Law School Manual 2017

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© 2017 UTS Law Students’ Society This publication is copyright. Except where permitted under the Copyright Act, no part of this publication may form or by any means (electronic or otherwise) be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted by any process without specific written consent of the UTS Law Students’ Society. Enquiries are to be addressed to the publishers.

Disclaimer All expressions of opinion published in the LSM are not the official opinion of the UTS Law Students’ Society unless expressly stated. The UTS Law Students’ Society accepts no responsibility for the accuracy of any opinions or information contained herein and readers should rely on their own enquiries to make decisions in their own interest.

EDITORS Ling McGregor, Publications Director DESIGNED BY Megan Wong

Print Portal, Factory Unit 4, 102-112 Edinburgh Rd, Marrickville, NSW 2204.

www.printportal.com.au Law School Manual (LSM) is published in Sydney annually by the UTS Law Students’ Society PO Box 123, Broadway NSW, 2007 Room CB05A.01.08, UTS Haymarket Campus Cnr of Quay Street & Ultimo Road

Ph (02) 9514 3448 Fax (02) 9514 3427 www.utslss.com

WITH SPECIAL THANKS TO Katya Shliapnikoff, Vice President (Education), and Christina Knezevich, President of the UTS LSS, * Where unspecified, all photos and images have been for their help throughout the publication process. contributed by the UTS Law Students’ Society.

Contents 2. Dean’s Welcome 4. President’s Welcome 5. Director of Student’s Welcome 6. Around UTS/Navigating UTS 8.

About the UTS Law Students’ Society

9.

Wellbeing

10.

Education

11.

Peer Mentoring

12.

The Buddy Program

13.

Social Justice

14.

The Brennan Program

15.

Sports

16.

Careers

18.

Socials

20.

Competitions

22.

Postgraduate

24.

Top 5 Tips to Survive at Law School

26.

I’m A Law Student

28.

What I Wish I Had Known When I Started Law School

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Dean’s Welcome Written by Lesley Hitchens

February 2017 A very warm welcome and congratulations on being offered a place at UTS. I hope 2017 will be a rewarding year for you and the start of a life-long connection with UTS:Law. As Dean of the Law Faculty I am responsible for the day-today running of the Faculty, staff and students, and its future direction. I feel very privileged to be Dean of this Faculty. I am constantly amazed by the dedication of the academic and professional staff and their ongoing commitment to your learning experience. It is a privilege also to know and work with the students in this Faculty. Their enthusiasm, energy, and commitment are infectious. I also work closely with the UTS Law Students’ Society (LSS) and have been able to see at first-hand the range of LSS activities. Many of the activities undertaken by the LSS complement what we do formally in the Faculty: the competitions promote the skills which are embedded in each of our subjects through the Graduate Attributes; the social justice activities and events such as the Speaker Series encourage you to think beyond the technical law and to consider law critically in its broader social and political context; and, the social events are a good reminder that you need to take time away from study and work to relax. Looking after your health and well-being through rest and relaxation is an important aspect of developing your professional self.

I often talk about the Law Faculty as a community – faculty and students together. Since becoming Dean in 2013, I have valued the way in which staff and students here work together.

One of the most important aspects of that partnership is the joint responsibility we have for the Brennan Justice

and Leadership Program. This voluntary program is unique amongst law schools.

It provides amazing opportunities for you.

Each year, the Brennan Program Awards evening inspires us all as we hear from students about their volunteering activities. Through the Brennan Program, students have given service internationally and across Australia. One of the reasons I believe the Brennan Program has been so successful is because it is run through a true partnership of Faculty and students.

I encourage you to find out more about the Brennan Program and to get involved with it and the other activities offered by the LSS. These activities can be as important as what happens within the formal classroom for your understanding of law and your future career. I would encourage you to get involved early on in your university studies. I have often heard students express regret that they only got involved later on in their degree.

tion, one that is unique amongst law schools, and our alumni are enthusiastic champions for us. Alumni may seem remote to you, just commencing your legal studies, but a vibrant alumni community also offers benefits for current students through professional links and support. Our alumni already help us in many ways such as judging competitions, giving guest lectures, offering internship-like experiences, and mentoring students. There will be opportunities for you during your time at UTS to meet our talented alumni who are using their legal knowledge and skills to pursue a diverse range of careers.

One of my priorities as Dean is to reconnect with our alumni. I want to build a life-long partnership with our alumni, one which supports them and allows them to continue to engage with the Faculty as part of our community. I believe that UTS:Law offers an excellent legal educa-

I look forward to meeting many of you during the year and I wish you all the best for 2017 at UTS.

