Clerkship Guide 2026

Acknowledgement ofCountry

The LSS acknowledges the Gadigal people of the Dharug Nation, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which we operate. We pay respects to Elders past, present, and emerging, and recognise their enduring connection to Country, culture and community.

We extend this respect to any Indigenous people on and off country that are reading this today. In creating a respectful future for all Australians, we see the importance of acknowledgments that sovereignty was never ceded being made common practice

As law students and future lawyers, we have a unique position and a responsibility to inform ourselves of Aboriginal history, culture, and the damage that the Australian Westminster law system has historically had on Indigenous peoples As a community of law students, the LSS encourages using the knowledge received at UTS, in clerkships, and your careers to create a more equitable society for Indigenous Australians and all other people that are underrepresented within legal fields but over-prosecuted

The LSS acknowledges the more than 65,000 years of continuing knowledge, tradition, and community that exists here, in Australia It always was and always will be Aboriginal land

Careers (Publications) Director: Oishe Rahman

Careers (Publications) Subcommittee: Annabelle Basset, Chloe Liang-Benn, Chloris Chiu, Eric Jacobs, Isabella Zhu, Rhea Himmel

Designers: Teonie Quach, Xiaoru Wang

President: Siya Khatri

Vice President (Careers): Jessica Trinh

Vice President (Sponsorships): Chloe Ferreira

First Nations Representative: Taya Morante

Wellbeing Director: Charlize de Greenlaw

Acting Dean of UTS Faculty of Law: Tracey Booth

Student Testimonials: Vincent Aquino, Sophie Hamilton

S p o n s o r L i s t

FirstNations

IntroductoryStatement REPRESENTATIVE

I am Taya Morante, a Dunghutti woman who has lived on Dharug land all my life Welcome to the 2026 LSS Clerkship Guide! This guide will contain everything you need to know about clerkships from application to expectations

I am currently in my fourth year of a straight law degree and serve as the First Nations Representative for the Law School Society I am passionate about creating greater visibility, connection and support for First Nations students within the law school community. At UTS, our First Nations law community is extremely welcoming; there might only be a handful of us, but we work hard to show up for each other.

Outside of the scope of law, I have two dogs, Smudge and Bo. Whilst I miss my dogs terribly, I love travelling and in the past year I have solo-travelled to ten countries across Asia and Europe. I am aiming for twenty-three countries ticked off the bucket list by twenty-three. That gives me just over a year to visit four more countries - if I believe it, I can do it. I think that can be said about law too…

As law First Nations law students, most of us will not have lawyers in the family and we will not have a friend of the family in law either Law is challenging for everyone, but it can be especially challenging when you are trying to break into law on your own That is the beauty of UTS, there is another First Nations law student just around the corner This guide will be your best You are always welcome to reach out

Acting Dean

WelcomeAddress

TRACEY BOOTH

Welcome to the 2026 UTS Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide.

As with previous years, this 2026 Guide is informative, comprehensive, and designed to support you as you navigate the upcoming clerkship season. It offers insights and practical advice that will help you prepare, reflect, and put your best foot forward

Clerkships provide an invaluable opportunity to experience legal work across a variety of practice areas most commonly commercial law within private firms, but increasingly across a broader spectrum of legal environments They offer a unique chance to gain firsthand exposure to professional legal practice

If you do choose to apply, I extend my very best wishes for your success I am confident that you will be outstanding ambassadors for the UTS Faculty of Law and will follow in the footsteps of our many accomplished alumni who began their journeys through this same process

Finally, thank you to the LSS for preparing this guide. It remains an excellent source of information and advice, and it reflects what I know to be true, that we are privileged to be part of such a collaborative, supportive, and caring community of students and staff at the UTS Faculty of Law.

UTS LSS

SIYA KHATRI

This Guide has been curated to support you through every stage of the clerkship process, from crafting cover letters and refining your CV, to navigating applications and gaining insight directly from the various firms included within the publication. It is designed to be your one-stop resource during Clerkship season!

The fruition of this publication would not have been possible without our brilliant Careers team consisting of our Careers (Publications) Director, Oishe Rahman, our Careers Subcommittee and our Vice-President (Careers), Jessica Trinh, who have all worked tirelessly to deliver a truly exceptional guide.

I would also like to extend my gratitude to all of our sponsors for their continued support, both within this publication and across our broader initiatives; your support plays a vital role in the success of our UTS LSS

Clerkships offer far more than just an introduction to commercial law firms They are a unique opportunity to develop both professionally and personally Through a clerkship, you gain invaluable exposure to the legal industry and insight into the diverse pathways within commercial law You will build meaningful professional relationships and develop a strong sense of community heading into the final year of your degree

This Guide will aid you throughout every aspect of your clerkship journey, from the application process where you will develop critical skills in written communication and self-reflection, to refining your CV and cover letter and preparing for interviews Each stage equips you with skills that extend well beyond clerkship applications

Whether you are a first-year student exploring future pathways or a penultimate student preparing to apply, I strongly encourage you to read this Guide. Take the time to absorb the advice, learn from the experiences shared by UTS Alumni and professionals and approach the process equipped with a wealth of knowledge provided within these pages.

There are a plethora of opportunities waiting for you, each firm offering a unique insight into commercial law and each a different pathway to explore. Clerkships are not just about securing a position, but about discovering where your interests lie and how you want to shape your future career.

I wish you the very best of luck with your clerkship journey!

UTS LSS

Despite the process being incredibly competitive, it is a true reflection of the calibre of students pursuing these clerkships, including yourself No matter the outcome, the self-awareness and resilience you build along the way are the very qualities that will serve you throughout your entire career This guide has been equipped with the tools and reassurance you need at every stage of the application process: written applications, interviews, and maintaining your wellbeing through what is a demanding period

Welcome to the UTS LSS Clerkship Guide for 2026!

On behalf of the UTS LSS Careers Portfolio, it gives me great pleasure to bring this guide to you The UTS LSS Clerkship Guide is the result of the amazing work from our Careers (Publications) Director, Oishe Rahman, and the Careers (Publications) Subcommittee, who have all worked extremely hard to provide you with this year’s guide We hope it serves you with all the tools you need for your clerkship applications this year

Clerkships are one of the most meaningful early steps you can take in a commercial law career. They offer real exposure to how top firms operate, insight into different areas of practice, and a chance to work out where your interests and strengths genuinely lie

For those who haven't yet reached their penultimate year, this guide is still very much for you The advice here translates broadly to any career opportunity, whether in Australia or internationally You will also find that the contributions and insights from this Guide span multiple stages of a legal career. These perspectives are invaluable, and I encourage you to draw on them as you start shaping your own career path.

Finally, I would like to sincerely thank our sponsors for their continued support of the Clerkship Guide, and the wider Careers Portfolio, whether it be through our other initiatives and publications. The opportunities we are able to provide under the Careers Portfolio would not be possible without your support.

To everyone heading into the clerkship process, or any career opportunity, we wish you the very best of luck and happy reading!

Director’sAddress OISHE RAHMAN

Welcome to the 2026 UTS Law Students’ Society Clerkship Guide!

Clerkships are often framed as a key milestone in a law degree. In practice, however, the process can feel uncertain and difficult to navigate, particularly when expectations are not always clearly defined. This Guide has been developed to address that gap.

It provides a clear and practical overview of the clerkship process, alongside guidance on how to approach applications in an informed and structured way. The Guide covers key areas including firm selection, practice area insights, interpreting selection criteria, and preparing written applications and interviews. It also incorporates student testimonials and advice from successful clerks, offering practical insight into how the process operates in practice

These perspectives highlight that there is no single pathway to success The process requires articulating your experiences, understanding your interests, and presenting yourself with clarity, skills that extend beyond clerkship applications into legal practice

In preparing this publication, particular emphasis has been placed on ensuring that the Guide is useful to students at all stages of their degree For those earlier in their studies, it offers a foundation for understanding the clerkship landscape and preparing over time. For those applying this year, it is intended to function as a practical resource throughout the application process.

This Guide is the result of the collective efforts of the Careers (Publications) Subcommittee, Annabelle, Rhea, Eric, Isabella, Chloris and Chloe, whose work has ensured the quality and clarity of its content. I would also like to thank our contributors, including faculty, student voices, and industry professionals, for their valuable insights. Finally, I extend my appreciation to our sponsors for their continued support of the Careers portfolio, and to our designers, Teonie and Xiaoru, for their work in bringing this Guide together.

Wherever you are in your degree, the clerkship process does not require certainty from the outset It requires preparation, reflection, and a willingness to engage with the process I hope this Guide supports you in doing so with clarity and confidence

The UTS LSS Clerkship Guide 2026 is your go to guide to navigating one of the most important steps in your legal career.

The path into the legal profession can feel overwhelming Between understanding which firms are right for you, crafting a standout application and preparing for interviews, it's easy to feel lost before you've even started That's exactly what this guide is here for The UTS LSS Clerkship Guide 2026 gives you the practical and up to date guidance you need to approach the process with clarity and confidence.

Whether you're a curious first-year student or a penultimate or final year student ready to dive headfirst into applications, this guide is tailored to assist you. It brings together firm-specific insights, first-hand accounts from UTS students who have successfully secured clerkships and practical strategies covering everything from CV and cover letter writing to interview preparation, psychometric testing and networking.

Beyond the application itself, this guide recognises that clerkship season can take a real toll on your wellbeing. That's why we've included dedicated guidance on maintaining your mental and physical health as the clerkship season can be an intense and emotionally demanding period Performing at your best starts with taking care of yourself

The legal profession is competitive, but it's also deeply rewarding You don't have to figure it out alone, this guide is your starting point Let's get into it!

P u r p o s e o f t h e G u i d e

Clerksh 101

A clerkship is a structured work placement offered by law firms, typically aimed at penultimate and final year law students They are traditionally run over the summer, however, some firms also offer placements during the winter break Clerkships run for approximately 4 to 10 weeks and give you a genuine taste of life as a lawyer in a commercial law firm

Despite being a highly competitive process, clerkships open doors. They offer a glimpse into the

Furthermore, throughout the placement, you will work closely with lawyers across practice areas and complete tasks that may include:

Undertaking factual and legal research

Drafting and summarising legal documents whilst checking for accuracy

Preparing correspondence, written reports and records research

Organising and tracking case files

Writing client memos

Recording client meetings and drafting daily correspondence, including letters and legal documents

Attending meetings and court

Assisting with the preparation of matters for court hearings

Please remember that clerkships are also a two-way street. They are a great opportunity for you to assess whether a firm is the right fit for you. The culture, people and the kind of work a firm has is equally as important. It is not just about the firms assessing you. Although for many students, a clerkship serves as the most direct pathway to securing a graduate role, making it one of the most strategically important steps in your early legal career. That said, it is important to remember that a clerkship is not the only route into the profession

Applications generally open in June Keep an eye on the Law Society of NSW website for official key dates and deadlines, and start your research early

G I L P R S

G l o s s a r y

0 2

Finding the Right Firm

STARTING POINT

ASK YOURSELF:

“What qualities do I value in a workplace?”

“What kind of culture will I thrive in? ”

“Can I genuinely envision myself working at this firm?”

PracticeAreasOverview

The legal industry is highly multifaceted, encompassing a wide range of practice areas The following table is a non-exhaustive overview of common areas of law, based on those primarily practiced by participating firms Each area includes a brief description and examples of what clerking may involve (please note that this is merely a brief example of what some tasks in these areas may include)

PRACTICE AREA WHAT DOES IT INVOLVE?

Corporate (Mergers & Acquisitions)

Commercial Law

Banking & Finance

Financial Services

Competition

Dispute Resolution / Litigation

Commercial Disputes

Insolvency & Restructuring

Employment, Workplace & Safety

Insurance

Taxation

Construction, Property & Real Estate

Projects & Infrastructure

Environment & Planning

Intellectual Property

Technology, Media & Telecommunications (TMT)

Pro Bono

Public Law

Focuses on company transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, and corporate structuring

Broad area covering business transactions, contracts, and advisory work.

Deals with lending, financing arrangements, and financial transactions

Covers regulation of financial institutions and products

Regulates market competition and anti-competitive conduct.

Involves resolving disputes through courts or alternative processes

A subset of litigation focused on business-related disputes

Deals with financially distressed companies and individuals.

Covers employment relationships, workplace disputes, and safety regulation

Involves advising insurers and insured parties on claims and disputes.

