

Consultant)

www.dlapiper.com

Email: kristie.barton@dlapiper.com CANBERRA Level 1, Phillips Fox Building, 54 Marcus Clarke Street, Canberra ACT 2601 Phone: 02 6201 8776 Fax: 02 6230 7848 CONTACT: Ms. Anna Sirosh (Human Resources Manager) Email: anna.sirosh@dlapiper.com

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

89

NOTES

FREEHILLS

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 38, MLC Centre,

Submit applications online via:

19-29 Martin Place,

www.cvmail.com.au

Sydney NSW 2000

(Applications should include a covering

Phone: 02 9322 4792

letter, detailed CV and current academic

Fax: 02 9322 4000

transcript)

CONTACT: Ms. Leigh Dunlop

For more information go to:

(Graduate Recruitment Advisor)

www.freehills.com.au/careers

Email: leigh.dunlop@freehills.com GADENS LAWYERS

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 16, 77 Castlereagh Street,

Submit applications via email:

Sydney NSW 2000

jbucci@nsw.gadens.com.au

Phone: 02 9035 7158

For more information go to:

Fax: 02 9931 4888

www.gadens.com.au

CONTACT: Ms. Julia Bucci (Human Resources Officer) Email: jbucci@nsw.gadens.com.au GILBERT + TOBIN LAWYERS

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 37, 2 Park Street, Sydney NSW 2000 Submit applications online via: Phone: 02 9263 4067

www.cvmail.com.au

Fax: 02 9263 4111

For more information go to:

CONTACT: Ms. Emma Garmston

http://me.gtlaw.com.au

(Human Resources Co-ordinator) Email: clerkships@gtlaw.com.au HARMERS WORKPLACE LAWYERS

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 28, 31 Market Street,

Submit application via email:

Sydney NSW 2000

recruitment@harmers.com.au

Phone: 02 9267 4322

(Applications should include an

Fax: 02 9264 4295

application form, covering letter, detailed

CONTACT: Ms. Kylie Cushway

CV and current academic transcript).

Email: recruitment@harmers.com.au

For more information go to:

Mr. Paul Lorraine (Special Consultant

www.harmers.com.au

and Team Leader) Email: paul.lorraine@harmers.com.au HENRY DAVIS YORK

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

44 Martin Place, Sydney NSW 2000

Submit applications online via:

Phone: 02 9947 6532

www.cvmail.com.au

Fax: 02 9947 6999

(Applications should include a covering

CONTACT: Ms. Lena Ristevski (People and letter, detailed CV and current academic Development Officer)

transcript).

Email: lena_ristevski@hdy.com.au

For more information go to: www.hdy. com.au/Careers

HICKSONS

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 32, 2 Park St, Sydney NSW 2000

Submit applications online via: http://

Phone: 02 9293 5393

www.hicksons.com.au/Summer-Clerk-

Fax: 02 9293 5333

Program- 22.aspx

CONTACT: Ms. Kawser Akter

(Complete an online application, include

Email: kawser.akter@hicksons.com.au

a covering letter, detailed CV and current academic transcript and submit to resumes@hicksons.com.au)

90

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NOTES

HOLDING REDLICH

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 65, MLC Centre, 19 Martin Place,

Submit applications via email:

Sydney NSW 2000

sydneyclerkships@holdingredlich.com.au

Phone: 02 8083 0474

For more information go to:

Fax: 02 8083 0399

www.holdingredlich.com.au/careers

CONTACT: Ms. Anna Peters (Human Resources Manager) Email: anna.peters@holdingredlich. com.au HUNT & HUNT

JOHNSON WINTER & SLATTERY

GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM ONLY Level 13, Gateway, 1 Macquarie Place,

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Submit applications online via:

Sydney NSW 2000

http://www.hunthunt.com.au/careers/

Phone: 02 9391 3054

graduates-clerkships/ or in hard copy.