I also think that as Dean it is important to find ways to connect with the student body and to hear from you. I try to attend as many Brennan Program and LSS events as possible. I am also on Twitter and LinkedIn. Finally, I would like to commend the Law School Manual to you. Take the time to read it as it provides a wonderful introduction to the life of a law student – both the serious side and the fun. The Manual also gives you an early insight into the professionalism and dedication of the LSS Executive.

Lesley Hitchens (@lesleyhitchens) Dean, Faculty of Law

President’s Welcome Written by Christina Knezevich

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Welcome to UTS:Law! You’ve begun a journey that will expose you to a world of opportunity and a wealth of like-minded peers, many of whom will become your lifelong friends and colleagues.

The discipline of law changes the way you view and participate in society. A high quality legal education empowers you with a unique privilege to comprehend the complex rules that govern our world, and, hopefully inspiring you to utilise that privilege to serve others. You will soon find the skills you learn in law will open opportunities both throughout your degree and beyond graduation.

You are well placed at UTS to be among the top graduates and take full advantage of these opportunities. This is an institution with a reputation for producing forward-thinking students, as well as having a tight-knit and vibrant student community.

The next few years of your tertiary studies will undoubtedly involve long hours cramming, a lot of partying, balancing multiple commitments, and ultimately, a highly demanding but highly rewarding legal education. Law school can be a complex beast at the best of times, meaning you’ll have to be prepared for it. That’s where we come in!

The UTS Law Students’ Society (UTS LSS) is the largest, student-run organisation seeks to cater to the social, educational and vocational needs of law students at UTS. It is the “other half” of your law degree. The UTS LSS enriches the law student community with social events, legal skills competitions, careers networking events,

sporting functions, publications and social justice initiatives. In short, we seek to ensure your time at law school is as fulfilling as it can possibly be!

Whether you come to UTS:Law as an Undergraduate, Juris Doctor, or anything in between, the UTS LSS endeavours to provide for and involve all students. It’s more than another club or society – it is a support network charged with providing services to the diverse members of the UTS:Law community and representing your concerns where it matters.

I truly believe that you only get out of law school what you put into it. Personally, my experience at university had been enriched beyond measure by engaging with the opportunities provided by the UTS LSS and all the friends and connections along the way.

Challenge yourself, engage yourself, and I promise you will be rewarded. At this point in your degree you have nothing to lose and absolutely everything to gain.

Christina Knezevich UTS LSS President 2017

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Director of Student’s Welcome Written by Francis Johns

This is my first year as Director of Students.

One of my roles is to assist students who need advice in relation to their course. But don’t confuse this position with the role of the Student Centre. I don’t assist students in changing subjects or getting into specific classes, even if I may ultimately end up approving those applications. I think one of the more common responses to direct queries is going to be ‘lodge an eRequest’.

Further to this, the Law Student Handbook states the Director of Students provides ‘pastoral care’. This at first surprised me.

Partly because I wasn’t quite sure exactly what it meant. It’s not a counselling role, nor am I here to provide any spiritual guidance.

So I did a little research. The origins of the expression, pastoral care, could arguably be traced to the parable of the lost sheep.

Most people will miss the point of the story.

Ostensibly it’s about a sheep which is lost but is found by the shepherd. The analogy is one of straying from the path of righteousness. But any good lawyer will check the original authority. For those of you who will find it a challenge to read an entire case, it’s only a paragraph. The line we really care about is:

‘I tell you that even so there will be more joy in heaven over one sinner who repents, than over ninety-nine righteous people who need no repentance.’

Let me reiterate, I’m not here for spiritual guidance. And sometimes a reference to students as sheep will have quite a different meaning. However, when it comes to pastoral care the point is this: if any student is having difficulties with their studies, it’s not something blameworthy. Whatever plans and aspirations a student may have, the exigencies of life may impose themselves in a range of ways, such as sickness or accidents or family upheaval. One objective of the role is to help students get back on track. The faculty celebrates students who in the face of adverse circumstances are able to overcome them.

The university has mechanisms and support systems to assist students in whatever situations they may find themselves in. Study plans can be rearranged, and mitigating circumstances may be taken into account to see disappointing results in a more favourable context.

So please feel free to contact me. I’ve taught a range of core subjects over a number of years so I’ve gotten to know quite a few of the cohort. Ask around, I think most will say I’m at least approachable. But before you do, ask yourself if the issue you’re going to raise could be more efficiently solved by lodging an eRequest.