Focuses on tax law compliance and advisory

Covers development projects, property transactions, and infrastructure

Focuses on large-scale developments (e.g. transport, energy).

Deals with environmental regulation and land use planning

Protects creations such as trademarks, patents, and copyright

Covers digital regulation, data, media, and communications law.

Legal work undertaken for the public good, often for disadvantaged clients.

Involves government decision-making, judicial review, and administrative law

WHAT CLERKING MAY INVOLVE

Due diligence, reviewing transaction documents, legal research on corporations law issues

Drafting contracts, reviewing agreements, and researching commercial obligations.

Reviewing loan agreements, security documentation, and regulatory compliance research

Research on compliance with financial regulations and assisting with advisory work

Research on ACCC matters, cartel conduct, and merger clearances.

Drafting court documents, legal research, attending hearings, and case preparation

Reviewing evidence, preparing chronologies, and assisting in case strategy

Research on insolvency processes, reviewing creditor claims, and assisting with restructuring matters.

Drafting advice, researching employment law issues, and reviewing workplace policies

Reviewing policies, assisting with claims analysis, and litigation support.

Legal research on tax issues and assisting with advisory memoranda.

Reviewing contracts, leases, and development agreements

Assisting with project documentation and regulatory approvals.

Research on planning laws, approvals, and environmental compliance

Research on IP rights, infringement issues, and registration processes

Research on privacy, data protection, and emerging technologies.

Client interviews, research, and assisting on community legal matters.

Research on statutory interpretation, constitutional issues, and policy-related advice

This list is non exhaustive, and many firms also offer specialised areas such as energy and resources, international arbitration, cybersecurity and data privacy, superannuation, etc. Do your research into what specific practice areas different firms specialize in!

Meet the Clerkship Firms

Many large commercial firms offer structured summer clerkship programs and graduate programs. The Law Society of NSW has also compiled a list of participating firms: Law Society of NSWParticipating Firms Clerkships may also be referred to as summer clerkships, vacation clerkships, or vacation programs, depending on the firm However, we note that students should not overlook boutique and mid-tier firms, which also often provide clerkship or internship opportunities

NOTE: Generally, firms recruit the majority of their graduates through their summer clerkship programs, though some may hire additional graduates on an “as needs” basis.

All of the featured firms offer both summer clerkships and graduate programs - with the exeception of Gilbert & Tobin who vary in their graduate program.

Clerkship season is a time of applying to make your goals a reality, but with such hope and ambition there can be self-pressure and weighty expectations. Wellbeing can be easily neglected through the extensive processes and high expectations students undergo during this time. In preparing and applying for clerkships, coordinating required documents, and managing life against these important deadlines; it is easy to get overwhelmed.

That is why it’s important to be reminded of a couple of the following things, to remain grounded and positive in a trying time:

SELF-CARE IN SMALL WAYS SELF-CARE

Intense deadlines can encroach on the boundaries we need to set for ourselves to maintain healthy routines of sleeping, eating, and exercising in busy periods. Take a walk, make a full meal, and prioritise sleep to make the time you are engaging in the clerkship process, the most effective it can be.

COMPARISON IS THE THIEF OF JOY

The clerkship process is inherently competitive, but everyone is on their own journey Remember to focus on self-reflection, not comparison, and be confident in what you have to offer What others have to offer is not defining of you!

REACH OUT

Don’t stay silent if you need support Reach out to have a chat with a mentor, tutor, or fellow student, when you need to clear your head You are never alone during this process

MANAGING THE TASK THE OVERLOAD

How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. Take each task step-by-step and allow yourself moments to disconnect from the process to re-centre. Deep breaths, a walk, or a cup of tea can make all the difference in framing the course of your day for the better.

BE PROUD OF YOU

Lastly, it is important to recognise everything you have achieved to be in this position now. Applying to clerkships is preceded by years of hard work,

overcoming challenges, academic success, life management, and discipline to achieve your goals. In the end, you have already succeeded with the work you have done

You are more than a clerkship They are not defining of your future success nor an essential step of your university experience Whether you receive an offer or not, you should be proud of what you have done so far and the effort you have put in to apply for the opportunity

You are capable, confident, and resilient, with the world at your fingertips You got this!

WELLBEING RESOURCES

For urgent assistance, call Lifeline on 13 11 14

For an in-depth overview of the mental health services offered at UTS:

https://www uts edu au/for-students/currentstudents/support/counselling-service-and-selfhelp

Students can arrange UTS counselling appointments by contacting student.services@uts.edu.au or calling 9514 1177

Also, if you are in need of a chat, the UTS LSS is always here for you!

Clerkship season brings a lot to juggle. Setting healthy habits for both work and life can ease stress and prevent burnout. Remember, applications are just one moment in your path forward as a legal practitioner. Here are some tips to help ease the stress of clerkship season:

1

Clerkship applications on top of law school work can mean long hours at your screen. Giving your eyes short breaks can ease stress and help you stay focused. Setting a calm, phone-free routine before bed can also reduce blue light exposure and support better sleep

2

Regular exercise can help mitigate the stress that inevitably accompanies the application process. Research demonstrates a strong correlation between consistent physical activity and improved long-term self-esteem

3

Start early.

Create a clear checklist of key dates to avoid last minute stress. Stay realistic and do not take on more commitments than you can handle Remember to always proofread your application before you submit it.

4

Give yourself moments to slow down and enjoy what you love. Regular breaks keep you grounded and energised through clerkship. Remember to breathe when things get busy and stay close to friends and family who support you.

Mental Health & Professional Support

Clerkship applications often come with a mix of emotions, and it’s common to feel stressed or overwhelmed.

While these feelings are completely valid, it’s important to remember that you don’t have to navigate them alone.

Support is available, and reaching out for help when you need it can make a meaningful difference.

CHAT WITH FRIENDS AND FAMILY

If you feel comfortable, consider opening up to trusted family members or friends about any challenges you’re experiencing. Talking with another person can offer support, perspective, and reassurance during stressful times.

All current UTS students can use TalkCampus for free

TalkCampus lets you: access peer support instantly and around the clock connect with other students from across the world anonymously share how you’re feeling in a safe and supportive environment join a community and support others

UTS Counselling Service Counselling Service can be accessed 5 days per week.

Building 1, Level 6 (by the escalators together with the medical centre)

Law is demanding, and our emotional and physical wellbeing are our most valuable assets Looking after ourselves is essential not just for coping, but for sustaining high performance over time Here are some tips to get you started:

1

It’s easy to brush past your wins, especially when you’re focused on what’s next But taking a moment to acknowledge even the small achievements matters. Celebrating these moments helps build confidence and gives you the momentum to keep going throughout clerkship season

2 PRACTICE MINDFULNESS

3 CATCH UP WITH FRIENDS &FAMILY

Mindfulness is about noticing what’s happening right now without pushing yourself or trying to judge anything. Try some meditation or deep breathing techniques to give your mind a quiet moment to slow down and reset. Research shows that mindfulness practice strengthens parts of the brain linked to focus, emotional balance, and selfunderstanding

4 LISTEN TO MUSIC

Put on music you actually love is one of the easiest ways to shift your mood Sometimes that means turning it up and letting everything out, other times it’s about sitting with songs that match how you feel. And when you need a reset, something calm or uplifting can help bring you back to a better headspace

Self Care

Sleep Hygiene

It’s easy to fall into the habit of staying up late to perfect applications or meet deadlines, but that often does more harm than good When you’re sleep-deprived, your concentration drops, your memory suffers, and even simple tasks feel harder Proper sleep helps you stay sharp and confident Here is some good sleep hygiene knowledge:

LIMIT CAFFEINE

Having caffeinated beverages such as coffee, tea, or soda within six hours of bedtime can disrupt sleep. Studies have shown that caffeine consumption reduced total sleep time by 45 min and sleep efficiency by 7%

SOOTHING ROUTINE

Dimming the lights and following your nightly skincare routine signals your body to relax, helping you achieve more restful sleep. Avoid exercising right before bed, as it can make you feel more alert.

CONSISTENT BEDTIME

Quality sleep isn’t just about the number of hours Going to bed at a consistent time each night helps regulate your body’s circadian rhythm, making it easier to fall asleep and wake up feeling refreshed

AVOID NAPPING

While power naps have been hyped up on social media recently, naps may disrupt your nighttime sleep Aim to keep naps to 20-30 minutes for a quick refresh without interfering with your sleep schedule

ABSORB MORNING SUNLIGHT

REDUCE SCREEN TIME

Using devices right before bed can keep you alert and make it harder to fall asleep. Try putting them out of reach 30–60 minutes before bedtime to give your body a chance to wind down.

Getting 10–30 minutes of morning sunlight within an hour of waking can do wonders for your sleep Morning light helps reset your circadian rhythm and supports melatonin production at night.

Application Types & Process

(WRITTEN APPLICATIONS & IN - PERSON STAGES)

While each firm’s clerkship recruitment process differs slightly, most applications follow a similar structure, and understand -ing each stage of the application process will help you to prepare strategically

OVERVIEW OF PROCESS

Clerkship applications are submitted individually through each firm’s careers website/portal. It is important to carefully review each firm’s application instructions, including deadlines, required documents and any additional assessment stages.

WRITTEN APPLICATION STAGE WRITTEN APPLICATION STAGE

This is the first and most critical stage of the process, as you will be providing firms with your core documents including; resume, academic transcripts (s), cover letter.

At this stage, you may also be asked to provide answers to additional short answer or motivational questions.

Some common questions include:

1 Why are you interested in this firm?

2 What draws you to commercial or other types of law?

3 Describe a challenge and how you overcame it?

A strong written application will be tailored, specific and commercially aware, demonstrating your genuine interest in the firm’s work, culture and practice areas.

IN PERSON & ASSESSMENT STAGES

Candidates who progress beyond the written stage may be invited to complete further assessments or interviews

PSYCHOMETRIC TESTING

Some firms may require you to complete psychometric testing exercises Please refer to the section 'Psychometric Testing’ in this clerkship guide for further details

INTERVIEW INTERVIEW

Most firms will conduct one or more rounds of interviews which may include: HR and/or behavioural interviews

Partner or senior lawyer interviews Panel interviews

These interviews will generally assess your: Communication and interpersonal skills

Commercial awareness

Motivation for the firm Cultural fit

SUMMER CLERKSHIP RECRUITMENT PROGRAM

DATE ACTIVITY

10 June Wednesday Applications for Summer clerkships open at 9:00 AM AEST

KEY DATES DATES

5 July Sunday Applications for summer clerkships close at 11:59 PM AEST

12 July Sunday Applications for summer clerkships close at 11:59 PM AEST

9 September Wednesday Offers for summer clerkships can be made from 9:00 AM AEST

10 September Thursday Offers for summer clerkships must be accepted or declined by 1 00 PM AEST

Although processes vary, clerkship recruitment is ultimately about alignment between your interests, values, strengths and what the firm offers Therefore, preparation, attention to detail and genuine engagement with each firm are critical in navigating the clerkship process

Reading&Interpreting

SELECTION PROCESSES

Understanding a firm’s selection criteria is central to a strong clerkship application. These criteria form the framework against which your application is assessed. Applicants should aim to address each criterion with clear, tangible evidence acrosstheirCV,coverletter,andinterviewresponses.

A practical strategy is to convert the criteria into a checklist and use it to systematically demonstrate relevant attributes at everystage.Forexample,eachparagraphofatailoredcoverlettershouldreflectaspecificqualitythefirmisseeking.

Belowisabreakdownofcommonselectioncriteriaintheprocessusedbyfirmsandhowtoapproachthem.

BUILDING STRONG RELATIONSHIPS BUILDING STRONG RELATIONSHIPS

The ability to build and maintain strong relationships is fundamental in legal practice, where collaboration with colleagues and effective client interaction is essential to a successfulcareer.

Firms look for evidence that you can: communicate clearly and professionally, demonstrate strong interpersonal skills, work effectively in teams,build trust through reliability and accountability. These qualities can be demonstrated through client-facing roles, leadership positions, or teamwork experiences.

FIRM’S VALUES FIRM’S VALUES

Firms assess whether your personal values align with their core principles (e.g. integrity, teamwork, diversity and inclusion). Strong applications move beyond stating values and instead demonstratethemthroughspecificexamples.