Fax: 02 9391 3099

(Complete the Law Society Student

CONTACT: Ms. Rebecca Sutherland

Application Form, include a detailed CV,

(Human Resources Generalist)

current academic transcript, HSC results

Email: rsutherland@hunthunt.com.au

and UAI or equivalent)

Level 25, 201 Bond Street,

Submit applications online via:

Sydney NSW 2000

www.jws.com.au/submit_your_cv.php

Phone: 08 8239 7127

(Applications should include a covering

Fax: 08 8239 7100

letter, detailed CV and current academic

CONTACT: Ms. Romaine Ponniah

transcript)

Email: romaine.ponniah@jws.com.au JONES DAY

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Aurora Place, Level 41, 88 Phillip St,

Submit applications via email to:

Sydney NSW 2000

sydneyrecruiting@jonesday.com

Phone: 02 8272 0509

(Applications should include a covering

Fax: 02 8272 0599

letter, detailed CV and your academic

CONTACT: Mr. Peter Brabant (Associate)

transcript)

Email: pbrabant@jonesday.com

For more information go to: www.jonesday.com/sydney/careers

KING & WOOD MALLESONS

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

SYDNEY

Submit applications online via:

Level 61, Governor Phillip Tower,

www.kwm.com

1 Farrer Place, Sydney NSW 2000

(Complete an online application and

Phone: 02 9296 3579

include a detailed CV and current

Fax: 02 9296 3999

academic transcript)

CONTACT: Ms. Sam Garner (Graduate Resourcing Manager) Email: sam.garner@au.kwm.com CANBERRA Level 5, 7 London Circuit, Canberra ACT 2001 Phone: 02 6217 6632 Fax: 02 6217 6999 CONTACT: Ms. Melissa Crampton (People and Development Centre Manager) Email: melissa.crampton@au.kwm.com

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

91

NOTES

LANDER & ROGERS LAWYERS

MADDOCKS

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM AND

Level 5, Angel Place, 123 Pitt St,

Submit applications online via:

GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

Sydney NSW 2000

www.cvmail.com.au

Phone: 03 9269 9333

(Applications should include a covering

Fax: 03 9269 9001

letter, detailed CV and academic

CONTACT: Ms. Natalie Colton

transcript)

(Recruitment Consultant)

For more information go to:

Email: ncolton@landers.com.au

www.landers.com.au/jobs

GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM ONLY Angel Place, 123 Pitt St,

Submit applications online via:

Sydney NSW 2000

www.cvmail.com.au

Phone: 02 9225 6215

For more information go to:

Fax: 02 9221 0872

www.maddocks.com.au/careers

CONTACT: Ms. Michelle Andrews (Graduate and Learning & Development Co-ordinator) Email: michelle.andrews@maddocks. com.au MIDDLETONS

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 26, 52 Martin Place,

Submit applications online via:

Sydney NSW 2000

www.middletons.com/careers

Phone: 02 9513 2571

(Complete an online application and

Fax: 02 9513 2399

include a detailed CV and current

CONTACT: Mr. David Forner (Human

academic transcript)

Resources Coordinator) Email: david.forner@middletons.com MINTER ELLISON

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

SYDNEY

Submit applications online via:

GPO Box 521, 88 Phillip Street,

www.minterellison.com/careers

Sydney NSW 2000

(Applications should include a covering

Phone: 02 9921 4017

letter, detailed CV, current academic

Fax: 02 9921 8123

transcript and our online application).

CONTACT: Ms. Liana Hurry (Graduate Recruiting Consultant) Email: liana.hurry@minterellison.com CANBERRA Level 3, 25 National Circuit, Forrest ACT 2603 Phone: 02 6225 3753 Fax: 02 6225 1706 CONTACT: Ms Felicity McCook (Human Resources Manager) Email: felicity.mccook@minterellison. com

92

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NOTES

NORTON ROSE

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 18, Grosvenor Place,

Submit applications online via:

225 George Street,

www.cvmail.com.au

Sydney NSW 2000

For more information go to:

Phone: 02 9330 8945

www.nortonrose.com.au

Fax: 02 9330 8111 CONTACT: Ms. Yvette Revell (Recruitment Advisor) Email: yvette.revell@nortonrose.com SLATER & GORDON

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 5, 44 Market Street,

Submit applications via email:

Sydney NSW 2000

humanresourcesNSW@slatergordon.