Francis Johns

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Around UTS Haymarket Attractions & Classic Eateries: • Dodgy dumplings • Chambers coffee • Woolies • Market City and Paddy’s Markets • Mecca coffee • Lightrail

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Bar Broadway Spice Alley Covent Garden Hotel Ramen Kan, 90 Hay St Mecca Coffee Darling Harbour Kensington St cafes

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Navigating UTS Student Centre: Call 1300 ASK UTS (1300 275 887) UTS Student Centres can help with: • Subject and course information • Study plan, enrolment and class allocation enquiries • Progression and academic caution • Exam related and academic progress applications • Leave of Absence and concurrent study applications • Recognition of prior learning and subject substitution applications • Graduation matters

Artwork by Kimberly Luo

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About the UTS Law Students’ Society Written by Christina Knezevich

What is the UTS LSS? The UTS Law Students’ Society (UTS LSS) is the largest society at UTS and has been improving the law school experience for over 40 years. As a non-profit organisation designed to cater to the needs of law students, the UTS LSS provides a plethora of initiatives that operate primarily for your benefit.

The Council is made up of six portfolios, being Activities, Careers, Competitions, Education, Marketing, and Social Justice. Thirty-four student representatives make up the 2017 Council, ranging from first year to fifth year, undergraduates to postgraduates.

Membership If you are a commencing law student, membership to the UTS LSS is free. Simply sign up at our stall during Orientation and you’re a member for the life of your degree!

If you miss sign-up on the day, don’t worry! Simply visit our website and you’ll find a sign up link there.

Signing up to the UTS LSS means, among other things, you’ll: • Get discounted ticket prices to all our social events, including Law Ball and Law Cruise • Be eligible to compete in any of our internal and intervarsity competitions • Be eligible for involvement in our educational initiatives, including Buddy Project and Peer Mentoring

• Be eligible to participate in our social justice initiatives • Get access to our various career and professional based initiatives • Get access to a range of publications, including The Full Bench, Law School Manual, Careers Guide and Clerkship Guide • Be eligible to apply for various equity schemes • Receive our e-newsletter, The Buzz

Get Informed and Involved There are so many avenues through which you can get involved: 1. Become a member 2. Follow us on social media – Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, even Snapchat!

3. Sign up to First Year Law Camp!

4. Come to any of our events and initiatives 5. Join the UTS LSS Council or one of our Subcommittees – we elect two First Year Representatives at Law Camp, otherwise elections are held in October

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Wellbeing My name is Annabelle Parmegiani and I’m the Student Wellbeing Director for the UTS LSS this year. As someone who is passionate about maintaining their own wellbeing, I hope that over the next year you too will become involved in working towards a healthy lifestyle.

Our aim is to ensure that students have the resources to maintain their own wellbeing, be it through community events or support services.

What makes up wellbeing For those who may feel as though ‘wellbeing’ is an ambiguous buzzword, here’s a bit of an idea about what it is and how to achieve it: Mindset Mindset and mindfulness are extremely important to wellbeing. Having a positive, realistic and optimistic outlook will not only aid your everyday life but also your uni work and grades. Taking time to focus on yourself and reset how you approach your life starts the flow of positivity, which radiates into everything. Keep an eye out for wellbeing events such as Smile Week and Random Act of Kindness Day, which help students to shift their focus from study and grades.

Support Network A support network is more than a group of friends; it’s a range of people that are there for you emotionally and practically. This can include family, friends, peers, colleagues and so on. UTS has a wealth of clubs and societies that can connect you to like-minded people.

Similarly, the UTS LSS has a heap of opportunities to connect you with other law students, be it through first year drinks or the buddy program. Putting yourself out there can be scary, however, you’ll soon find that many different communities only want to welcome and include other people.

Physical Health Your physical health affects more than just your body, but also your mood, concentration and, according to recent studies, can even make you smarter. Eating well and exercising regularly is often the first thing we seem to sacrifice during the busier periods of university. Sport is more accessible than ever at UTS, with a strong inclusive nature in their clubs and many social teams available. Similarly, the UTS LSS provides plenty of opportunities to engage in fitness and fun over the year. Whether it’s joining a new team or trying to go from couch to 5km, regular exercise and a healthy diet is an essential part of your wellbeing.

Mental Health Maintaining mental health goes beyond staying positive and riding through the natural ups and downs of life. Although mental illness can present itself at any age, studies have shown that late teens and early twenties is often the most common period for the onset of mental illness. It’s important to realise this when you or your friends change their behaviour dramatically, such as missing class, withdrawing, or failing to hand in assignments. Never fear reaching out, the UTS Counselling provides free and confidential consultations, ranging from concerns about your course choice to financial worries and mental health. Contact them at 02 9514 1177 or drop in at the Tower Building, Level 6.

Onwards and Upwards By getting in tune with your wellbeing, it can become easier to control. Over the next year, keep an eye out for events, blog posts and other UTS LSS initiatives that will help you be more in charge of your wellbeing.

