2012 clerkship guide
DESCRIPTION
This is the 2012 edition of The Full Bench published by the UTS Law Students' Society.TRANSCRIPT
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summerclerkshipguide
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2 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
CONTENTS
CO
NTEN
TS
EDITOR
Isabelle DUGGAN
CONTRIBUTORS
Katherine AGAPITOS
Helena ASHER
Codie ASIMUS
Jessica AYE
Tess COOK
Kathryn CROSSLEY
Jamesina McLEOD
Natalie NASTEVSKA
Professor Paul REDMOND
Amy SIMPSON
Michelle SMERDON
Maryanna VASILAREAS
Emma WHITE
Ingrid WOON
DESIGNER
Linda HOANG
ACTING DEAN OF LAW
Professor Lesley HITCHENS
UTS LSS PRESIDENT
Emma BECHARA
UTS LSS VP (SPONSORSHIP & CAREERS)
Amy SIMPSON
WITH THANKS TO
Kwik Kopy Neutral Bay
Copyright and Disclaimer
© UTS Law Students’ Society.
This publication is copyright. Except where permitted under the Copyright Act, no part of this
publication may be reproduced or stored by any process, electronic or otherwise, without the specifi c
written permission of the UTS Law Students’ Society.
Disclaimer:
The articles and opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Law
Students’ Society, the Editor, or the UTS Faculty of Law. Although the editor and authors have
taken every care in preparing and writing the guide, they expressly disclaim and accept no liability
for any errors, omissions, misuse or misunderstandings on the part of any person who uses or
relies upon it. The editor, authors and UTS Law Students’ Society accept no responsibility for any
damage, injury or loss occasioned to any person or entity, whether law student or otherwise, as a
result of a person relying, wholly or in part, on any material included, omitted or implied in this
publication.
The user of this guide acknowledges that he or she will take responsibility for his or her actions
and will under no circumstances hold the editor, authors or UTS Law Students’ Society responsible
for any damage resulting to the user or anyone else from use of this publication.
03. MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR
04. MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN
05. MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
06. GLOBALISATION AND THE LARGE AUSTRALIAN LAW FIRM
08. AN INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE
11. UTS LSS CLERKSHIP SCHEDULE
THE FIRMS
14. ALLEN & OVERY
17. ALLENS
20. ASHURST
23. BAKER & MCKENZIE
26. CLAYTON UTZ
32. CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH
37. DIBBS BARKER
38. DLA PIPER
41. FREEHILLS
44. GADENS
49. GILBERT & TOBIN
53. HENRY DAVIS YORK
56. HERBERT GEER
58. JOHNSON WINTER & SLATTERY
59. KING & WOOD MALLESONS
63. LANDER & ROGERS
64. MIDDLETONS
65. MINTER ELLISON
68. NORTON ROSE
71. WEBB HENDERSON
TIPS FOR APPLYING
72. THE APPLICATION
76. THE COVER LETTER
77. THE CV
80. THE INTERVIEW
86. CONDITIONS WHEN APPLYING
87. PARTICIPATING LAW FIRMS
UTS Law Students’ Society
C/- Faculty of Law UTS
P.O Box 123
Broadway NSW 2007
Australia
P: +61 2 9514 3448
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3LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
MESSAGE FROM THE EDITOR
3LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
And so another year group of law stu-
dents brings with it another year of
clerkship applications. For many law
students the lure of the shiny glass tower com-
mercial law fi rm is all but impossible to resist,
but it is important to realise your law degree
opens doors to endless opportunities, from a
career as a commercial lawyer to working in
international human rights, as a public pros-
ecutor or even in management consulting. Ad-
ditionally, there has also been the shift towards
the globalization of some large Australian law
fi rms, thus changing the legal environment in
which as graduates we will enter.
It is worth thinking closely about the direction
you want your law degree to take you when
deciding where to apply for a summer clerk-
ship. The culture of every fi rm is different and
as much as it seems to be about the law fi rms
choosing law students, it is equally, if not more
important that law students choose the right
fi rm or fi rms to apply to.
What areas of the law interest you? What do
you value? Make sure you apply to fi rms that
refl ect this - whether it is important to you
that a fi rm has a large pro-bono practice or
is known for their excellence in capital mar-
kets. Each fi rm is very different and each has
their own culture and legal specialisations.
This Guide contains introductions to and clerk
experiences at some of the fi rms running sum-
mer clerkship programs this year. However I
would also encourage you to attend the Clerk-
ship Networking Evening and the Clerkship
Seminars run by the LSS to fi nd out more
about the individual fi rms, and how they might
be a good fi t for your personality and interests.
As well as this make sure you talk to current
graduates and past summer clerks about their
experiences at different fi rms. All of this will
hopefully aide your decision making process
in those crucial last few days before applica-
tions close.
Finally, some general tips. Be yourself. Make
a positive fi rst impression. Let your application
refl ect the very best of your hard work and
extracurricular activities. Don’t forget to proof-
read and save your applications every few
minutes. The interview is your opportunity to
elaborate on the points made in your applica-
tion and to let your personality shine through.
In this Guide we have included tips about writ-
ing a great application and being a star in the
interview amongst other essential information
to ensure you are ready to attack the applica-
tion process ahead.
Remember, a summer clerkship is not the
be-all and end-all. Plenty of law students
have been disappointed in missing out on a
place, but other opportunities always open
up, for example in social justice organisations,
government, or even boutique law fi rms. The
Careers Guide released in early September will
showcase the very best of the variety of dif-
ferent careers a UTS law degree can lead to.
The possibilities are endless so keep an open
mind. And some students choose to not do
any of that and just travel the world for a few
months, which is pretty attractive too.
Whatever path you choose to pursue, I hope
you fi nd your passion somewhere. I also hope
you fi nd the Guide helpful in navigating a hec-
tic clerkship season.
Best regards,
Isabelle Duggan
Careers (Publications) Director
UTS Law Students’ Society 2012
MESSAGEFROM THE EDITOR, ISABELLE DUGGAN
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4 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
MESSAGE FROM THE ACTING DEAN
4 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
The Summer Clerkship Guide produced
by the Law Students’ Society is a valua-
ble resource whether you are planning
to apply for a summer clerkship or perhaps
are still thinking about whether or not this
experience is for you. It will provide you with
information about the fi rms, the process, tips,
and you can also read about the experiences
of former summer clerks. The Guide will also
provide you with information about the proper
procedures to be followed. You should make
sure that your applications follow the require-
ments of the scheme and the fi rms to which
you are applying.
Applying for clerkships can be quite an intense
experience from the application stage through
to interviews and fi nally offers. However, it is
important to keep this in perspective. The
clerkship program and the fi rms engaged in
the program represent only a very small share
of the career and employment opportunities
which will be available to you as a graduate.
According to the Law Society of NSW’s 2011
Profi le of NSW solicitors, only about 22% of
NSW solicitors employed in private practice
work in fi rms with 40 or more partners and
law fi rms with more than 20 partners repre-
sent only 0.5% of all law fi rms in NSW. And,
of course, of those in practice, around 30%
will be employed by Government or by cor-
porations. Your law degree will equip you for
a diverse range of careers which may or may
not involve the formal practice of law – not to
mention the international career opportunities.
You may not even be aware at this stage of the
diverse possibilities.
UTS Law students are well regarded. How-
ever, the clerkship program is highly competi-
tive and there will be many more applicants
than places. Even if you are not successful
in obtaining a clerkship, the experience can
still be valuable. Preparing your application
can help you to identify your strengths and
to refi ne how you present relevant informa-
tion about yourself. Interviews provide useful
practice and experience. They will give you an
idea of what is expected of a law interview and
a chance for you to see how you manage the
interview. Take time after the interview to re-
fl ect on it: what went well and what could have
been improved. Use the tips in this guide as
an aid for that refl ection (as well as a guide
to preparing for the interview). But don’t be
too hard on yourself, we can all look back on
interviews and wish we had said something
differently! So whether or not you decide to
participate in the program, and whether or
not you are successful, the clerkship period
can assist you to refl ect on what type of career
you want and/or improve your application and
interviewing skills. And for those of you who
are successful in obtaining a clerkship, the
experience will also offer you the chance to
consider whether that is the career path you
want to pursue when you have qualifi ed.
And fi nally, good luck with the process!
Professor Lesley Hitchens,
Acting Dean
MESSAGEFROM THE ACTING DEAN, LESLEY HITCHENS
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5LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
5LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
Clerkship season is upon us.
I hope this introduction - and this guide
as a whole - provides those of you who
know a great deal about the clerkship process,
with just a bit more information – and arms
those students who know very little about the
clerkship process, with a wealth of information
that will assist you throughout your clerkship
experience.
In brief, a clerkship is a 12-week long “intern-
ship” that students in their second last year
of law school can apply to be a part of, at a
vast range of Australian and international law
fi rms. This period is called a clerkship. At
the end of the clerkship, “clerks” (i.e. those
students who have undergone the clerkship),
are generally invited to attend a fi nal interview
at their fi rm, with the view of being offered a
graduate position at the said fi rm. More often
than not, students are successful in securing
a graduate offer after their clerkships. Clerks
then typically complete their fi nal year of study,
before commencing at the fi rm as a graduate
solicitor. The penultimate year requirement is
applicable to both undergraduate and post-
graduate/Juris Doctor students.
To be accepted into a clerkship program, is a
testament to your hard work and commitment
to your studies, extra-curricular activities and
your work-life balance. It is an invaluable expe-
rience that will provide you with an insight into
both the fi rm you have been invited to clerk
at, and the corporate world generally. The ap-
plication and interview processes are rigorous.
Whilst no two fi rms are the same in terms of
application requirements, they all share two
commonalities: academic transcripts & extra-
curricular activities. If you are considering ap-
plying, I would advise reviewing your CV and
list of extra-curricular activities, to ensure that
you have noted all activities you deem relevant
to your character and experiences. This will
prepare you for when the applications for the
various fi rms offi cially open.
ARE YOU FEELING A LITTLE LOST?
THINGS TO DO:
1. Read this guide – this guide has been pro-
duced for your information and the articles in
this guide will assist you with the fundamen-
tals of the clerkship process;
2. Attend the Clerkship Seminars – these
seminars are an opportunity to meet with
representatives from the various fi rms in a
one-on-one basis, and to learn more about
the clerkship process specifi c to an individual
fi rm; and
MESSAGEFROM THE PRESIDENT, EMMA BECHARA
3. Attend the Clerkship Networking Evening
– this evening will provide you with an oppor-
tunity to network in an informal context with a
vast range of law fi rms, and learn more about
each fi rm – whilst enjoying complimentary
drinks and canapés.
As a penultimate year student, I refl ect on this
guide, and am appreciative of the work and
commitment that the editing committee have
contributed in order to produce this informa-
tive, accessible and assistive book. I thank
the publications team, the contributors, and
particularly, the UTS LSS Sponsors, for whom
without - this publication would not be pos-
sible.
I would like to extend a special thank you to
Isabelle Duggan, the 2012 Careers (Publica-
tions) Director, who stepped so effortlessly into
her role so late into the piece, and made it
her own.
To those of you embarking on the clerkship
journey this year, I wish you the very best of
luck. To those who have a while longer – whilst
I am jealous of the time you have left at uni-
versity, I hope this guide proves informative to
you also.
I trust that this guide will be of assistance to
you all throughout the process.
Good luck - I hope to hear of many UTS:Law
students in their positions of choice in 2012,
whether or not that be as a clerk.
Best wishes,
Emma Bechara
President
UTS Law Students’ Society 2012
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6 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
GLOBALISATION AND THE LARGE AUSTRALIAN LAW FIRM
This essay looks at the current global strategies of large Australian
law fi rms as revealed by what is happening at Mallesons, Blakes,
Allens and perhaps Freehills. The essay may help law students
thinking of working in fi rms with an exclusively business or government
clientele (excepting always the odd billionaire or three). This is not, of
course, a booster for corporate over individual client fi rm practice.
The major US and UK law fi rms see Asia as the area of growth in coming
decades, especially in the post-GFC climate with a weakened economic
outlook in Europe where so many of the UK fi rms have sunk resources.
This, after all, is said to be the Asian century. Australian law fi rms have
been competing for the big transaction work in the region for a couple of
decades now. They are well placed by geography and time zone, long
presence and profi le in the region, and the high quality of their lawyers’
training. But they face problems in being big regional players alone. The
governing law of international business is either English or New York
law, not Australian law. In Asia, English law has largely won out and so
participating law fi rms need English law capacity. The major English law
fi rms all have established Asian offi ces and a strong presence to exploit
this advantage and their colonial connection, especially in the major
fi nancial centres of Hong Kong and Singapore.
Australian fi rms have been fl irting with UK fi rms for a while. A major
obstacle to a merger with a leading UK fi rm is the size of the big Austral-
ian law fi rms themselves. Elite UK fi rms fear that their partner profi t
shares, from the higher value and better remunerated transaction work
in London, will be diluted if all those Aussie partners are taken on board
although the strong Australian dollar, the mining and resources work
here and the European downturn restore some balance. Freehills is
Globalisation and thelarge Australian law fi rmPaul Redmond, Sir Gerard Brennan Professor, Faculty of Law, UTS
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7LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
GLOBALISATION AND THE LARGE AUSTRALIAN LAW FIRM
reported to be having merger talks with Herbert Smith, a major UK fi rm.
Recently Norton Rose merged with Deacons and the US fi rm DLA Piper
with Phillips Fox. On 23 April 2012 Allens Arthur Robinson announced
they had entered into an ‘integrated alliance’ with the leading UK fi rm
Linklaters under which the fi rms will remain independent save for a
series of joint ventures in Asia.
Other UK fi rms have targeted key people from the big Australian fi rms
to give them a practice base here through smaller local partnerships.
This happened recently with the blue chip Allen & Overy and Clifford
Chance. The focus here is on particular practice areas, principally
banking and fi nance, and the opportunity to leverage UK fi rm expertise.
But these specialist partnerships face formidable competition from full
service, long established Australian fi rms.
On 1 March 2012, two leading Australian fi rms, Blake Dawson and
Mallesons Stephen Jaques, entered into ‘mergers’ with overseas
fi rms, Blakes with Ashurst, an old UK fi rm with global operations,
and Mallesons with the People’s Republic of China fi rm King & Wood.
Blakes has become Ashurst Australia and Mallesons has become King
& Wood Mallesons. Both link-ups have an initial regional focus but are
steps in a wider global strategy.
Blakes and Ashurst have ‘combined their practices in Asia’ with a view
to a full merger in 2014 after a further vote of the partnerships. This
seems a conventional law fi rm merger between two fi rms with a similar
history and culture although with practices in different regions. The next
step seems to be a merger with a major US fi rm.
King & Wood Mallesons is a very different merger, the fi rst between a
Chinese and a western law fi rm. King & Wood was founded in 1993 by
Chinese principals and is the third largest fi rm in Asia by lawyer num-
bers. Chinese law prevents Chinese and foreign lawyers from sharing
profi ts so that, until an exemption or relaxation is granted, King & Wood
Mallesons will keep the bulk of their operations fi nancially separate in
three separate profi t pools, one for Mallesons’ Australian practice, an-
other for King & Wood’s Chinese offi ces and the third for the merged
Hong Kong offi ce. Separate profi t pooling means business as usual for
Mallesons’ Australian operations but will presumably see more staff
moved to Chinese and Hong Kong practices over time. There are sig-
nifi cant implementation risks: three of Mallesons’ four Beijing partners
left for other fi rms within days of the merger announcement. They may
not be alone. Global fi rms generally offer staff better pay and condi-
tions than Chinese fi rms and there are concerns about more intrusive
government and Communist Party regulation of Chinese fi rms. However,
this combination probably makes King & Wood Mallesons more attrac-
tive to a major US or UK fi rm as a potential global merger partner. That
seems the strategy.
What about those large Australian fi rms that remain national? Many
clients, especially governments, do not need global representation. But
most have smallish offi ces in Asia and the competition from global fi rms
there is getting stronger by the day. And cross-border work is often more
intellectually challenging as well as lucrative. The pressure to go global
ratchets up with each new fi rm merger or quasi-merger.
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8 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
AN INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE
8 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
BACKGROUND
Applying for a clerkship at a domestic or in-
ternational fi rm can be a daunting process. In
my experience, this was because of the com-
petitiveness of the application process and the
importance of the clerkship as the primary
gateway to securing graduate employment at
a commercial fi rm. Whilst the application and
interview period will always be challenging, in
this article I hope to assist students who are
considering an international career with Lin-
klaters to determine whether the fi rm is right
for them. I will do this by highlighting the main
factors traditionally taken into consideration by
students when making the ‘domestic vs. inter-
national’ decision, as well as provide an insight
into Linklaters specifi cally, through reference
to my clerkship in the London offi ce of the fi rm
from November to December 2011.
To provide some context, Linklaters is a com-
mercial law fi rm with a diverse range of differ-
ent areas of practice, with 27 offi ces (including
affi liates) spanning across Europe, North and
South America, Africa, the Asia-Pacifi c and
Middle East. Its largest offi ce is in London,
where it forms part of the “magic circle” of top-
tier law fi rms. Fortunately for Australians, the
fi rm conducts an annual clerkship specifi cally
for Australian law students, with those clerks
having an automatic right to an interview for
a two year training contract. If offered a train-
ing contract, the student can choose a com-
mencement date within 24 months of gradua-
tion, depending on whether or not they wish to
defer their commencement. I have accepted
my offer and will be commencing my training
contract in London in March 2013.
If you are offered an interview on the basis of
your application, the interview process takes
place in Australia and involves a Watson
Glaser Critical Thinking Appraisal, standard
‘HR-style’ interview (e.g. behavioural and
experience-based questions) and a commer-
cial interview focusing on your legal knowl-
edge and commercial awareness. Whilst the
process is rigorous, the reward at the end is
thoroughly rewarding, irrespective of whether
or not you are offered a clerkship, as the expe-
rience itself is highly valuable.
MY EXPERIENCE
The two rotations I completed were in the
Mainstream Corporate and Banking depart-
ments. Despite having worked as a paralegal
for almost four years prior to the clerkship, I
was surprised by how much of the fi rm’s work
was cross-jurisdictional in nature, as well as
the enormous scale of the transactions. For
example, when conducting research for the
Mainstream Corporate department on the
transposition of the EU Solvency II Directive
into domestic legislation throughout all mem-
ber states of the EU, I was able to call other
Linklaters solicitors in Belgium, Sweden and
the Netherlands to obtain immediate answers
for those countries. In the Banking Depart-
ment, the fi rst transaction I worked on was the
refi nancing of a €6 billion facility agreement
involving a 39 bank syndicate for one of the
fi rm’s ‘blue chip’ clients. These are experi-
ences that can only be gained from a truly
international fi rm with a tier-1 ranking across
almost all countries in which it operates.
One of the primary reasons I chose to com-
mence my career at Linklaters is because of
the strong emphasis the fi rm places on com-
mercial education, in addition to substantive
legal knowledge and skills. Throughout the
four weeks I spent on my clerkship, I learnt
more about the inter-operation between dif-
ferent departments within a commercial fi rm
than I had over the previous 46 months of my
experience as a paralegal. The fi rm places a
strong emphasis on its lawyers understanding
the commercial drivers behind each type of
transaction so that its solicitors have industry-
specifi c knowledge and can adapt their legal
advice to suit the commercial objectives of
ANINTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIPEXPERIENCE
CODIE ASIMUSLINKLATERS
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9LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
AN INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE
9LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
their clients. Whilst I am unable to comment
on what commercial education is offered by
comparable fi rms, this was something I val-
ued highly when I chose to accept my offer
of a training contract from Linklaters as the
fi rm’s emphasis on commercial education was
clearly evident to me.
Before my departure to London, I was told by
some of my friends working for the fi rm that
the solicitors adopt a “work hard, play hard”
mentality, which was a cultural description
that held true in my experience. During the
clerkship, we were treated to a social func-
tion every Monday and Thursday evening,
including several dinners, a trip on the Lon-
don Eye, ice skating at Somerset House and
a cocktail making class. Whilst it would be a
mistake in my opinion to choose a fi rm on the
basis of added benefi ts, they are nonetheless
signifi cant at Linklaters. During the clerkship
alone, the fi rm paid me a salary, reimbursed
my return fl ights to London and paid for high
quality serviced apartments in Islington, a vi-
brant area of central London, which was within
walking distance of the offi ce.
BENEFITS OF AN INTERNATIONAL
CAREER AT LINKLATERS
In my view, the primary benefi ts of a career at
Linklaters are:
• CROSS-JURISDICTIONAL TRANSACTIONS: The solici-
tors at Linklaters are exposed to some of the
largest transactions in the world, involving
multinational clients and often requiring
travel and/or cooperation with solicitors in
other jurisdictions. No domestic fi rm can
offer a comparable level of transactions on
the same scale and geographic spread as
Linklaters.
• SECONDMENTS: Secondments can vary in both
duration and location. However, to illustrate
the opportunities available, I met solicitors
during my clerkship who had undertaken
secondments to both clients and other
Linklaters offi ces, between 6 and 24 months
in duration. Whilst there is a very wide range
of potential secondment locations, the cities
of those I spoke to included Hong Kong,
Moscow and New York. The vast majority of
trainees spend at least one of the four six
month rotations in their training contract on
secondment.
• ‘BLUE CHIP’ WORK: Whilst Linklaters services
the most prominent global corporations
and fi nancial institutions, it often advises
clients on emerging areas of law, such as in
relation to new structured fi nancial products
that have never been seen in the market
before. Access to this kind of work is excit-
ing, as it has never been done before, which
is something that in my view should keep
the work stimulating in the long-term.
• DUAL TIER-1 RANKING: Linklaters is the only
‘magic circle’ fi rm with a tier-1 ranking in
both Corporate and Banking, as its competi-
tors each rank in the top-tier in only one of
those areas. This means the fi rm is a safe
option for those who know they have an
interest in commercial law, however aren’t
yet sure of which area they would ultimately
like to specialise in.
CONSIDERATIONS WHEN CHOOSING
WHICH JURISDICTION TO START YOUR
CAREER
Whilst an international career can be exciting
and fi lled with lots of opportunities, it is not
for everyone. A successful relationship will
require a mutual fi t between the fi rm and ap-
plicant, which is dependent upon a range of
factors. That said, it is worthwhile considering
the following questions, as I know they have
been relevant considerations to other students
when making the decision to stay in Australia
or head to London before:
• AM I WILLING TO RELOCATE? Whilst some choose
to move overseas forever and others return
home after a few years, I would recom-
mend not pursuing a career in London
straight after graduation unless you see
yourself working there for a minimum of
4-5 years. This is because you won’t have
any signifi cant skill level in a particular area
of law after the 4 x 6 month rotations that
comprise your training contract.
• DO MY LEGAL INTERESTS ALIGN WITH MY DESIRE TO
WORK IN MORE THAN ONE JURISDICTION THROUGH-
OUT MY CAREER? If you wish to work in more
than one jurisdiction throughout your career
(e.g. the UK and Australia), you should be
conscious of the fact that most areas of
law are not capable of being practised in
multiple jurisdictions. For example, Tax and
Litigation are predominantly jurisdiction-
specifi c, in contrast to Banking, Capital
Markets and Mergers and Acquisitions,
which can be practised globally.
• WHAT ARE YOUR LONG-TERM PROFESSIONAL GOALS?
Where do you see yourself in 5 to 10 years?
Do you wish to work in a particular country?
Do you want to specialise in a particular
area of law? You should only choose a fi rm
that is consistent with your career ambitions
and will help you to achieve professional
satisfaction. Having said this, Linklaters is
a globally recognised and re spected fi rm,
which means it is unlikely for you to make
the ‘wrong decision’ by commencing your
career there.
• WHAT RELEVANCE DOES THE ECONOMIC DOWNTURN
IN EUROPE HAVE FOR MY DECISION? Some adopt
the view that there has been a paradigm
shift to Asia and Australian lawyers are
better placed commencing work in Asia
rather than London or New York, despite
these two cities being the largest fi nancial
centres in the world. Whilst on a long-term
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10 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
AN INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE
10 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
scale there is an undeniable economic
shift, it is important to note that Linklaters
performs strongly in economic downturns,
as evidenced by the fi rm emerging from
the 2008/09 Financial Year as the largest
law fi rm in the world by revenue, at £1.298
billion.