Consider; when you have shown integrity or accountability in challenging situations, how you have contributed to team outcomes, whether you actively engage with diverse perspectives

STRONG ACADEMIC RECORD STRONG ACADEMIC RECORD

Whilerecruitmentisholistic,academicperformanceremainsan indicator of discipline and analytical ability. A “strong” record does not require top grades but should demonstrate; commitment and consistency in your studies, analytical and problem-solving ability and the capacity to manage competing demands

INTEREST IN THE FIRM IN THE FIRM

A genuine, informed interest in the firm is critical This can be shown by referencing specific practice areas, clients, or initiatives,andexplaininghowtheyalignwithyourgoals

Firms want to see that you; have taken the time to understand their practice areas, clients, and culture, are motivated to pursue a long-term career with the firm, and can clearly articulatewhythatfirm.

COMMERICIAL AWARENESS

Commercial awareness refers to your understanding of the broader business environment in which clients may operate and how legal advice fits within that context For example, you can demonstrate commercial awareness by referring to recent deals, cases or news involving the firm, or by showing awareness of industry trends

Thisincludesyourabilitytoshowwhether;youcan demonstrateanunderstandingofthecommercial environmentinwhichclientswillbeoperating,you areinformedonworldnewsoryouareableto assessrisksandmanageconflictindifferent situations.

Writing a Cover Letter

Use your cover letter to go beyond your resume Show what motivates you to apply for the position and make a clear, compelling case for why you are the best candidate Ensure that you tailor your resume to each job to demonstrate your knowledge of the firm, and how your respective skills and experience will contribute towards their success A good resume is clear, relevant, unique, and provides convincing proof by using real-life examples

The structure of a cover letter may be presented as:

INTRODUCTION

Clearlyestablishthepositionyouareapplyingfor

Outlineyoureducationalstatus

Clearly relate your interest in the position to the area of lawyouwishtopursue

DEMONSTRATE KNOWLEDGE ABOUT DEMONSTRATE KNOWLEDGE ABOUT THE FIRM

Provide an overarching statement about the firm’s successes

If you can, discuss a recent case or milestone the firm has had and how this inspires you Highlight why the firm excites you, and how you see yourself contributing to its ongoing work and success

EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND

Connect your coursework to the skills and knowledge relevanttotheposition

Participation in UTS LSS competitions, panels, committees,andactivitiesareappreciatedbyfirmsasit shows your willingness to further your career outside of yourcourseworkthroughextra-curricularparticipation

EXTRA TIPS & TRICKS

EXPERIENCE

Use any relevant experience in this section to highlight your developed skills that would directly translate to the position you are applying for Make sure to present examples of how you have used your skills.

Even if you have no experience in the legal field, there are multiple ways to connect skills learnt in other fields. For example, practising empathy in your retail job can be applied in the legal sphere when speaking with clients about their unique positions, and grasping an understanding of how to help them

Make sure to integrate any awards or qualifications throughout to demonstrate your achievements and strengths

Format your cover letter clearly, and keep it approximately 1 page long!

Establish your point of difference at the end.

What makes you stand out from all the other candidates?

HiringManager

AshfordSterling Legal Level22,King Street, SydneyNSW2000

6April2026

ApplicationforParalegal Position

DearHiringManager,

CoverLetter Exemplar

MynameisDanielandIwishtoapplyforthepositionofparalegalatAshfordSterlingLegal.Iamcurrentlya third-year law student, expecting to graduate in 2028, with a strong interest in developing practical legal skills within a commercial environment. I am particularlydrawn to the firm’s reputation for excellence and itsworkacrossarangeofpracticeareas,andIameagertocontributewhilegainingexposuretohigh-quality legalmatters

Iamespeciallyinterestedinthefirm’sworkinmediaandcommunicationslaw,includingitsinvolvementin areas such as defamation, regulatory advice, and pre-publication matters. This aligns with my academic interests and my strong performance in relevant coursework. I am also attracted to the firm’s broader practice, including matters with national and international dimensions, and its commitment to delivering impactfullegal solutions.In addition,thefirm’sdedicationto probono work and supportingdisadvantaged communitiesstronglyalignswithmyvaluesanddesiretocontributemeaningfullytotheprofession.

Although I have not yet workedin a commercial law firm,I havedeveloped relevant legal and transferable skills through my studies and extracurricular activities. Participation in mooting competitions has strengthened my advocacy, analytical thinking, and ability to perform under pressure, while client-focused writing tasks have refined my research skills and ability to communicate complex legal issues clearly and effectively

Ihavedeveloped strongadministrative and client service skills through myworkin retail and myvolunteer role atMarrackvilleLegalCentre.Retail workhas strengthened mycommunication,adaptability,and ability to manage competing priorities in fast-paced environments. Through my volunteering, I have gained exposure to client-facing legal work and developed an understanding of confidentiality and the careful handling of sensitive information These experiences have enhanced my ability to work collaboratively, remainorganised,andconsistentlydeliverhigh-qualityoutcomes.

I am confident that my academicbackground, practical experience, and strong work ethic would allow me to contribute positively to Ashford Sterling Legal. I am particularly motivated to learn from experienced practitionersandfurtherdevelopmylegalskillsinaprofessionalsetting. Thankyouforconsideringmyapplication.IwouldwelcometheopportunitytodiscusshowIcancontribute toyourfirm.

Yourssincerely,

DanielWright

WritingaCV

Your resume, or your curriculum vitae (CV) is often your first impression, so every line counts. It’s a stand-out summary of your education, experiences, achievements, skills, and knowledge that essentially answers the question;WhywouldYOUbethebestpersonforthejob?

Remember to always research your target business and tailor each resume to the specific job. Your resume is basically your highlight reel, so make sure you show your bestwork!

Some important sections and details your resume must include:

INTERESTS INTERESTS

This is a very underrated section that employers look for Whether you showcase your interests in music, travelling, or sport, hirers love to see a healthy balance betweenworkandplay

You can also use your interests to show how you’ve developed relevant skills For example, team sport teachesteamwork,orreadingdevelopsempathy

REFEREES

PERSONAL DETAILS

PERSONAL DETAILS

First and foremost, use your name as the heading Make sure it is in big, bold letters to clearly identify yourself

Add contact details such as your email, phone number, and even your residential address Employers also appreciate when you include your LinkedIn profile as it demonstrates professionalism and offers additionalinsightintoyourbackground

CAREER OBJECTIVES

A clear and tailored career objective helps demonstrate focus and enthusiasm, while guiding the employerinunderstandingtherestofyourresume

It should be clear, concise, realistic, and centred on theskillsyoucanoffer

EDUCATION

State your secondary and tertiary qualifications, with the full names of institutions you attended as well as the month and year of your start and completion (or whenyouareintendingtocomplete).

It looks even better if you include any majors or relevant coursework, as well as extra-curriculars you may have participated in, or awards and achievements

EXPERIENCE

Experience can include a range of things - feel free to even categorise based on experiences like extracurriculars, volunteering, paid experience, relevant experienceorotherexperience.

This should be your last section on your resume. Include 2-3 names and contact details of previous managers, supervisors, or teachers. If for any reason you prefer to not put their names down, write ‘Availableonrequest’.

FORMATTING

Sometimes we may have too much information to fit on one page, so feel free to display your resume across two. It is better to spread out your information for readability rather than cramping them into one page,whichcancomeoffasoverwhelming.

Lastly, remember, don’t undersell yourself! Brag a little, and show off what you’re good at!

CVExemplar

CVExemplar

DanielWright

SydneyNSW2000

0400000000 daniel wright@gmail.com linkedin.com/in/danielwright

CareerObjective

Motivated law student seeking a paralegal position to develop practical legal skills within a commercial environment Brings strong research, communication, and organisational abilities, with a genuine interest in contributing to high-quality legal work andsupportingclientseffectively

Education

UniversityofTechnologySydney

BachelorofLaws

DistinctionAverage

RelevantCoursework:Contracts,corporatelaw,publicinternationallaw

RiversideHighSchool

HigherSchoolCertificate 2018-2023

ATAR:92

Exerience

ClientIntakeOfficer(Volunteer)

MarrackvilleLegalCentre

October2025-Present

Conductdetailedclientintakestoidentifylegalissuesandassesseligibility

Referclientstoappropriatelegalservicesandliaisewithsolicitors

Manageahighvolumeofenquirieswhilemaintainingconfidentialityandaccuraterecords

RetailTeamMember

Kmart

Dec2023-Present

ReceivedteammemberofthemonthawardinJanuary2026

Deliveredhigh-qualitycustomerserviceinafast-pacedretailenvironment

Managedtransactions,stock,andcustomerenquirieswithefficiencyandprofessionalism

Extra-CurricularActivitiesandInterests

UTSLawStudents’SocietyCriminalLawMoot-2025

Semi-finalist;actedasSeniorCounsel

Developedadvocacy,legalreasoningandteamworkskills

RiversideFootballClub-2012-Present

Developed strong teamwork, communication, and ability to perform under pressurethroughlong-termparticipationinteamsport.

Referees

Availableuponrequest

InterviewTips

Congratulations! Securing an interview is a significant achievement and shows that the firm recognises your academic ability and potential. The interview stage goes beyond your written application – it is an opportunity for the firm to assess your communication skills, cultural fit, genuine interest in the firm, whilst also providing you with the chance to figure out whetherthefirmofferstherightenvironmentforyou.

BEFORE THE INTERVIEW THE INTERVIEW

1 Know your resume inside out Interviewers will frequently draw directly from your resume, so you should be able to speak confidently and specifically aboutanythingonit

2 Get to know the firm properly Spend some time on its website and look at recent news or deals Have a clear sense of what it specialises in, where it operates, and thekindofclientsitworkswith Thishelpsshowyou’ve putrealthoughtintoapplying

3.Research the role and why it appeals to you. Understand what the clerkship involves and what firms expect, and be ready to explain howitalignswithyour skills, interests, and career goals, as well as what you hopetogainfromtheexperience.

4.Prepare real-life examples. You can draw from all areas of your life; work, internships, education, extracurriculars and volunteer experience. You want to showcase your strengths - it is beneficial to talk about situations that didn’t turn out how you expected, and whatyoulearnedorwoulddodifferentlynexttime.

5.Prepare a few questions to ask at the end of the interview. Having 3-4 ready shows genuine interest and that you’ve done your research. You might ask about the firm’s culture, what a typical day as a clerk looks like, opportunities for mentorship and development, or your interviewer’s own career path and what drew themtothefirm

6 Practiceyourresponsesoutloud,eitheronyourownor with a friend It’s a simple way to sharpen your answers, spot areas to improve, and feel more confident speaking under pressure If you can, get someone to give you feedback Also keep in mind that interviews usually run for 30-60 minutes, and you’ll be doingmostofthetalking

Arrive at least 10-15 minutes early. Factor in potential delays and allow time to collect yourself before entering the building. You can always take a walk or revisityourpreparationifyouarrivetooearly.

Dress in corporate attire. Remember you are representing yourself and that your potential employer may consider how you would represent the firm in front ofaclient

Develop rapport You want to establish a warm and confident greeting and self-introduction The beginning of the interview will often be relatively relaxed and informal before the structured questions begin Your interviewers may ask about your day, how your commute into the office was or share a reflection on theirownmorning

Be mindful of your body language throughout the interview- aim to maintain eye contact, greet all staff and smile Sit upright, avoid crossing arms, fidgeting andslouching

Demonstrate active listening and make sure you fully understand the question before responding. Speak professionally and avoid short answers and informal language.

Test your technology well in advance: camera, microphone, internet connection, and the relevant platform(Zoom,Teams,etc )

Choose a quiet, well-lit environment with a neutral, professional background Natural light from in front of youisideal

Position your camera at eye level so you appear engaged,ratherthanlookingdownatyourscreen. Look into the camera when speaking as this replicates eyecontactandconveysconfidence.

Have a glass of water nearby, but keep other distractionsoff-screenandyourphoneonsilent. If a technical issue arises, remain calm and communicate clearly– interviewers understand technologyisimperfect.

Tellmeaboutyourself

Whydidyouapplyforthisrole? Whylaw?

What value do you think you will add tothisfirm?

What qualities do you think make a goodclerkorgraduate?

What are you hoping to gain from this clerkship? Whythisfirm?

These questions help the interviewer gain an understanding of your personality, background and motivations. For personal questions talk about yourself academically as well as in a professional setting and what experiences have influenced your decision to pursue law For firm-specific questions try to go beyond what the firm represents on the surface level, reference recent matters or somethingacurrentemployeetoldyou

Tell me about a time you had to manage a difficult situation underpressure

Describe a time you received critical feedback How did you respond?