Written by Annabelle Parmegiani

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Education Written by Katya Shliapnikoff

The UTS LSS offers a wide range of educational resources and initiatives that will enrich your learning experience at UTS:Law. The programs organised by the Education Portfolio are diverse and will provide you not only with networking, academic and mentoring opportunities, but also with interactive experiences that expose you to issues faced by the community, and challenge the way you think about the application of the law.

The Education Portfolio will provide you with support for all your academic and practical learning needs. The Portfolio organises the First Year Peer Mentoring Program with the Law Faculty to provide you with academic support in your first year, along with the Buddy Project, which pairs you with your older peers who can be your go-to law school buddies. Additionally, if you ever find yourself struggling with a subject, the Subject Tutoring Database is there to hook you up with someone to help you figure it out.

When you’re feeling stressed or down, the Education Portfolio will lift your spirits with some exciting wellbeing initiatives.

From puppies to free smoothies and massages, Smile Week will focus on physical and mental wellness and will run in

both semesters, to cheer you up and help you get through the long year.

We also present you with publications and speaker events that can excite your legal mind and broaden the way you view the legal system. The Full Bench, the UTS LSS’ legal publication, consists of articles written by peers that delve into topical legal themes and explore the application of law in the community. Our speaker events, which are known as Speaker Series, include a series of three events where knowledgeable experts and professionals speak on a panel about topical themes to explore the way the law adapts and evolves.

The UTS LSS is here to help you through your legal studies anywhere we can and we hope that these initiatives will not only support your academic and practical learning needs, but help extend and enrich your experience at UTS.

If you have any questions please don’t hesitate to contact us: Katya Shliapnikoff Vice President (Education)

vpe@utslss.com

Lucas Velcic Education Director (Internal Engagement)

Ling McGregor Publications Director

publications@utslss.com

edu.internal@utslss.com Tom Miletich Education Director (External Engagement)

edu.external@utslss.com

Annabelle Parmegiani Student Wellbeing Director

student.wellbeing.director@utslss.com

Peer Mentoring Written by Lucas Velcic

Looking for a group of like-minded law students to collaborate with and learn from in your first weeks of university? Want the experience of older students, so that concepts can be explained from a relatable perspective? Like to socialise and connect with people in the same new and exciting environment as you? Then Peer Mentoring is a perfect fit for you! Peer Mentoring is a joint initiative of the UTS:Law Faculty and the UTS LSS, focused on helping new students settle into their degree in a clear and concise manner.

What is Peer Mentoring?

Peer Mentoring provides first year undergraduate law and Juris Doctor students with the knowledge, insight and skills necessary to start their law degrees on the right foot.

Classes are run by student mentors who have excelled in first year subjects, and allow new students the chance to supplement their learning.

Why should you attend?

The program is a great way to ease any anxieties or uncertainties that may arise as a result of commencing your studies. Classes consist of the content studied in your introductory legal subjects. Most importantly, Peer Mentoring facilitates a friendly and casual learning environment where there

are absolutely no stupid questions – everyone is in the same boat. It is a great chance to have all of your questions answered in a relaxed setting.

Topics covered: • How to read and analyse legal authorities • Legal research – strengths and weaknesses of databases and when to use them • IRAC method for problem questions • Time management skills • Study skills and note-taking When does it run?

Weeks 3–8 of Autumn and Spring, depending on when you commence your first year law subjects. There is no registration required – simply rock up, listen, learn, and of course, have fun.

Autumn Session Peer Mentoring program launch: Tuesday 4 April 2017 at 1:30pm. More information will be available closer to the launch date and can be found on www.utslss.

com/education/first-year-peer-mentoring

Buddy Project Written by Lucas Velcic

Needing a wise mentor? Looking for some tips and tricks on how to get ahead in your subjects? Want more friendly faces around campus? Then the Buddy Project is for you!

Whether a newbie straight out of high school or a more experienced student entering law school, the Buddy Project is an initiative that will help you transition into UTS:Law quickly and easily.

The Buddy Project is an initiative established by the UTS LSS that involves first year students (the Junior Buddies) being paired with second year or older students (Senior Buddies). The aim of the program is to better connect UTS law students and strengthen our community. The program provides greater unity within the community and gives Junior Buddies access to valuable insights about university life, study, UTS LSS events and other vital information in an informal and relaxed setting.

The program allows for first year students to meet and familiarise themselves with the people and culture surrounding campus in an easy and effective manner. Having someone to guide you through the challenges of university life is a wonderful and invaluable experience. Having friendly faces around the sometimes daunting campus makes all the difference in your first weeks. These connections can help you utilise all the opportunities that UTS:Law has to offer.

Mentoring a new student is an incredibly rewarding experience that introduces fresh faces to impart your wisdom and experience onto. Having a new perspective on university life can excite and brighten up those who have been a part of our community for so long! The relaxed nature of the

12 program lets you make real connections with those who you can help during this exciting transition.