In my opinion, it is important to choose a fi rm
that has strengths in both Corporate and Bank-
ing, and which has a global capability across
existing fi nancial centres as well as emerging
markets, to ensure resilience to global eco-
nomic movements. Not many ‘international’
fi rms satisfy both of these criteria. Whilst the
global economy is a relevant consideration for
students considering an international career,
Linklaters is one of the best-positioned fi rms
in the world to cope with drastic economic
movements due to its dual strengths in Corpo-
rate and Banking, existing coverage of global
fi nancial centres and emphasis on emerging
markets.
Whilst Linklaters is certainly well placed to
withstand any future movements in the global
economy in comparison to its competitors, no
fi rm is entirely impregnable. In this regard, it is
important to remember the widespread lateral
hiring freezes during the last fi nancial crisis.
As a consequence, if you are sure that you
wish to pursue a career in London, whether
on a permanent or semi-permanent basis, I
believe it sensible to attempt to secure a train-
ing contract by participating in the Australian
Clerkship, as the prospect of being recruited
laterally a few years after graduation is uncer-
tain. For this and the reasons above, I view the
training contract as an offer of certainty in one
of the largest legal and fi nancial centres of the
world.
MY DECISION
Different considerations concerning graduate
employment will be relevant to different stu-
dents depending on their career ambitions,
personality and motivations behind becoming
a commercial lawyer. I accepted my offer to
undertake a training contract at Linklaters be-
cause of the exceptional training, commercial
and legal education and cross-jurisdictional
career opportunities the fi rm can offer me in
the long-term. If you have international ambi-
tions in a top ranking commercial law fi rm,
then I would highly recommend considering
Linklaters. However, ultimately the decision of
where to commence your career will be a per-
sonal choice, requiring a mutual fi t between
you and your prospective employer.
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11LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE SCHEDULE
11LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
Amongst its other portfolios, the careers
function of the UTS Law Students’ So-
ciety (‘UTS LSS’) is to ensure students
are aware of career opportunities available to
them.
It is because of this that the UTS LSS organ-
ises and facilitates events each year to assist
penultimate year students with their applica-
tions for the Summer Clerkship Program (as
well as students not yet eligible for clerkships
in respect of their future applications).
In 2012, the UTS LSS will be holding:
1. THE CLERKSHIP SEMINAR SERIES
A number of law fi rms will attend UTS in May
in order to hold clerkship seminars which
provide an invaluable insight into life at these
fi rms as a summer clerk, as well as present-
ing a unique networking opportunity with fi rm
representatives, which may include recruiting
partners, human resources employees and
former summer clerks.
These seminars will also provide you with in-
formation you can use to increase the quality
of applications.
Seminars typically run for one hour, compris-
ing of a presentation by the fi rm and an oppor-
tunity to ask questions, concluding with food,
drinks and an opportunity to network with fi rm
representatives.
2. THE CLERKSHIP NETWORKING
EVENING
The Clerkship Networking Evening will provide
you with an opportunity to meet and network
with representatives and lawyers from some
of the top law fi rms in Australia over free
canapés and drinks, as well as ask any further
UTS LSS CLERKSHIP SCHEDULE
questions you may have. In doing so you will
gain invaluable insight into not only the fi rm’s
clerkship process and program, but also tips
regarding your application.
A further benefi t is that you will have an option
to compare fi rms, who are all gathered in the
one location at the one time.
3. THE SKILLS WORKSHOPS
In 2012 the UTS LSS, in conjunction with
certain law fi rms, will be facilitating three
skills workshops: Allen & Overy Networking
Workshop, Minter Ellison CV Workshop, and
Clayton Utz Interview Workshop.
These workshops are intended to provide
you with highly useful information in respect
of preparing your applications, and may also
provide insight as to what commercial fi rms
look for in respect of each skill.
Whilst these workshops are open to all
UTS:Law students, they have been intention-
ally scheduled to coincide with clerkship ap-
plications.
Dates for all of these activities are below and
it is highly recommended that all students
interested in applying for the 2012 Summer
Clerkship Program attend as many of these
events as possible.
Should you have any further questions in re-
spect of these activities, please do not hesitate
to email me at [email protected].
All the best in your applications and I look for-
ward to seeing you at these events!
Emma White
UTS LSS Careers (Activities) Director 2012
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12 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE SCHEDULE
12 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
7 MAY 2012
BAKER MCKENZIE CLERKSHIP SEMINAR
11.00am, CM05B.1.14
NORTON ROSE CLERKSHIP SEMINAR
3.00pm, CM05C.1.21
ALLEN & OVERY CLERKSHIP SEMINAR
5.30pm, CM05B.01.13
9 MAY 2012
HENRY DAVIS YORK CLERKSHIP SEMINAR
1.00pm, CM05D.1.14
TRESSCOX CLERKSHIP SEMINAR
3.00pm, CM05C.1.21
ASHURST CLERKSHIP SEMINAR
5.30pm, CM05C.2.44
14 MAY 2012
MINTER ELLISON CLERKSHIP SEMINAR
11.00am, CM05C.2.46
GILBERT & TOBIN CLERKSHIP SEMINAR
3.00pm, CM05C.1.21
16 MAY 2012
ALLENS CLERKSHIP SEMINAR
1.00pm, CM05D.1.14
CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH CLERKSHIP
SEMINAR
3.00pm, CM05C.1.21
17 MAY 2012
ATTORNEY-GENERAL’S DEPARTMENT CLERKSHIP
SEMINAR
3.00pm, CM05C.1.21
21 MAY 2012
DLA PIPER CLERKSHIP SEMINAR
11.00am, CM05C.1.29
CLAYTON UTZ CLERKSHIP SEMINAR
3.00pm, CM05C.1.21
23 MAY 2012
KING & WOOD MALLESONS CLERKSHIP SEMINAR
1.00pm, CM05D.1.14
GADENS CLERKSHIP SEMINAR
3.00pm, CM05C.1.21
FREEHILLS CLERKSHIP SEMINAR
5.30pm, CM05C.1.29
24 MAY 2012
UTS LSS CLERKSHIP NETWORKING EVENING
6.30pm, Aerial Function Centre (Level 7, UTS
Building 10 – 235 Jones Street, Sydney NSW
2007)
Please refer to the UTS LSS website
(www.utslss.com) for further information
including how to register.
SCHEDULE OF SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM EVENTS & IMPORTANT DATES
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13LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE SCHEDULE
13LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
4 JUNE 2012
MINTER ELLISON CURRICULUM VITAE (CV)
WORKSHOP
11.00am, CM05B.03.27
Please refer to the UTS LSS website
(www.utslss.com) for further information
including how to register.
ALLEN & OVERY NETWORKING WORKSHOP
5.30pm, CM05C.02.44
Please refer to the UTS LSS website (www.
utslss.com) for further information including
how to register.
6 JUNE 2012
CLAYTON UTZ INTERVIEW WORKSHOP
1.00pm, CM05C.02.40
Please refer to the UTS LSS website (www.
utslss.com) for further information including
how to register.
13 JUNE 2012
Applications for summer clerkships through
the NSW Law Society open.
13 JULY 2012
Applications for summer clerkships through
the NSW Law Society close at 5.00pm.
13 AUGUST 2012
Summer clerkship interviews commence.
21 SEPTEMBER 2012
Offers for summer clerkships can be made.
Please note that this schedule may change.
An up to date schedule for the above events
will always be available on the UTS LSS
website (www.utslss.com) under the ‘Careers’
tab.
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14 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE SCHEDULE
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15LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
ALLEN & OVERY FIRM PROFILE
A UNIQUE OPPORTUNITY
As one of only a small number of global elite fi rms, Allen & Overy Aus-
tralia offers you something truly different. Joining Allen & Overy means
playing a part in a diverse domestic and international team spanning a
fully integrated network of 39 offi ces in over 27 countries.
We focus on complex and strategic domestic and cross-border transac-
tions for a high profi le client base of market leading private and public
organisations. Our Australian practice has three core groups: Banking
& International Capital Markets, Corporate and Litigation. Within these,
the practice areas are diverse, including Mergers & Acquisitions, Private
Equity, Projects, Structured Products, Investment Funds, Competition,
Asset Finance, Tax, Energy & Resources, Litigation and International
Arbitration. Clients increasingly need global service providers and we
are currently one of the only fi rms in Australia able to provide a fully
integrated domestic, regional and global offering.
Our culture and the values we share inspire the way we work and be-
have: excellence in everyone and everything, dedication to our clients,
helping our people to achieve their potential, respecting and including
every individual, working together as one fi rm, entrepreneurial spirit and
energy.
WHAT TO EXPECT
As a Summer Clerk you’ll complete two rotations within our core prac-
tice groups. You’ll be allocated a supervising partner and will work
closely with that partner and the senior associates and lawyers who
make up the team. You will be exposed to premium quality domestic
and international work and will also participate in various exercises that
simulate real transactions from beginning to end, providing a valuable
insight into the role of an Allen & Overy lawyer. Informal feedback and
guidance will be given to each summer clerk throughout the process.
Uniquely we also offer the opportunity to all our Sydney Summer Clerks
to spend one week of the program working in another of our Asia Pacifi c
offi ces. This will give you a greater understanding of our global network
and a taste of future opportunities available to you at Allen & Overy.
Whilst it’s by no means compulsory, a large proportion of our lawyers
will choose to take up the opportunity to spend time working in another
offi ce at some time during their career, whether that’s a rotation as a
junior lawyer, a longer term secondment or a permanent transfer.
LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT
OPPORTUNITIES
Allen & Overy is renowned for high quality training and development.
During your career you will have the opportunity to attend comprehen-
sive training both domestically and globally to meet and learn with col-
leagues here and overseas, starting with our “Global Universities” run in
London for lawyers with approximately 2 years of experience.
WHO WE LOOK FOR
There is no typical Allen & Overy lawyer. We realise each person has
their unique skills and qualities. While you should have excellent
academic results, beyond this we want to see evidence of teamwork,
communication skills, planning and organisation skills, problem solv-
ing, commercial awareness, and commitment to a career in law and a
career with Allen & Overy.
We accept applications from overseas students, however applicants
must demonstrate a commitment to starting their legal career in Aus-
tralia and have the right to live and work in Australia.
We invest in hand-selecting our Summer Clerks each year and were
pleased to offer graduate positions to all our Sydney Summer Clerks in
2011 and 2012.
For further information, please visit our website -
www.allenovery.com/careers (select Australia) or contact us at
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16 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
ALLEN & OVERYSUMMER CLERK PROFILE
LLB (HONS),BA INT STUDIES(MAJOR IN CHINA)
UTS LAW STUDENTS’SOCIETY PRESIDENT 2009
A&O SUMMER CLERK 2010/2011GRADUATE-AT-LAW 2012AARON KO
Two years ago during the clerkship ap-
plication process, I was looking for a
fi rm that was going to provide me with
excellent training, exciting work and had a
genuine global outlook. Since then, during my
time as a summer clerk, a paralegal and now
as a graduate, Allen & Overy has surpassed all
of my expectations. In addition, I have uncov-
ered a genuinely open and supportive culture
which has proven so vital in the early stages of
my development as a lawyer.
THE CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE
During the clerkship I was exposed to a wide
variety of local and international transactional
matters as well as the opportunity to work with
several different partners and their teams.
The learning curve was steep, but the work
was enjoyable and help was never far away.
Highlights of my clerkship include my visit to
a client’s coal terminal in Newcastle and my
rotation to the A&O Singapore offi ce. As part of
the clerkship, each clerk rotated through one
of our Asian offi ces including Tokyo, Beijing,
Shanghai, Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok
and Singapore. This was a great experience,
not only in a legal sense, but also experiencing
and appreciating fi rst hand the subtle differ-
ences in work practices throughout the world.
As a Graduate, I have been through a very
comprehensive training program, which in-
cluded everything from legal drafting, work
management and practice group specifi c
skills training to IT and offi ce procedure. Since
training, I have been thrown in the deep end,
but thankfully with a great deal of support.
Just recently I ran a matter with a Senior As-
sociate in which we refi nanced a major inter-
national telecommunications company. This
matter involved six of our international offi ces,
which proved to be an interesting challenge in
managing time-zones and different deadlines;
but from the client’s perspective, A&O was
working on the matter 24 hours a day. Work-
ing so closely with the Senior Associate was a
great learning experience, as he would explain
each of the steps we were doing and why we
were doing them. I felt comfortable asking
any questions I had regarding the transaction,
whether they were specifi c about a task at
hand or just general questions about protocol
or deal structure.
Refl ecting upon my clerkship application and
interview process I remember feeling uncer-
tain about which fi rm would be right for me.
What I can say now that it is all over is that
Allen & Overy is a leading global law fi rm with
a wealth of history and experience that cannot
be understated. The Sydney offi ce draws on
the fi rm’s huge international network of train-
ing and human resources, precedents and ex-
pertise. It is a fi rm large enough to offer you a
leading global experience, yet has a close-knit
offi ce which lets you stand out and feel like
part of the fi rm. A&O also has an impressive
client list, acting for the premier investment
banks, fi nancial institutions, and blue chip
companies all over the world. As globalisation
becomes irreversible and with many Australi-
an fi rms now reaching out to the global market,
A&O is well placed to serve the largest clients
on the largest deals and this makes the work
inevitably interesting.
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17LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
ALLEN & OVERY
17717171171717171111111111111111111111711777LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
ALLEN & OVERY
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18 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
ALLENSFIRM PROFILE
WHO ARE WE AND WHAT MAKES US UNIQUE IN THE INDUSTRY?
Allens is a major legal force in Asia, with lawyers and business services
employees working in Beijing, Brisbane, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hong
Kong, Jakarta, Melbourne, Perth, Port Moresby, Shanghai, Singapore,
Sydney and Ulaanbaatar. Seventy-seven of Australia’s, and 55 of the
world’s, top 100 companies choose Allens as their legal adviser.
On 1 May 2012, Allens entered into an integrated alliance with leading
global law fi rm Linklaters. The alliance expands the Allens network to 36
offi ces across 26 countries.
Our lawyers unashamedly love the law. We also understand that our
clients want succinct answers that achieve their commercial aims. At
Allens, you will fi nd yourself working alongside colleagues from diverse
backgrounds. Although our teams are made up of people with count-
less individual differences and life experiences, common to each of
them is the ability to distil simplicity from complexity and to provide
clear solutions to our clients.
WHAT OTHER ASPECTS ASIDE FROM
WORK CAN ALLENS OFFER EMPLOYEES?
At Allens, our values are the foundation cornerstone of our culture. Our
people want to make a difference not only in law and business but in
the wider community. This passion to make a difference drives our Pro
Bono, Charity, Footprint and Reconciliation Action Plan committees’ ini-
tiatives. These committees are comprised of a wide spectrum of Allens
staff, who use their involvement enrich their experience at the fi rm. We
offer opportunities for secondments to both clients (including pro bono
clients) and our international offi ces.
WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR IN AN EMPLOYEE?
IMAGINATION INTERESTS INTELLIGENCE
At Allens, we want people who want to excel and fulfi l their potential.
We want lawyers who can analyse legal issues from diverse perspec-
tives and arrive at solutions that provide the greatest value. The three
key things we look for are:
CLERKSHIP PROGRAM
Our clerkship programs are run for students in their penultimate year
of study.
The clerks are involved in an intensive orientation program including
library and research skills. Clerks also participate in skills development
seminars, departmental and practice group meetings and informal per-
formance reviews. There is also a social aspect to the program, enabling
clerks to network with internal and external clients.
GRADUATE PROGRAM
Allens is committed to ensuring new recruits develop a legal knowledge
of each practice area and get the experience and training to form the
basis of a successful career.
You won’t be waiting years for interesting work and responsibility. Our
lawyers work in teams, and you are part of a team from day one. You
will also have a ‘buddy’ - a junior lawyer who will answer your day-to-day
questions and help you settle in.
We offer a single rotation for the duration of our law graduate program.
Junior lawyers may then undertake two 12-month rotations before spe-
cialisation. We believe that a longer rotation provides a comprehensive
knowledge of each practice area, giving law graduates an opportunity
to develop strong relationships with partners and other lawyers in their
practice group.
We’re looking for people who are passionate about their profession.
Strong academic performance is important, and so is your ability to
think laterally, be fl exible, see the bigger picture and work as part of a
team.
MORE INFORMATION
For more details on all our programs please visit and apply on our web-
site www.allens.com.au/careers
IMAGINATION:
we are a fi rm of multi-dimensional
individuals and teams. We cel-
ebrate diverse perspectives and
aim to attract individuals who will
add to the unique fabric of our
fi rm.
INTERESTS:
imaginative people often have var-
ied interests outside of the law and
exciting opportunities available to
them. Our policies support employ-
ees who seek high-quality work,
along with time for outside interests.
INTELLIGENCE:
we value excellence in all that we
do. We want people who strive to
do their best. We look to recruit
people who are not only techni-
cally excellent, but also capable of
building strong relationships with
colleagues and clients to deliver a
commercial and solution-driven
approach. We look for people
who are innovative and creative,
and will thrive in our environment.
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19LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
ALLENS SUMMER CLERK PROFILE
When I chose Allens for my summer
clerkship, it was honestly a gut
feeling. I had attended numerous
interviews, cocktail parties and spoken to what
felt like hundreds of different people, but there
was always something that was drawing me
back to Allens. Now I realise what it was – the
people. The people are honestly the most im-
portant part of your decision and the thing that
will inspire you and make you look forward to
going to work every morning.
Allens is a top tier fi rm and alongside that
comes the high profi le matters, the big clients,
the million dollar deals and the opportunity to
be a part of the cutting-edge legal issues. Any
top tier fi rm will provide you with that and so
in my opinion, it is the people that you work
with, and the people that you learn from that
distinguish a fi rm.
The people at Allens are phenomenal. The
most you can ask for from a clerkship is to
gain an insight into the fi rm, learn as much
as possible and enjoy yourself whilst doing
it. From my fi rst to last day, I never stopped
learning. All the lawyers I worked with were
friendly, approachable and spent time explain-
ing every matter they got you involved in. Even
where you were completing the most basic of
research tasks, the instructing lawyer would
make you feel like you had made a signifi cant
contribution and make sure to show you where
that piece of research fi t in the large scheme
CLERKSHIPTESTIMONIALNICOLE MEYER
of things. Throughout my clerkship I learnt
so much and felt so lucky to work alongside
lawyers who were just as interested in impart-
ing their knowledge as meeting their billable
targets. Having now returned to the fi rm as a
paralegal, it’s no different.
However, the clerkship was defi nitely not all
about work. The clerks were involved in every
aspect of the fi rm from casual group catch
ups and birthdays to the Allens Annual Swim-
ming Carnival, Christmas parties and fi rm
drinks. One particular highlight was the clerk
charity event. As a group we organised the
entire event culminating in ‘Allens’ Got Talent’,
a talent quest whereby each department com-
peted by donating $1 to vote for their favourite
act. We had singers, string ensembles, come-
dians and even a magician. It was a fantastic
night and a great opportunity to have a few
drinks and a laugh with people from all over
the fi rm.
The clerkship was such an incredible experi-
ence and a lot of fun – there was never a lack
of opportunities to socialise with colleagues
and develop some great friendships with your
fellow clerks. I strongly recommend a clerk-
ship at Allens, and if I haven’t already given
you enough to look forward to, I should note
that Allens has an amazing art collection,
beautiful offi ces and a free coffee shop (which
you will no doubt visit daily).
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blake dawson is ashurst, australia’s new global law firm.
matching ambition
with opportunityYou’ve worked hard. Done well. You have ambition. You can match your ambition with the many opportunities at Ashurst. Ask us how.
Sydney – Amy Foulcher People Development Consultant – Graduate Programs Tel +61 2 9258 [email protected]
www.ashurst.com/graduates
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BLAKE DAWSON IS ASHURST, AUSTRALIA’S NEW GLOBAL LAW FIRMWE’RE MATCHING AUSTRALIAN LEGAL EXPERTISE WITH GLOBAL CAPABILITY. www.ashurst.com
Australia Belgium China France Germany Hong Kong SAR Indonesia (associated office) Italy Japan Papua New Guinea Singapore Spain Sweden United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States of America
About usAshurst is Australia’s new global law firm. On 1 March 2012, Ashurst and Blake Dawson combined their practices in Asia and Blake Dawson changed its name to Ashurst Australia, adopting the Ashurst brand. Together we have created a powerful global legal presence as one team with one brand and a shared vision, paving the way for a planned full global merger in 2014.
This coming together of equals significantly strengthens both firms. We have over 1,700 lawyers across 24 offices around the world. We are a full-service firm, advising corporates, financial institutions and governments, and our core businesses are in corporate, finance, energy and resources and infrastructure.
The collaboration also gives the Australian marketplace ready access to UK and US law capabilities, and seamless cross-border service around the clock. With an expanded depth and breadth across our region, clients have access to legal teams across the globe providing tailored, commercially astute solutions for all of their transactions and projects.
With more than 3,500 people working in 24 offices across Australia, Asia the Middle East, Europe, UK, the US and an associated office in Indonesia, our reach, presence and global growth aspirations provide our people with the platform on which to develop and foster a deep understanding of local markets and industries, with the benefit of a global network and international insight.
Our clientsWe are a full-service firm, advising leading corporates and financial institutions, and governments, and our core businesses are in corporate, finance, energy and resources and infrastructure.
We have the privilege of advising on some of Australia’s and the world’s largest and most complex deals. Our clients include 73% of the top 100 ASX companies and 93% of Australian companies in the Forbes Global 2000.
Areas of legal practiceWe are a top tier full service global law firm with a particular focus on financial services, energy and resources, and projects and infrastructure. Our Australian office practises in over 30 different service areas including:
Banking & Finance
Commercial Property
Competition & Consumer Protection
Construction & Infrastructure
Corporate
Employment
Energy & Environment
Government
Hotels, Tourism & Gaming
Intellectual Property
IT, Communications & Media
Litigation & Dispute Resolution
Mergers & Acquisitions
Resources
Restructuring & Insolvency
Tax
What do we look for?We look for abilities and strengths which experience tells us are critical to success as graduates and clerks and in the longer term. In particular we seek graduates and clerks who can demonstrate an ability to build rapport with a range of people; an ability to work in a team-based environment; the academic capacity to excel; a demonstrated interest or expertise in a commercial legal environment; the willingness to learn; resilience, motivation and a commitment to excellence in both work and client service.
Firm profile
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blake dawson is ashurst, australia’s new global law firm.we’re matching australian legal expertise with global capability. www.ashurst.com
Australia Belgium China France Germany Hong Kong SAR Indonesia (associated office) Italy Japan Papua New Guinea Singapore Spain Sweden United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States of America
The Summer Clerk experience
Angela Vo
I was initially apprehensive about completing a summer clerkship at a commercial law firm, suspecting that I might be working in a rather reserved environment. However from the very first day at Ashurst my concerns were dispelled. The week long induction program provided the opportunity to get to know everyone and become familiar with the extensive resources and services available. Throughout the clerkship I felt part of a supportive team that was interested in my development and interests and ensured that my clerkship was tailored especially for me.
I completed two five week rotations in the Employment and Intellectual Property, Communications and Technology teams. The supervising lawyers and partners always aimed to allocate work that was within my area of interest. I was involved in a diverse range of tasks from research for client presentations and advices to reviewing legislative reforms. During my first rotation I was fortunate to attend court for an industrial relations matter, which also involved the opportunity to sit in on discussions with the client and counsel. I also gained experience in the area of workplace health and safety and discrimination.
Halfway through my second rotation, I had the opportunity to go on client secondment, and spent a week in the Technology, Media and Intellectual Property team at the Commonwealth Bank of Australia. Media law is a particular interest of mine, so I was delighted to gain in-house experience in that area which also complemented the work I had been involved in during my second rotation.
During my summer clerkship at Ashurst I felt that I was consistently supported in shaping my career goals and developing as an individual. My time at the firm offered an insightful look into the commercial law world and provided me with opportunities and experiences which were tailored to my personal learning. I was continuously amazed to meet so many people who demonstrated a genuine interest in my ambitions and progress as an aspiring lawyer.
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At Baker & McKenzie we are different in the way we think, work and behave. Like no other law firm we were born global.
Right from the beginning we’ve been offering a genuinely global perspective and operating without boundaries around the world.
Our established global reach offers you an extraordinary career in the global economy, exchanging rich local insights and knowledge with the best legal minds from all over the world every day.
And our unrivalled regional and local development programs will make you a truly global lawyer. Fast.