Tell me about a time you had to work with someone you found difficult.

How do you handle situations whereexpectationsareunclear?

For behavioural questions, respond with the STAR method, as discussed lateron.

Give an example of a time you had to explain something complex to someone without a legal background.

Tell me about a time you managed multiple competing deadlines. How didyouprioritise?

Describe a situation where you had to persuade someone who initially disagreedwithyou.

Answer these questions by referencing an example where you have displayed the skill For example, “I have learnt to be a good communicator through my experience working in my university’s law society subcommittee ” Avoid speaking in generalities and think carefully about which experiences from university, work or extracurriculars showcaseeachskillbest

Tell me about your degree and what youhaveenjoyedmostaboutit. Is your academic record a fair reflection of your abilities? Why or whynot?

Which subject has challenged you the most, and what did you take fromit?

These questions are fairly straightforward to answer. If your grades are strong, be confident. If there are dips in your grades, explain the context and what you learned from the situation

What would you do if you were given a task you did not understand and your supervisor wasunavailable?

If you discovered a mistake in work that had already been sent toaclient,whatwouldyoudo?

What would you do if you were asked to do something that madeyouuncomfortable?

Aim to talk through your answer so interviewers can see your thought process to reaching the final answer. Showcase your reasoning and different parties in the situation that you have considered e.g client interests, firm reputation, ethical obligations.

QUESTIONS FOR THE INTERVIEWER

Describe a time your personal values were tested in a professional oracademicsetting.

Have you ever witnessed behaviour that did not sit right with you? What didyoudo?

Tell me about a time you had to make a decision that was right but noteasy.

For ethical judgement questions the answer almost always involves raising a concern with someone more senior. Again, in your answer reference the competing considerations you had to weigh as this displays your reasoning andcriticalthinking.

Whathasyourownexperienceatthisfirmbeenlike,andwhathaskeptyouhere? Whatdoestheday-to-dayexperienceofaclerklooklikeintermsofsupervisionandfeedback? Whatwouldyouliketoseefrommeasaclerkorgraduate?

In legal recruitment, psychometric testing is increasingly used to assess candidates beyond academics. These tests provide an objective measure of cognitive ability, personality, and behavioural fit, and are often a threshold stage, sometimes before interviews.Strongperformanceisthereforeessential.

TYPES OF TESTS

Aptitude tests assess your ability to think logically and workundertimepressure Commonformatsinclude:

Verbal reasoning: Determine whether statements are true, false, or cannot be concluded based strictlyonapassage.Avoidassumptions.

Numerical reasoning: Interpret tables or graphs and perform basic calculations to draw conclusions.

Logical reasoning: Identify patterns in shapes or sequences,testingabstractreasoning.

PREPARATION

Preparationiskey.

Practiseregularlyusingplatformssuchas AssessmentDayorJobTestPrep

Wherepossible,usethesameproviderasthefirm, asformatsdiffer

Focusonbothaccuracyandtimemanagement

THE STAR METHOD

The STAR method is the standard framework for answeringbehaviouralinterviewquestions

Structure Situation:Brieflysetthecontext

Task:Explainyourresponsibility

Action: Describe what you did and why (this is the focus)

Result: Outline the outcome and any lessons learned

Example

Situation: Managing a moot final, work, and assignmentssimultaneously

Task:Balancecompetingcommitments

Action: Planned deadlines, communicated early, andbroketasksintomilestones

Result: Strong performance across all areas due to structuredplanning

BUILDING YOUR STAR BANK

Prepareasetofflexibleexamplescovering: Workingunderpressure

Conflictmanagement

Initiative

Mistakesandlearning

Communication

Leadershipandteamwork

KEY INSIGHT

Successdependsnotjustonexperience,butonyourabilitytodemonstratereasoning,structureandreflection.Thisisboth intestingandininterviews.

Personality TestsandPreparation

PREPARATION

PERSONALITY ASSESSMENTS

In addition to cognitive tests, personality tests are used by law firms to understand how you are likely to behave in a workplace They assess how you communicate, handle pressure, work in teams and respond to structure and authority Unlike aptitude tests, there are no right or wrong answers, the key to performing well is self awarenessandconsistency

COMMON TESTS USED BY LAW FIRMS BY LAW

HoganAssessment:Oneofthemostwidelyusedinthelegalsector Itmeasuresthree things: your everyday personality, your values and motivators, and how you behave under stress The stress component - sometimes called the "dark side" - is particularly important, as it reveals tendencies that emerge when you are under pressure,suchasbecomingoverlycautious withdrawn orperfectionistic

SHL Occupati e commercial firm

which is most , emotionalresili Myers-Briggs T : where you draw , and how you a s still use it as a n styles.

Know yourself before you sit the test and spend time reflecting on how you work, what motivates you, how you respond to pressure, how you respond to feedback ect This allows you to answer more accurately as youaremoreselfaware Don'toverthinkindividualquestions

Answer honestly These assessments contain consistency checks, attempting to answer with that you think the firm wants to hear will produceinconsistenciesthatflagagainstyou

Read the instructions carefully Some tests ask how you actually behave, others ask how you would ideally behave, and others ask how others would describe you These are different questions and your answersshouldreflectthat

**Many firms will use your personality assessment results as a basis for conversationduringtheinterviewratherthanasapassorfailfilter Youmay be asked to reflect on your results, confirm whether you agree with them, ordiscusshowcertaintraitshaveshownupinyourexperience.

skills

CocktailNight

Professional networking is a central component of the clerkship recruitment process Both LinkedIn and cocktail networking events operate as extensions of your application, providing firms with insight into your professionalism, interpersonal skills, and genuine interest in the legal profession. Approached thoughtfully, they are not merely formalities but opportunities to build informed andmeaningfulconnections.

LINKEDIN

LinkedIn functions as a public-facing professional profile that complements your written application Recruiters often review profiles alongside CVs and cover letters, making it important that your online presence reflects clarity,consistency,andprofessionalism

COCKTAIL NIGHT

Clerkship cocktail evenings are a formal element of the selection process. While less structured than interviews, they allow firms to assess candidates’ communication skills, emotional intelligence, and professional judgment in asocialsetting.

Research the firm’s practice areas, recent work, and marketposition

Profile photo: Use a high-quality, professional headshotwithaneutralbackground

Headline: Clearly state your current position and areas of interest (e.g. Penultimate-Year Law Student | Corporate&CommercialLaw)

About section: Provide a concise, first-person overview of your academic focus, relevant experience, andemergingcareerinterests

Include relevant roles such as internships, clerkships, andleadershippositions

Focus on responsibilities and contributions rather than listingtasks

Highlight legal, analytical, and interpersonal skills, as wellasextracurricularinvolvement

Connect with graduate lawyers, firm representatives, andalumni

Approach interactions with genuine curiosity rather thanatransactionalmindset

Where appropriate, follow up with brief, personalised messagesthatreflectpriorconversations

Prepare thoughtful questions and topics to support meaningfulconversation

Dress:Businessprofessionalattire

Timing: Arrive within the first 10–15 minutes to maximiseengagementopportunities

Alcohol: Exercise restraint; maintaining composure is paramount

Engagement: Introduceyourselfclearlyandconfidently Engagewitharangeofrepresentativesratherthan remainingwithinfamiliargroups

Ask considered questions and demonstrate active listening

AconciseandcourteousLinkedInmessagecanreinforcea positive impression. Where possible, reference your conversation to demonstrate attentiveness and genuine engagement.

Effective networking in the clerkship context is not defined byvolumeofinteractions,butbytheirquality.Ameasured, informed, and professional approach, both online and inperson, signals not only competence but a genuine commitmenttotheprofession

NetworkingTips

Networking is one of the most successful methods of getting your foot in the door People are more likely to remember your face and personality, rather than a name on a page Although networking is daunting, you will not regret taking the opportunity to put yourself out there! Often the connections you build in person can open doors that online applications cannot JUST

GO! JUST GO!

If you see a UTS LSS networking panel coming up, don’t overthink it. Just sign up and go. Bringing a friend to the first couple can make the experience more comfortable, but if you decide to attend alone, you won’t be the only one. Everyone is there to connect, so don’t be afraid to put yourself out there. Ask panelists and experienced professionals all your questions, and take the opportunity to meet fellow students who are likely in the same position as you.

Forming relationships with people at all stages of their careers is incredibly valuable However, these connections won’t happen unless you actually show up It’s easy to tell yourself it doesn’t matter if you skip an event or leave early, but you’re not going to meet new people from your couch, and you could miss out on a conversation that leads to new opportunities or insights The more events you attend, the more people you meet, and the more your confidence will grow.

STEP INTO THE CONVERSATION CONVERSATION

Where you stand at a networking event can make a huge difference. Approach someone who is standing alone or try to make conversation in smaller groups as chances are they are feeling just as unsure as you.

Have open and inviting body language. Stay off your phone, smile, make eye contact with people, and don’t be afraid to approach. You could position yourself somewhere natural for interaction, such as near the food and drinks table, where people are constantly moving and looking to engage

Starting a conversation is easy A simple ‘Hey, how are you?’ is often all it takes It may feel generic or small, but it will open the floor for further conversation, and the other person will always appreciate you taking the first step

NOT

Think of networking like a casual conversation rather than a pitch to ‘sell yourself’ like you would on a resume or CV. Networking events are really about building genuine connections and finding commonality or interest in your peers as well as experienced professionals.

Stay curious and engaged by asking questions about the other person, their role, how they got there, or what they enjoy about their work. You may even try to relate your own experiences to create a more natural and memorable interaction

AcceptingOffers

After the applications, interviews, and long periods of waiting, receiving an offer is a moment worth celebrating. It reflects the effort you have invested and the resilience you have shown throughout the process. Take a moment toappreciateit.

However, before you send that acceptance email, it is worth pausing to ensure you are making a thoughtful and informed decision, one that sets you up for successinyournewrole.

TAKE A MOMENT BEFORE YOU RESPOND

It is completely normal to feel a rush of excitement when an offer comes through and you should absolutely let yourself enjoy that feeling But before you formally accept,takeamomenttoreadthroughtheoffercarefully

Carefully review the offer in full Ensure you understand the key details, including your start date, remuneration, working hours, and any conditions attached to the role It can also be helpful to consider things like flexibility, leave entitlements, and expectations around performance If anything is unclear, seek clarification, employersexpectthisanditreflectsprofessionalismandattentiontodetail

Beyond the practicalities, check in on yourself Does this role align with your current goals and values? Can you see yourself growing within the organisation? Are you genuinely excited about the work, the team, and the environment? Taking the time to consider these questions can help ensure your decision is not only exciting, but alsorightforyou.

ACCEPTING WITH PROFESSIONALISM ACCEPTING WITH PROFESSIONALISM

When you are ready to accept, a clear and gracious response goes a long way Thank the employer for the opportunity, confirm your acceptance, and express your enthusiasm for joining the team. Keep it concise but warm. This is the beginning of a professionalrelationship,andfirstimpressionsextendwellbeyondtheinterview.

WHAT COMES NEXT

Once you have accepted, take the time to prepare for your transition. Familiarise yourself with any onboarding materials, note down important dates and think about how you want to present yourself in your first few weeks. Starting a new role is exciting, and a little preparation can help ease the nerves and set you up for a strong start.

Itcanalsobehelpfultothinkaboutyourgoalsforthefirstfewweeks:whatyouwant tolearn,howyouwanttocontribute,andhowyouwillbuildrelationshipswithinyour team. Starting a new role can feel both exciting and daunting, but preparation can makeasignificantdifference.

Finally, take a moment to acknowledge the journey that brought you here. Every application, every setback, and every moment of uncertainty formed part of the path tothisopportunity.

You did not simply arrive here, you worked for it. That is something worth carrying withyouasyoutakethisnextstep.

ManagingMultiple

Offers

Receiving more than one offer is an exciting position to be in, and it speaks to the hard work you have put in throughout the application process That said, navigating multiple offers can often feel overwhelming, so here are some tips to help you approach the situation with clarity and professionalism

BE THOUGHTFUL WITH WHAT YOU SHARE

You are not required to disclose to an employer whether you have received other offers. If asked about where you are in your search, a response such as, “I am currently exploring a few opportunities,” is usually sufficient.