Autumn Session Buddy project launch: Tuesday 28 March 2017 at 1:30pm. Before you know it, you and your buddy could be meeting up for some delicious dumplings and coffee during semester! Send us an email at edu.internal@utslss.com with your name and contact details to let us know if you’re interested in becoming a Junior Buddy or Senior Buddy.

Subject Tutoring: Looking for some extra help in your subjects?

A formal tutoring program is also available for anyone who wants to get ahead in their subjects.

Just log onto: http://www.utslss.com/education/ subject-tutoring/ and contact the tutors listed.

The list of experienced UTS:Law students can help you get on the right track and start your degree on the right note!

For further information, please feel free to access the Law Students’ Society website at http://www.utslss.com/education/ or contact:

Lucas Velcic, UTS LSS Education Director (Internal Engagement) at edu.internal@utslss.com

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Social Justice Written by Sarah Avery & Ushna Bashir

The Social Justice Portfolio is your go-to for all things social justice, including equity initiatives, support services, volunteer and community work, and so much more. If you are a student in need, or you have a passion for justice, you’ve come to the right place. Check out our website for more information at utslss.com/social-justice/

Justice Action Committee (JAC) The JAC is the dedicated subcommittee of the Social Justice Portfolio. Each year through an applications process, students are selected to support our work. The JAC work on government submissions, letters to parliament, and support our events including the Social Justice Conference, Charity Trivia Nights, the Homelessness Clothes Drive, and the Asylum Seeker Support BBQ. Students are also encouraged to take initiative, follow their passions, and come up with ideas to pursue as a member of the JAC. Last year, the JAC helped the us raise almost $20,000 for different community organisations. All work is eligible for Leadership Through Service Hours and/or Reflection on Justice Points under the Brennan Program.

Equity & Diversity The UTS LSS wants to ensure that students of all backgrounds are able to do their best at law school, and aren’t inhibited by any disadvantage or minority status. For more about our specific Inclusion Policy see it in full here

www.utslss.com/social-justice/inclusion-policy/ Support Services The UTS LSS is committed to your wellbeing and has collated an extensive guide of support services and resources available at UTS for students of any background or persuasion. Check it out here! utslssresourcesguide.

wordpress.com

Applications open on Friday 31 March 2017

Textbook Equity Scheme The textbook equity scheme functions to assist financially disadvantaged students by providing them with free semester-long textbook loans, and runs throughout Autumn, Spring and Summer semesters. The scheme is governed by the Code of Conduct, accessible by the UTS LSS website, to ensure the smooth and successful operation of the initiative.

To apply, students must send in the application form and necessary documentation to the Equity Director, who will assess eligibility.

Applications open Monday 6 March!

Textbook Rental Scheme This scheme also provides semester-long textbook loans, however, it is open to everybody! Students will be charged at half the text’s RRP, of which half is refunded upon returning the textbook. The application process is quick and easy, and only contingent on availability of required books.

Applications open Friday 17 March!

If you have any questions, feel free to contact us: Sarah Avery Vice President (Social Justice)

vpsj@utslss.com Ushna Bashir Equity Director

equity@utslss.com Anna Fletcher Brennan Program Director

brennan.program@utslss.com

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The Brennan Program Written by Anna Fletcher

The Brennan Program is a joint initiative of the UTS LSS and the Faculty of Law, and recognises the innate connection between the study of law and issues of justice and equality.

It encourages students to expand their learning outside of the classroom and discover where their legal skills intersect with real world issues. The program consists of two components: Reflections on Justice, wherein students critically engage with complex concepts of justice through events, discussion and personal reflection; and Leadership Through Service, which requires students to undertake active voluntary service within the community.

The dual nature of the program enables students to engage with the meaning of justice in different social contexts in a holistic way. By empowering students to explore their own interests in challenging and creative ways, the program creates compassionate and conscientious graduates who will carry their passion for social justice with them as they enter the professional world.

Students are able to engage with the program by attending visits to the Villawood Detention Centre and Westmead Children’s Hospital, participating in student-led discussion

groups, assisting at the clinics run on campus for the Refugee Advice and Casework Service (RACS), reading and reflecting on the Brennan Justice Book of the Year, or attending the many social justice events and initiatives run throughout the year. The program is flexible to suit your interests and passions, so if you have any questions, just ask!

For further information on the Brennan Program visit www.law.uts.edu/brennan or ‘UTSBrennanProgram’ on Facebook. Opportunities to become involved in social justice activities or volunteering are also regularly posted in the ‘UTS LSS Legal and Social Justice Opportunities’ Facebook group and on UTS Online.