We’re an entrepreneurial firm where new ideas and innovation are encouraged at all levels. A place where small teams and a personal approach to your career means you can go as far and fast as your talents and drive will take you.
Ready to explore our world?www.bakermckenzie.com/careers
Natalie Pinto in Melbourne: +61 3 9617 4349Posy McGrane in Sydney: +61 2 8922 5482
BORN GL BAL
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24 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
BAKER & MCKENZIEFIRM PROFILE
ABOUT THE FIRM
Baker & McKenzie is an instinctively global law fi rm. Our Australian
practice is the fourth largest in our network of 70 offi ces in 42 countries
around the world.
With 90 partners and 199 lawyers in Sydney and Melbourne, Baker &
McKenzie Australia can offer you access to complex, market-leading
matters working with some of the world’s best legal minds – people who
know the law and who understand business.
We have an unrivalled ability to provide training and secondment op-
portunities across our global network. Locally, we have an inclusive
culture of learning, coaching and opportunity where you will work in
small teams on matters that often cross borders. We value people who
think ahead and get noticed.
Baker & McKenzie’s key Australian specialist areas – set out below –
cover a broad range of expertise:
CLERKSHIP AND GRADUATE PROGRAMS
WHAT DO WE LOOK FOR IN OUR CLERKS AND GRADUATES?
Our Graduate and Clerkship programs are designed for people who
enjoy a challenge and seek new opportunities; who share our global
perspective; who have sound academics and are practical in their
approach; who like taking responsibility and getting things done; who
express themselves confi dently while staying open to new ideas; and
who seek a friendly and inclusive culture that encourages making a
difference to our local and global communities.
• Banking & Finance
• Capital Markets
• Commercial Real Estate
• Construction
• Dispute Resolution & Litigation
• Employment &
Industrial Relations
• Energy, Resources,
infrastructure & Corporate
• Environmental Markets
• Financial Services &
Structured Transactions
• Hotels, Resorts & Tourism
• Intellectual Property
• Mergers & Acquisitions
• Private Equity
• Taxation
• Technology, Communications
& Commercial
CLERKSHIP PROGRAMS
Right from the start, our clerks get involved in real work. You will be
exposed to our Australian and international clients through client meet-
ings, short client secondments, shadowing, research and other everyday
activities within your assigned practice group. Our clerks work closely
with other lawyers and, in each rotation, are guided by a Supervising
Partner and Associate ‘Buddy’. You will develop practical and legal skills
through our national learning program and by attending workshops
specifi cally designed for seasonal clerks, as well as fi rm-wide sessions.
Clerks who accept a graduate role with the Firm are eligible to apply for
an International Clerkship, with the opportunity to work for up to four
weeks in one of our overseas offi ces in the year following their clerkship.
APPLICATION DATES AND PROCESS
Applications for seasonal clerkships should be submitted online at www.
cvmail.com.au and should include a cover letter, details of your work
experience, extra curricular activities and interests as well as academic
results. Applications for Clerkships open on 13 June in Sydney and on
16 July in Melbourne.
CONTACT DETAILS
For more information, head to our website www.bakermckenzie.com/
careers or contact:
SYDNEY
CONTACT NAME
Posy McGrane, Talent Manage-
ment Consultant - Graduates
PHONE
02 8922 5482
MELBOURNE
CONTACT NAME
Natalie Pinto,
Talent Management Consultant
PHONE
03 9617 4349
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25LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
BAKER & MCKENZIE SUMMER CLERK PROFILE
After completing her summer clerkship
at Baker & McKenzie, Michelle Sieki-
erka was selected for an International
Clerkship at one of Baker & McKenzie’s 70
offi ces around the globe. Below, Michelle
recounts her unforgettable experience in her
destination of choice -- Hong Kong.
WHY AN INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIP?
I applied for an international clerkship in Hong
Kong because I thought that it would provide
an invaluable opportunity to gain experience
in a truly global Baker & McKenzie offi ce.
With Australian fi rms operating in China, and
Chinese fi rms investing in Australia, I was of
the opinion that a heightened awareness of,
and experience in, the Chinese culture could
only be a useful asset to possess. I hoped to
gain insights into the legal systems of different
jurisdictions, in particular the regulation of cor-
porations and commerce, believing that this
would deepen my understanding of Australian
law, the possible challenges and barriers to
entry into markets, and the conduct of interna-
tional trade. I am proud to say that I achieved
all of this, and more, during my clerkship in
the Hong Kong offi ce.
HONG KONG EXPERIENCE
I undertook two rotations in the four-week pe-
riod of the international clerkship, commenc-
ing in the Commercial and Securities Group,
working almost exclusively on real estate in-
vestment fund (REITs) matters. Despite REITs
being a new area to me, I was able to assist
with preparing offering circulars, drafting
agreements and deeds, undertaking research
and providing advice to clients.
I rotated into the Finance Practice Group for
the latter half of my stay, where I undertook
a variety of work such as drafting resolutions
and documentation for loans, providing legal
opinions on enforceability and governing law,
and writing comparative memorandums.
I was excited to discover that the global nature
of Baker & McKenzie was even more palpa-
ble in Hong Kong, with all of the matters that
I worked on involving a cross-border party,
being it a party in China, Britain, Singapore,
the British Virgin Islands or even Ireland. As
well as this, Hong Kong is a cultural hub, with
lawyers from all over the world choosing to
work there for the cutting edge work that such
a large and open fi nancial centre in Asia can
provide.
Outside of work, while I was in Hong Kong I
was encouraged to, and took, great advantage
of the opportunity to explore a new city and
culture: I saw the sights (such as the tallest
outdoor, seated bronze Buddha and numer-
ous temples), tasted new foods (like snake)
and completed such activities as going for a
ride on a junk (a traditional fi shing vessel),
Hawaiian dancing (yes, in Hong Kong!) and
visiting Macau.
LOOKING FORWARD
My experiences leading up to and during my
international clerkship confi rmed that Baker &
McKenzie is a truly global law fi rm – not just
because it has 70 offi ces in 42 countries – but
in the cross-border work that is performed, the
mix of staff and its outlook on clients’ matters.
I am sure that I will continue to appreciate this
throughout my career at Baker & McKenzie,
and am excited that I might yet be able to take
advantage of further opportunities to work in
offi ces in other jurisdictions.
The international clerkship program has al-
lowed me to establish contacts and relation-
ships with lawyers in the Hong Kong offi ce,
which I believe will be mutually useful in times
to come.
NEXT STOP…HONG KONG
MY INTERNATIONAL CLERKSHIP EXPERIENCE AT BAKER & MCKENZIEMICHELLE SIEKIERKA
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Want the inside scoop on landing a role at Clayton Utz?Find it on Facebook! www.facebook.com/ClaytonUtzCareers
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27LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
CLAYTON UTZ FIRM PROFILE
FIRM BACKGROUND
Clayton Utz is one of Australia’s most successful and dynamic com-
mercial law fi rms, with over 200 partners and 1700 employees working
across seven offi ces in Australia and Asia.
We have a reputation in the market for our innovative approach to com-
plex transactions and litigation, and for our exceptional client service.
Our focus is on building our capability in key and evolving practice areas
and attracting the best lawyers in the market to work with us.
Clayton Utz is a trusted legal adviser to a diverse private and govern-
ment sector client base operating in a range of industry sectors.
AREAS OF LEGAL PRACTICE
Our four core departments – Corporate, Litigation/Dispute Resolu-
tion, Banking and Financial Services and Property, Environment and
Construction – house a diverse and comprehensive range of practice
groups, each comprising recognised and award-winning experts in their
respective areas of law.
FIRM CULTURE
At Clayton Utz, you will experience a work environment in which indi-
viduality is embraced and innovation is actively encouraged.
Progressive and dynamic, Clayton Utz is very much its own fi rm, where
people are valued for who they are and what they contribute. Our people
come from a diverse range of backgrounds and bring with them differ-
ent experiences, which is part of what makes Clayton Utz an exciting
place to work.
PRO BONO AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY
Clayton Utz is a leader of Australian law fi rms in Pro Bono practice and
Social Responsibility. These are important parts of who we are as a fi rm.
OUR PRO BONO PRACTICE
Pro bono is an integral part of legal practice at Clayton Utz. Every mem-
ber of our legal team, at all levels of seniority, in every offi ce and in every
department of the fi rm is involved in our Pro Bono practice.
Since 1997, we have provided more than 350,000 hours of pro bono
legal assistance to disadvantaged people and to the non-profi t organisa-
tions which support them.
OUR SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY PROGRAMS
Our Community Involvement program connects our people, resources,
skills and enthusiasm through volunteer work and in-kind support to
over 20 Community Partners across our offi ces.
We also provide strategic fi nancial support to charities through the Clay-
ton Utz Foundation. Since its establishment in 2003, the Clayton Utz
Foundation has made around 400 grants totalling almost $5 million.
In March 2010 we took the step of strengthening our commitment to
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by developing a Reconcilia-
tion Action Plan which formalises our commitment to reducing inequal-
ity between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians, and which
contains targets that we hold ourselves to meeting.
Our Footprints program commits Clayton Utz to environmentally friendly
initiatives and practices, including quantifying and auditing our emis-
sions on an annual basis, and embedding sustainability into our pro-
curement policies. In 2011 we became a foundation member of the
Australian Legal Sector Alliance to promote sustainable environmental
practices across the profession.
AREAS OF LAW
Banking and Finance
Capital Markets and Securities
Competition
Construction and Major Projects
Corporate / M&A
Energy and Resources
Environment and Planning
Governance and Compliance
Insurance and Risk
Intellectual Property
International Arbitration
International Trade
Legal Technology Services
Litigation and Dispute Resolution
Native Title
Private Equity
Product Liability
Real Estate
Restructuring and Insolvency
Taxation
Telecommunications,
Media and Technology
Workplace Relations,
Employment and Safety
INDUSTRIES
Advertising and Marketing
Agribusiness
Banking and Finance
Climate Change
Constructions and Major Projects
Energy and Resources
Government Services
Healthcare Life Sciences
Leisure and Entertainment
Private Equity
Real Estate Markets
Telecommunications,
Media and Technology
Transport and Logistics
Water
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28 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
CLAYTON UTZFIRM PROFILE
ATTRIBUTES & SKILLS
OUR PEOPLE
People are our competitive edge and Clayton Utz partners are known
for being market leaders in their areas of specialisation. The fi rm and
our partners are consistently recognised in respected international le-
gal directories such as Asia Pacifi c Legal 500, Chambers Global and
IFLR1000. However, we know that awards are only part of the story.
Delivering the best possible results for our clients requires technical
expertise, resources, commitment and understanding their defi nition of
a superb outcome.
WHO WE’RE LOOKING FOR
Our people come from a wide range of backgrounds, skills, interests
and competencies. We are looking for people who can contribute new
ideas and who take a creative approach to solving problems.
We also look for individuals who are personable, practical, commercially
savvy and fl exible. Our lawyers do complex and innovative legal work, so
it’s important that our employees are intelligent and motivated individu-
als who aren’t afraid of a challenge.
WHAT WE OFFER
Working within a friendly, dynamic and highly collaborative team at
Clayton Utz, our lawyers benefi t from the extensive experience and re-
sources of our national fi rm, while making a meaningful contribution to
some of the most challenging cases at the front lines of business and
the law.
Partners and senior lawyers are readily accessible to offer advice or as-
sistance. Our lawyers are encouraged to set goals and test themselves,
knowing that support is there if needed.
Clayton Utz offers a vibrant and supportive work environment. We rec-
ognise the need for balance and provide a range of fl exible work options,
health and wellbeing initiatives, as well as sporting and social activities.
GRADUATE PROGRAM
We can offer you a great start and the opportunity to build an excellent
legal career at Clayton Utz.
We give our graduates a comprehensive orientation program and the
support of a buddy to help them grow and develop in the role. From
the outset, entry-level solicitors are part of our team and are involved in
real legal work. Because you will be working closely with partners and
solicitors who are recognised as leaders in their fi elds, the Clayton Utz
Graduate Program provides a solid basis for future success.
ROTATIONS
Graduates will have the opportunity to gain experience by rotating
through our diverse practice areas. Our graduates experience both the
contentious and non-contentious areas of law. To help you with your
preferences and rotation areas, our People and Development team will
work closely with you. At the end of each rotation, you and your super-
vising partner will review your performance.
CLERKSHIP PROGRAM
We offer a unique Clerkship Program that is both challenging and com-
prehensive. We provide an environment which will encourage you to
extend yourself and expand your knowledge. The Clerkship Program
is carefully planned and designed to ensure that you gain experience
in a wide range of areas of law and on real client matters. Your work at
Clayton Utz will allow you to put into practice the knowledge and skills
you have acquired at university.
Under the supervision of a partner and with the help of a buddy who will
be there to provide ongoing support and guidance, you will experience
the offi ce environment and culture at Clayton Utz fi rst hand. Part of the
Clayton Utz experience is being involved in the kind of client services we
provide. You will have the opportunity to work with our clients, including
some of Australia’s biggest companies.
LEGAL TRAINING
DEVELOPING YOUR CAREER
We believe learning and development are critical to helping our people
achieve in their careers and to reach their full potential.
We provide a range of tailored and comprehensive professional develop-
ment programs suited to the individual needs of each employee through
our national training program Learning@Clayton Utz.
WE SUPPORT YOUR LEARNING WITH:
• intensive orientation programs
at the beginning of the
clerkship period and graduate
program;
• on-the-job guidance and
support from peers and senior
lawyers;
• regular Continuing Legal Edu-
cation sessions led by special-
ists sharing their knowledge
and experience;
• tuition assistance for
further study; and
• external courses and seminars
relevant to your professional
and personal development.
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29LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
CLAYTON UTZ SUMMER CLERK PROFILE
WHAT ONE WORD BEST DESCRIBES
YOUR CLERKSHIP? WHY?
Affi rming. For me, the clerkship was one of
those experiences where you realise you made
it. My hard work throughout university was af-
fi rmed in my getting a spot. My choice to study
law was affi rmed by how much I enjoyed actu-
ally practising the law. Most importantly, my
decision to work at Clayton Utz was affi rmed
by the wonderful people I worked with – from
summer clerks and lawyers to partners.
WHAT WAS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE
EXPERIENCE WITH CLAYTON UTZ?
My most memorable experience with Clayton
Utz is defi nitely working in Hong Kong. I was
fortunate enough to be sent to the Hong Kong
offi ce on a two week secondment. I had an
absolute blast! I spent my days working with
the construction team, not only learning
about legal practice in Hong Kong but also
developing an understanding of cross-cultural
business relations. During the nights, I got to
explore the city!
WHAT WAS THE MOST STRESSFUL
EXPERIENCE DURING YOUR CLERKSHIP?
The most stressful experience for me was
learning how to account for my time. I was ter-
rifi ed by the thought of having to calculate the
time spent on each task and charge it to the
correct matter! Fortunately, we received lots of
training and I got the hang of it in the end.
HAS YOUR CLERKSHIP CHANGED YOUR
VIEWS ON A CAREER IN LAW?
Defi nitely not. If anything, my clerkship expe-
rience has made me feel stronger about my
decision to pursue a career in law.
WHY SHOULD CLAYTON UTZ BE AN
APPLICANT’S FIRST PREFERENCE?
Clayton Utz should be your fi rst preference
because a fi rm is only as good as the people
that work there - and the people here are
great! They’re friendly, well-balanced and nor-
mal. But, the lawyers and partners also have
incredible legal minds. On top of that, they are
always ready and willing to help you learn.
The other drawcard is the offi ce building.
It may seem indulgent to list this as one of
the reasons Clayton Utz should be your fi rst
preference, but it is visual proof that Clayton
Utz takes care of its own. The building is one
of the most beautiful corporate spaces I have
ever seen. It’s like entering a contemporary
museum twenty light years into the future.
When you’re working bathed in natural light,
it’s hard not to love your job!
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU
HAVE FOR FUTURE CLERKS?
The fi rst thing I would recommend is that you
take each person’s clerkship advice with a
grain of salt. The most important thing is that
the fi rms get a feel for who you are and there’s
no point worrying that you’re not a sporting
hero or that you haven’t joined any on-campus
clubs!
That leads into my next bit of advice. You’ll
be told many times in the next few months
to ‘just be yourself’. It sounds cliché, but it’s
absolutely true. The interview process is not
about trying to be ‘what the fi rm wants’. The
clerkship opportunity is about you too - and
you need to fi nd your fi t!
NOW FOR SOME ON-THE-JOB TIPS.
Firstly, remember that you’re here as a sum-
mer clerk to hone those legal skills of yours
and the people you work with have a vast
amount of experience. So be open to criticism
and be willing to learn.
Secondly, be open to any practice group. I
thought I knew beyond any doubt that I wanted
to be a media lawyer. But, during my clerkship
I was presently surprised by my experience in
Real Estate and discovered I absolutely love it!
SUMMER CLERKEXPERIENCESTEPHANIE-KATEBRATTON
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30 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
CLAYTON UTZSUMMER CLERK PROFILE
WHAT ONE WORD BEST DESCRIBES
YOUR CLERKSHIP? WHY?
Insightful. The clerkship process at Clayton
Utz really opened my eyes at what a career in
law entailed. It wasn’t all work and no play, but
rather a mix of interesting and thought provok-
ing work and a healthy dose of sports, social
activities and all round fun.
WHAT WAS YOUR MOST MEMORABLE
EXPERIENCE WITH CLAYTON UTZ?
My most memorable experience at CU was
defi nitely winning the interfi rm sports com-
petition. While the work was interesting it was
great to have a side activity that allowed you
to take your mind of things and interact with
your colleagues in a completely different en-
vironment. One of the best parts about it was
meeting like-minded people from other fi rm
and coming up with your best friendly com-
petitive jeer.
WHAT WAS THE MOST STRESSFUL
EXPERIENCE DURING YOUR
CLERKSHIP?
One of the most stressful parts of doing a
clerkship in my opinion was meeting partner
expectation. I think there are a lot of ques-
tions in the back of your mind that nag at you;
should I have read over that contract one more
time? Was my response detailed enough? Was
my email too informal? Should I have brought
the partner a cupcake to soften the blow of
not fi nding an answer? I think the stress stems
from the knowledge that the partners will in-
evitably decide whether you remain with the
fi rm or not. It didn’t take me long however, to
realise that the partners were anything but the
big scary monsters I had once thought. They
were friendly and understanding of the fact
that as clerks we pretty much knew nothing.
HAS YOUR CLERKSHIP CHANGED YOUR
VIEWS ON A CAREER IN LAW?
Working as a seasonal clerk has made me re-
alise that the law isn’t as cut dry as you would
think. There are often a number of solutions
to a problem and a number of commercial
considerations to take into account. After my
clerkship I realised that your legal work was
often shaped by commercial and economic
factors. A legal solution 10 years ago might
not be the same solution now in light of recent
economic times.
WHY SHOULD CLAYTON UTZ BE AN
APPLICANT’S FIRST PREFERENCE?
Clayton Utz should be an applicant’s fi rst pref-
erence because it can provide a clerk with the
type of experience only a top tier fi rm can, with
clients ranging from large multinational corpo-
rations, banks, government organisations and
projects and other corporate heavy weights.
The training given to you by the fi rm is sec-
ond to none and ongoing, ensuring you are
always in the know. What makes CU special
is its industry leading Pro Bono department
with a permanent full time partner and team
dedicated to helping the people who can’t
help themselves.
Other than work, CU organises a range of so-
cial and sporting activities which gives you that
much desired balance.
WHAT ADVICE DO YOU HAVE FOR
FUTURE CLERKS?
Go into the clerkship process with a positive
and open attitude ready to give everything a
shot at least once.
SUMMERCLERKSHIPEXPERIENCEMARK CHAHINE
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AT CORRS, WE’RE DEVELOPING LAWYERS WHO DELIVER REAL IMPACT IN A NEW BUSINESS WORLD. TO SEE HOW VISIT CORRS.COM.AU/GRADUATES
WHAT MAKES A LAWYER WORLD CLASS?
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33LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH FIRM PROFILE
ABOUT CORRS
Corrs Chambers Westgarth is one of Australia’s largest law fi rms. We
have around 1,000 people throughout Australia, but our vision is not
just about size. Our vision is about being the leading law fi rm in target
industries that are driving Australian and international business. In-
dustries like energy and resources, fi nancial services, communications
and media, property, infrastructure and construction, and Government.
It’s about delivering a new level of legal service that bridges the gap
between legal advice and business challenges to create success for our
clients. And it’s about building an inspiring workplace where our people
are engaged and empowered to make this happen.
Corrs has been an ALB Employer of Choice for three successive years.
We’ve made BRW’s list of 50 Great Places to Work in Australia and
are the only large national law fi rm to be awarded ALB Gold Employer
of Choice 2011. We’ve also earned an EOWA Employer of Choice for
Women citation for fi ve successive years.
Our goal is to always create an inspiring workplace and ensure people
who work at Corrs have the opportunity to build successful careers
through undertaking challenging and interesting work in a friendly and
supportive environment. This objective underpins everything we do at
Corrs. We engage staff and give them the recognition, rewards and
support to make this happen.
An inspiring workplace where people can build rewarding careers,
means investing in our people as well as recognising and rewarding
excellence. We do this through a range of innovative people initiatives
over and above our standard processes.
AREAS OF PRACTICE
Corrs operates within three main operating divisions:
• Corporate and Finance (Taxation, Corporate Advisory, Banking and
Finance)
• Property and Development (Construction, Planning, Environment and
Local Government, Property and Infrastructure)
• Litigation and Workplace Relations (Litigation, Workplace Relations,
Intellectual Property, Technology and Competition)
CONTACT
Sara Benvenuti
Human Resources Adviser
(02) 9210 6164
OFFICE LOCATION
Level 32
Governor Phillip Tower
1 Farrer Place
Sydney NSW 2000
With an integrated network of offi ces throughout Australia (Melbourne,
Sydney, Brisbane and Perth), Corrs acts for many of Australia’s largest
companies and is regularly involved in major transactions of national
and international signifi cance.
LEARNING & DEVELOPMENT
Achieving our goals as a world class law fi rm requires people with vi-
sion, ambition, courage and commitment. We have a workplace that
is engaging and truly inspiring, and what we consider to be the most
innovative, progressive and supportive people development program in
the industry.
Our extensive in-house learning and development program will keep
your professional skills and technical knowledge up to date. We have a
Legal Excellence program, practice group training sessions and career
path programs tailored to each level of lawyer. We provide generous
support for further undergraduate and postgraduate study. The Corrs
Scholarship for Individual Excellence program also gives high perform-
ing employees the opportunity to attend short training courses at world
class institutions such as Harvard, Columbia and INSEAD.
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34 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTHFIRM PROFILE
GIVING BACK AND PRO BONO
At Corrs, we recognise the importance of contributing to our community
and facilitating access to justice. We feel that it is important to ensure
legal services are available to everyone including those who cannot pay,
those who are disenfranchised and to those who have genuine legal
issues of a public interest nature that need to be pursued.
Corrs provides pro bono legal advice to charities, non-profi t organisa-
tions and, when the need arises, to individuals. Our pro bono activities
are diverse. Nationally, we are the principal legal partner for the United
Nations Refugee Agency in Australia (UNHCR), and do commercial
legal work for other charitable and not-for-profi t organisations includ-
ing the Aboriginal Legal Service (NSW/ACT), Australian Children’s Trust,
Consumer Action Law Centre, Inspire Foundation, Oxfam, Painaustralia,
SecondBite and the RSPCA, among others.
We have established legal clinics in Sydney, Brisbane and Melbourne.
This work was recognised when we received the Victorian Law Founda-
tion Distinguished Pro Bono Service Award.
HOW DOES THE FIRM ENCOURAGE A WORK/LIFE BALANCE?
We believe in fostering a work environment that promotes fl exibility and
diversity. It’s an essential part of our strategy – because our differences
help us to think differently.
At Corrs we want the best people, full stop. As a law fi rm seeking com-
petitive advantage in the global economy, diversity is the reality of our
environment and we are making it our strength. Corrs aims to provide
a workplace that champions differences to ensure a richer and more
engaging environment that encourages and retains talented people. We
provide fl exible working arrangements to support our people as their
needs change throughout their lives and careers. We have a dedicated
Diversity Manager, we have set ourselves goals and we’ve put in place
the plan to achieve these.