This approach allows you to maintain a level of professional discretion while still being transparent in a general sense It is a balance that many professionals carry with them throughout their careers

REQUESTING TIME TO DECIDE

It is completely reasonable to ask for a short period of time to consider an offer Phrases like "I would love to get back to you within 48 hours" or "Would it be alright if I confirmed by the end of the week?" are professional and well received Keeping the timeframe specific and reasonable shows that you respect the employer's process while also giving yourself the space to make a thoughtful decision.

EVALUATING YOUR OPTIONS

A simple pros and cons list can go a long way. Try to compare similar factors side by side, such as work culture, development opportunities, remuneration, location, and how you felt during the interview process. Sometimes the right choice is not the one that looks best on paper, but the one that feels like the best fit for whereyouarerightnow

If both offers arrive around the same time, you are in a good position to weigh them up together If there is a gap between them, and the first offer feels right, it is okay to accept it If a second offer comes through later that changes things, you are alwaysentitledtoreassess.Thatisyourrightasacandidate.

APPROACHING NEGOTIATION

If you are considering negotiating, it is generally best to wait until you have a confirmed offer in hand before beginning that conversation. Being grounded in what you already have gives you the confidence to negotiate from a place of security rather than uncertainty.

WITHDRAWING

When the time comes to withdraw from another recruitment process, a concise and professional message is sufficient There is no obligation to provide a detailed explanation Expressing sincere appreciation for the opportunity, along with a brief note that you have decided to pursue an alternative path,isentirelyappropriate

So long as your communication is courteous and respectful, it will be well received. Recruitment is inherently competitive, and employers understand that candidates may ultimately choose to proceed elsewhere.

DealingWith

Rejection is never easy. Whether it is a clerkship application, a job interview, or a competition you worked incredibly hard for, hearing "no" can be disheartening And staying positive afterwards can feel almost impossible, especially when it seems like everyone around you is getting the "yes" you were hoping for.

Rejection

However, rejection is not a reflection of your abilities or your worth Sometimes the decision comes down to timing, budget constraints, or the sheer competitiveness of the process and the number of strong candidates involved It often has little to do with whether you were capable of doing the job You were That is why you applied in the first place What matters now is what you do next, and that you still believe that you are capable of what you set out to do Because you are Rejection does not erase your qualifications. It does not undo the work you have already put in. It is simply part of the process: one that refines, redirects and ultimatelystrengthensyou.

REFRAME

Think of it like running a marathon. Unless you are one of the world's elite runners, you are probably not going to cross the finish line first. But that does not take away from the fact that you trained, showed up, and completed something that only a small percentage of people would even attempt. The same applies here. You applied. You put yourself out there. That in itself is an achievementworthacknowledging

TALK TO PEOPLE YOU LOOK UP TO

One of the most valuable things you can do after experiencing rejection is to speak with people you admire Whether that is a class tutor, a supervisor at a community legal centre, or a mentor from a previous role, ask them about their journey You will often find that their path was not a straight line It is common that they too faced plenty of rejection along the way, but they kept going Their success was not built on never hearing "no" It was built on whattheydidafterwards

PROTECT YOUR MINDSET

This is perhaps the most important part. Rejection can feel personal, but it is not. The minute you start to believe you are beaten is the minute it becomes harder to keep moving forward. Stay grounded, stay resilient, and remember that things take time. Your moment will come. Keep showing up, keep trying, and trust thatyourpersistencewillpayoff.

FAQs

WHAT IS A CLERKSHIP?

A clerkship is a paid, structured internship, usually held over the summer, that allows law students to experience the day-to-day operations of a legal firm It is designed for students in their penultimate (second-to-last) or final year, providing practical exposure to specific practice areas, mentorship, and professional development. For many,itistheprimarypathwaytoagraduaterole.

AM I ELIGIBLE TO APPLY?

Eligibility is generally geared toward students in the penultimate year of their Bachelor of Laws or Juris Doctor degree However, some firms welcome applications from final-year students or those with more than four semesters remaining If you are a first-gen student or have an unconventional path, it is always worth checking the specific criteria on the firm’s website orreachingouttotheirHRteam

ARE CLERKSHIPS COMPULSORY?

Eligibility is generally geared toward students in the penultimate year of their Bachelor of Laws or Juris Doctor degree However, some firms welcome applications from final-year students or those with more than four semesters remaining If you are a first-gen student or have an unconventional path, it is always worth checking the specific criteria on the firm’s website orreachingouttotheirHRteam

WHICH FIRMS OFFER CLERKSHIPS?

Most mid-tier and top-tier commercial firms in New South Wales offer formal summer clerkship programs. Boutique and specialist firms may also offer internships or volunteer opportunities, though these are often less formal and may be geared toward Practical Legal Training(PLT)studentsorgraduate-levelhires.

HOW LONG IS THE PROGRAM?

While programs vary by firm, most summer clerkships last between four and ten weeks. During this time, you will typically rotate through one or two different practice areas to give you a broad understanding of the firm’s work Some firms also offer shorter winter clerkships, but the summer intake remains the most common

WHEN DO I APPLY?

The Law Society of NSW sets consistent dates for the recruitmentprogramtoensurefairnessforallstudents.

For2026,thekeydatesforsummerclerkshipsare: Wednesday,10June:Applicationsopenat9:00AM. Sunday,5&12July:Applicationscloseat11:59PM. Wednesday, 9 September: Offers can be made from 9:00AM. Thursday,10September:Offersmustbeacceptedor declinedby1:00PM.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS?

A clerkship offers more than just a line on your resume. It is an opportunity to strengthen your legal research and writing skills, observe high-level judicial decision-making, and understand a firm's internal culture firsthand. Beyond the work itself,theprofessionalrelationshipsandmentorshipyougainareinvaluableasyoutransitionfromuniversitytopractice.

NetworkingTips

AS A FIRST GENERATION LAW STUDENT

As law students, we are constantly hearing about the importance of networking for future job opportunities and career development. The legal profession has long operated on the principle that "who you know" matters just as much as "what you know," and for first-generation law students, this can feel particularly overwhelming. Without a family connection in the industryorafamiliarvoicetoguideyouthroughtheprocess,itiseasytofeellikeeveryoneelsegotthememoexceptyou

But here is the thing: networking is a skill, not a birthright. Like any skill, it gets easier with practice. Here are some practical tipstohelpyoustartbuildingmeaningfulconnectionsatyourownpace!

DIGITAL PLATFORMS

If in-person events feel a little intimidating at first, LinkedIn is a great place to start. A wellmaintained profile allows you to put your best foot forward, showcasing your academic achievements, work experience, and interests all in one place Beyond your own profile, try joining relevant groups, engaging with posts from firms or professionals you admire, and sharingthingsrelatedtoyourstudies that genuinely interest you Sometimes the digital handshake comes before the real one, and that iscompletelyokay

PREPARATION

You do not need to be the most outgoing person at a networking event. You just need to be curious. Before attending, take 10 minutes to look up who will be there. Read about the firm, check out the speaker's background, or familiarise yourself with a recent matter they worked on. Having even one or two thoughtful questions ready takes the pressure off thinking on the spot and shows genuine interest. Something as simple as "I saw your firm recently worked on this case, what was that experience like?" can open anentireconversation

FOCUS ON CONVERSATIONS, NOT TRANSACTIONS

Many of the strongest professional relationships are not built by just collecting business cards or LinkedIn connections. They are built through genuine curiosity. Ask open-ended questions you actually want the answers to. Be interested in the person in front of you, not just the title on their lanyard People remember the student who had a real conversation far more than the one who recitedtheirownresume

FOLLOW UP WITHIN 48 HOURS

Thisisasmallstepthatmoststudentsskipentirely,anditisoneofthesimplest ways to leave a lasting impression After meeting someone, send a brief, personalised message within a day or two Something like "It was lovely meetingyouattheLSSevent,Ireallyenjoyedhearingaboutyourexperience"is more than enough If you can reference something specific from your conversation, even better It shows you were genuinely listening, and that goes alongway

YOU BELONG IN THE ROOM

If there is one thing to take away from networking tips, let it be this: you belong in every room you walk into Every networking event, every seminar, every clerkship interview The fact that you made it to law school without a family blueprint is not a gap in your story It is the story So, walk in, introduce yourself, andknowthatyouhaveearnedyourplace Becauseyouabsolutelyhave!

RECOGNISE THE NETWORK YOU ALREADY HAVE

Networking does not always mean walking into a room of strangers in a suit Some of your most valuable connections are already right under your nose Your classmates are your future colleagues, your tutors and professors carry years of industry insight and are often far more approachable than you might think, and the UTS LSS is built to bridge the gap Start small by engaging in seminars or attending an LSS event to find your footing Before you look outward,takealookaround

ADVICE FROM A SUCCESSFUL CLERK

Student Testimonial

VINCENT AQUINO

Over the summer break, I had the opportunity to clerk at Johnson Winter Slattery, rotating through its Tax andDisputeResolutionteams.

My pathway to JWS was somewhat serendipitous. As a naive, first-year law student – not knowing a clerkship was – I ambitiously applied for one with the firm, having heard good things about its people and theworktheydo.

Obviously, I didn’t get the role, but it made for a funny story a few years later. I included it in my cover letter, and it became a light-hearted talking point during my interviews.

So, my first tip is to try and demonstrate a genuine interest/connection with the firm you’re applying to. Was there a particular matter of theirs you read about? A person you spoke to? An event you went to? Specificslikethesecangoalongway.

In the Tax team, I did various research tasks, attended conferences with barristers, and did a presentation on arecenttaxcase IenjoyedtherigouroftheworkIdid, and learned so much from being in a tight-knight team fullofleadingpractitioners

In my next rotation, Dispute Resolution, I went to Court hearings, drafted a police brief, and also did a wide range of research tasks I had the privilege of working closely with Kevin Lynch, a leading practitionerinMediaLaw.

I can’t say I knew a ton about these areas beforehand, but I did have a general idea of what I was interested in and why I wanted to work in commercial law to beginwith.

So, my second tip is to really know your resume and application. Being able to talk about your experiences, the skills you’ve gained, and how they relate to commercial law – while also being aware of any weaknesses your application may have – is important.

Beyond the work itself, I met great people and formed many great experiences People at the firm were welcoming and down-to-earth, and that made me comfortable to be myself. Our clerk group got along very well, still keeping in touch today despite the clerkship being over. From 9:00am coffees, to sports every Monday, as well as events such as the Clerk Cruise, I can gladly say I got the most I could out of thisexperience.

Before I started the clerkship, I spoke to a barrister at University Chambers, where I was working as a Research Assistant. The barrister had been at a big-six law firm for several years. “Any tips?”, I asked. He replied, with assurance, “Buy in”. I was confused –which he must have read – to which he added, “Buy intotheculture”.

So, that’s my third tip. It does sound performative, but it’s just another way of saying you should be enthusiastic about the experience. I went in with the mindset of breaking out of my bubble, starting conversations, getting to know people, and asking questions – and I think this mindset served me well. So,buyin.Ninetimesoutoften,theworkcanwait.

ADVICE FROM A SUCCESSFUL CLERK

Student Testimonial SOPHIE

WHAT IS YOUR ROLE? WHAT IS YOUR ROLE?

My name is Sophie, and I clerked at HSF Kramer in December 2025/January 2026 in the Real Estate and Equity Capital Markets teams.IhaverecentlyjoinedtheMarch2026graduateintakeandam currently rotating through the Competition, Regulation and Trade team.

WHY DID YOU CHOOSE TO WORK AT THIS FIRM? THIS FIRM

?

I attended a number of clerkship information sessions across different firms in the lead up to applications and also lots of networking events during the clerkship interview process Through those experience, I found that I liked the people at HSF Kramer the most which made the firm feel like the best fit for me I also liked that HSF Kramer has an 18 month graduate program with 3 x 6 month rotations as there's lots of different practice groups I'd like to try.

WHAT IS A TYPICAL DAY LIKE? IS TYPICAL LIKE?

Every day is different! The CRT team is quite large so I do work for lots of different solicitors, senior associates and partners which is great as you get exposure to lots of matters and are always learning somethingnew!

WHAT SUBJECTS/SKILL HAVE SUBJECTS/SKILL BEEN USEFUL IN THIS ROLE? ROLE?

I did a legal internship subject which was the most useful subject I did while at university! Highly recommend doing an internship if you havethechancel

WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR ADVICE DO YOU FOR INTERESTED APPLICANTS? APPLICANTS?