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Sports Written by April Wark

The UTS LSS offers law students the opportunity to participate and be actively involved in competitive sporting events, as well as social gatherings where participants can get fit and have fun at the same time!

Boot Camp In both Autumn and Spring, Boot Camp runs two days a week and is a fantastic way to keep fit and make friends along the way. This event involves access to a personal trainer and breakfast after each training session!

Match Viewings This will be another new initiative where we are hoping to bring a large group of UTS LSS students together to watch major sporting events such as State of Origin. We are also hoping to organise group trips to the NRL, AFL, A-League and cricket matches.

Interfaculty Sports Competitions Let’s get ready to rumble! This is an amazing opportunity to show the other faculties what law is really made of! Every semester, the faculties come together and compete against one another in sporting competitions including mixed netball and indoor soccer. Get involved and show your support for your fellow law students!

Yoga Feeling the pinch already? Yoga sessions will be an exciting new initiative that the UTS

LSS is hoping to kick start at the beginning of the Spring session. We will be hiring a professional to run sessions on either a Tuesday or Thursday morning. Stay tuned throughout the year for further updates.

Dodgeball A fun and energetic initiative where the war paint comes out, friendships are put aside and teams go head to head pelting balls at one another (all in the name of charity of course!).

Team Initiatives This year, we will continue to enter the UTS LSS in external events such as City2Surf and Tough Mudder.

Intervarsity Sports Day For those who are competitive and love representing the UTS LSS and UTS as a whole, this day provides an amazing opportunity for students to play mixed netball, soccer and touch football against teams from other universities. It is also an opportunity to make new friends along the way.

Sign-ups for most competitions will commence in either Week 2 or 3 of each session, or roughly a month out from its scheduled date. Be sure to like the UTS LSS Facebook page and visit utslss.com to keep updated on events so you don’t miss out!

For more information about playing sport with the LSS, at UTS in general, about going to Uni Games or about the UTS gym, feel free to contact April at sports@utslss.com.

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Careers Written by Christian Bablanian

As a first year student, where you will find yourself as a young professional in the legal sphere might not yet be a pressing concern. You may choose to become a solicitor in a firm, or a barrister in your own chambers. You might decide to work as an in-house lawyer for a company, or you may find yourself working for the United Nations advocating for human rights. The possibilities and opportunities before you are incredibly vast, and the UTS LSS Careers team is here to ensure that you emerge from your time with UTS:Law armed with the knowledge and experience necessary to navigate the often turbulent and competitive world of the legal industry.

Summer clerkships, graduate positions and internships may be something to consider a few years down the line. However, as a first year student, you will stand to benefit greatly from taking advantage of the opportunities and services that the UTS LSS Careers team offers. As you will soon read in your Foundations of Law textbook, ‘it’s never too soon to start gaining experience’. We highly recommend liking the ‘UTS LSS Legal and Social Justice Opportunities’ Facebook page, as well as regularly checking the UTS LSS website to make sure you never miss an opportunity to gain some work or volunteering experience.

Workshops You’ll also have an opportunity to attend the many Skills Workshops the Careers team will host throughout the year.

These workshops will all focus on extremely useful skills

you’ll need to set your careers in motion, from personal branding, to CV and cover letter writing, to interviewing tips and advice from industry-leading professionals. You are also encouraged to attend the many panel events and seminars held through the year, from ‘Women in Law’ and ‘Careers Beyond Corporate Law’.

Publications The UTS LSS will also be releasing Careers Guides throughout the year, which will serve as comprehensive go-to guides if you wish to learn about the many paths that you may choose to follow once armed with your degree.

No matter what career path you choose to pursue when your time at UTS:Law comes to an end, the UTS LSS and its Careers team are here to ensure that you’re equipped with the knowledge and experience to tackle it head on. If you ever have any questions, queries or suggestions, feel free to email us:

Christian Bablanian Vice President (Careers)

vpca@utslss.com

Wendy Yuan Careers (Activities) Director Hanna Ali Careers (Publications) Director

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Socials

First Year Law Camp What’s the best way to kick-start your law school experience in a fun and relaxed environment? First Year Law Camp!

The first few weeks of law school can be daunting and overwhelming, but fear not, as First Year Law Camp is the best way to meet your fellow law peers, build lasting friendships, spend a weekend away with an awesome group of people, get great tips on navigating yourself through law school, and of course party, too!

The UTS LSS is committed to ensuring financial difficulties are no set back for any student, and a subsidy for tickets is available for first year students in proven financial hardship, as assessed via the Equity Director.

When? Friday, 24 – Sunday, 26 March 2017!

First Year Law Drinks First Year Law Drinks is the perfect chance for you to celebrate your first few weeks at UTS. It’s a great opportunity to make new friends and catch up with the friends you made on First Year Law Camp. With drinks and food included, all for FREE, it’s a great way to start the night.