OUTSIDE OF WORK, WHAT DOES
THE FIRM OFFER ITS EMPLOYEES?
It’s not all about work! At Corrs we encourage staff to be socially ac-
tive and participate in social and sporting events as well as learning &
development activities.
Some of our activities include our Mind, Body & Soul series, touch foot-
ball, cricket day, Friday night drinks, family days, trivia nights, End of
Financial Year party and Christmas Party. Corrs also provides fl exible
work arrangements, paid study leave, salary sacrifi cing and opportuni-
ties to give back to the community.
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM
The Corrs Seasonal Clerkship Program is a great opportunity for you to
experience the people, clients, work and culture that differentiates Corrs
from other law fi rms.
As part of the Program, you’ll have the opportunity to work with some
of Australia’s leading lawyers on high-profi le work for major Australian
and international clients across all industries. You’ll soon discover the
standards of quality and commitment to clients required to succeed at
this level.
You’ll be exposed to a broad range of interesting matters, plus you’ll
perform tasks such as conducting research, reviewing documents,
presenting documents, attending client meetings, mediations and set-
tlements. It’s the perfect way to discover the area of law that excites
you most.
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35LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH FIRM PROFILE
The Program involves a unique rotation system, whereby you will partici-
pate in four two-week rotations, which gives you the opportunity to work
across the whole fi rm. There are also structured learning opportunities
that include a comprehensive orientation program, and presentations
on relevant legal, business and workplace issues.
As a clerk, you will be closely supervised by allocated Clerk Co-ordina-
tors; who are Senior Associates at the fi rm. You will also have a mentor;
a junior lawyer who is there to answer any questions you may have
about the fi rm, and who can settle you in and provide you with an infor-
mal level of support and guidance during your time at Corrs.
APPLYING FOR CORRS CLERKSHIP
All applications for Seasonal Clerk positions should be made via: www.
corrs.com.au/careers
All application dates are in accordance with the 2012 NSW Legal
Graduate Employment and Summer Clerkship Guidelines.
Applications for 2012 seasonal clerk positions open on Thursday, 13
June 2012 and close at 5.00pm AEST on Friday, 13 July 2012.
WHAT DOES THE FIRM LOOK FOR IN A CLERK?
Corrs looks for intelligent people. But being intelligent and being able
to provide intelligent legal solutions are not always the same thing. We
want individuals with common sense and an instinctive mind for busi-
ness, outstanding communicators who can defi ne the essence of any
issue in a simple way. We also want clerks who are mature enough to
know they don’t yet have all the answers.
LAUNCH GRADUATE DEVELOPMENT PROGRAM
Your time as graduate at Corrs starts with the Graduate Academy. This
is an off-site training program attended by all Corrs graduates nation-
ally that gives you an opportunity to get to know Corrs and your fellow
graduates better. It is also a great foundation for your Sydney offi ce
orientation that follows immediately – then you are into the work.
We are committed to developing world class lawyers. Our new Gradu-
ate Development Program, Launch, lays this foundation by providing
rich, on the job training with a greater opportunity to work directly with
partners and senior lawyers; structured learning; mentoring; and regular
feedback.
The new Launch program is specifi cally designed to expose you to the
experience, skills and expertise you need to become an outstanding,
highly-skilled practitioner.
Supervised by partners, you will complete three six month rotations
through divisions covering a variety of practice areas including corpo-
rate advisory, banking and fi nance; litigation and workplace relations;
intellectual property and tax; property, infrastructure, construction,
planning, environment, and government. You will get the opportunity to
work with a greater number of partners and senior lawyers.
You will be allocated a Graduate Mentor who will provide you with day-
today guidance, including clarifying what is expected of you, helping
you build your skills and develop your career, You will also have a junior
lawyer as your buddy, who can help you settle into the fi rm.
Your development is overseen by a dedicated Graduate Development
Manager who works with Division Leaders, partners, graduate mentors
and human resources, to provide you with guidance, ensuring your suc-
cess.
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36 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTHSUMMER CLERK PROFILE
WHY CORRS?
Finally, after endless applications, cocktail
nights and interviews, the summer had started
and so had my clerkship at Corrs.
There are many reasons why I chose Corrs.
Undoubtedly the fi rm has a strong national
presence. This has given me the opportunity
to learn from and work alongside leaders in
the profession. I was also attracted to Corrs
because their rotation system was different to
other fi rms - they offer four two-week rotations.
Even though I was equipped with plenty of
information about each practice group, there
was no pressure to make any choices. With
the opportunity to rotate through each practice
group, I am now even considering areas of law
I may not have considered before (did some-
one say Tax?). Most importantly, I chose Corrs
for their people. Everyone, from graduates to
partners were genuinely friendly and eager to
answer any and all of my questions.
TYPE OF WORK
Each rotation was a new and different expe-
rience with a multitude of tasks. The tasks
involved going to court, compiling briefs to
counsel, research and proofreading contracts,
just to name a few. Regardless of the task, we
were provided with a good balance of guid-
ance and independence.
One of the most rewarding experiences of
the clerkship was my involvement in an Ad-
judication Response for a construction matter.
Expecting that the extent of my role would be
researching areas of equity and contract law,
I was taken by surprise when I was asked to
also draft part of the submissions. While this
was overwhelming, I am grateful to have been
given such a worthwhile task!
PRO BONO OPPORTUNITIES
It was great to see Corrs actively engaging
its employees in pro bono work. Summer
clerks were given various opportunities to be
involved, which was very important to me as
I have a strong interest in community legal
work. As part of a pro bono project, the clerks
compiled a social media guide for the Inspire
Foundation. Every clerk was also given the
opportunity to attend a legal centre with one
of the graduates, dealing with matters vastly
different from those in the corporate law en-
vironment.
LEARNING AND DEVELOPMENT
It is evident that the people at Corrs want to
help you grow as a professional. Learning and
Development started from Day 1 at Orienta-
tion. During the clerkship there were numer-
ous training sessions to develop our research,
writing and communication skills. We also had
sessions with partners from different practice
groups to explain their role and the type of
work they do. Each clerk was also allocated a
buddy who would willingly pass on their pearls
of wisdom.
SOCIAL
Amongst the research tasks, court visits and
training, numerous social activities were
scheduled into our clerkship program – the
Christmas party (or in some cases parties),
shopping nights, tours, bake sale, intra-fi rm
touch football and attending other fi rms’ social
events.
In addition, there were plenty of events to
meet clerks from other fi rms. With the inter-
fi rm sporting competition on Monday nights,
we tested our skills at soccer, touch football,
volleyball and netball. There were also drinks
events, a TV-themed trivia night and a cruise.
Corrs is a great place to do a summer clerkship
and start your career. All my expectations were
met and exceeded. Best of all I was able to
share the clerkship experience with my fellow
clerks – people I am truly grateful to have met!
2011/12SUMMER CLERKSHEETALBALAKRISHNAN
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37LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
DIBBS BARKER FIRM PROFILE
SUMMER CLERKSHIPS
Getting a taste for what life is like working inside a law fi rm before you
complete your studies is important to help you make the right choices
about the sort of fi rm you would like to work in and which practice area
you are best suited to. To help you get the most information you can,
DibbsBarker runs a Summer Clerkship program for Law Students in
their penultimate year of studies.
WHAT TO EXPECT
The DibbsBarker Summer Clerkship program involves working full-
time for approximately three months over the summer holidays. You
will be fully immersed in life inside a law fi rm including the day-to-day
work activities and also the social and sporting opportunities. You will
be assigned a supervisor and a buddy in each division. The supervisor
will be a senior Lawyer who will be responsible for delegating work to
you and ensuring that you are exposed to the full gamut of tasks in
that practice area. The buddy will be a more junior Lawyer who can
answer all your questions and be a friendly face. We will try and ensure
that you get a real fl avour for what is involved in day to day practice,
including attending court, meeting with clients and undertaking legal
research. The idea is to equip you with the information you need to
decide which areas of practice interest you most and whether you
could see yourself fi tting into the fi rm.
At the end of the clerkship we aim to offer our summer clerks part-time
paralegal positions in their last year of study. To date, many of our Grad-
uate Lawyers have been recruited from our Summer Clerk program.
OUR ROTATION PROGRAM
To ensure that you are exposed to a variety of practice areas within
the fi rm, you will undertake three rotations across the various divisions.
We encourage our clerks to think about whether there are particular
practice areas they are interested in and we try and accommodate those
interests as much as possible. We also recommend that our clerks are
exposed to a combination of both litigious and non-litigious groups, to
really get a feel for the differences between the two.
It is important to remember that studying a subject at University and
working in that area in practice can be very different! Sometimes aca-
demically interesting subjects are not quite as interesting in practice
and sometimes subjects that seemed a little dull at University can actu-
ally be very rewarding in practice. The important thing is to remember to
keep an open mind and experience as many different areas as possible
to enable you to make a really informed choice.
WHO WE LOOK FOR
Deciding who to interview from the hundreds of excellent applications
is no easy task and unfortunately we don’t have the manpower to meet
everyone!
At the CV stage, we are looking for a well structured CV that displays a
combination of academic excellence and leadership and people skills.
Being technically brilliant at the law is a defi nite asset but excellent
communication and people skills are equally as important. At the end
of the day, a career in the law involves dealing with a diverse range of
people and communicating sometimes technical legal information into
plain language. Being able to get along well with both colleagues and
clients is also very important.
Once you reach the interview stage, we will be looking to assess how
you carry yourself and how you interact with others. Your enthusiasm
and energy are also highly regarded, so make sure they shine through!
FOR MORE INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
LIBBY TOOHEY
People & Development consultant
TELEPHONE
(02) 8233 9525
careers@ dibbsbarker.com
WEB
www.dibbsbarker.com
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EXPERIENCE THE INTERNATIONAL
FLAVOUR OF OUR BUSINESS
DLA Piper is a global law firm operating through various separate and distinct legal entities.
For further information, please refer to www.dlapiper.com Copyright © 2012 DLA Piper. All rights reserved. AZP11| DLA465 | 0112
Join a law firm that is truly going places
Take the first step to a global career and visit
www.dlapipergraduates.com.au to learn more.
With 4,200 lawyers in 76 offices and 30 countries around the world,
working at DLA Piper means opportunities to work with world class
companies on major projects both here and overseas. You’ll also
benefit from cutting-edge learning and development programs,
and work alongside some of the best legal minds around.
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39LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
DLA PIPER FIRM PROFILE
DLA Piper is the truly local, truly global law fi rm where everything mat-
ters.
Joining DLA Piper means not only joining an experienced local team,
but also being part of a global network of 4,200 lawyers in 77 offi ces and
31 countries around the world.
Globally, our lawyers provide clients with trusted local knowledge as well
as seamless multi-jurisdictional legal capabilities across a full range of
critical services and sectors.
In Asia Pacifi c we have offi ces in Bangkok, Beijing, Brisbane, Canberra,
Hong Kong, Melbourne, Perth, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney and Tokyo.
In Australia, our lawyers advise approximately a third of ASX 100 com-
panies or their subsidiaries and all levels of government as well as inter-
national clients looking to enter the Australian market.
AREAS OF PRACTICE
Commercial contracts; Construction; Corporate; Finance; Intellectual
property; International trade; Litigation; Projects and infrastructure; Real
estate; Regulatory and government affairs; Restructuring; Tax; Technol-
ogy and media; Workplace relations, employment and safety.
GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES
DLA Piper is a fi rm with worldwide opportunities. A career with us
means being an integral part of an exciting global team. We support
our people’s desire to experience working life in other parts of the world
through the global DLA Piper network - giving them opportunities to
work on multi-jurisdictional, international matters with quality clients
and colleagues around the world. In recent years we have placed law-
yers in DLA Piper offi ces in London, Hong Kong, Singapore, Washing-
ton, Chicago and Dubai. Currently we have three Australian graduates
undertaking their third rotation in Hong Kong, Beijing and Tokyo. We
also host international trainees from the UK and Asia.
OUR COMMITMENT TO COMMUNITY
Our ‘everything matters’ approach applies not only to how we sup-
port our clients but also to the communities in which we operate. Our
community investment program achieves meaningful community en-
gagement via a broad array of initiatives, focussed on disadvantaged
children, poverty, and people living with disabilities.
Last year our lawyers undertook more than 190,000 hours of pro bono
legal work globally, making us one of the largest providers of pro bono
legal services in the world.
SYDNEY SUMMER CLERK PROGRAM
During our structured eight week rotation program, Summer Clerks are
provided with the opportunity to work on real legal matters alongside
our partners and staff in two areas of the fi rm. On-the-job training and
practical experience may include tasks such as undertaking complex
legal research, attending client meetings, going to court, drafting ad-
vices and other legal memoranda, assisting with strategy plans - and
more. Weekly ‘Lunch & Learn’ sessions provide an opportunity to speak
with partners and gain a real insight into what is involved in each of
our practice group areas. Both fi rm social events and those held with
Summer Clerks from other fi rms help facilitate networking amongst your
colleagues and broader peer group. All of this is supported by regular
feedback to help you grow and develop so you can advance your career
beyond your clerkship. Below is what two recent Summer Clerks had to
say about their experience.
THE SUMMER CLERK EXPERIENCE
“For me it was extremely important that I was exposed to as many as-
pects of working in a commercial law fi rm as possible during my clerk-
ship. My experience as a summer clerk at DLA Piper provided just that.
From the start of my fi rst rotation in Intellectual Property and Technology
Litigation group I was helping draft advices on personal property securi-
ties legislation, researching interesting pockets of law regarding online
defamation, sitting in on client meetings and court hearings, and at
all times reporting directly to partners. In my second rotation with the
Finance and Projects group I had greater exposure to the transactional
side of commercial law reviewing contracts for animal charities, helping
draft tenders for legal work with a value of $200,000+, and prepar-
ing a research paper on the use of “best endeavours” in commercial
contracts.
In summary, the experience has provided me with a comprehensive
cross section of life in a commercial fi rm that has sparked an even
greater interest in a career in law. Combined with social activities, sports
and a cooking class with the other summer clerks, I was afforded the
opportunity to relax and meet new people. I also managed to fi t in a
game of golf with the Projects team partner on a Friday afternoon. I lost
(deliberately).”
WILLIAM DOYLE, 2011/2012 SYDNEY SUMMER CLERK
(UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, SYDNEY)
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40 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
DLA PIPERFIRM PROFILE
“After researching DLA Piper and attending the initial interviews and
cocktail evening, there were numerous things that stood out about the
fi rm. Not only is it the world’s largest global commercial law fi rm, that
provides you with a wealth of opportunities to work both locally and
internationally, but it is also a fi rm that places a strong focus on com-
munity values through its pro bono commitments. The most striking
aspect however, was DLA Piper’s strong focus on individuals within the
fi rm. From the very beginning, it was clear that DLA Piper is a fi rm that
truly acknowledges that (surprise, surprise) lawyers have a life, and that
allowing them to balance all aspects such as social, family, and health
is key to having happy employees who turn over high quality work, and
maintain strong relationships with each other as well as with clients.
The summer clerkship provides students with an invaluable opportunity
to get a taste of what it is like to work in the legal fi eld, explore different
areas of law, and get a head start in employment opportunities in the
area of commercial law. My fi rst rotation was in Corporate (Mergers and
Acquisitions) and my second rotation was in Intellectual Property and
Technology (IPT). Starting the fi rst rotation was a little nerve-racking
for all of us, however, you are given all the training you need to settle
in nicely and the HR Team and the Corporate group were so incredibly
supportive. In this rotation I did everything from effecting share transfers,
to sitting in on conferences with directors in Sweden, to doing lengthy
research tasks. During my rotation in IPT, I wrote advices on copyright,
trade mark, and franchising issues, attended CLEs and helped work on
matters for fi lm corporations located in Paris.
Working at DLA Piper, in any team, means you will be exposed to a
diverse range of work, which is interesting, challenging and relevant to
students who are approaching graduation. And it doesn’t stop there!
Every week you have a “lunch and learn” session - which means you
get free lunch (bonus), you get to re-group with the other clerks, and
learn from a range of partners, senior associates, and solicitors at the
fi rm about every area of law that you can work in at DLA Piper. These
sessions are enlightening, making you realise just how many different
opportunities are available, opening your mind to new possibilities, and
informing you about what you are likely to experience when working in
that team - which ultimately gives you a greater sense of direction and
choice for your career.
DLA Piper looks for students who are well-rounded, are able to balance
their various interests, and want to work hard and achieve results. If
you are a friendly, enthusiastic, adaptable, open-minded individual who
wants to gain an invaluable experience working at a large global law
fi rm, then DLA Piper is for you.”
ANNE BIHANCOV, 2011/2012 SYDNEY SUMMER CLERK
(UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY, SYDNEY)
GRADUATE PROGRAM
Every graduate’s career journey will be different, but our Graduate Pro-
fessional Success (GPS) program has been developed to help gradu-
ates navigate their career. This includes a rotation program allowing
graduates to experience up to three different practice areas of the fi rm;
a dedicated supervisor and buddy for each rotation and on-the-job
training from partners, senior lawyers and other peers. A tailored learn-
ing and development program complements on-the-job learning, rang-
ing from non-technical skill development and graduate CLE program to
mentoring. Regular feedback is also provided to help you to grow and
develop, including both informal and formal performance and develop-
ment reviews.
WHAT WE LOOK FOR
At DLA Piper Australia we are seeking people from a diverse range of
backgrounds who are as engaged and dedicated as they are inventive,
balanced and friendly. We value intellectual ability, curiosity, commit-
ment, ambition, commercial and client awareness, smart thinking, team
skills and leadership potential, communications skills and experiences
outside of academic life.
HOW TO APPLY: SYDNEY SUMMER
CLERK PROGRAM 2012/2013
Applications open 13 June 2012 and close 13 July 2012 at 5.00pm.
Applications must be submitted online via our job board (www.dlapiper-
graduates.com.au) and should include a covering letter, your current CV
and your academic transcript.
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
For more information regarding our recruitment programs,
please contact:
KRISTIE BARTON
HR Consultant
TELEPHONE
+61 2 9286 8585
VISIT US AT
www.dlapipergraduates.com.au
FOLLOW US ON TWITTER
http://twitter.com/#!/DLAP_CareersAus
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LIKE A TRAPEZE ARTIST, I CAN PUSH BEYOND MY COMFORT ZONE, KNOWING THERE’S A SAFETY NET.
Senior AssociateCorporate, Sydney
THERE’S MORE TO USVisit our Careers pages atwww.freehills.com/careers/grad
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42 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
FREEHILLSFIRM PROFILE
ABOUT US
Freehills is one of the leading commercial law fi rms in the Asia-Pacifi c
region. We have offi ces in Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Brisbane and Sin-
gapore, and associated offi ces in Jakarta, Beijing, Shanghai, Hanoi and
Ho Chi Minh City. Nationally Freehills employs approximately 1900 staff,
including around 200 partners and 800 legal staff.
We are proud to act for a majority of Australia’s top 100 companies,
some of whom have been clients of the fi rm for much of our 160-year
history.
Our summer clerks and graduates have told us that they value the fi rm’s
down-to-earth style, the unparalleled training and development, the
chance to work with inspiring clients and some of the best legal minds
in the country, and the ability to explore the many different directions
their career can take them. Time and again though, they tell us it’s about
the people: real, warm, smart and interesting people who will welcome,
support and challenge you. With us you can be yourself.
If you’re looking for the right place to start your legal career, talk to
Freehills.
OUR WORK IN THE COMMUNITY
At Freehills, we believe that a law fi rm can be a dynamic force for
change. As well as our longstanding pro bono legal practice, we have a
strong community program. The Freehills Foundation combines these
two programs, with an overall mission of increasing access to justice
and opportunity. Each year we assist more than 1000 clients on a pro
bono basis. All Freehills lawyers are encouraged to do pro bono work
and all pro bono work is billable. Our community program includes vol-
unteering, workplace giving and fundraising. Volunteering is a part of
Freehills culture; all staff are encouraged to volunteer and able to take
one working day a year as volunteer leave.
CLERKSHIP PROGRAM
The aim of our summer clerkship program is to provide students in their
penultimate year with a taste of how a large commercial law fi rm goes
about meeting the needs of its clients. The program includes a detailed
introduction to the fi rm and to each practice group, as well as the op-
portunity to work with our legal teams on real matters.
In Sydney we invite approximately 30–35 penultimate year law students
to participate in our annual summer clerk program. We offer a 10-week
clerkship with two rotations over the summer vacation. The program
includes a detailed introduction to the fi rm and to each practice group,
as well as the opportunity to work with our legal teams on real matters.
WHAT ARE WE LOOKING FOR?
We are interested in who you are and the strengths you can bring—we
do not look to fi ll a particular mould. We recruit employees from a wide
range of backgrounds who we think exemplify our core values of fulfi l-
ment, teamwork, excellence and commerciality. We look for students
who want to pursue a career in commercial law and who demonstrate
a commercial awareness. We are interested in your academic record
as well as strong communication and interpersonal skills; evidence of
a balanced university life and evidence of ability to work effectively in
a team.
HOW TO APPLY
Applications should be submitted online via cvMail at
www.cvmail.com.au
Please note that most of our graduate positions are fi lled through our
summer clerkship program and we do not currently have an additional
graduate recruitment program planned.
RECRUITMENT CONTACT
LEIGH DUNLOP
Graduate Recruitment Adviser
(02) 9322 4792
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43LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
FREEHILLS SUMMER CLERK PROFILE
Last year at this time, many of my friends
at university were asking me “which
fi rm is your top preference for a clerk-
ship?” Given that previous law assessments
had emphasised that my gut instinct was not
a fantastic reference, I would feebly attach
generic nouns such as ‘excellence’ to practice
groups or policies that I could remember to
justify my choice. In retrospect, my gut instinct
was a fantastic guide. If you’re like me and
can’t place that amount of trust in an instinct
however, I have provided a snapshot of experi-
ences from my clerkship at Freehills that may
be able to assist you with your decision and
campus banter.
Prior to starting at Freehills, we were afforded
the opportunity to submit preferences for
which two practice groups we would like to
rotate through over summer. As I didn’t know
which area of commercial law I would enjoy
most, I requested two disparate groups, being
Private Equity and Intellectual Property Litiga-
tion, and was placed in both. The partners I
worked for were fantastic and allowed me to
be involved in every step of a matter: from the
initial research and document review, to cli-
ent conferences, settlements and court. I was
also ‘buddied’ with a junior solicitor in each
rotation, giving me both a person to ask inane
questions to, such as ‘how do I get out of the
building?’, and gain an insight into the work of
a graduate.
Freehills also has a strong focus on the com-
munity, and this extends to the work of the
vacation clerks. Much of this is done through
The Shopfront Youth Legal Centre, a free le-
gal service for disadvantaged and homeless
people under the age of 25, which Freehills
helped to establish and continues to fund.
During my clerkship, I was taken to the local
court by the principal solicitor of The Shopfront
to witness a hearing for one of their clients. To
my surprise, this involved meeting the client
in the docks of the court, and listening to the
magistrate question the family members of the
client in the back of the court room. Given that
this was one of the highlights of my summer, I
am delighted that I have been able to continue
doing work for The Shopfront as a paralegal
at Freehills.
To my great relief, the passion for social activi-
ties at law school is matched, if not exceeded,
in the legal industry. The vacation clerk events
of a cruise, trivia night, scavenger hunt, inter-
fi rm competitions, and barefoot bowls, along
with the fi rm events of multiple Christmas
parties, drinks, the partner–clerk debate and
sport, meant that I usually had a ridiculous
costume or uniform on my desk each morning
for the night ahead. Thankfully, a quick scan
of the fl oor revealed that everybody else was in
the same position.
Most importantly however, I have really enjoyed
working with the people at Freehills. There are
an incredibly wide range of personalities, with
a few common characteristics—they are all
technically excellent, down-to-earth and pos-
sess a genuine interest in their colleagues.
This stood out to me most on two occasions:
fi rst, whilst sharing a Guinness with the former
managing partner discussing our respective
lack of ability in AFL, and second, getting
laughs and thumbs ups from solicitors whilst
being dressed as ‘the Todd’ from Scrubs at
3.00pm in the offi ce.
The best approach to adopt for the vacation
clerkship application process is to take every
opportunity you can to meet people from dif-
ferent fi rms. Personally, those encounters as-
sured me that Freehills was the fi rm that would
provide me with the most diverse experience
and excellent training with people that I would
really enjoy working with. My vacation clerkship
and paralegal work has certainly proven that to
be the case, and as such, I am looking forward
to commencing as a graduate at Freehills.