My advice is to go to the HSF Kramer clerkship info evening/event organised by your university law society. It's a great way to find out more about the firm and is an opportunity to ask any questions you may have. There's also time at the end to talk to grads and junior solicitors. It's also useful to read through day in the life stories on gradjobwebsiteslikeGradConnectionandProspleetc

HAMILTON

WHAT HAVE BEEN THE KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF KEY HIGHLIGHTS OF YOUR EXPERIENCE? EXPERIENCE?

The clerkship is really fun It was great meeting everyone and going to Clerk Cruise, and there are also opportunities to get involved in Clerk Sport One thing I didn't know about the firm before joining was that there is a firm lunch every week Not only is the food really good, but it's also a great chance to sit with your team and get to know everyone better There are lots of networking opportunities throughout the clerkship Everyone is encouraged to grab coffee with people from different teams to learn more about the work they do, and there are practice group information sessions most days to help you understand each team's work. You're supported every step of the way, which really makes a difference to the experience. You're paired with a buddy and a coach for each rotation, which is great for mentorship and support wheneveryouneedit.

HOW DOES THE FIRM HOW DOES THE FIRM ENCOURAGE ENCOURAGE EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES? ACTIVITIES?

During the clerkship, HSF Kramer runs Clerk Sport across three teams, Human, Bold and Outstanding, which align with the firm's values When you return as a graduate, the Graduate Development Committee (GD) runs a range of internal and external events to bring the cohort together, from junior client networking opportunities to social activitieslikepickleball

Toutiliseourdeepunderstandingofourclientstoprovide exceptionalstandardsofserviceandtobecometrusted governmentsinallareasofcommerciallaw.

Wearealsocommittedtocreatingaworldleadingprobono whichdeliverspositiveimpactsforitsemployees,clients,thelegal profession,theenvironmentandthecommunitiesinwhichit

We’repassionateaboutquality Wedeliverthroughcollaboration

westandfor,whatmakesAshurstanexceptionalplacetowork andwhatweaspiretobe.Forus,“progressive”isamind-set, anapproachtohowwedothings.Weinstinctivelytakeafresh perspectiveonsituations,exploringwhethertherearebetterways ofachievingourclients’goalsaswellasourown.

Ourstrategyisbasedonbeingrelentlesslyclientfocusedand enablingtheambitionandpotentialofourpeople.Through solutionswhichintegrateourLegal,RiskConsultingandNewLaw capabilities.

Wealsoputdiversityattheheartofeverythingwedo.Fostering adiverseandinclusiveculturewhereeveryonefeelsasenseof belongingiskeytoourvisionofbeingthemostprogressiveglobal

createagreatplaceforourpeopletowork.Ourcultureisbuilt aroundembracingandcelebratingtherichdimensionsofour Plan,representationtargets,andsixdiversityareaswithdedicated networksthatarefocusedonactivelytakingstepstoensureall ourpeople,acrossallspectrumsofdiversity,aresupportedand empowered.

Wearealsocommittedtodeliveringpositiveimpactstoour emphasisonworkingwithFirstNationspeoplethroughourpro

intensiveexperienceofourcultureandthekindofwork wedo.Therolewillgiveyougreatexposuretohighquality commerciallegalworkandprovideyoutheopportunity toapplyanddevelopyourskillsacrossabroadrange ofpracticeareas,clientsandindustries.Ourclerkship programmesincludesarangeofactivitiesandevents

ifacareeratAshurstiswhatyouarelookingfor.They includeacomprehensiveinductionprogramme,eventsto understandeachpracticeareaandactivitiestoensureyou buildconnectionsandrelationshipswithintheclerkship

There’sabsolutelynoAshurst“type”.Wewanttoactively involveandincludeabroadrangeofmindswithadiverse rangeofbackgrounds,allunitedbyacommonsetof strengthsorcompetencies.

Allsuccessfulclerkswilldemonstratecharacteristicsof analyticalability,adaptability,motivationandlearning agility.Theywillhaveoutstandingcommunicationand interpersonalskills,curiosity,attentiontodetailandwork wellinateam.

Applicantsforourclerkshipprogrammesmustbeintheir

willneedAustralianorNewZealandcitizenshiporbea permanentresidentatthetimeofapplication.

in,youcan expecttobeinvolvedinawidevarietyofworkandactivities:

•

•Researchforclientadviceandcontracts

•Preparingbriefstocounsel

•Attendingandtakingnotesatclientmeetingsand meetingswithcounsel

•

•Reviewingcontracts

•Assistingwithpro-bonomattersandresearchprojects

AtAshurstweensureyouareadequatelysupported throughouttheprogrammewithanallocatedbuddy, supervisingpartnerandlawyerwhowillguideyour experience,provideyouwithon-the-jobtraining

Apartfromthelegalandcommercialskillsyouwilldevelop inyourdaytodayworkwithourpracticegroupsand clients,youwillalsobeprovidedwithongoingsupport, trainingandmentorshipfromourseniorlegalpractitioners

Ourclerksandgraduatestakepartinacombinationof legalexpertise,industryandbusinessskillssessionswhich

addition,ourgraduatescompleteourin-housefullyfunded PLTcoursedeliveredby

THINKLOCALANDGLOBALOPPORTUNITIES

Since1964,longbeforeotherglobalorinternationallawfirmsenteredAustralia,BakerMcKenziehasbeenthelocallaw firmofchoice.Ouruniqueculture,developedover77years,enablesour13,000+peopletounderstandlocalmarkets andnavigatemultiplejurisdictions,workingtogetherastrustedcolleaguesandfriendstoinstilconfidenceinourclients. Wealsounderstandthechallengesoftheglobaleconomybecausewehavebeenagloballawfirmfromthestart.

BakerMcKenziehasbeenthinkinggloballyinAustraliaformorethan60years.In2014,weopenedourBrisbaneoffice, makingourAustralianpracticethefourthlargestinournetworkof72officesin45countries.InAustralia,weactfor leadingmultinationalanddomesticcompaniesonmarket-leadinglocalandglobaltransactions.

ThinkOpportunity,ThinkBakerMcKenzie

OURCLERKSHIPPROGRAM

AtBakerMcKenzie,wewantourclerkstoexperiencelifeasagraduateatourFirm.So,right fromthestart,ourclerksaregiventheopportunitytogetinvolvedinrealworkandhavereal responsibility.Fromtaskslikedraftingcourtortransactiondocumentstoconductinglegal researchforletterofadviceyouwillhavetheopportunitytotakeonabroadrangeofclient workinyourteam.YouwillalsobeexposedtoourAustralianandinternationalclients throughclientmeetings,callsandevents.

Workingwithlawyersofalllevels,youwillbeguidedbyasupervisingpartnerand Youwillalsobesupported,ateverystageoftheclerkship,byourEarlyCareers team–whofacilitatesacomprehensiveprogramstartingwithinductionandskills developmentincludingpracticalsessionsontechnologytraining,legalresearch,drafting, commerciality,businesscommunication,client-serviceandotherskillscrucialtoensuringyou impressandsucceedduringyourclerkship.

YouwillalsohaveopportunitiestobuildgenuineconnectionsacrosstheFirmthroughvarious socialeventsandnetworkingopportunities.

InSydney,weofferoneclerkshipintake,fromlateNovembertoearlyFebruary.

ThinkExcellence,ThinkBakerMcKenzie

OURGRADUATEPROGRAM

OpportunitiesareplentifulasyoucommenceyourgraduateprogramwithBakerMcKenzie startingwithacomprehensiveinductionprogramthatbuildsuponyourclerkshipinduction, andsupportsyourtransitionfromuniversitytowork.Thisincludespracticalsessions,like commercialdraftingandlegalresearch,aswellassessionstosetyouupforbroadercareer successlikebusinessdevelopment,personalbrandcommunicatingwithimpact,and wellbeingandresilience.

Ourgraduatesundertakethreerotations,togainexperienceindifferentareasoflaw,beforethey joinaparticularpracticegroupasanassociate.Ineachrotation,graduateshaveasupervising partner,seniorlawyercoachandassociatetomaximiseon-the-jobandformal learningandprovidesupportatalllevels.

Weknowourgraduateswanttoworkwithclientsonmeaningfulworkfromthestart,sowe supportyoutohoneyourskillsanddevelopyourexperienceasquicklyaspossiblebygettingyou involvedineverydayclientworkinyourteam.Withourcultureofopportunity,youcanexpectto bedealingwithlocalandglobalclients,expertsandbarristersandmakingvaluablecontributions toyourmatters.Ourgraduatesalsohavetheopportunitytomanagetheirownfilesaspart ofourprobonoprogram.

Ourethosofexcellencefeedsintooutstandinglearningopportunitiesthroughoutyourgraduate program.OurLeadership&Learningteamfacilitatessessionsinfivekeyareasforourgraduates –legallearning,managingyourcareer,thebusinessoflaw,businessdevelopment/clientservice, andpeopleandself-leadership.OurCornerstonelegallearningprogramwillbuildyourlegaland technicalexcellence–startingwithourtwo-daylegalacceleratorprogramwhichbrings graduatesacrossourAustralianofficestogethertolearnandfosternetworks.Wealsocoverthe costsofyourPracticalLegalTrainingandadmission.Additionally,weconductregular roundtablesandfeedbackmeetingstoensureyoureceivecoachinganddevelopasalawyer. Collectively,theseensureyoureceivethebestfoundationforyourcareer.

au.prosple.com/graduate-employers/baker-mckenzie ©2026BakerMcKenzie.Allrightsreserved.Baker&McKenzieInternationalisagloballawfirmwithmemberlawfirmsaround meansapersonwhoisapartnerorequivalentinsuchalawfirm.Similarly,referencetoanmeansanofficeofanysuch insomejurisdictions.Priorresultsdonotguaranteea similaroutcome.

OURKEYAREASOFPRACTICE

Banking&Finance

FinancialServices

CorporateMarkets (includingMergers&Acquisitions, PrivateEquityand CapitalMarkets)

Funds

Energy&Infrastructure

CommercialRealEstate Construction

DisputeResolution

Employment&Compensation Commercial(IntellectualProperty, Technology,Data&Trade) Tax.

Applicationsforclerkshipscanbe submittedvia au.prosple.com/graduateemployers/baker-mckenzie

Applicationsshouldincludeacover letter,aswellasdetailsofyour workexperience,yourextracurricularactivitiesandinterests, andyouracademicresults.

Applicationsforclerkshipsopenat 9.00amon10June2026andclose at11.59pmon5July2026

LAUNCHYOUR CAREERWITH IMPACT

profilemattersthatmakearealimpact.

sharpestlegalmindsinthecountry,andencouragedtobringyourunique perspectivetothetable.

hardworkyouputinwillberewardedwithexceptionallearningopportunities, exposuretocutting-edgelegaltechnology,andthechancetobuildtheskillsand relationshipsthatwillsetyouupforasuccessfulcareer. Areyouready?

Whenwasthemomentyoufeltlikeyou reallybelongedinthelegalprofession? partnersaskedformyopinionon aclientmatter.ThefactthatIhad beenaskedmeantthatmyopinion counted,Icouldgivelegaladvice, andIcouldbetrustedwiththat

JessicaHarris 2024SummerClerk&2025Graduate UniversityofSydney,JDBMedSc

Whatdidyouenjoymostabouttheclerkship? andweweren'texpectedtoknow everything.Ijustfeltsovaluedand thatwasreallyimportant

AntoniaOdegbaro

2025SummerClerk&2026Graduate UniversityofSydney,JDBCom

WhydidyouchooseClaytonUtz? seriously,nobodytakesthemselvestoo seriously,soIfeelcomfortablebringing

MusaMusa

2025SummerClerk&2026Graduate UNSW,LLBBActSt

Whatareasofpracticewouldyouliketoworkin? -tierindependentlawfirm, thereareahugerangeofpracticeareas I'mexcitedtotry,includingprojects,

MaiyshaMoin

2025WinterClerk&2026Graduate MonashUniversity,LLB(Hons)BPPE

Corrs Chambers Westgarth is Australia’s leading independent law firm. We’re known for delivering legal excellence, exceptional client service and outstanding results.

Our significant work

We let our work speak for itself. We’re proud to work with some of the biggest organisations in the world on their most important matters.

Our clients include more than half of the top 50 ASX-listed companies, some of the largest privately owned companies in Australia and a number of global Fortune 500 companies. We work with well-known organisations like Australia Post, Blackrock, BP, CIMIC, eBay, Fortescue Metals, Google, Hancock, Macquarie, Meta, Mirvac, nbn, PayPal, Stockland, TPG Telecom, Southern Cross, Wesfarmers and Woodside.