GPO Box 1584, Sydney 2001

com.au

Phone 02 8267 0676 / 02 8267 0681

(Applications should include a covering

Fax: 02 8267 0650

letter, detailed CV and current academic

CONTACT: Ms. Shannon Mack

transcript).

(HR Advisor)

For more information go to:

Ms. Julia Newing (HR Advisor)

www.slatergordon.com.au/careers

Email: humanresourcesNSW@ slatergordon.com.au SOPHIE GRACE PTY LTD

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM AND

GPO Box 4216, Sydney NSW 2001

Submit applications via email:

GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

Phone: 02 8249 4464

careers@sophiegrace.com.au

Fax: 02 8249 4001

For more information go to:

CONTACT: Ms. Sophie Gerber (Director)

www.sophiegrace.com.au

Email: careers@sophiegrace.com.au SPARKE HELMORE

GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM ONLY Level 16, 321 Kent Street,

Submit applications online via:

Sydney NSW 2000

www.cvmail.com.au

Phone: 02 9260 2439

For more information go to:

Fax: 02 9373 3599

www.sparke.com.au/careers

CONTACT: Ms. Andrea McFadzean (Recruitment Consultant) Email: andrea.mcfadzean@sparke. com.au THOMSONS LAWYERS

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Australia Square Tower, Level 25,

Submit applications online via:

264 George St,

www.cvmail.com.au

Sydney NSW 2000

Complete the online application form

Phone: 02 8248 5802

and include your covering letter, resume,

Fax: 02 8248 5899

and academic transcript.

CONTACT: Ms. Kerri Cahalane

For more information go to:

(HR Adviser)

www.thomsonlawyers.com.au

Email: kcahalane@thomsonslawyers. com.au

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

93

NOTES TRESSCOX LAWYERS

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 20, 135 King Street,

Submit applications online via:

Sydney NSW 2000

www.cvmail.com.au

Phone: 02 9228 9222

For more information go to:

Fax: 02 9228 9299

www.tresscox.com.au/careers

CONTACT: Ms. Katrina Willebrands (HR Adviser) Email: katrina_willebrands@tresscox. com.au

TRUMAN HOYLE LAWYERS

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 11, 68 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000

Submit applications via email:

Phone: 02 9226 9888

th@trumanhoyle.com.au

Fax: 02 9226 9899

For more information go to:

CONTACT: Ms. Kathryn Edghill

www.trumanhoyle.com.au

Email: kedghill@trumanhoyle.com.au WEBB HENDERSON

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 18, 420 George St,

Submit applications online via:

Sydney NSW 2000

www.webbhenderson.com/summerclerk

Phone: 02 8214 3502 CONTACT: Ms. Karen Rowland Email: karen.rowland@webbhenderson. com ADDITIONAL FIRMS RUNNING SUMMER CLERKSHIPS INCLUDE CHAMPION LEGAL

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY

Level 3, 60 Phillip St,

Applications through our website:

From 9 January 2013 to 22 February

Parramatta NSW 2150

www.championlegal.com.au

Phone: 9635 8266

Same deadlines as the NSW Law Society

CONTACT: Ms. Celeste White

Summer Clerkship Program

2013

Email: celeste@champion.com.au connect@champion.com.au Attn: Celeste White HERBERT GEER

SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM AND

Level 12, 77 King St,

Apply through www.cvmail.com.au and

GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM

Sydney NSW 2000

our website. Attach a cover letter, resume

Ph: 02 9249 4600

and academic transcript.

CONTACT: Claire Donnelly (Human

For more information go to:

Resources Consultant)

www.herbertgeer.com.au

Email: careers@herbertgeer.com.au

94

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

NOTES

LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE

95

Enjoyed this LSS publication?

Keep your eyes peeled for when our Careers Guide, and quarterly academic journal, The Full Bench, hit the stands later this year. Past and present publications can also be found in full at utslss.com.