If that’s not enough, kick-ons are right after at the UTS LSS Start of Semester Party where the celebration will continue with students from all years!

When? Friday, 31 March 2017!

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Start of Semester Parties Before you get stuck into readings, join us for an awesome party and a drink or two. Bring your dance moves and all of your friends and prepare to party UTS LSS style! Our Autumn Start of Semester Party always occurs immediately after out First Year Law Drinks, so it’s the best way to start uni with a bang!

When? Friday, 31 March 2017 Law Cruise Seas the day at the UTS LSS Law Cruise – one of the best social events at UTS – with breathtaking harbour views, ridiculous costumes and endless food and drinks! Don’t forget to prepare your lifejacket and snap up those tickets early, as Law Cruise is always quick to sell-out!

When? Mid May 2017 Law Ball Without a doubt the most anticipated night of the year, where students of all year groups are invited to put on their best dress and suit to party in class and style! With a live band and DJ, a three-course dinner and celebratory drinks all evening, Law Ball is the must-attend event of the year!

When? Late September 2017 End of Semester Parties Celebrate the end of exams and say farewell to another semester of law with the UTS LSS. End of semester parties are hosted at the end of both the Autumn and Spring semesters so join us and hang out with some mates before you jet off during the break!

When? Early July 2017

Written by Kimberly De Costa

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Competitions Written by Emily Paterson

Why get involved in competitions UTS Competitions are an invaluable way to add some excitement to your studies. Each competition enables you to hone and improve your speaking, research and reasoning skills, whether as an advocate appearing before the bench, or as a solicitor representing a client.

All students can gain immediate and long term benefits from participating in competitions, regardless of their stage of studies. Not only do competitions look fabulous on CVs, they allow students to network with other students, faculty members, and legal practitioners. For a lot of students, competitions are the first step in identifying which area of law they want to practice in.

How to get involved As a competitor Open competitions are run in the Autumn Semester; these are open to all students regardless of experience. In the Spring Semester, the junior competitions are run; these competitions are limited to first and second year students with no previous experience in that competition. Junior Competitions present the perfect sand-pit for those who want to give it a go and leave it all out on the court. Around the latter half of the Autumn Semester, there will be a junior competitions workshop for each competition. These are run by the competitions directors with the assistance of experienced competitors and aim to help all newbies with the basics, ins and outs, and answer all those burning questions.

As a volunteer The perfect opportunity for students to get a feel for the competitions is to join the Student Volunteer Committee. By doing so you will have the opportunity to experience competitions from the perspective of the witness or the client, learn the tips and tricks from the pros, and network with other students. Keep an eye on the UTS LSS Facebook page for the call for volunteers in early 2017.

For more information and registrations please see the UTS LSS website: http://www.utslss.

com/competitions/

For any questions which cannot be answered by the website you can contact Emily Paterson, Vice President of Competitions at vpc@

utslss.com.

Introducing the Comps Client Interviewing A client comes to you, a solicitor within a firm, with a problem and seeks your legal advice. In order to help them you need to learn the client’s story and identify the legal issues.

This competition requires little preparation and only basic legal knowledge. The emphasis is on your ability to engage with your client and build the basis of a strong working relationship.

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Negotiation Teams of two represent opposing parties in a simulated legal dispute. The aim is to reach an outcome that satisfies the goals of the individual clients, but also reflects consideration for the interests of the other party.

Skills in negotiation are becoming increasingly essential for lawyers as clients are more inclined to settle disputes away from the court.

Witness Examination (Witex) Acting as either a Prosecution or Defense barrister in a criminal matter, competitors must lead their witness in an examination in chief, followed by a brutal (all in the spirit of good fun) cross-examination of the opponent’s witness. Your objective is to establish

a factual scenario beyond reasonable doubt, hopefully in your witnesses’ favour.

Mooting Teams of two or three are given a legal problem within a factual matrix. The teams must first identify the legal issues, research and compose a written argument in the form of written submissions. Then teams must formulate a persuasive oral argument to put to the court. Mooting is the most demanding competition in terms of man hours, however a Mooting Mentoring Program runs during the Junior Competition to assist first-time competitors. In addition to the junior and open competitions there are also subject specific moots, which run over the year. Success in mooting can lead to intervarsity opportunities at the local, national and international level.

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It was the best of times, it was the worst of times – A Tale of Two Degrees.

Written by Mitch Frankland Welcome back to uni! For some it has been a while, and for others you are just rolling back in from completing a degree last semester. Either way, you have made a great choice in coming to UTS, and I wish you all the best for 2017.