Your time as a clerk at Corrs

The majority of our graduates join us after experiencing a seasonal clerkship program.

Our clerkships give you the opportunity to connect with partners and lawyers across the firm, learn what a ‘day-in-the-life’ at Corrs is like and experience the type of work we do and the clients we partner with.

During your time as a clerk, you will be allocated a supervising partner, mentor and buddy, who will support you through your clerkship experience as you work alongside some of Australia’s leading lawyers on high-profile work for major Australian and international clients.

You’ll be exposed to a broad range of interesting matters and have the chance to complete tasks such as conducting research, reviewing and presenting documents, attending client meetings, court hearings, mediations and settlements, as well as shadowing partners and lawyers in client meetings and business development activities.

Key dates for Sydney clerkships

Wednesday 10 June 2026 – clerkship applications open

Sunday 12 July 2026 – clerkship applications close Wednesday 9 September 2026 – offers made

Our Lawyer Development Program

The Lawyer Development Program is designed to support you in the formative stage of your career. It aims to build the capabilities and relationships that will drive career progression and underpin future successes, as rapidly as possible. Unique features of the program include:

• Mentor partner – You will be allocated a mentor partner (in most cases your supervising partner in your first rotation) who remains in this role throughout the program and potentially beyond. This will build a personal and enduring relationship that transcends everyday transactional work. You will also be supported in each rotation by a supervising partner and SA/SC who will source meaningful and challenging work.

• 12 x 6 x 6 rotation structure – The first practice group rotation is 12 months to ensure you have  time to learn on the job and build strong capabilities and relationships in your first year. In the second year, when you have an increased level of experience and confidence, you will complete two six-month rotations in order to gain exposure and build relationships across different groups.

• Formal learning – The program incorporates comprehensive formal learning opportunities including our national Graduate Academy, local Graduate Orientation, practical legal training with the College of Law, practice group induction sessions and the national Legal Excellence program.

Diversity and inclusion

We strongly believe that diversity in all its forms should be embraced and celebrated. This benefits our people, our clients, our firm and the industry at large.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion includes gender equality, cultural diversity, LGBTQ inclusion, First Nations inclusion, carers support, disability inclusion and accessibility, and flexible working.

Corrs is recognised as a 2025 Gold Employer by Pride in Diversity, having achieved gold citation in the Australian Workplace Equality Index (AWEI).

It’s time to build a different kind of legal career.

Clerkship programme

Our seasonal clerkship is designed to give you insight into what sets us apart. Our programme starts with an induction which provides a comprehensive introduction to the legal sector and the firms strategy, practice groups, sectors and clients. It also builds your skills and networks. Following induction, you’ll have the opportunity to experience working in a practice group and benefit from being given real responsibilities. Whether you’re attending a court hearing, contributing to a client meeting or assisting a large corporate transaction, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to reach your potential. At the completion of your clerkship you will also be eligible for consideration for a graduate role on our graduate programme.

Recruitment process

Graduate programme

During your graduate programme, you’ll experience three six month rotations in our different practice groups and Pro Bono and Law& teams, giving you breadth in your knowledge of the law as well as the practical skills that will stay with you for your entire career. By the end of your graduate programme, you will emerge with a clearer understanding of where your talent and interests lie. The experience you’ll have gained – and the networks you’ll have nurtured – will provide a strong foundation for your future career at DLA Piper.

AboutGadens

ClerkshipsatGadens

OurClerks@Gadensprogramintroducesyoutolife asacommerciallawyerataleadingindependent

alongsidepartnersandexperiencedlawyerson

owningourdecisionsandmaintainingintegrityinall

Application

experiencesgiveyou agenuinefeelforour

inclusiveandgrounded inmakingameaningful ourcommunitiesand

Opportunity starts here

There’s never been a better time to be part of G+T. Work at the forefront of profound changes in our society and economy with smart people who value your ideas and perspective, and be part of a network that’s building Australia’s best corporate firm.

Our clerkships in Melbourne, Perth and Sydney offer a unique chance to experience one or two practice areas in corporate law and learn from some of Australia’s most talented lawyers.

In Sydney, we offer a summer clerkship with two 4-week rotations across two practice areas and the option to apply for the Aurora Internship, a fully funded 5- to 6-week winter internship.

Is a G+T clerkship right for me?

The G+T clerkship experience is open to law students in their penultimate and final year of study. Our culture is driven by respect and inclusion, entrepreneurism, integrity and active citizenship. We share common values and celebrate the talents and goodwill of our people,

If you have the restless ambition to work at the heart of change, and if you are prepared to take the initiative, you’ll feel like you belong here.

What will I experience?

During your clerkship (depending on location), you’ll be provided with a supervising partner, a mentor and a buddy who will help you develop your day to day legal and personal skills. You’ll also grow with the help of structured training, covering drafting and technical skills through to how to create your personal brand.

You’ll also have the chance to work on innovation and pro bono matters. This is your opportunity to explore areas you’re interested in, push out of your comfort zone and bring your own ideas and perspective to the team. Plus, you’ll build a valuable network that will support you throughout your career – wherever it takes you next.

“I was pleasantly surprised by the level of trust placed in me to run tasks independently, manage deadlines and take ownership of my approach. That responsibility made the work more meaningful and pushed me to develop practical skills that university simply cannot teach.”

William Choi, 2025 Summer Clerk

Can I apply for a graduate role?

G+T clerks typically receive priority offers for graduate roles, and we have a high conversion rate. However, graduating students are always welcome to apply to our 18-month graduate program. Look for graduate vacancies on our website.

Clerkship application dates

Melbourne 6 July 2026 9 August 2026

Perth 22 June 2026 26 July 2026

Sydney 10 June 2026 12 July 2026

Learn more about our clerkship programs at https://www.gtlaw.com.au/careers/early-careers

Get in touch

We’d love to hear from you.

Kristie Barton

Talent Attraction + Brand Manager

+61 2 9263 4575 KBarton@gtlaw.com.au

Smarter

BUILDING A STANDOUT CV

VIVIAN

NGUYEN | GRADUATE

A CV is your case on paper. It sets out your education, experience, and strengths, and demonstrates how you can contribute meaningfully to the team at HSF Kramer.

Structure

Presentation is often treated as secondary to substance, but the two are closely linked. A CV is reviewed quickly and under time pressure, so structure directly affects how content is received. Clear separation of education, experience, and activities allows key information to be located without effort. Formatting serves the same purpose: consistent headings, spacing, and parallel bullet points signal attention to detail, while dense text, shifting styles, or excessive formatting create friction that is often decisive across large volumes of applications.

Language

Earlier versions of my CV relied heavily on language that sounded professional but conveyed little information of substance. Phrases such as “assisted with matters” or “supported senior lawyers” felt safe, but they were ultimately uninformative.

The most significant improvement came from learning to be specific without becoming verbose. A strong CV does not merely state what you did; it explains how, in what context, and with what level of responsibility.

For example:

- Less effective: “Assisted senior lawyers on various M&A transactions.”

- More effective: “Prepared the first draft of an asset sale agreement and completion checklist for a mid-market M&A transaction under compressed deadlines.”

Both statements are concise, but only the latter is specific enough to give the reader a clear sense of the work undertaken and provides a meaningful basis for further discussion.

Non-legal experience

I once assumed experience outside legal practice was a waste of space. In reality, HSF Kramer sits at the intersection of law, business, and regulation, where legal issues rarely stand alone. Non-legal roles often provide early exposure to this broader context through commercial judgment, operational responsibility, and working with diverse stakeholders. Experience in areas like hospitality, retail, student leadership, or tutoring can be particularly valuable.

For example:

- Less effective: “Managed front-of-house operations during busy periods.”

- More effective: “Managed front-of-house operations during weekend peak periods, coordinating a team of six to maintain service standards.”

This approach allows the reader to quickly understand both the scope of your responsibility and the transferable skills you bring to the role.

Interests

A brief interests section is often undervalued. I once thought my long-term involvement in athletics and martial arts was irrelevant, but it frequently sparked genuine engagement in interviews. Not because of the activities themselves, but because they signalled discipline, resilience, and long-term commitment.

Many candidates have strong academics; interests are often what make someone memorable. If you’ve sustained meaningful commitments outside law - whether in sport, music, or creative work - include them with confidence. They reflect balance, self-awareness, and depth.

A Culture Grounded in Collaboration, Excellence, and Genuine Support.

ABOUT US

We invest in our people from the very beginning of their careers.

As a dynamic and forward-thinking firm, we are committed to creating an environment where our people can thrive professionally and personally. Our merit-based structure provides clear pathways for growth, enabling talented individuals to progress from graduate level through to partnership.

With more than 1,700 people, including over 280 partners, across offices in every Australian state and territory, we offer a truly national platform. Our diverse client base - from small businesses to ASX-listed companies - ensures that junior lawyers gain unparalleled exposure to complex and varied matters, building confidence and capability early in their careers.

We foster a culture that values excellence, collaboration and balance, ensuring our people are supported to succeed, connected across teams and inspired to achieve their full potential.

CLERKSHIP PROGRAM

HWLE’s Clerkship Program is designed to give you hands-on experience and practical training to build your legal skills and knowledge, while also providing opportunities to network with practitioners across the firm. You’ll gain exposure to a diverse range of work within your allocated Practice Group(s), and we’ll take the time to get to know you - both professionally and personally.

At the start of your Clerkship, you’ll be paired with a Supervising Partner and a mentor who will guide and support you throughout your placement. They’ll help you develop your skills and provide detailed feedback at the end of your time with us. You’ll also take part in a tailored induction program designed to familiarise you with our systems, people, and values, ensuring you feel welcomed as a valued member of our national team.

At HWLE, we encourage a way of working that helps our people deliver great outcomes, grow their careers, and enjoy life beyond the office. During your Clerkship, you will experience what it is like to be an employee of HWLE, and you will have the opportunity to attend a variety of social and networking events hosted by the firm.

BENEFITS

⎖ Clear career progression pathways, supported by the lowest solicitor-to-partner ratio in Australia.

“ The culture [at HWLE] was downto-earth, and the people were approachable and supportive. I liked that clerks and grads were given real work from the start, with direct access to senior lawyers, rather than just observing from the sidelines. ”

- Gabriella Katz, 2025 Graduate “ The culture [at HWLE] was downto-earth, and the people were approachable and supportive. I liked that clerks and grads were given real work from the start, with direct access to senior lawyers, rather than just observing from the sidelines. ”

- Gabriella Katz, 2025 Graduate APPLY NOW

⎖ Early responsibility through exposure to diverse clients, from small businesses to ASX-listed companies.

⎖ Culture of collaboration through networking opportunities, social events and firm-wide celebrations.

⎖ Merit-based structure that rewards performance and ensures you are inspired to shine.

⎖ Comprehensive induction and ongoing mentorship to build confidence and capability.

⎖ Pathway to Graduate Program: almost all of our graduate roles for 2028 are filled with those who clerk with us. This is your opportunity to see what life is like at HWLE.

DAY IN THE LIFE OF A HWLE LAW GRADUATE

7:30 AM

The commute to work begins! Whilst on the bus I love to listen to music and scroll through LinkedIn for any news updates or articles my colleagues have shared. 137 lawyers from our firm have been recognised as ‘Best Lawyers’ in Australia, and my practice group head was named one of the Lawyers of the Year!

8:00 AM

I like to arrive in the city early so I can get a coffee. I sometimes meet people from other firms as it is a great way to network and stay connected with my friends from uni. Today I met some of the other grads from HWLE.

8:30 AM

I arrive at the office and begin my day by checking my emails. I like to set an agenda to make sure I’m dealing with urgent matters first. Today that includes reviewing some client documents and arranging a time to meet with the partner to discuss next steps. Our firm is also participating in the Law Access Walk for Justice next month, so I make sure to sign up for that too!

10:00 AM

I sit in on a client meeting with an associate in my team regarding a deed of works and lease for our client who acts for the landlord. The associate goes through the comments and variations with the client, and I take down any notes and changes the client wants to make. Meeting clients face to face is always such a rewarding experience. After the meeting we have a coffee with the client. It is a great way to get to know everyone better as we will all be working closely together over the next few months.

11:30 AM

One of the partners brings donuts for the whole team to share for morning tea!