2011/2012CORPORATE(PRIVATE EQUITY)AND LITIGATION(INTELLECTUALPROPERTY)
MITCH HILLIER
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www.gadens.com.au follow us on twitter @gadenslawyers
What matters to you?KateSummer Clerk, 2011
Being sent on secondment to a major client helped me to better understand the client’s needs and how I can be a better lawyer.’
Edwina Summer Clerk, 2010
For me, it’s important to enjoy coming to work everyday. Like all lawyers, we work hard but we have fun while we’re at it.’
AbiSummer Clerk, 2008
Gadens works for a large number of ASX 100 companies which meant I got exposure to major clients from day one.’
It’s your career. It’s all about you.
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45LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
GADENS FIRM PROFILE
When you join Gadens Lawyers, you will be working in a fi rm where
success is determined by the character and spirit of our people.
At Gadens, everyone has a voice and your experiences, knowledge and
insight will be valued and respected. We are a place where fresh think-
ing and new ideas are championed daily.
The fi rm provides opportunities to work in our interstate offi ces and
secondments with some of our corporate clients. We are also happy to
explore opportunities for personal growth in disciplines outside the law
that enrich your capacity to grow.
If you want to be challenged, and to have the opportunity to make a real
difference, come and join us.
AREAS OF PRACTICE:
WHAT SIGNIFICANT WORK HAS GADENS DONE RECENTLY?
Our commercial litigation group is currently defending one of the par-
ties in the Welker v Rinehart family litigation. This high-profi le and com-
plex matter has already been to the High Court of Australia twice and
the Court of Appeal four times in 2012.
WHAT DOES GADENS LOOK FOR IN A POTENTIAL EMPLOYEE?
We are looking for talented people who approach their work with pas-
sion and who excel at establishing quality relationships with clients
and colleagues. We value intellect, collaboration, openness, integrity,
respect and excellence. We seek independent, rigorous thinkers.
• Aged care and retirement
• Agribusiness
• Banking and fi nance
• Charities and not-for-profi t
• Competition and consumer
• Construction
• Corporate advisory
• Dispute resolution
• Employee relations and safety
• Energy and resources
• Infrastructure
• Insolvency
• Insurance
• Intellectual property
• Licensing and hospitality
• Life sciences
• National mortgage services
• Native title
• Planning and environment
• Property
• Superannuation
• Sustainability
• Taxation, regulation
and compliance
• Workouts and restructures
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU OFFER TO
SOMEONE APPLYING TO GADENS?
Be yourself and to let your personality shine through. We are looking for
well rounded individuals who like to excel in everything they do. While
strong academic results are important, they are only part of the picture
and we believe that people who have interests outside of work will be the
best fi t to our team oriented environment.
HOW DOES GADENS ENCOURAGE
EMPLOYEES TO LEARN AND DEVELOP?
Gadens has an extensive learning and development program that is
offered to all staff, not just professional. Employees are encouraged to
constantly develop their skills.
We also have fortnightly inhouse Continuing Legal Education (CLE)
seminars to assist all lawyers to obtain their mandatory points in compli-
ance with the law society.
HOW DOES GADENS ENCOURAGE A WORK/LIFE BALANCE?
Fun is also strongly on the agenda. We encourage everyone not to park
their personalities at the lift door. We believe that a lively workplace
reduces stress and improves learning, productivity and creativity.
DOES GADENS ENGAGE IN PRO BONO,
VOLUNTEER OR OTHER COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES?
Gadens recognises that our enduring success requires economic
growth that both protects and promotes social equity and ecological
sustainability. Our sustainability program encompasses this philosophy
in the four spheres in which we operate including our workplace, the
marketplace, the community and the environment.
Within each of these spheres we aim to achieve the following sustain-
able outcomes:
1. WORKPLACE
engaging with all of our people to
create an environment that pro-
motes individuality and diversity
while instilling pride in the fi rm
and its collective values.
2. MARKETPLACE
consistent excellence in our
delivery of legal advice and
services, focused on commercial
solutions for our clients.
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46 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
GADENSFIRM PROFILE
3. COMMUNITY
interacting with the wider com-
munity and promoting emerging
arts, youth initiatives, community
projects and providing pro bono
legal services.
4. ENVIRONMENT
minimising our impact on the
environment and taking respon-
sibility for our environmental
footprint.
Many of the programs and initiatives that make up our sustainability
program have developed organically over several decades, such as our
support for the arts which has grown and evolved since the 1960s.
More recently we have joined the Australian Legal Sector Alliance and
have committed to publicly reporting on our sustainability initiatives.
OUTSIDE OF WORK, WHAT DOES
GADENS OFFER ITS EMPLOYEES?
Gadens offer employees the opportunity to represent the fi rm at inter-
fi rm sporting competitions, as well as hosting a number of health and
wellbeing seminars. Gadens is also involved with various corporate so-
cial responsibility programs and encourage employees to help out those
who are less fortunate.
HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY FOR
CLERKSHIPS TO GADENS THIS YEAR?
Please email a covering letter together with your CV and a copy of your
academic transcript to:
Julia Bucci
Human Resources Offi cer
http://www.gadens.com.au/sydney/joinus/summer-clerks/Pages/De-
fault.aspx
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE THIS YEAR?
8-10 Summer Clerks
WHAT DOES GADENS LOOK FOR IN A CLERK?
We are looking for mature individuals who can demonstrate the highest
level of professional commitment, but who might also make our fi rm
an even more interesting and enjoyable place in which to practise law.
The successful applicants will have a strong academic record, an inno-
vative mindset, and a track record of collaboration and teamwork. Our
summer clerks are also likely to have a range of diverse interests and a
history of seeking and accepting responsibility.
WHAT WORK DOES GADENS OFFER A CLERK?
Your work will be interesting and challenging, and from day one you will
have plenty of responsibility. At Gadens, exposure to clients happens
quickly. You will be able to take the initiative and express your ideas
from the outset. You will not be working away in a back offi ce. Gadens
is a place to thrive, not hide.
WHAT DOES THE FIRM OFFER ITS GRADUATES?
Graduates are offered 3 eight month rotations over a two year period.
We strongly suggest that our graduates complete rotations in both trans-
actional and litigious based areas of law to ensure they are receiving
a well rounded experience and therefore able to form a better idea of
where they might choose to specialise. Whilst undertaking their ro-
tations our graduates have the opportunity to participate in the fi rm’s
extensive learning and development program. From day one the gradu-
ates will be exposed to real work and have the opportunity to interact
with the fi rm’s clients.
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47LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
GADENS FIRM PROFILE
DOES THE FIRM ASSIST GRADUATES TO COMPLETE THEIR
PRACTICAL LEGAL TRAINING (PLT)? IF SO, HOW?
Many of our summer clerks work as casual law clerks while completing
their fi nal year of university. If they require extra hours to complete their
PLT this can be accommodated. Depending on the student’s availability
they would work either on a part-time or full-time basis as a law clerk/
paralegal undertaking real legal work to ensure they had the required
hours. Their work is always supervised by a senior lawyer or partner
who will sign off on their PLT work.
WHAT IS THE TYPICAL PROGRESSION PATH OF
GRADUATES IN THEIR EARLY YEARS AT THE FIRM?
Gadens’ internal structure is fairly fl at so we don’t have many “layers”.
Graduates are known as graduates internally when they fi rst join us
however have the title of “solicitor” from admission when dealing with
clients. Whilst they take part in the graduate rotation program over their
fi rst two years, they are treated like any other solicitor within the fi rm.
They will have the opportunity to participate in presentations and busi-
ness development when it is felt they are ready. Whilst some solicitors
have progressed to senior associate level after just three years, typically
solicitors with four years post admission experience should be on the
path to senior associate. There are a number of criteria that our solici-
tors must meet to be promoted. Our promotion process is transparent
and solicitors are made aware of the standards required from an early
stage.
WHAT IS THE ANTICIPATED GRADUATE INTAKE THIS YEAR?
As our returning summer clerks take the majority of graduate roles of-
fered, we typically have 8-10 starting each year. If the fi rm’s needs
require additional graduates, we would recruit on an ad hoc basis. On
average we may take on another 8-10 graduates throughout the year
depending on our needs.
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48 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
GADENSSUMMER CLERK PROFILE
When I applied for a clerkship I
expected it to be a steep learning
curve, and it was, but not in the
way I expected.
I was a summer clerk at Gadens in 2010/2011
while I was studying at UTS. I’ve since
graduated from uni and work as a solicitor at
Gadens.
The clerkship led to this graduate job which
is the start of what I hope is a long and happy
career. The rotations and fl exibility of this job
provide a great opportunity for me to fi nd my
area of interest. These things are important
to me and I’m lucky that Gadens provides this
fl exibility and opportunity, but this is not why I
love my job.
I love my job because I am supported, I am
challenged, I am valued, and I get to work
with lovely people. Anyone who has worked
at Gadens will tell you the same. The summer
clerkship at Gadens was simply an introduc-
tion to this continuing experience.
SUPPORT
When I applied for a summer clerkship, I
expected to be challenged, but we were also
given the necessary support. We were given
several days of dedicated training to learn
about the fi rm, its systems, its ethos and what
we could expect.
We each had a ‘buddy’ in each summer clerk
and graduate rotation who was a solicitor or
senior associate who would help us in any way
they could. These are people who volunteer;
who want to help. My buddies took me for an
introductory drink to fi nd out my interests and
aspirations, introduced me to people in the
fi rm who gave me high level work in my area
of interest, for example drafting pleadings, and
were always keen and interested to answer
any questions or just have a good chat.
VALUE
We were asked where we wanted to go in our
clerkship and our time here was tailored as
best it could to suit our interests.
A partner from every practice area took the
time to speak to us about what they do, why
it interests them and the type of law and work
that is involved in their area.
During my second rotation I was offered, and
accepted, a secondment to eBay. This was
particularly exciting to me as I have a real
interest in the law of eCommerce and the ef-
fects of globalisation. I loved it. I had support
from Gadens at my fi ngertips and was even
asked to go back there late last year to help
with more work.
PEOPLE
We were encouraged to attend social functions
and to get to know everyone in the fi rm and
each other, which we did. Gadens seek out
people who are friendly and inclusive rather
than just academic and we have an open door
policy. And when I say ‘policy’ it doesn’t refer
to some dusty manual in the corner!
All of my fellow summer clerks are some of my
best friends! We have a real bond and though
we all now work in different areas of the fi rm
we have kept up our friendships and from that
we get a personal perspective on different ar-
eas of law and the fi rm as we go through our
graduate rotations together.
We all felt a special bond to the summer clerks
who followed us in the year just past and now
I get to be a buddy for a post summer clerk-
ship graduate and follow the example of my
buddies!
I would recommend all the enthusiastic
people out there who are looking for a great
opportunity to expand their knowledge, meet
great people and get invaluable experience
to apply for a clerkship at Gadens. You will
be pleasantly surprised by the willingness,
helpfulness and inclusive nature of the people
here. Working in law is often challenging, but
with the right people and support it’s far from
scary and can be really fun too!
SUMMERCLERKSHIP PROFILEEDWINA OLIVER
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S Y DN E Y
M E L BOU RN E
P E RT H
Be part of a young, flexible first-tier firm that has built its success on innovation and having a heart.
If you’re among the best and brightest law students, make the smart career choice and begin your legal career at Gilbert + Tobin.
FIND OUT MORE AT ME.GTLAW.COM.AU
Hannah Quadrio, Lawyer
Make the smart career choice
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A career with Gilbert + Tobin is the smart choiceWhy is a career with Gilbert + Tobin the smart choice? Because we are a first-tier firm where you can make a name for yourself, through the transactions and projects you work on and by participating in our extensive community activities.
At G+T you’ll work on transactions that define and shape the market in Australia and around the world. Our clients and projects span the Asia Pacific and African regions.
me.gtlaw.com.au
WHAT WE OFFERFrom our offices around Australia, our lawyers work across the following practice areas:
+ Banking + Finance+ Capital Markets+ Communications + Technology+ Competition + Regulation+ Corporate Advisory+ Dispute Resolution+ Employment
+ Energy + Resources+ Intellectual Property+ Litigation+ Mergers + Acquisitions+ Pro Bono+ Real Estate + Projects+ Tax
WORK IN DYNAMIC SECTORSGilbert + Tobin specialises in dynamic and evolving market sectors, including charities, climate change, government, infrastructure, natural resources, renewable energy, technology, telecommunications and water. We advise leading domestic and international companies on transactions that impact and shape these areas.
We are also community lawyers. Gilbert + Tobin is known for the high-quality advice we give to organisations and individuals in all parts of Australian society. For those in need, we provide this advice pro bono.
ENTREPRENEURIAL SPIRITGilbert + Tobin has become the legal adviser of choice for industry leaders that value our determination to succeed. Our diverse team of highly talented and ambitious people are attracted to the firm because of its entrepreneurial spirit, creative approach and capacity for change.
Over the past 10 years, many prominent partners have joined Gilbert + Tobin to build and strengthen our practice groups. The firm employs more than 450 lawyers and professionals, and we still have the highest proportion of female partners (38%) of any major Australian law firm.
ARE YOU READY TO MAKE THE SMART CAREER CHOICE?If you are among the best and brightest, Gilbert + Tobin is the smart choice for your career. Our lawyers are entrepreneurial, ambitious, commercially aware and self-motivated. Although our backgrounds and talents are different, we have a common goal: to build a first-tier corporate law firm and be the best provider of legal services in our chosen areas of practice.
FIND OUT MOREFor more information on employment opportunities in our Sydney, Melbourne and Perth offices, please visit me.gtlaw.com.au or email [email protected]. G+T’s People Team can arrange for you to chat with one of our recent summer clerks or graduates about their experience.
“We are very impressed by the firm’s strategic approach, expertise and ability to provide advice in a timely manner.”Intellectual Property group, Chambers Asia Pacific, 2012
S Y D N E Y
M E L B O U R N E
P E RT H
me.gtlaw.com.au
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A career with Gilbert + Tobin is the smart choiceWhy is a clerkship with Gilbert + Tobin the smart career choice? Because from day one, you’ll work on top-tier transactions and collaborate closely with industry leaders. G+T focuses on dynamic, evolving industry sectors. Our lawyers work on transactions that define and shape the market in Australia and around the world. Be part of a firm with a unique culture where you can make a name for yourself.
“It’s clear to me that G+T values excellence, encourages ambition and supports the talents and aspirations of its employees.”Prue Mewburn, 2011 Summer Clerk
S Y DN E Y
M E L BOU RN E
P E RT H
For more information on clerkship opportunities in our Sydney office, please visit me.gtlaw.com.au, or contact Emma Garmston on 02 9263 4067 or email [email protected]. Emma can arrange for you to chat with one of our recent summer clerks or graduates about their experience.
Applications for 2012–13 clerkships are open from Wednesday 13 June to Friday 13 July. To apply, please visit www.cvmail.com.au during the application period and share your details with us.
ARE YOU READY TO MAKE THE SMART CAREER CHOICE?
The G+T clerkship experience is open to students in their penultimate year of study. Our Sydney clerks complete a 10-week placement that consists of two five-week rotations across the firm’s practice areas. It’s a fantastic opportunity to work directly with partners and lawyers who are experts in their fields, and to develop core skills and experience in your areas of interest.
During your time with your practice groups, you’ll be mentored by a lawyer who will help you develop your skills and build relationships within our practice groups. You’ll gain a greater understanding of the mechanics of legal transactions by researching legislation and case law, preparing and drafting memos, assisting in litigation processes, attending court, observing negotiations and meeting clients.
Your G+T clerkship is an opportunity to be part of a talented group of people who will become your peers as you continue your legal career. You’ll have plenty of time to attend training, practice group events and firm lunches, and to build relationships with people across the firm.
As well as becoming immersed in the practice areas of their choice, our clerks have the opportunity to contribute to the Pro Bono practice. You’ll be assigned a pro bono task and work closely with our lawyers to follow it through to completion.
THE AURORA PROJECT: NATIVE TITLE SECONDMENT OPPORTUNITYThe Aurora Project is a not-for-profit initiative funded by Australian government and corporate bodies. Each year, we offer two summer clerks the opportunity to work as interns in a native title office during their university winter break. The placement lasts for five to six weeks and is fully funded by Gilbert + Tobin.
Interns are chosen and placed in consultation with Aurora Project representatives and placements can be anywhere around Australia. For example, our most recent summer clerks were seconded to the Kimberley Land Council in Perth, Western Australia; the Torres Strait Regional Authority on Thursday Island, Queensland; and the Cape York Land Council in Cairns, Queensland.
me.gtlaw.com.au
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S Y DN E Y
M E L BOU RN E
P E RT H
Prue Newburn, previous G+T clerk
A clerkship with Gilbert + Tobin is the smart choiceWhy choose Gilbert + Tobin for your clerkship? Ask Prue Mewburn. She spent her summer 2011/12 university break in our Sydney office, working in the Communications + Technology and Litigation groups.
me.gtlaw.com.au
Spending the summer at Gilbert + Tobin was a challenging and rewarding experience, which I’d recommend to any student looking to join a leading Australian law firm.
The work in Communications + Technology was diverse, challenging and interesting. I attended client meetings, conference calls and functions that helped me understand clients’ businesses and realise the importance of this knowledge in providing outstanding legal services.
During my rotation in the Litigation group, I enjoyed the opportunity to shadow lawyers and partners to court and client meetings. I researched and drafted a memo explaining newly enacted legislation and its effect on the group’s work. The lawyers gave me feedback and explained how my work fitted into the bigger picture within the group. I was excited to see my memo published and glad my work was useful and valued.
Both rotations were supported by a comprehensive induction to the firm and an ongoing training program that introduced us to the key skills a junior lawyer needs. We were also matched with a ‘buddy’—a junior lawyer—as well as a senior lawyer and a partner within each practice group. They were always available to provide me with advice, assistance and support.
I drew inspiration from the lives and work of some of G+T’s senior lawyers, who mentored us during the clerkship. For example, Christine Burke isn’t just a G+T partner – she’s also the 11th Australian woman to have climbed Mount Everest!
Working alongside people like Christine showed me it’s possible to achieve your personal and professional goals. It’s clear to me
that G+T values excellence, encourages ambition and supports the talents and aspirations of its employees.
The firm is genuinely committed to assisting disadvantaged and marginalised people. During my clerkship, I worked on a research project on recent changes to refugee law. At the Redfern Legal Centre, I helped develop a repairs campaign for public housing tenants. I attended a weekly outreach advice service run by the Homeless Persons Legal Service, which is staffed with volunteers from G+T.
I’m also looking forward to participating in the Aurora Project – in July I’ll be on secondment with a native title representative body, which is fully funded by G+T.
During my clerkship, I had lots of opportunities to build relationships with fellow clerks and lawyers. In the first week of the program, all the clerks were invited to G+T’s Christmas party. And the flair displayed at G+T’s charity talent quest a few weeks later unearthed some superstars within the firm!
For more information on clerkship opportunities in our Sydney, Melbourne and Perth offices, please contact Emma Garmston on 02 9263 4067 or email [email protected]. Emma can arrange for you to chat with one of our recent summer clerks or graduates about their experience.
later unearthed some superstars within the firm!
Prue Mewburn
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O N ESPECTRUM OF OPPORTUNITY One Vision One Purpose One Firm One Decision One Journey
Visit http://summerclerks.hdy.com.au for more information
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54 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
HENRY DAVIS YORKFIRM PROFILE
HENRY DAVIS YORK
Henry Davis York has a different feel and that’s deliberate.
With more than 50 partners and more than 200 professionals, we
have the advantage of being big enough to attract high-end clients and
top-quality work, but small enough to remain personal and to provide
hands-on advice and experience.
OUR CLIENTS
We are proud to partner with an impressive list of clients who recog-
nise our unique approach to delivering technical excellence with the
commercial edge that creates real value for their business. Our clients
include the top four Australian banks, international fi nancial services
organisations and fund managers, market authorities, ASX and foreign
listed companies, NSW Government agencies, property groups and a
diverse range of privately held companies.
PRO BONO AND COMMUNITY
Henry Davis York is committed to delivering pro bono services to dis-
advantaged and under-represented groups and individuals who would
otherwise be unable to afford legal assistance.
Our pro bono and community programs include organisations such
as the Homicide Victims’ Support Group, Homeless Persons’ Legal
Service, Northern Rivers Cooperative Legal Services Delivery Program,
Community Legal Centres, Learning Encouraging and Assisting Promis-
ing Students and Reach Out and Read.
WHAT WE LOOK FOR
People are our success. For that reason, we invest substantial time and
energy in recruiting and retaining the right people. As clerks are integral
to our future growth we look for people who:
• share our commitment to excellence in what we do and how we do it
• communicate well
• are team players
• are lateral and innovative thinkers
• demonstrate balance in their life outside of work or study
• are intelligent and commercially-minded lawyers in the making.
You will need a sound academic record, some work experience in a
legal or non-legal environment, and have a positive disposition and
demonstrated leadership skills.
THE SUMMER CLERK PROGRAM
During the program you will have the opportunity to rotate through three
practice groups with designated support in each rotation from a su-
pervising partner, senior associate and mentor. You will receive regular
feedback and advice from your supervising partner and others you work
with plus a more formal review at the end of each rotation.
Working with our partners and senior lawyers who are recognised and
respected as experts in their fi elds, you will experience real, meaningful
work and gain valuable insights into what it’s like to practise as a lawyer
in a top quality fi rm that works hard, has a friendly inclusive culture and
celebrates both individual and team endeavours.
LIFE AFTER YOUR CLERKSHIP...
We carefully select our clerks with the intention that they will become
our graduate lawyers. Of course, any offer of permanent employment
depends on how you perform during your clerkship, and on the needs
of the fi rm.
Successful candidates who accept graduate roles with us can discuss
opportunities for part-time paralegal work in their fi nal year of university.
From 2013, we will be providing an in-house Practical Legal Training
program in conjunction with the College of Law.
APPLICATIONS
Henry Davis York’s Summer clerk applications open on 13 June 2012
and close on 13 July 2012 and all applications should be made via CV
Mail.
For further information about employment at Henry Davis York or our
summer clerk program please contact:
LENA RISTEVSKI
People & Development Offi cer
T: +61 2 9947 6532
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55LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
HENRY DAVIS YORK SUMMER CLERK PROFILE
In the 11 weeks of the clerkship I attended court hearings and client meetings, worked directly
on fascinating matters and went to great fi rm and inter-fi rm social events. From the outset, Henry
Davis York was an interesting, exciting and most of all, fun place to work.
Completing a clerkship at Henry Davis York was an incredibly exciting, challenging and satisfying
experience. From the fi rst day of training to the farewell party 11 weeks later, I received highly
diverse and interesting tasks and worked with extremely friendly, fun and encouraging people.
I completed rotations in three different, but equally fascinating practice areas. This gave me the
opportunity to see how different practice groups function and to get a better understanding of
the nature of work in a corporate law fi rm. In these groups, I attended meetings and even social
events with clients, assisted in the discovery of documents, attended court, drafted documents
for clients, incorporated companies and did a diverse range of research tasks.
Not only was I able to work on such interesting and varied tasks, but I was able to work with
people who generously explained new concepts, answered any questions and explained how
my work contributed to the fi rm and its practices. The training and support we received from
the outset was incredible and really added to the experience of being a clerk. This support and
enthusiasm is what makes Henry Davis York special and it immediately became apparent why
the fi rm is renowned for its unique culture.
Finally, the friendships I made with the other summer clerks throughout our various sporting and
trivia endeavours and numerous social events made the clerkship even more enjoyable.
Henry Davis York really is a fi rm fi lled with like-minded people who are committed to producing
excellent work for fi rst rate clients while providing an encouraging, friendly and fun environment
for its employees.
HENRY DAVIS YORKSUMMER CLERK 2011/2012NICOLA TARGETT
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At Herbert Geer, our aim is to put YOU at the centre of everything we do. We will support YOU with a dedicated supervising partner and mentor. YOU will be exposed to a wide variety of work. We offer YOU a range of benefits including subsidised gym memberships and our NOTLAW program. We will provide YOU with an in-house CLE program to help YOU learn, and YOU can become involved in our community and pro bono work.
To find out more visit www.herbertgeer.com.au
2011
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57LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
HERBERT GEER FIRM PROFILE
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIRM
Herbert Geer is a commercial law fi rm with offi ces in Melbourne, Sydney
and Brisbane. Our dedicated team of over 300 people provide services
to a wide range of corporate, private and government clients.