For those of you who don’t know me, my name is Mitch Frankland, I’m a second-year JD student, and the UTS LSS Postgraduate Representative for 2017. As Postgrad Rep, my role is two-fold; first, to bring the interests of the PG cohort before the UTS LSS council, and second, to put on events for the PGs. On top of this, feel free to send me a message on just about anything, be it directions around building 5, how to footnote, or if you want to share a dozen steamed pork and chives dumplings.

For all new JDs, here are my tips for success: 1. Don’t be too cool for school – I know you don’t want to discuss your ATAR and you might not have just turned 18, but that doesn’t mean you can’t participate in any uni related activities. There are plenty of postgrads competing in competitions, getting Brennan points, going to UTS LSS events, dancing at law ball, and generally being involved in uni life. The UTS LSS events are where good friends are made, and put a fun twist on an otherwise tough semester.

2. Act your age – this might sound contradictory to the first point, but it is no longer a good look to be sitting in the back of the classroom, not having done the readings, and not being able to participate. Leave the allnight assignments with your undergrad, and use some of that added maturity to stay on top of your work!

3. Don’t quit your day job – the JD is no walk in the park, and for me it took countless more hours than my

undergrad, but it doesn’t have to take over your life. For those of you with careers, you don’t have to give them up; for those of you with families, there is plenty of time for both; and for those of you with hobbies outside of the library, stick to them. Balance is essential.

4. Make some m8s – you will only get through this degree with some dedicated and keen friends on the inside, for splitting up readings, catching up for coffee, and discussing the finer points of legal theory before an exam. The UTS cohort is very welcoming, and these people will make your degree.

The JD can be the worst of times when you are staring at a pile of paper that may as well be written in Greek. But it is also the best of times when you are having a late brunch at Chambers after a morning class, getting great results, competing in competitions, and cutting some shapes on the law ball dance floor.

To stay up to date, please like the UTS LSS Postgrad Facebook page, and if you stumble across any problems, please shoot me a message at postgrad@utslss.com. I’ll see you all at the start of semester drinks, 6 April 2017 at the Loft!

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Top 5 Tips to Survive at Law School

Go to Class: we know the temptation is there to skip class, but don’t. Your tutors can provide information that could be very helpful in wrapping your head around the difficult parts of the course. Consistently going to class will make studying for the final exams just that little bit easier.

Make friends and network: work together with friends to write notes. Law school can be a joint effort, and working together will help to ease the workload. Buddy up with older law students who can impart wisdom and be an additional support for you.

Practice and listen to feedback: getting involved in competitions or writing for publications is a great way to become involved in legal conversations and put what you have learnt at uni into practice. This will also provide you with opportunities to get feedback on your ideas, and will help you develop your legal skills.

J O K E Don’t make your whole life R

about law school: find out what you enjoy doing, do it, and always maintain that balance. Make sure you don’t fall into the trap of only thinking about uni, and spending all of your time studying; make sure you make time to hang out with friends, go to the gym, and read books that aren’t your textbooks.

J O K E R

Get involved at law school: join societies and go to their events - this will help you meet people.

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I’m A As you begin your degree, you will most likely start to hear the phrases “I’m a law student” and “excuse me, I’m going to be a lawyer”. These phrases may even enter your own vocabulary and become a trope in your own interactions. However, before you go throwing around the old one-two, you might like to consider the following guidelines:

When is it considered INAPPROPRIATE to say “I’m a law student”?

• When engaging in conversation • When arguing in Facebook comments • When being asked why you didn’t tap on your Opal card • When on the phone to Telstra customer service • When trying to return an item outside of the 14 day return period • When trying to flirt with someone • When security won’t let you into a club • When security are escorting you from the club • When the police have come because you won’t leave the area outside the club • When giving an unsolicited opinion • When trying to get out of a parking fine • When with friends • When with colleagues • When with strangers • In any conversation not specifically about what you study

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When is it APPROPRIATE to say “I’m a law student”?

• In a conversation specifically about what you study Other phrases that you might like to avoid in everyday conversation, whether it be about braised eggplant or a parking fine: • I’m taking this to the Ombudsman • I’ll see you in court • That reminds me of this one case where...

Law Student

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What I Wish I Had Known When I Stared Law School

Everyone else is also figuring it all out, and no one really has a clue what they’re doing.

Don’t be afraid to speak up and ask questions!

The seminars, networking events, and range of programs that the LSS advertises are there to help you - take advantage of them asap.

Factor in time for referencing.

Clear writing is best.

Making thorough notes throughout the semester will not only equip you well for our open-book exams, but they’re also a surefire way of making you the most popular person in the cohort at the end of the semester.

Like what you see?

Contribute to an UTS LSS publication this year!

For more information, keep an eye on our website for calls for contributors or email publications@utslss.com.