12:15 PM

I have a meeting with a partner in my team to discuss a pro bono matter. It concerns an elderly client, a question about the existence of a trust and a dispute over family property. I enjoy working on pro bono matters as it is very rewarding to help these types of clients whilst getting my head around interesting property law concepts at the same time.

12:30 PM

Lunchtime in the sun with my fellow grads!

1:30 PM

I get back to my desk and draft an initial email to our pro bono client for partner review after reading the residential tenancy agreement, referral summary and statement of agreed facts to see if we need to query anything with the client.

2:15 PM

NAME: Jasmyn Joseph

TITLE: Law Graduate

PRACTICE GROUP: Property

UNIVERSITY: UWA

DEGREE: Juris Doctor

YEAR OF GRADUATION: 2024

Part of being a grad means we participate in outside run! This involves delivering court documents to chambers, going to Landgate and making other deliveries to client offices around the CBD. It’s a great way to keep moving throughout the day and stretch our legs.

3:00 PM

I start reviewing client materials for another property partner in my team regarding an extension of lease for our client. Since I will be drafting this document, I have a look at some past examples my colleagues have done to get an idea of what is expected. I love at HWLE that juniors can work directly with partners on matters. It is so rewarding working on a wide variety of deals from start to finish and learning the lifecycle of transactions. I also enjoy how tangible working in the property team is - a lot of our clients have major properties all over Perth that I walk or drive past most days. It’s nice to see your hard work pay off.

3:50 PM

Since I am new to the property team, some of my colleagues run training sessions on ‘property basics’ that we will be dealing with throughout our rotation. I take the time to review the material from last week as I missed the in-person training session due to a College of Law exam. It is great to know as a junior at the firm that everyone in the team is invested in our learning. The training and mentorship are extremely valuable.

4:45 PM

Before I leave work, I always check that my time sheets are submitted for the day. I also send out emails to the colleagues I’ve done work for that day to give them a progress status report on where I am up to on their tasks. Communication is key.

5:00 PM

Time to pack up and leave for the day. I catch one last glimpse of the Swan River from reception before making my way to the bus to head home and get ready for HWLE Indoor Beach Volleyball.

7:30 PM

The firm’s social club has a volleyball team, and it is a great way to meet other people in the firm and stay active. I go along with another grad in my team and have so much fun! It is nice to see my colleagues outside a work context, and the energy from the team is great. It’s a lovely way to finish off the day.

A Summer Clerk REFLECTION

Reflecting on my time at Jones Day, my journey from summer clerk to graduate has been both formative and rewarding. I have had the privilege of learning from exceptional lawyers whilst gaining meaningful exposure to a diverse range of legal work.

Over the course of the eight-week clerkship program, I participated meaningfully in a wide range of matters, meeting and working with lawyers from many practice areas. I was welcomed to the team from day one and given every opportunity to explore my interests. I recall attending hearings in the Federal Court of Australia, working on cross-border matters, and researching unique areas of law. Most importantly, I was able to develop relationships with the teams I would go on to work with in the graduate program.

Since joining the New Lawyers Group, I have had the chance to work across nearly all of the practice groups in the Sydney Office. My experience is a testament to the unique, non-rotational structure of the program and the benefits of broad exposure to different areas of practice. Each experience has been different, and it has been rewarding to see how the practice groups collaborate, both within Australia and internationally. A particular highlight of the graduate program has been attending the New Lawyers Group Academy in Washington, D.C., where I had the privilege of meeting graduates from all of Jones Day’s offices.

Looking forward, I feel well-prepared to continue learning and developing in the graduate program. I am continuously impressed by the capabilities of the Firm and the support of my colleagues. I am grateful to be part of a team that prioritises mentorship and professional growth. I look forward to the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Cooper Barker

Former Summer Clerk, NLG and current Associate

Independent, Australian – with genuine global reach.

Start your career with a firm that backs its people – and its decisions.

We’re a proudly independent Australian law firm, which means decisions are made here, by the people you work with, in the best interests of our clients and our lawyers. You’ll have real access to partners and senior lawyers, and the autonomy that comes with a firm confident in who it is.

At the same time, our strong international relationships mean you’ll work on cross‑border matters with leading firms across Asia, the US, UK, Europe and New Zealand – gaining global exposure without losing visibility or support.

Pave your own path

In our graduate program, you will gain meaningful experience across three key practice areas. Our graduates are exposed to a variety of legal issues, clients, industries and foreign law firms and you will be encouraged to come up with legal and commercial solutions for our clients.

Our lawyers are given the work that reflects their ability and potential, not their job title. There are no barriers to your success with us.

Clerkship Experience Program

As a seasonal clerk you will experience what it’s like to be a lawyer at a top tier law firm You’ll gain hands-on experience working on market leading transactions and complex disputes where you will learn new skills and sharpen your edge

You will get to know our people, the way we work, our culture, practice areas, clients and more, and you will be supported every step of the way

Our clerkship program is open to students in their penultimate or final year of their Australian or New Zealand law degree

During the program you will be paired up with a:

Buddy Development Coach Mentoring Partner

A team member who provides informal and additional support to answer any questions you might have

A senior team member who helps you manage your workload and gives you feedback on your performance

10 June 2026

A Partner who supports your development with your Coach and gives context on the team structure, objectives and opportunities for growth

November 2026 - February 2027 (12 weeks) Applications

12 July 2026

Graduate Experience Program

At Mallesons we consider our graduates our future leaders and we invest heavily in your development Our graduate program offers you a future-focused learning curriculum and development support throughout your journey

During the 18-month program you will undertake three six-month rotations and benefit from a bespoke learning and development program tailored to each of your rotations

Our Practice Teams

Practice Teams

Banking & Finance

Dispute Resolution

Mergers & Acquisitions

Projects & Real Estate

Tax

Cross-Team Groups

Employee Relations & Safety

Intellectual Property

Competition

Sector Groups

Be involved in meaningful work covering a wide range of practice areas and jurisdictions

Work as part of a team with a range of support from Partners, Senior Associates and Solicitors

Gain exposure and training in Mallesons’ market leading technology tools

Automotive, Manufacturing & Industrials

Climate & ESG

Consumer & Retail

Financial Services

Food & Agribusiness

Government & Public

Healthcare & Pharmaceuticals

Energy, Resources & Infrastructure

Private Capital

Real Estate

Technology, Media, Entertainment & Telecommunications

Meet Georgia, 2024/25 Summer Clerk

Meet Erika, 2024 Graduate

Erika Serrano

Early careers at MinterEllison

There has never been a more exciting time to begin a career in law or consulting. And

there has never been a better time to do it at MinterEllison.

We’ve built something genuinely different. Legal excellence enhanced by specialist consulting. Where diversity of thought isn’t just a talking point – it’s actually how we solve complex problems for our clients. And we’re not just keeping up with disruption. We’re creating it, intentionally.

AI is at the heart of our strategy because AI is no longer hypothetical. It’s well and truly here. We made a decision to be at the leading edge. From day one, you’ll use AI tools to increase your productivity, lift the quality of your work and be creative – to actually do different things and deliver real value for our clients.

We believe the future legal and consulting workforce blends legal, digital, and commercial skills. That’s the workforce we’re building, and that’s the career we want to offer you.

An award winning start to your career

#1 Top Graduate Employer – Large Programs

Australian Association of Graduate Employers Awards 2025 and 2026

Winner, Outstanding Internship Program –Intakes over 50

AAGE Graduate Recruitment Industry Awards 2025

#1 Top Intern Employer – Large Programs

Australian Association of Graduate Employers Awards 2025

Finalist, Most Popular Clerkship Employer

2026 Seek Grad

Top100 Graduate Employer Awards

For information and to apply, visit graduates.minterellison.com

What makes MinterEllison Uniquely ME?

1. Collaborate with the best: work with the best minds in the Business

Work with the best minds in the business and experience the power of purposeful connection. Co-design solutions with high-calibre clients facing today’s most complex challenges, bringing together legal and consulting, digital, and commercial thinking to solve problems in new ways.

2. Embody excellence: great roles in great matters

Deliver excellence in everything we do – both for our clients and how we work together every day. Personify our purpose and values and deliver sustainable value to our clients, our people and communities.

3. Ignite your curiosity: dive into a culture of innovation

Dive into our culture of innovation, where new ideas are fostered and AI is fundamental to how we work. From day one, you’ll work with AI tools that amplify your productivity, elevate quality, and unlock creativity to deliver breakthrough value to clients.

4. Achieve your ambitions: develop the skills for tomorrow

Feed your passion for personal and professional achievement by working on truly significant matters with high-calibre clients. Grow your career in new and exciting directions, solving problems that haven’t been solved before by bringing together legal and consulting expertise with commercial acumen and digital capability.

5. Belong and be valued: bring your whole self to work

Bring your whole self to work and feel empowered to perform at your best. We’ve built a culture of curiosity, experimentation, and continuous learning – and that’s what attracts and retains top talent.

We work as one focused team. Our strength as a global law firm lies in a network of complementary legal and professional skills, knowledge and diverse perspectives that clients around the world rely on. The work we do is complex. Our ambitions are high. Our global reach means every role matters.

Turn ambition into achievement

Join a major Australian law firm

Starting your legal career at Thomson Geer will offer you real, hands-on experience across a wide variety of commercial disciplines and industry sectors, in a supportive and collaborative environment.

We’re ready for you

With more than 925 people, including over 155 partners, operating out of our offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Perth, Adelaide and Canberra, we are one of the 10 largest firms operating in Australia.

We offer a flexible, friendly and professionally stimulating environment that puts both our trusting client relationships and our staff’s wellbeing and development at the forefront.

From day one, you’ll be an active participant in the team, involved in all aspects of legal practice, and working directly with experienced practitioners.

Are you ready for us?

We’re looking for hard-working and motivated law students who have excelled academically, are client focused, commercially minded, work well in a team environment, and are ready to commence their career with a major law firm.

We are especially keen to talk to students who have, or are working towards, a second degree in technical fields, such as commerce, engineering and science.

Applications for our 2026/2027 Sydney summer clerkships open Wednesday 10 June 2026 via our website. Applications close Sunday 12 July 2026.

What do our clerks say?

“Everyone I dealt with at the firm was extremely friendly, professional and welcoming. I think the program is very well rounded. I appreciated the fact that it provided a realistic insight into working in the legal profession whilst still providing lots of support.”

“My supervisors / the team fostered a supportive yet constructive environment. The team’s approach allowed me to have the courage to have a go at tasks that challenged me. I am very grateful for my time and experience a TG.”

“The guidance from my supervising lawyer was to the highest quality I have received so far in my legal experience, having an approachable and patient mentor made an enormous difference and enhanced my learning experience.”

What’s it like to work for us?

The law is an incredibly rewarding profession, but we recognise it can be demanding. For this reason we create an environment that is flexible, friendly, personable, collegiate and professionally stimulating.

Our clients are at the centre of everything we do; so it is not only the collaborative, supportive relationships we have with each other, but also the well-established, trusting relationships we have with our clients, which make Thomson Geer a great place to work.

Our clerks participate in all our firm and office and team specific activities including Friday night socials, end of year celebrations, sporting teams, regular catch ups with mentors, comprehensive training, informative sessions about our varied practice groups and much more!

We prioritise the wellbeing of all our staff and provide sporting opportunities and encourage personal health. Our market leading EAP provides more than just work related advice but also covers topics such as nutrition, sleep, and financial wellbeing.

Our Graduate Program

Our clerks are eligible to be offered graduate roles. We also welcome final year students to apply for our graduate program too.

This program runs for 12 months and includes rotation among different practice areas to help determine the area of law which best suits you and your career path.

Developing you

We will dedicate time to your development as an up-and-coming lawyer in our team including numerous mentoring, learning, training and information sessions throughout your time at Thomson Geer.

You will find that our partners and staff are approachable and happy to share their knowledge and experience with you.

We encourage our clerks, graduates and trainees to get as much exposure to different practice areas and ways of working as they can – this is a reflection of how we work as a fully integrated, cohesive, national team.

Who are we looking for?

All of our clerks are viewed as potential graduates, and all of our graduates as potential leaders. We therefore look for the same qualities in our clerks and graduates that our lawyers need to possess.

Our lawyers are genuinely interested in our clients and their businesses. They need a critical and curious mind and are passionate about developing solutions in their commercial context.

If your ambition is to develop a career in commercial law and you possess the drive to make your ambitions a reality, we want to hear from you!