Our success in building a respected and trusted law fi rm is driven by the
commitment to our clients. As we have grown, we have remained true to
our values and to building a culture which supports our aim to put our
clients at the centre of everything we do. Quality, innovation and person-
alised service remains paramount in everything we do at Herbert Geer.
LOCATION OF OTHER OFFICES:
Brisbane, Melbourne
PROMINENT AREAS OF PRACTICE IN SYDNEY:
• Banking and Finance
• Corporate
• Employment, Workplace Relations and Safety
• Property Services
• IP, Technology and Entertainment
• Projects and Construction
• Planning, Government, Infrastructure and Environment
WHAT DISTINGUISHES THE FIRM TO OTHERS?
Our people are committed to each other, the fi rm and our clients. To our
credit, we were named the 2011 Law Firm of the Year by the BRW and
Employer of Choice. As we have grown, we have actively worked hard
to protect and grow our culture, our commitment to quality, innovation
and our client service. We appreciate each person brings something dif-
ferent to Herbert Geer and encourage our people to continually develop
their professional and personal interests. This philosophy, and our legal
track record, helps us to attract the best people.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PROGRAM
At the commencement of our Seasonal Clerkship Program you will
receive a principal, mentor and buddy to assist you during your clerk-
ship and provide you with an opportunity to develop your network. Our
Seasonal Clerkship runs for 4 weeks with a rotation in one practice unit,
receiving supervision from partners and senior practitioners.
In addition, you will receive formal training through ongoing internal and
external workshops and training sessions. This will develop your skills
and assist you in becoming a more effective practitioner and help you
accelerate your career.
In addition to this training and mentoring, you will have various oppor-
tunities to attend mediations, court hearings, client functions and client
meetings with your supervising partner or mentor. This will provide you
with hands on experience, real exposure to matters and the chance to
learn how to manage the fi nancial side of working in a law fi rm.
Number of positions: 4 approximately
Winter: 0
Summer: 4 approximately
Interview Process:
1st Round Interview - Member of Human Resources
Cocktail Party - meet the fi rm
2nd Round Interview - Practitioner and HR
Will the fi rm be making priority offers? Yes
APPLICATIONS
HOW TO APPLY
Through CV mail and our website. Attach a cover letter, resume and
academic transcript.
Please refer to our website www.herbertgeer.com.au for more informa-
tion.
Contact: Claire Donnelly
Human Resources Consultant
Email: [email protected]
Applications Open: 13 June 2012
Applications Close: 13 July 2012
OFFICE ADDRESS
Level 12
77 King St
Sydney
NSW 2000
WEBSITE
www.herbertgeer.com.au
Ph: 02 9249 4600
NUMBER OF PARTNERS
Firm Wide: 47
In Sydney: 10
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Johnson Winter & Slattery is a national law firm where young lawyers play a meaningful role in strategic and complex transactions and disputes, and build relationships with executives from Australia’s most successful companies through close client contact.
We are a dynamic, commercial firm offering opportunities for development and advancement for lawyers at all levels as we pursue a clear strategy for growth in our principal practice areas across Australia.
Our lawyers thrive in an environment that fosters collaboration with few internal administrative boundaries, free from the burden of fee budgets that dominates the culture of so many other law firms.
Strong technical and client service skills are developed through structured mentoring and professional development education programs.
Your experience at Johnson Winter & Slattery will equip you for a fulfilling career both in Australia and abroad.
“JWS is different because of the low leverage business model – I have access to high level work and excellent mentoring opportunities.” Jonathan Whybird, Associate
CAREER, YOUR CHOICE
jws.com.au
SYDNEY PERTH MELBOURNE BRISBANE ADELAIDE
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60 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
KING & WOOD MALLESONSFIRM PROFILE
With a vision to create a global law fi rm in Asia and a history of bold
innovation, it’s only the beginning for King & Wood Mallesons. Right
now, you can become part of this “game changer” for the legal industry
– as we deliver a new legal choice and help our clients realise their new
world opportunities.
For those who don’t know us well, here’s a snapshot of what we offer you
today and tomorrow…
VISION: to create a global law fi rm in Asia
TEAM MATES: over 380 partners and 1,800 lawyers (biggest international
legal network in Asia)
REPUTATION: over 100 international and Asia-focused awards and 50
top-tier rankings
LOCATIONS: strategically positioned in the world’s growth markets,
fi nancial capitals and the home of information technology (21 offi ces
globally and the only international legal network to be head quartered
in Asia)
CLIENTS: global fi nancial and corporate powerhouses to new industry-
makers and all levels of government (some for over 200 years)
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM
Applications open: 13 June 2012
How to apply: Via our online application system at
www.kwm.com/careers
We’ve designed a program to help you make the most of your time with
us. During your clerkship, you’ll learn:
• The day-to-day skills to get you started – taking instructions, meeting
with clients, drafting memos and documents, managing your practice
and professional relationships.
• The core practice teams at King & Wood Mallesons – who they are,
what they do, how they’re structured, the clients they work for, and of
course, your role within them.
• Our culture – working within your team, you’ll be exposed to (and
encouraged) to get actively involved in the many activities and events
that help create our unique culture.
• Our people – you’ll fi nd that people from every part of the business
will help you along, sharing their knowledge, and ensuring you have
everything you need to fi t in, and do well.
WHAT DO WE LOOK FOR?
The four key capabilities we look for in our clerks are:
• A passion for commercial law and clients – that’s what we do every
day. It’s key that you have a genuine interest in the law and the
clients that need those services.
• A strong interest in business and industry – we work in our clients’
worlds and are striving to help them achieve their objectives. You
need to be interested in this and willing to commit time and energy to
really understand our clients and their businesses.
• The self-awareness and desire to understand and work well with
others – we don’t build widgets. We deliver legal solutions to people
through people, so we have to be really good at working with and
understanding others.
• Adaptability to live with change – our ability to move as quickly as
the world around us is getting more important every day. We need
people who think quickly, learn fast and adapt well.
If this sounds like you, why not talk to one of our graduate resourcing
consultants or contact us by visiting our website, www.kwm.com
Level 61, Governor Phillip Tower
1 Farrer Place
Sydney NSW 2000
www.kwm.com
CONTACT:
Sam Garner
Graduate Resourcing Manager
Phone: +61 2 9296 3579
Email: [email protected]
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61LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
KING & WOOD MALLESONS SUMMER CLERK PROFILE
For most of my adult life I have spent my
summer holidays overseas but over the
most recent summer I went on a ‘journey’
of a different kind. Like travelling overseas, this
particular adventure took months of prepara-
tion to research and plan and there were dif-
fi cult decisions to make about where to go and
who to travel with. Fortunately, I made the right
decision, I chose to spend my summer seeing
the sights of King & Wood Mallesons.
While you are going through this guide, treat it
like a Lonely Planet. You will fi nd that as you
read about different places some will stand
out to you as ‘must see’ destinations! For me,
King & Wood Mallesons stood out in the clerk-
ship guide, at the clerkship seminars, at the
cocktail parties and during the interviews as
being a fi rm which had struck the illusive bal-
ance between friendliness and success. The
partners and lawyers were warm, encouraging
and inspiring. I expected to feel intimidated
but instead I felt comfortable because I was
chatting to people like myself – people with di-
verse interests, who work hard and who like to
have a laugh. The more I learnt about King &
Wood Mallesons from these people, the more I
couldn’t wait to get there. (I felt the same way
about Paris!)
Once we landed we started training and induc-
tion, we did team-building activities and were
introduced to many of the fi rm’s pro bono initi-
atives. The training also continued throughout
the clerkship, with many opportunities to learn
about the different practice groups and indus-
try sectors we may not have been exposed to
throughout the summer.
I rotated in Banking & Finance and Dispute
Resolution. I worked in two great teams for
helpful and approachable partners who always
made time to give me feedback and make me
feel included. We were also given buddies
who, much like a tour guide, were there to an-
swer our questions, navigate us through tasks
and take us for coffee.
I did lots of different activities and saw many
sights: I had the chance to attend client meet-
ings, listen to conference calls, write advice
for clients, prepare evidence for trial, attend
a High Court hearing, prepare submissions to
government, write a research memo for coun-
sel...and the list goes on. One major highlight
was attending a client meeting to advise them
on whether their ads were misleading and
deceptive. Not only was my opinion taken
into consideration but the changes we recom-
mended were made to the ads and they are
now running on TV.
The other clerks on the adventure with me
were wonderful and we quickly became close
friends. At times the clerkship was like a Con-
tiki Tour with the clerks spending many nights
out together after work. At other times it was
a 5 star experience, including the fi rm Christ-
mas party and my buddy lunch at Rockpool.
Much like an overseas trip, the clerkship at
King & Wood Mallesons was great, the itiner-
ary was jam-packed and the end result was an
incredibly rewarding summer.
CLERKSHIP PROFILE2011/2012SUMMER CLERKAREAS OF ROTATIONBANKING & FINANCE AND DISPUTE RESOLUTIONLAUREN CHAPE
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62 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
KING & WOOD MALLESONSFIRM PROFILE
SECTOR PROFILE
ENERGY, RESOURCES AND PROJECTS
Bringing together specialist resource lawyers throughout our interna-
tional network, we focus on providing strategic counsel on all legal as-
pects of project development and operation, including:
• M&A and joint venture arrangements
• project fi nance
• project approvals, environment and planning
• construction
• competition and infrastructure access
• inbound and outbound investment including FIRB approvals
• native title and cultural heritage
• employment, industrial relations, health and safety
• property
• tax
• dispute resolution
• climate change and clean energy
The recent combination of Mallesons Stephen Jaques and King & Wood
has created a market leading Energy, Resources & Projects team with
the most meaningful China capability of any international law fi rm.
The fi rm’s combined Energy, Resources & Projects team comprises
more than 60 partners and approximately 150 lawyers in Australia and
throughout Asia. Headed by Scott Gardiner in Australia, Joshua Cole in
Hong Kong and Carolyn Dong and Harry Du in China, the team provides
a full service offering for clients requiring seamless cross-border and
also local advice.
As the presence of foreign entrants into the local market increases, the
fi rm is well positioned to assist our Energy & Resources clients capitalise
on opportunities in multiple jurisdictions across Asia, Africa, India, the
Middle East and South America. We are able to mobilise market leading
teams across Australia, Hong Kong and China and focus on M&A, the
development of major projects, fi nancing and major litigation - no other
fi rm is able to offer this depth of expertise across the Asia-Pacifi c region.
King & Wood Mallesons is perfectly positioned to capitalise on the
growing importance of the Asian economies. The combination of the
two fi rms is driven by the desire to support clients who are seeking a
streamlined service to help them realise the signifi cant opportunities in
Asia-Pacifi c markets. Energy & Resources is a key priority sector for the
combined fi rm.
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64 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
MIDDLETONSFIRM PROFILE
In the modern commercial world, standing still is not an option. Choos-
ing a career at Middletons is choosing to be a part of a progressive
and innovative law fi rm that continues to grow year on year. We have
extensive experience acting for industry leaders, major corporations
and government on groundbreaking legal transactions in Australia and
internationally.
A national commercial law fi rm, Middletons has offi ces in Sydney, Bris-
bane, Melbourne and Perth. Nationally Middletons employs over 550
staff, including 71 partners and 260 lawyers. Our key practice groups
include banking & fi nancial services, commercial litigation, corporate &
commercial, property development & construction, transport logistics &
defence and workplace relations & safety.
FIRM CULTURE
Our values, focused on people, clients and practice, underpin our re-
laxed and friendly culture. We operate in a collegiate atmosphere where
people feel valued and contributions are recognised and rewarded.
Informality and approachability are key aspects of our culture and team-
work is actively fostered.
From our networking forums such as our Young Professionals Network
(YPN) and Women’s Information Network (WIN), to our Sports@Mid-
dletons program, Vitality program, social club and fi rm events, there are
a number of ways to build internal networks and become involved in the
Middletons community.
SUMMER CLERK PROGRAM AT MIDDLETONS
A clerkship is the ideal opportunity for you to explore what we have to
offer. Not only will you gain insight into a career in law, you will meet
our people, sample our culture and determine if Middletons is the right
career choice for you. As a law student in your penultimate year at uni-
versity, this is an opportunity to gain practical work experience through
participation in client meetings, court visits and involvement in real legal
work.
Professional development is provided throughout your clerkship. It
begins on your fi rst day with a comprehensive induction program and
continues through your clerkship enabling you to learn important skills
that lay the foundation for your legal career.
Your supervising partner or senior associate will be responsible for as-
signing your work. A graduate or junior lawyer will also be there to pro-
vide buddy support throughout your clerkship. In addition to the daily
on the job feedback and guidance you receive, you will also be involved
in a structured performance review at the conclusion of your clerkship.
Further information about Middletons and our clerkship program can
be found at www.middletons.com/careers
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YOUR PASSION Y OUR CAREER
OUR FIRM
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Our vacation clerkships open a window
on what it’s like to be a lawyer in a large
commercial law firm.
Interested?
Find out more at www.minterellison.com/careers
or email [email protected]
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66 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
MINTER ELLISONFIRM PROFILE
AREAS OF PRACTICE
Our Sydney offi ce has 12 practice groups: Commercial & Regulatory,
Financial Services, Mergers & Acquisitions and Private Equity and Capi-
tal Markets (Corporate groups), Commercial Disputes and Insurance
& Corporate Disputes (Litigation groups), Environment & Planning and
Property (Real Estate), Tax, Finance, Construction and Human Re-
sources & Industrial Relations.
ABOUT THE FIRM
Our origins date back to 1827 in Sydney, Australia. Today, Minter Ellison
is one of the six top tier commercial law fi rms in Australia – with a cli-
ent base that includes 26 of the country’s Top 50 companies – and is
ranked as one of the largest legal groups in the Asia Pacifi c.
Our strong growth and success have been driven by the energetic vision
of our leading partners, in-depth industry expertise and a commitment
to working closely with our clients – wherever they need us. It is this
commitment that led us to moving offshore and building up offi ces in
the UK and Asia.
TELL US ABOUT AN INTERESTING NEW PROJECT
THE FIRM IS CURRENTLY WORKING ON:
We have been at the table of some of Asia Pacifi c’s headline transac-
tions – the National Broadband Network rollout, SingTel’s new satellite
acquisition and launch, global outsourcing projects for BHP Billiton and
strategic business acquisitions for Qantas. Our teams work with the
world’s leading energy and resources companies, handle fi nancing and
capital markets work across Australia, in Hong Kong and in London,
and are principal lawyers on iconic projects such the Melbourne Dock-
land redevelopment, Brisbane’s RNA Showgrounds development, and
King Street Wharf in Sydney.
COMMUNITY PARTNERSHIPS
Each of our offi ces has developed partnerships with community organi-
sations to address local need and the overall themes of our Community
Investment Program. For example, our focus on disadvantaged youth in
Australia has led to the Sydney offi ces partnership with James Meehan
High in Macquarie Fields.
OUR COMMITMENT HAS INCLUDED:
• Hosting student visits to our offi ce
• Providing work experience and career advice
• Active membership of the Australian Business and Community
Network
• Taking part in the Principal for a Day Program
• Creating networks between our partner schools for the benefi t of
students and staff
• Developing mentoring projects for our staff to provide practical
assistance to students.
The benefi ts of these partnerships extend both ways. Students are ex-
posed to the world of professional life. Equally, our staff derive enormous
satisfaction from creating opportunities for students to reach their full
potential.
Minter Ellison believes that lawyers have a responsibility to ensure ac-
cess to justice for disadvantaged and marginalised citizens. We assist
individuals without the means to pay for legal services and non-profi t
community organisations whose work helps those in need. We are com-
mitted to developing a strong pro bono culture in the regions where we
operate. Each of our offi ces undertakes pro bono legal work in response
to local need.
Our fl agship pro bono project in Australia is our strategic commitment
to the development and growth of the Homeless Persons Legal Clinics
in Brisbane and Melbourne and the Homeless Persons Legal Service
in Sydney.
Some of our most resource-intensive pro bono matters are conducted
on behalf of individuals who would otherwise be denied access to jus-
tice.
ADDRESS:
88 Phillip Street
Sydney NSW 2000
CONTACT PERSON:
Liana Hurry
Graduate Resourcing Consultant
Phone: 02 9921 4017
Email: liana.hurry@minterellison.
com
NUMBER OF LAWYERS:
1000+
NUMBER OF PARTNERS:
290 +
OFFICE LOCATIONS (15):
AUSTRALIA
Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra,
Darwin, Gold Coast, Melbourne,
Perth, Sydney
ASIA
Beijing, Hong Kong, Shanghai,
Ulaanbaatar
NEW ZEALAND
Auckland, Wellington
EUROPE
London
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67LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
MINTER ELLISON FIRM PROFILE
WHAT OTHER BENEFITS AND ACTIVITIES,
ASIDE FROM WORK DOES THE FIRM OFFER?
WELLBEING
• Free corporate gym membership
• Employee Assistance Program providing confi dential counselling and
support to staff and other immediate family
• Discounted health insurance
• Health & Wellbeing seminars and exhibitions
• Parenting information sessions
• Social and sporting events and activities (including Christmas parties,
Friday Night Drinks, corporate sports teams)
• Discounted shopping, entertainment and travel
• Business Casual Dress Fridays
CAREER DEVELOPMENT
• Cutting edge learning and development programs, including:
• Regular continuing legal education seminars
• ‘Core skills’ programs
• Life skills programs
• Graduate Development through to a
Leadership Development Programs
• Post-graduate studies support
• Workgroup retreats
SECONDMENTS
Secondment opportunities between offi ces, to clients and international
locations
CLERKSHIP
WHAT DOES THE FIRM LOOK FOR IN A POTENTIAL EMPLOYEE?
At Minter Ellison our lawyers come from very diverse backgrounds but
what they share are the key attributes we look for in our clerks: a drive
for excellence and technical achievement, commercial awareness, en-
ergy and initiative.
DO YOU INTEND TO OFFER CLERKSHIPS TO STUDENTS
OUTSIDE THEIR PENULTIMATE YEAR?
No, Minter Ellison will only be taking penultimate year students.
ANTICIPATED CLERKSHIP INTAKE FOR THIS YEAR?
20-25 Summer Clerks
HOW DO STUDENTS APPLY FOR A CLERKSHIP?
Apply online via our website www.minterellison.com/careers
CLERK PROFILE
JANE SLATTERY – SUMMER CLERK 2011-12 AND UTS STUDENT
Asking the other summer clerks in our group why they decided
on Minter Ellison for the 2011/2012 Summer Clerkship, the
overwhelming consensus was simply, “the people”. And I have
to say, that was the infl uencing factor in my decision to clerk here.
From my fi rst interview, Minter Ellison’s focus was on getting to know
who I was as a person, as well as a potential employee. In addition to be-
ing asked about my legal experience and interests in commercial law, I
was often asked about the band I play in and found myself having great
discussions about music. I found that the partners who interviewed me
throughout the recruitment process (and whose impressive and varied
careers were somewhat daunting) were always open and friendly and
it was great to see that such a culture permeated throughout the fi rm.
The benefi t of clerking at Minter Ellison is that you partake in three
different rotations. For someone unsure of the type of law they may like
to practice, the rotations provide an invaluable opportunity to test out
different areas of commercial law. My fi rst rotation was in Environment
and Planning. From the get-go I was assisting on large litigation matters,
attending client meetings, drafting briefs to counsel, researching the le-
gal implications of contamination on neighbouring lands and attending
the Land and Environment Court to see the work I was assisting on play
out in the courtroom. I was happy to fi nd that the interesting and diverse
nature of work continued throughout my second rotation in Commercial
Disputes and third rotation in Human Resources and Industrial Rela-
tions. Minter Ellison’s involvement with the Homeless Persons’ Legal
Service also meant that I was able to attend the Women’s and Girls’
Emergency Centre with lawyers from the fi rm who provided legal advice
and took carriage of the women’s matters. Personally, it was really posi-
tive to see such a large proportion of lawyers volunteering their time to
pro-bono work.
My clerkship at Minter Ellison involved hard work, but I also had a great
time. From competing in Minter’s Amazing Race, to singing (almost
always off key) at karaoke, and attempting to act in our clerk video,
I’ve had lot fun and have made some really great friends. My time at
Minter Ellison has been invaluable and I can’t wait to see what the future
brings!
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69LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
NORTON ROSE FIRM PROFILE
Norton Rose Australia is a member of Norton Rose Group, a leading
international legal practice offering a full business law service to many of
the world’s pre-eminent fi nancial institutions and corporations.
We are the largest international legal practice in Australia, with offi ces
in Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney. Our international
reach, and in particular our signifi cant presence in the Asia Pacifi c, sets
us apart from our competitors.
Knowing how our clients’ businesses work and understanding what
drives their industries is fundamental to us. Our lawyers share industry
knowledge and sector expertise across borders, enabling us to support
our clients anywhere in the world.
Norton Rose Group has one global set of values or business principles,
based around quality, unity and integrity and apply to all Norton Rose
Group activities and staff worldwide.
We take the view that we are only as strong as our people – which is
why quality training and fl exible work programmes are paramount to our
business. We deliver an extensive range of training programmes targeted
at specifi c stages of our lawyers’ professional development.
We are also proud to be certifi ed by the EOWA as an Employer of Choice
for Women 2012.
SEASONAL CLERKSHIP PROGRAMME
This year we are recruiting 20 seasonal clerks for the Sydney offi ce.
The seasonal clerkship programme runs for 10 weeks in Brisbane, Mel-
bourne, Perth, and Sydney over the summer and will commence on
Monday 26 November 2012.
As a Norton Rose Australia seasonal clerk, you will have the chance to
spend fi ve weeks in one practice group and then rotate into a different
practice area for a further 5 weeks, to broaden your knowledge as much
as possible. Our clerkship programme is your opportunity to start build-
ing a career with a global legal practice, doing meaningful work of value.
You will also be able to get to know our people, working closely with – and
learning from – our associates, senior associates and partners. All in all,
it is an opportunity to experience what life is really like as a graduate.
You will attend various induction sessions, as well as fi rm wide CLE train-
ing and talks from graduates about spending time on secondment to
one of our Asian offi ces. During your time at Norton Rose Australia you
will get to participate in actual work with clients – which could involve
anything from legal research to attending client meetings or court visits.
Another aspect of your clerkship with us will be the social activities that
you can participate in. As a summer clerk you will be included in fi rm
specifi c activities including sporting events, lunches, dinners and various
other social events.
GRADUATE PROGRAMME
The Norton Rose Australia graduate programme runs for a 24-month
period and consists of four six-month rotations, which allow you to expe-
rience a wide variety of legal work and develop a comprehensive skill set.
With this breadth of experience, you will be able to confi dently identify
the area that best suits your talents and career goals.
As part of our national graduate programme, we now provide gradu-
ates in their second year of the programme with a unique opportunity to
undertake a four month rotation in one of our international offi ces. This
formalised learning opportunity introduces you to the broader Norton
Rose Group, including regional and global clients, partners and staff,
and gives invaluable experience of different cultures and legal work.
Throughout the programme, you will also be involved in a regular feed-
back process. This provides an opportunity for ongoing communication
between partners and staff and ensures you maximise your learning
experience.
APPLICATION DATES FOR NEW SOUTH WALES
All applications should be submitted online at
www.nortonrosegraduates.com Applications Open - 13 June 2012.
Applications Close - 13 July 2012. Offers Made - 21 September 2012
THE APPLICATION AND INTERVIEW PROCESS
If you are interested in applying for a seasonal clerk position at Norton
Rose Australia, you should apply online. You will need to submit your
academic transcript, an up-to-date CV and a covering letter. The inter-
view process consists of two interviews and an information session over
a number of weeks. You will have the opportunity to meet partners and
associates from different groups across the practice, as well as contacts
in Human Resources.
Please apply online at www.nortonrosegraduates.com
LOCAL CONTACT DETAILS:
Name: Yvette Revell, Recruitment Advisor
Email address: [email protected]
Telephone number: +61 (2) 9330 8945
Offi ce address: Level 18, Grosvenor Place, 225 George Street, Sydney,
Australia
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70 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
NORTON ROSESUMMER CLERK PROFILE
THE CLERKSHIP PROCESS
The decision to apply for a summer clerkship
is a daunting and at times, overwhelming ex-
perience which all penultimate year law stu-
dents must consider at one stage or another.
The decision is made all the more diffi cult in
light of the diverse range of domestic com-
mercial law fi rms participating in the summer
clerkship scheme. With so many options, it
is important to choose the law fi rm that’s the
right fi t for you, as it will often be the fi rst step
that you take in your legal career.
With a great number of applications to fi nish,
cover letters to tweak and interviews to pre-
pare for, the clerkship process is a frantic time
that can catch the unsuspecting law student
off guard. Knowing what to expect from a sum-
mer clerkship will assist potential candidates in
making a fully informed decision about clerk-
ing at a particular fi rm, and hopefully ease the
pressure of this otherwise stressful time. From
the very fi rst university information session I at-
tended, through to the fi rm’s roundtable meet-
ing, my Norton Rose clerkship experience was
made all the more easier through the quality of
information I received and the staff that I met.
The interviews were conducted in an environ-
ment where I felt comfortable to be myself and
express my personal interests beyond the law.
The drinks evening presented me with one
last opportunity to gauge the culture of Norton
Rose, and interact with members of the fi rm
that I had not previously encountered – not to
mention sample a canapé or two.
CLERKING AT NORTON ROSE
When I fi rst started my summer clerkship at
Norton Rose, I came to the fi rm with an in-
depth knowledge of how to pour a beer from
my years in the hospitality industry and a
great number of hesitations about my virtually
nonexistent experience in the legal domain.
Thankfully, the clerkship was prefaced with a
training program designed to assist my fellow
clerks and I in the transition from university
into the world of corporate law. From Boolean
search terms to billable units, we were skilled
in all the necessary fi elds so as to ensure that
we wouldn’t be thrown into the deep end when
we eventually reached our practice groups.
During my twelve weeks at Norton Rose I was
given the opportunity to do two six-week rota-
tions, fi rstly in Occupation, Health, Safety and
LLB (UTS)SUMMER CLERK 2010/2011
GRADUATE LAWYER 2012
NIALL WATSON-DUNNE
Security, and secondly in Insurance. Over this
time I was exposed to wide variety of local and
international work, and given the chance to
work with several different partners. Some of
the opportunities I was given included drafting
an Issues Paper on draft legislation, attending
client meetings, sitting in on a Coronial Inquest
and preparing a presentation for my Partner
on proportionate liability. I also particularly
enjoyed working on pro bono matters and at-
tending the Homeless Peoples’ Legal Shelter.
There was a defi nite sense of satisfaction to
see documents that I had helped draft, or even
contributed to in a small way, go out to clients.
Whilst my experiences in each rotation were
vastly different, the commonality between the
two was this: highly capable professionals who
genuinely cared about ensuring that my time
at the fi rm was enjoyable and a highly valuable
learning experience.
Work aside, the summer clerkship was also a
highly sociable experience - with the oppor-
tunity to attend monthly and quarterly drinks,
and the odd Christmas party or two, I was able
to get a real sense of the strong emphasis that
Norton Rose places on maintaining a work/life
balance. Additionally, over the summer I de-
veloped some great friendships not only with
my fellow clerks, but also with the lawyers and
administrative staff alike.
My clerkship at Norton Rose was engaging,
challenging, fun, and most of all enjoyable. I
genuinely felt that I was welcomed as part of
the team, that my work and time was valued,
and that I was joining a fi rm that was truly in-
ternational. If a clerkship experience like this is
something that you are looking for, I can gladly
recommend that Norton Rose is the fi rm for you.
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72 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE APPLICATION
72 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
Every law student is looking for a career,
whether it be in commercial law, family
law or human rights. If it is the commer-
cial world your heart seeks, your greatest shot
is to secure a clerkship. How, you may ask, will
you do that?
STEP ONE:
SUBMIT A KILLER APPLICATION.
Without a killer application, there is no inter-
view, and without an interview, there is no
clerkship.
An application for a clerkship will usually in-
clude submitting a cover letter, a resume and
answering a series of fi rm-specifi c application
questions. This article will give you some tips
and tricks into what the typical application
questions are, what the fi rms are looking for
in a candidate, how best to write your applica-
tion, and, most importantly, what not to do in
the application process.
WHAT ARE THE TYPICAL QUESTIONS
THE APPLICATION MIGHT ASK?
Each fi rm will typically have core values they
are looking for in their employees, and each
question will seek to discover how a candidate
represents these core values in both their posi-
tion as an employee and in their everyday life.
QUESTIONS USUALLY FALL INTO ONE
OF THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES:
1. Questions aimed at discovering your
motivation for working at the specifi c fi rm
and what you can offer the organisation;
2. Questions addressing your work ethic,
achievements and key employee attrib-
utes;
3. Questions that test your commercial and
legal awareness; and
4. Personal questions involving your extra-
curricular activities and what you are
interested in.
HOW TO MAKE YOUR APPLICATION
STAND OUT: WHAT ARE THE FIRMS
LOOKING FOR?
An interest in the law fi rm you are applying for: a fi rm
is looking for someone who actually desires to
work at their fi rm specifi cally, as opposed to
reading an application that is the replication of
the one you submitted to the other fi rms you
applied for.
A representative of Maddocks highlights that
fi rms are looking for clerks who “genuinely
want to work and build a career” at the fi rm.
Human Resources Consultant at DLA Piper,
Kristie Barton, reiterates this idea, noting that,
“the best response is one which demonstrates
both an understanding of our business as well
as a genuine interest in having a career with
us.”
Make sure you research the fi rm prior to writ-
ing your application, and address specifi c
areas of work the fi rm is involved in or interest-
ing facts about the fi rm, such as recent merg-
ers you may have heard about in the media,
throughout the application. This will ensure
the fi rm believes you are aiming to work in their
fi rm specifi cally, and this will have the added
bonus of showcasing your ability to know the
current legal climate, know how to research,
and will exert enthusiasm above and beyond a
general non-fi rm-specifi c application.
An all-rounded individual: while it is important to
address your academic achievements, a rep-
resentative of Maddocks states that, “we do
not just assess you on your academic results.”
WHY A KILLER APPLICATION IS THE KEYTO YOURCLERKSHIP DREAMS
MICHELLE SMERDON
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73LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE APPLICATION
73LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
Ms Barton outlines that DLA Piper like to see
candidates who are “as engaged as they are
inventive, balanced and friendly,” and that
each fi rm will be looking for “people from a
diverse range of backgrounds.” Ms Barton
states that fi rms want to know about “experi-
ences outside of academic life,” so ensure to
include information regarding your hobbies
and extra-curricular activities.
Jacqui Ellis, who completed a clerkship at a
top tier law fi rm this past Summer, noted: “it is
great if you can highlight your extra-curricular
activities and then link this to how these ac-
tivities will help you in a work environment,
for example I compared my experience as a
dance teacher to being a partner in a law fi rm,
mentoring the junior lawyers.”
Use examples: it is easy for someone to say they
work hard or can research, however, the fi rms
are looking for you to prove the abilities and
attributes you haphazardly declare you have.
Use examples from your current or past em-
ployment, from everyday life or even from Uni-
versity (such as to prove your ability to work
in a team or independently). One of the best
ways to include this is: “I have X attribute. I
displayed this attribute effectively when I par-
took in X activity.”
WHAT TO DO WHILST WRITING
AN APPLICATION:
THOU SHALT:
1. Research the fi rm and tailor your ap-
plication to that fi rm, addressing the
core values of the fi rm in all answers.
Ms Barton warns candidates about sub-
mitting a general application that is a
clear replicate of applications submitted
other fi rms, stating: “beware the ‘cut’ and
‘paste’ function!”
2. Ensure the name of the fi rm and the con-
tact person is spelt correctly (and know
who the contact person is). This mistake
is not looked upon favourably and it will
create a bad fi rst (and defi nitely last) im-
pression.
3. Exemplify your commercial awareness.
A good starting point prior to writing your
application is to read the business pages
of The Age, The Australian, and more
specialised publications such as The
Financial Review.
4. Answer the question and stick to the
world limit. A representative of Maddocks
states: “you will be surprised how many
applications come through that do not
actually address the question” and “we
are not looking for essays, but would like
more than a one word response!”
5. Triple or quadruple check your docu-
ments for correct spelling, grammar and
sentence structure – yes, correct spelling
can change your life.
6. Save, save, save. If the application is
online, be sure to continuously save your
application as a draft. To be safe, it is best
to write your answers in a word document
and then transfer them to the application
when you are fi nished.
THOU SHALT NOT:
1. Pinpoint only one favourite area of law in
your application that is not offered by the
fi rm.
2. Be boring. If something interesting has
happened to you, such as wrestling a lion
in Africa, or you partake in community
volunteer work, tell the fi rm in the ‘about
you’ section of the application. This will
work to your advantage as it is likely to
make your application memorable and
will give you an anecdote for your future
interview.
3. Quote from the fi rm’s website. The fi rm
knows what is on their website, they do
not need you to tell them.
4. Use complicated words. The High Court
is urging for the use of plain English, so
are the big law fi rms.
5. Fail to submit any applications…come
on, time to start writing.
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74 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE APPLICATION
74 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
CcvMail is a free online application
service created by Thompson Reuters
to assist students applying for jobs on-
line. This service can be accessed at cvmail.
com.au. Students can upload their personal
and academic details and apply for a number
of clerkship and graduate roles quickly and ef-
fi ciently. cvMail is interactive and easy to use.
Registration takes about one to two minutes,
then you are ready to create your profi le.
However, before you start applying for your
dream positions there are two easy steps to
undertake.
First you will complete a personal profi le,
which contains all your personal information,
and an academic profi le, which contains a
library of information regarding your work
history and academic results. Once you have
uploaded and saved all your information into
your profi le, including your academic results,
this information will automatically be stored in
the program. You can then apply for various
positions.
On the cvMail page you will fi nd tabs for
graduate and seasonal clerkship positions.
Under these tabs tailored information about
each fi rms’ requirements and application clos-
ing dates appear. When applying for positions
in NSW you will be required to attach your
curriculum vitae and covering letter along with
your application. However, it is important to
note that some fi rms have customised applica-
tion forms, which will require you to answer a
number of specifi cally tailored questions.
The questions in the various application forms
help fi rms ascertain certain information about
your personal skills such as; what you can
offer their fi rm, your ability to work in a team
environment and examples of how you have
contributed to work or other social activities.
The application questions are really aimed
at working out how you as a prospective em-
ployee will fi t within the culture of the fi rm.
When applying and fi lling out the forms, sav-
ing your responses is extremely important. The
‘next’ and ‘last’ buttons save your responses
at each step. After pressing the ’next’ or ’last’
buttons, you can at any time return to the page
you’ve completed in order to confi rm your re-
sponses have been saved.
Furthermore, once you press either ‘next’ or
’last’ the navigation bar at the top of the appli-
cation form will highlight the section and mark
it with a tick. Should a red message appear,
scroll down the page and check to see that you
have answered all the questions. The system
will not let you send your application unless all
the requisite fi elds have been completed.
HOW TO USE CVMAIL
NATALIE NASTEVSKA
TOP 5 TIPS AND TRICKS
1. Some fi rms will require you to answer
long questions, draft these responses in
Word fi rst to avoid any spelling or
grammatical mistakes.
2. Upon sending your application you are
provided with a unique receipt number.
Keep it on your own personal fi le as a
record.
3. cvMail has an internal support email
that you can lodge a request with should
you encounter any technical diffi culties. See
4. When completing the application forms
you have 90 minutes to respond to all ques-
tions. The system automatically logs you off
after 90 minutes. So always hit save.
5. Apply as early as possible to avoid the
rush and good luck!!
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75LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE APPLICATION
75LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
ADDRESSING SELECTION CRITERIA AND
STANDING OUT FROM THE PACK
Have you ever noticed employers list their
ideal employee’s attributes in job advertise-
ments? This is the selection criteria; you must
demonstrate you possess these attributes to
receive an interview (and hopefully land your
dream clerkship or graduate position).
Selection criteria is a set of qualities and at-
tributes that recruiters, primarily in the public
service although use has expanded into the
private sector, use to short list those they
would like to interview from those they won’t.
Rather than thinking of answering selection
criteria as a burdensome task, you should
consider it a pre-interview opportunity and a
mechanism by which to record examples of
skills and abilities you may not recall off the
cuff in an oral interview.
ADDRESSING SELECTION CRITERIA
Before addressing selection criteria you must
ensure you understand what is being asked.
For example, ‘demonstrate knowledge’ means
demonstrate study of and familiarity with a
particular legislation, process or topic area,
while ‘demonstrate ability’ requires you to ad-
dress your practical abilities with regards to
that criterion.
The Australian Public Service Commission
recommends using the STAR method to walk
recruiters through your skills when answering
selection criteria, giving them an opportunity
to pinpoint precisely why you are suitable for
the job.
The STAR method:
1. SITUATION: provide an example, with con-
text, of a situation in which you have under-
taken the particular skill or ability required
by the criteria;
2. TASK: explain what your role was in the
particular scenario, for example were you
required to write submissions, research the
background to a memorandum, or instruct
counsel;
3. ACTION: how did you complete the above
task? For example, if you were required to
research a point of law what databases or
methods of legal research did you utilise; and
4. RESULT: What was the end result in the
scenario and what did the scenario teach
you that would be applicable to the role for
which you are applying?
PICK ME!PICK ME!
AMY SIMPSON
SETTING YOURSELF APART
Remember that knowledge of the law and your
legal studies are only one component. There
are many more skills required in the work-
force, such as communication, teamwork, and
confl ict management. Organisations will look
for people who not only demonstrate those
skills and commitment in their working life,
but also in other social and familial contexts,
so don’t forget to include that unusual hobby
(crocheting, for example, could demonstrate
patience and attention to detail!).
Language can also make a huge difference to
the success of your application. Ensuring that
your spelling and grammar is correct is a fan-
tastic start, but do not underestimate the effect
of using powerful action words like ‘I have’ and
‘I am able to’. Similarly, don’t speak in round-
about terms; future employers and recruiters
will be sorting through hundreds of applica-
tions and you don’t want them overlooking you
because they have had to read between the
lines.
Remember, your selection criterion is different
from your cover letter. Your cover letter should
be used to emphasise your desire to work for
the fi rm and why. Your selection criteria shows
why you would be good for the job.
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76 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE COVER LETTER
76 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
Writing a cover letter is an art. It is
vital you understand exactly what
you are applying for, before you
commence drafting your letters. To ensure
that you are on the right track in writing an
effective cover letter, there are a few factors
to consider.
WHERE DO I START?
Before you start writing your cover letter, you
must ask yourself the following:
WHAT IS THE JOB THAT I AM APPLYING FOR?
Read the job description thoroughly to identify
what the employers are looking for. An effec-
tive way of doing this is by deconstructing and
analysing the assessment criteria in the job
advertisement or clerkship application criteria.
Consider how the criteria that has been listed
relates to the skills and attributes you possess.
WHO WILL BE EMPLOYING ME?
Research the fi rm or workplace that you are
applying for; to ascertain what their fi rm ethos
is, and what they stand for. Look to their vi-
sionary statements and practice aims to get an
indication of the fi rm culture and environment.
Take note of the wording used by the fi rms in
describing themselves. It may be a good idea
to use their ‘buzz’ words in your cover letter,
indicating that you really have an understand-
ing of the fi rm’s attitudes and work place.
WHERE TO FROM HERE?
Now it’s time to start writing. Here are a few
steps which you may consider to take when
writing your cover letter:
1. INTRODUCE YOURSELF AND MAKE IT PERSONAL:
Tell your employers who you are. The key
with any cover letter is to make it as personal
as possible. This means addressing your let-
ter to a real person for a specifi c job. Avoid
the temptation to send out a generic letter.
2. THIS MEANS A BIT OF EXTRA WORK. You may
need to call an organisation and fi nd out who
you need to address your letter to. Spend
some time researching the company (a
quick Google search can help) so that you
can make your letter relevant to the specifi c
job and organisation.
3. START SELLING YOURSELF: Use your previous
job experience and skills to enhance your
application. You should demonstrate to a
potential employer that you understand the
job requirements and can do the job. Include
the skills and experiences you have that are
relevant to the job description.
HINT: Using the direct wording of the employ-
er’s advertised criteria will clearly illustrate
your suitability to their position
4. ENCOURAGE THE READER: You also need to
show that you are enthusiastic and have a
positive attitude towards the potential posi-
tion and the employer’s workplace. This
should make the employer reading your let-
ter want to know more about you and what
you could potentially bring to their position.
5. THE FINAL CALL: following your encouraging
description of yourself and your attributes,
include a short paragraph showing the em-
ployer your enthusiasm by suggesting your
willingness to speak with them further about
the position, through telephone conversa-
tions or an interview/meeting.
HOW TOWRITE ACOVERLETTER
KATHERINE AGAPITOS
GENERAL TIPS:
A COVER LETTER SHOULD:
• Be succinct;
• Be positive and upbeat. Make the hiring
manager interested in reading your CV;
• Add to your CV not reiterate what the CV
already says;
• Address the name – don’t leave it as a ‘dear
sir or madam’;
• Be brief – no longer than a page; and
• Show how your skills can relate to the role
itself.
A COVER LETTER SHOULD NOT:
• Be a summary or repeat of your CV;
• Be a uniform letter you send with all job
applications;
• Have spelling mistakes or grammatical
errors;
• Address the wrong person or fi rm – that
would most likely lead to your application
going in the ‘NO’ pile. Mass produced cover
letters, particularly during clerkship time,
are easy to spot by employers; or
• Be generic – this indicates that you’re
playing a numbers game and that your
strategy is to send out as many applications
as possible. By all means, when you are
applying for a number of different positions,
it might be a good idea to create a basic
template for structural purposes but by the
time you have completed your letter, if you
do not think it is unique, don’t send it.
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77LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE CV
77LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
So, having painstakingly proofed your
cover letter, you now turn to your CV
- your good old curriculum vitae. But,
even though it cinched you that Wendy’s gig
back in Year 10 and held true for your current
offi ce job, will it cut it when it comes to landing
a clerkship interview?
HOW IS A CV DIFFERENT
FROM A RESUME?
Most people would think the terms were inter-
changeable, but a resume tends to be shorter,
more general and less detailed than a CV. You
are looking to create a tailored document of
maximum four pages which canvasses your
education, aspirations, experience and why
you would be suited for the role. It’s not just a
chronological list of things you’ve done, it’s the
fi rms’ fi rst introduction to you.
TIP #1 – KEEP IT HONEST
The golden rule: don’t include anything that
you wouldn’t be comfortable discussing or
proving in an interview. The temptation to pad
out your skills or past activities is a strong one,
but one that should be resisted at all costs -
you risk being found out in the interview or,
worse, while in the role. Avoid using obscure
or misleading job titles like ‘Visual Clearance
Engineer’ to describe your summer job as a
window washer. They are more likely to ask
about it in an interview and you will look foolish
when you tell them what it really means. Don’t
sell yourself short - all professional experience
is relevant, even if it isn’t legal-based. A job
that might seem mundane and in need of jazz-
ing up is often already interesting to employers
who will want to know what transferable skills
you acquired. Work with what you already
have going for you.
TIP #2 – KEEP IT RECENT
All achievements, experience and qualifi ca-
tions should be set out in reverse-chronolog-
ical order with the most recent fi rst and the
oldest last.
TIP #3 – KEEP IT CONSISTENT
There is no ‘one size fi ts all’ rule for how a CV
should be structured or presented, but there
are some ground rules that all applicants
should follow. Keep fonts and formatting sim-
ple and consistent - stick with Times New Ro-
man, Arial or Calibri and leave your fancy fonts
for the party invitations you’ll send out when
you get into the fi rm. Do not reduce margins
and ensure font is at least size 11, preferably
size 12. Do use boldface, italics, sub-headings
and bullet points. Avoid excessive use of col-
our or the inclusion of a photograph - neither
are necessary and both can distract from the
actual content.
HOW TOWRITE AGREAT CV
JAMESINA MCLEOD
TIP #4 – KEEP IT FOCUSED
Your cover letter shows off your personal-
ity, your CV gives it substance. It’s purpose
is to snare you a clerkship interview and so it
should clearly and concisely focus on experi-
ences and qualifi cations that make you suit-
able for the role you’re applying for. All fi rms
will provide a set of criteria for potential candi-
dates to meet - make sure you clearly address
these points early on in your CV. Be discerning
about which of your activities and experiences
to list - you should be able to relate everything
you mention back to the selection criteria in
some way. Be ruthless and ask yourself: “Does
a recruiter really need to know this to decide if
I’m suitable for the role?”
That’s not to say you need to be boring. If
you’ve got extra-curriculars, interesting or
unusual hobbies, or ongoing commitments
to non-law activities, these are still relevant in
showing that you lead a balanced lifestyle and
are able to manage time effectively. They’re
looking for quality skills and presentation, but
amidst that they’re also hoping for a glimpse of
personality which they would ideally like to see
more of in an interview. Use your discretion - if
an activity or achievement was important to
you and what you stand for, then keep it in
and evaluate how it would make you an even
better choice for a fi rm.
TIP #5 – KEEP IT READABLE
Avoid using long or multisyllabic words just
because you can. Keep sentences concise
and favour bullet points where possible. You
should not be writing great passages of in-
formation, your chance to express yourself is
in your cover letter. Make sure to spell check
it yourself. Twice. At least. Autocorrect is far
from perfect and will change many words to
American spelling without you realising it.
Read it aloud -if you have to pause for breath
more than once during a sentence, you’re ei-
ther heavily asthmatic or it’s too long.
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78 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE CV
SAMPLE CVELOISE SNELL
PERSONAL DETAILS
Eloise Elizabeth Snell
5 Hawthorne Circuit, Taralga, NSW 2400
0412 392 001/ 9894 9044
CAREER OBJECTIVES
I would like to combine my interest in social justice with my desire to establish a career in a
corporate fi rm. I would ideally like to play a part in managing in-house pro bono initiatives for a
large commercial fi rm to enhance the company’s profi le and the accessibility of legal services to
the broader community.
EDUCATION AND ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENTS
Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Laws - University of Technology
Commenced March 2009, expected completion in December 2013
The University of Technology, Sydney
AWARDS:
2011 - Awarded First Place in Contracts Law
2009 - Awarded Leslie H. Lino Prize for Commendable Effort in Perspectives on Law
Transcript available upon request.
William Forrestor Comprehensive High School
Class of 2008
HSC: 98 UAI
First in the state in Modern History
Use your name as the main heading
rather than writing “Resume” or “CV”
Ensure you include your name, address,
professional email address and your
contact number. It is up to you whether
you include your date of birth.
This section is optional but allows you to
show any long-term aspirations for your
professional career path. Ideally have
it tailored to the specifi c fi rm. Keep it
specifi c, brief and factual. If unsure, it is
better to leave this section out - your cover
letter will often be enough.)
Most relevant for students who often don’t
have legal experience.
Check with the fi rm if they need your
offi cial transcript before the interview
You may or may not choose to include
your secondary education
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79LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE CV
PROFESSIONAL SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE
Paralegal
James Elliot Woods and Co. (Neutral Bay)
February 2009 - Present
Working for a boutique fi rm of solicitors, specialising in intellectual property and media law.
RESPONSIBILITIES: research into current defamation laws and legal cases; delivery of documents to
clients; general offi ce duties
ACHIEVEMENTS: created an educational pamphlet for prospective clients; discovered a factual error
on offi cial court documents that was instrumental in successfully defending the client
TRAINING: LEAP software, Dictaphone, typing speed 40wpm
MAI THAI RESTAURANT (CLOVELLY)
June 2008 - January 2009
General fl oor and hospitality service in a large, busy, upmarket restaurant.
RESPONSIBILITIES: customer service; cash handling; complaints handling; receptionist work
ACHIEVEMENTS: promoted to head supervisor after 6 weeks; created a digital rostering schedule
that allowed staff to contact each other more directly and so ensure no shifts were left uncovered
TRAINING: MYOB, Certifi cate in Retail Management IV
VOLUNTEERING AND EXTRA-CURRICULARS
2011
• Sports Director - UTS Law Students’ Society - liased with other universities and students to
create intervarsity initiatives promoting fi tness and wellbeing.
• Jeans4Genes Day - volunteer badge seller
2009
• Law Revue Music Director - UTS Law Students’ Society - co-ordinated 30 musicians and
aided in advertising and band selection.
OTHER INTERESTS
• Piano and guitar - 8th grade AMEB qualifi ed
• Field Hockey
REFEREES
• Referees available upon request.
Give a brief description of your workplace,
responsibilities and achievements relevant
to your application
Don’t forget to include
your technical skills!
Generally references are not imme-
diately required but make sure you
have some professional references
lined up and that they know they
may be contacted.
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80 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE INTERVIEW
80 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
Assessment Centres and Aptitude test-
ing are some of the recruitment meth-
ods that law fi rms might use to rank
candidates, determining their suitability for a
clerkship. Interviews however are the main re-
cruiting method, yet candidates often overlook
the important role that interviews play and are
usually underprepared for an interview. How
do you make sure that you make it through to
the offer stage? You need to ensure that you
confi dent in mastering each stage of the re-
cruitment process, especially at interview.
WHY DO LAW FIRMS USE THESE
METHODS WHEN RECRUITING?
Clerkships are becoming increasingly more
competitive each year, requiring recruiters to
use a stricter set of criteria to further stream-
line the recruitment process. The Law Society
of NSW recorded from their survey of member
law fi rms, a dramatic increase from 10,800
applications in 2010 to 12,600 in 2011 of law
clerkship applications received. This roughly
accounts for an increase of 15% in applica-
tions. This increase could be attributed to
several aspects including that some students
may be applying for multiple fi rms, it could
also have something to do with the increase
of students studying law, placing a greater
value on the role that clerkships play in their
future career development. With this recruiters
are placing a greater emphasis on selection in
each stage of the recruitment process espe-
cially at interview stage, requiring each indi-
vidual applicant to meet all of the requested
criteria.
SO WHAT ARE RECRUITERS
LOOKING FOR?
After the initial step of either a resume or
cover letter screen to determine a candidate’s
suitability, you will receive your fi rst contact
with the employer either by email or through
a phone screen. Following this you may be
invited to a fi rst interview which is usually
conducted in person with either a partner or
human resources representative. Individual
interviews may run between 30 minutes to
an hour and are usually structured around
introductory, situational / hypothetical, and
behavioural questions. This fi rst interview is
the time to sell your abilities and achievements
to the interviewer by showcasing evidence of
your previous experience and involvement
through related activities. This is also the time
to show your interest in the fi rm and the work
that they do. A panel interview may also be
conducted when the law fi rm requires a sec-
ond or third opinion. Instead of getting you to
interview two or three times, a fi rm may have
at least two or three people (usually a partner
and a human resources representative and
sometimes a current graduate) interviewing.
Usually the panel members will take it in turns
asking questions, or sometimes you may have
one scribing and the other interviewing. The
purpose of the panel is not to intimidate but
to ensure fairness. Maintain eye contact with
the person who asks you the question, but oc-
casionally look at the other panel members so
they feel you are engaging with them.
THE INTERVIEW PROCESS
HELENA ASHERCAREERS CONSULTANTUTS CAREERS SERVICE
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81LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE INTERVIEW
81LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
HOW CAN YOU DEMONSTRATE THAT
YOU WOULD BE AN EXCELLENT FIRST
CHOICE AS A CANDIDATE FOR THEIR
CLERKSHIP?
Answer the interviewer/s’ questions in a clear,
enthusiastic and succinct way. One of the fi rst
questions you will be asked will usually be an
introductory question such as “tell me about
yourself”. This is a time to convince the inter-
viewer that you have confi dence in your abili-
ties and briefl y mention what you are studying
and how well you are doing academically. You
may also wish to mention your involvement in
any related groups and societies. It might look
something like: “I’m a penultimate year Law
student doing a combined degree in XYZ at
UTS with an interest in 1234 area of law. I am
also the publications assistant of the UTS Law
Students’ Society, which I have been a mem-
ber of since fi rst year.”
WHAT IS THE INTERVIEWER
LOOKING FOR?
Law fi rms usually look for well-rounded in-
dividuals who have a history of academic
achievement but also people who can dem-
onstrate that they have a healthy balance
of involvement in extracurricular activities,
including university societies, sporting groups
and community work. In addition to this, em-
ployers like to see that students have done
some form of casual employment for at least
six months and can demonstrate employability
skills such as teamwork, communication and
problem solving.
You will usually be able to draw on these ex-
periences to answer most of the interviewer’s
questions, however you will need to prepare
a couple of specifi c examples to help you as
it is often diffi cult to remember these on the
spot. Create yourself an interview journal or
notebook where you can write down examples
where you have demonstrated skills such as
problem solving, team building, leadership,
communication, organisational ability and at-
tention to detail. You may want to look at the
law fi rm’s website to see what criteria they
mention is important, organisations usually do
mention this is in either the job advertisement
or position description.
Prepare a couple of questions for the inter-
viewer that may draw on areas that demon-
strate your interest, for example “I am very in-
terested in the area of dispute resolution, as a
summer clerk in what way would I be involved
with this area.” Even ask the interviewer about
their own experience with the fi rm and why
they enjoy working there.
Make sure you get some practice answering
interview questions, whether with a friend, a
careers counsellor or even by recording your-
self and listening back to your answers – prac-
tice makes perfect!
The Careers Service run workshops to help
you prepare for interviews and we also will
be running Resume Review sessions in July
where you can come and have your clerkship
resume and cover letter checked before you
submit it to the fi rm.
The Careers Service provides a broad range
of workshops and resources to help you get
career focused, have a look on our website:
http://www.careers.uts.edu.au or like us on
Facebook and keep up to date with UTS
Careers events and information: http://www.
facebook.com/UTSCareers
Don’t forget about the list of law related job op-
portunities that are advertised in the Law Stu-
dents’ Society website too: http://www.utslss.
com/careers/opportunities
Good luck!
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82 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE INTERVIEW
82 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
INTERVIEW PREPARATION
So, you’ve meticulously compiled an outstand-
ing curriculum vitae and cover letter, trawled
through endless advertised clerkship and in-
ternships, and wistfully sent your applications
out, waiting, hoping, for a response. Then, just
when you thought you would never hear back,
you receive a call! It’s a would -be employer!
Inviting you for an interview– congratulations!
After the momentary elation you become
stricken with fear- you realise you must face
the interview. How are you going to prepare
and what should you expect from the inter-
view? Well, stress no more. To help give you
the edge needed to secure the clerkship that
you’ve always dreamed of, we’ve sussed out
the types of questions you should be prepared
to answer and ask on the big day.
RESEARCH THE ROLE
Any employer will want to see that you are mo-
tivated and that you want to work for their or-
ganisation. In order to show this, it is important
to research the position, the fi rm and demon-
strate your knowledge when you’re answering
your interview questions.
YOU SHOULD:
• Review the position description and key
selection criteria
• Check the fi rm’s website to familiarise
yourself with its objectives and what it
values in its people
• Ensure that you know what the fi rm’s
areas of expertise are and are prepared to
demonstrate that you are interested in those
areas
• Read about clients that the fi rm has
represented or cases that the fi rm has been
involved in
• Read any journal articles that may have
been written by current employees in the
fi rm or newspaper articles written about the
fi rm
TYPES OF QUESTIONS
YOU MIGHT BE ASKED
Employers will use the interview to assess your
capacity to meet the selection criteria so it is a
good idea to use the position description and
selection criteria as a guide to what questions
you may be asked. Keep the selection crite-
ria in the back of your mind when answering
questions in the interview.
ALL ABOUT YOU
These sorts of questions are generally used as
a bit of an icebreaker. They also give the inter-
viewer a good idea of your personal attributes
and allow you to expand upon what is written
in your application. When answering these
questions, make sure to demonstrate how
your studies, skills and experiences highlight
that you are a good fi t for the fi rm. Think about
how you might answer the following questions:
• Tell me a bit about yourself?
• Why did you decide to study law and what
have been your favourite subjects?
• Would you say that your academic perfor-
mance is a good indication of how you will
perform in this role?
• It says on your resume you have experience
in retail, how do you think that will help you
as a summer clerk?
• What are your strengths and why are you
the best person to be included in our clerk-
ship program?
• What are you weaknesses?
When describing your weaknesses, pick ones
that you have been able to overcome or are
actively working on improving. This will dem-
onstrate to the interviewer your strategy in
managing diffi culties.
WHY YOU?
Use these questions as your chance to con-
vince the interviewer that you are the best
candidate to be a summer clerk and that they
should choose you over other potential sum-
mer clerks that have applied.
THEQUESTIONS
INGRID WOON
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83LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE INTERVIEW
83LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
• Why did you decide to apply for a summer
clerkship and why do you want to work
here?
• Tell me what you know about the fi rm and
why it interests you?
• What do you feel you can offer to the fi rm?
• Describe your biggest achievement. How
does it demonstrate that you will work well
in our fi rm?
BEHAVIOURAL QUESTIONS
These types of questions are often based
around the selection criteria and allow the
interviewer to assess how you will behave in
situations likely to occur in the clerkship you
have applied for. They require you to use
specifi c examples from your past experiences
to demonstrate your employability skills such
as organisation, teamwork, communication,
problem solving, interpersonal skills, initiative,
etc.
SOME EXAMPLES ARE:
• Tell me about a time when you were
involved in a team and a problem arose.
What was your role? How did you contribute
to fi nding a solution?
• Have you ever been in a position where you
had to handle a diffi cult client or customer?
Tell me how you did this.
• Describe a time when you have had to use
your existing skills to adapt to a new and
unfamiliar situation. How did you manage?
• Tell me about a time when you have shown
initiative.
In answering these questions, a good ap-
proach is to use the STAR method:
SITUATION – describe the situation
TASK – outline what needed to be done
ACTION – describe what you did in the situation
and the reasons for your action
RESULT – refl ect on the outcome of your actions
and the benefi ts they created
DO YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS?
Towards the end of an interview, you will likely
be given the opportunity to ask some ques-
tions of your own. This is benefi cial to both the
interviewer and to you – the interviewer can
assess your interest in the fi rm and how seri-
ously you have been thinking about how you
will fi t in their summer clerkship program. It
also gives you the chance to clarify any un-
certainties that you might still have. Don’t ask
questions that could have been found on the
fi rm’s website!
YOU COULD ASK ABOUT:
• Professional training and development
opportunities that the fi rm provides
• How your role as a summer clerk fi ts into
the organisational structure of the fi rm
• Specifi c details of the role such as what
systems you will be using or whether you
will be participating in client interviews
FINAL TIPS
• Make sure that prior to the interview that
you practice some responses. You might
like to ask a friend or relative to ask you
some of the example questions above.
• Get to the interview at least ten minutes
early.
• Always be honest and confi dent in your an-
swers to show your motivation and passion
in a summer clerkship and the fi rm.
Goodluck!
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84 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE INTERVIEW
84 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
Reaching the interview stage for a clerk-
ship application is quite an achieve-
ment, but make no mistake- fi rst
impressions last. Your fashion sense will not
get you the job, but it will say a lot about your
professionalism and presentation. The idea is
to dress professionally: conservative, simple
and neutral.
Men: Men should wear a suit, a buttoned up
long sleeve shirt with a tie and polished dress
shoes in a dark colour to match your suit. As
for the suit colour; dark and neutral colours
are appropriate. Ensure facial hair is properly
groomed to look neat and professional.
Women: Like men, a suit (either pants or skirts)
are appropriate in dark and neutral colours. A
shirt or conservative blouse should be worn
with the suit. If wearing a professional dress,
this should always be accompanied by a suit
jacket. With dresses and skirts, ensure it is
(at a minimum) knee length and worn with
CLERKSHIP INTERVIEW FASHION:THE FIRSTIMPRESSION
JESSICA AYE
neutral colour hosiery, with no ladders. Shoes
should be closed-toed court heels with a heel
no more than 2.5inches high, preferably col-
our matched to your suit jacket.
Both: As for hair, keep it groomed, neat and not
covering your face. Fragrance, makeup and
accessories should be kept to a light, modest
and simple choice. Any facial or non-discrete
piercings should be removed. As for a bag or
briefcase, it is a personal choice, but if you
choose a bag try and make it a neutral colour
with a relatively simple design.
Remember, the most important part of the in-
terview is your performance, not your fashion
sense. You don’t want to distract the attention
away from what you have to say. Play it safe,
conservative, professional and respectable. A
nice and clean look will not restrict your per-
sonality shining through in the interview. After
all, you’ve made it this far on your words alone.
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85LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
THE INTERVIEW
85LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
ON THE DAY:SURVIVE LAW’S CLERKSHIPINTERVIEW GAME PLAN
KATHRYN CROSSLEYEDITORSURVIVE LAW
The lead-up to a clerkship interview can
be pretty nerve-wracking, but if a fi rm
has contacted you for an interview,
that’s a very good sign that they believe you
have the right mix of skills, experience and
personality to clerk with them; the interview is
really about getting to know you better.
INTERVIEW PREP
Now is the time to re-read your clerkship ap-
plication (and be dazzled by the eloquence of
your cover letter). Brush up on your knowledge
of the law fi rm as the question, “what interests
you about a clerkship at our law fi rm” is almost
guaranteed.
It is very unlikely that you will need to answer
a substantive law question in a clerkship inter-
view (phew!) but it is a good idea to practice
answering some standard interview questions.
Get a friend to play the role of the interviewer
and ask for their honest feedback about your
responses. It goes without saying that this
practice interview is going to feel very nerdy,
but it will help you to feel more confi dent in
the real interview.
But the big question seems to be “what will I
wear?” Try on different outfi t options and get
a second opinion from a fashion-loving friend.
If you need to buy new clothes or have items
dry-cleaned or altered, avoid doing it at the last
minute.
Now to work out how you’re going to get
there. Check travel times on Google Maps or
131500.com.au, and factor in a comfortable
buffer to allow for bad traffi c and late trains. Al-
ways write down the name and phone number
of your interviewer so that you can call ahead
if you’re running late.
Towards the end of the interview you will be
given the opportunity to ask questions, so pre-
pare a few insightful questions about the fi rm
and their clerkship program in advance.
INTERVIEW DAY
If you’re feeling anxious, try to start the day
with some exercise to relieve stress and help
you feel more alert. Eat a fi lling and healthy
breakfast to avoid a growling stomach or a fad-
ing sugar high in the interview.
When you arrive at the law fi rm, take a minute
to check your appearance, turn off your phone
and take a few deep breaths.
Greet your interviewer(s) with a smile and a
fi rm handshake. It may be helpful to respond
to their introductions with a “nice to meet you,
(insert their name here)” to help you remem-
ber their names.
In the interview, sit up straight, speak clearly
and make eye contact. It’s okay to ask the
interviewer to clarify the question or to take
a moment to consider your answer. Interview
nerves make it hard, but try your best to come
across as confi dent, positive and enthusiastic.
At the end of the interview, shake the inter-
viewer’s hand and thank them for their time.
WHAT NEXT?
Avoid spending hours analysing every moment
of your interview. Don’t beat yourself up if you
think you’ve blown it – stay positive because
you might be surprised!
Check out survivelaw.com for more careers
tips, study advice and general law student
madness.
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86 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
CONDITIONS WHEN APPLYING
NSW LAW SOCIETY
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM
The 2012 Summer Clerkship Program is co-
ordinated by the Law Society of NSW for the
benefi t of law fi rms in NSW and law schools.
The Summer Clerkship Program is gener-
ally open to penultimate year law students.
Students should confi rm with each law fi rm
whether the fi rm intends to make offers for
graduate or summer clerkship positions out-
side the desired year group before submitting
their application to the selected law fi rm.
Students should be mindful that the programs
are competitive in nature and recruitment is
not guaranteed for either program.
Each participating law fi rm has its own ap-
plication process. Students should send their
completed application in the format preferred
by the fi rm of their choice. The Student Ap-
plication Form* is to be used only where
specifi cally required by the fi rm. For fi rm re-
quirements view the list of Participating Law
Firms for the Summer Clerk Program and the
Graduate Employment Program.
For more details as to the Guidelines imposed
on law fi rms and candidates, refer to the Law
Society of New South Wales’ website (www.
lawsociety.com.au)
The Law Society cannot accept lodgment of
student applications.
Students should direct all enquiries to the law
fi rm of their choosing, or alternatively, email
Roya Eizadi at [email protected].
CONDITIONS WHENAPPLYING
DATE ACTIVITY
Wednesday 13 June Applications for summer clerkships open.
Friday 13 July Applications for summer clerkships close at 5.00pm.
Monday 13 August Interviews for summer clerkships commence.
Friday 21 September Offers for summer clerkships can be made.
Tuesday 25 September Offers for summer clerkships must be accepted or
declined by 5.00pm.
2012 PROGRAM DEADLINES
YOU MUST ENSURE YOU MEET THESE DEADLINES
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87LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
NOTES
FIRMSUMMER CLERKSHIP OR
GRADUATE PROGRAMCONTACT DETAILS CV MAIL OR INTERNAL APPLICATION
ALLEN & OVERY SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 25, 85 Castlereagh St,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9373 7700
Fax: 02 9373 7710
CONTACT: The Australian Recruitment
Team
Email: australianrecruitment@
allenovery.com
Submit applications online via:
www.allenovery.com/careers
(Applications should include a covering
letter, detailed CV and current academic
transcript)
ALLENS SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Deutsche Bank Place,
Cnr Hunter & Phillip St,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9230 4000
Fax: 02 9230 5333
CONTACT: Ms. Tiffany Rogers
(National Graduate Resourcing
Consultant)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
www.allens.com.au/careers
ASHURST (formerly BLAKE DAWSON) SYDNEY
SUMMER CLERKSHIP
PROGRAM ONLY
CANBERRA
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM AND
GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM
SYDNEY
Level 36, Grosvenor Place,
225 George Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9258 6924
Fax: 02 9258 6999
Courier to: Level 35, Grosvenor Place
225 George Street, Sydney NSW 2000
CONTACT: Ms. Amy Foulcher
(People Development Consultant)
Email: [email protected]
CANBERRA
Level 11, 12 Moore Street,
Canberra ACT 2601
Phone: 02 6234 4078
Fax: 02 6234 4111
CONTACT: Ms. Margot Kindley
(People Development Manager)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
http://www.ashurst.com/graduates
(Please include a covering letter, detailed
CV, current academic transcript and
response to application questions)
AUSTRALIAN GOVERNMENT SOLICITOR SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM AND
GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM
50 Blackall Street, Barton ACT 2600
Phone: 02 6253 7286
Fax: 02 6253 7333
CONTACT: Ms. Lynda Mathey
(People and Career
Development Manager)
Email: [email protected]
Application Form available from
www.ags.gov.au
Submit applications via email:
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88 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
NOTES
BAKER & MCKENZIE SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 27, AMP Centre, 50 Bridge Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 8922 0200 / 02 8922 5482
Fax: 02 9225 1595
CONTACT: Ms. Posy McGrane (Talent
Management Consultant – Graduates)
Email: posy.mcgrane@bakermckenzie.
com
Submit applications online via:
www.cvmail.com.au
For more information go to:
www.bakermckenzie.com/Australia
BANKI HADDOCK FIORA SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 10, 179 Bridge Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9266 3412
Fax: 02 9266 3455
CONTACT: Ms Kate Haddock (Partner)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications via email:
(Applications should include a covering
letter and detailed CV)
For more information go to:
www.bhf.com.au/Careers.html
BROWN WRIGHT STEIN GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM ONLY Level 6, 179 Elizabeth Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9394 1065
Fax: 02 9394 1011
CONTACT: Ms. Karen Appleby
(Human Resources Director)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
http://www.bwslawyers.com.au/careers.aspx
CLAYTON UTZ SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY SYDNEY
Level 15, 1 Bligh Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9353 5426
Fax: 02 8220 6700
CONTACT: Ms. Catherine Craven
(Graduate Recruiter)
Email: [email protected]
CANBERRA
Level 8, Canberra House,
40 Marcus Clarke Street,
Canberra ACT 2601
Phone: 02 6279 4000
Fax: 02 6279 4099
CONTACT: Mrs. Vicki Thompson (Human
Resources Manager)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
http://www.claytonutz.com/careers/
graduates_and_clerkships/home.page
CORRS CHAMBERS WESTGARTH SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 36, Governor Phillip Tower,
1 Farrer Place,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9210 6164
Fax: 02 9210 6611
CONTACT: Ms. Sara Benvenuti
(Human Resources Co-ordinator)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
www.makingcareersense.com
For more information go to:
www.corrs.com.au
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89LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
NOTES
COSGRIFF ORCHARD LEGAL GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM ONLY PO Box 858, Echuca VIC 3564
Phone: 03 5480 6344
Fax: 03 5480 6393
CONTACT: Mr. Colin Height
(Business Manager)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
www.colegal.com.au/careers or
www.cvmail.com.au
DEPARTMENT OF ATTORNEY GENERAL
AND JUSTICE – NSW
SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 14, Swire House, 10 Spring Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 8061 9235 / 02 8061 9238
Fax: 02 8061 9370
CONTACT: Ms. Julia Carland
(Policy Offi cer)
Email: [email protected]
Ms. Julia McNamara (Policy Offi cer)
Email: [email protected].
au
Student Application Form to be sent via
email: [email protected]
Further information is available
from the website at
www.lpclrd.lawlink.nsw.gov.au
DIBBSBARKER SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 8, Angel Place, 123 Pitt Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 8233 9525
Fax: 02 8233 9555
CONTACT: Ms. Libby Toohey
(People and Development Consultant)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
www.cvmail.com.au
For more information go to:
www.dibbsbaker.com
DLA PIPER AUSTRALIA SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY SYDNEY
201 Elizabeth Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9286 8585
Fax: 02 9283 4144
CONTACT: Ms. Kristie Barton (HR
Consultant)
Email: [email protected]
CANBERRA
Level 1, Phillips Fox Building,
54 Marcus Clarke Street,
Canberra ACT 2601
Phone: 02 6201 8776
Fax: 02 6230 7848
CONTACT: Ms. Anna Sirosh (Human
Resources Manager)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
www.cvmail.com.au
(Applications should include a covering
letter, detailed CV and current academic
transcript)
For more information go to:
www.dlapiper.com
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90 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
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FREEHILLS SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 38, MLC Centre,
19-29 Martin Place,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9322 4792
Fax: 02 9322 4000
CONTACT: Ms. Leigh Dunlop
(Graduate Recruitment Advisor)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
www.cvmail.com.au
(Applications should include a covering
letter, detailed CV and current academic
transcript)
For more information go to:
www.freehills.com.au/careers
GADENS LAWYERS SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 16, 77 Castlereagh Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9035 7158
Fax: 02 9931 4888
CONTACT: Ms. Julia Bucci (Human
Resources Offi cer)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications via email:
For more information go to:
www.gadens.com.au
GILBERT + TOBIN LAWYERS SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 37, 2 Park Street, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9263 4067
Fax: 02 9263 4111
CONTACT: Ms. Emma Garmston
(Human Resources Co-ordinator)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
www.cvmail.com.au
For more information go to:
http://me.gtlaw.com.au
HARMERS WORKPLACE LAWYERS SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 28, 31 Market Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9267 4322
Fax: 02 9264 4295
CONTACT: Ms. Kylie Cushway
Email: [email protected]
Mr. Paul Lorraine (Special Consultant
and Team Leader)
Email: [email protected]
Submit application via email:
(Applications should include an
application form, covering letter, detailed
CV and current academic transcript).
For more information go to:
www.harmers.com.au
HENRY DAVIS YORK SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY 44 Martin Place, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9947 6532
Fax: 02 9947 6999
CONTACT: Ms. Lena Ristevski (People and
Development Offi cer)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
www.cvmail.com.au
(Applications should include a covering
letter, detailed CV and current academic
transcript).
For more information go to: www.hdy.
com.au/Careers
HICKSONS SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 32, 2 Park St, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9293 5393
Fax: 02 9293 5333
CONTACT: Ms. Kawser Akter
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via: http://
www.hicksons.com.au/Summer-Clerk-
Program- 22.aspx
(Complete an online application, include
a covering letter, detailed CV and current
academic transcript and submit to
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91LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
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HOLDING REDLICH SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 65, MLC Centre, 19 Martin Place,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 8083 0474
Fax: 02 8083 0399
CONTACT: Ms. Anna Peters
(Human Resources Manager)
Email: anna.peters@holdingredlich.
com.au
Submit applications via email:
For more information go to:
www.holdingredlich.com.au/careers
HUNT & HUNT GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM ONLY Level 13, Gateway, 1 Macquarie Place,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9391 3054
Fax: 02 9391 3099
CONTACT: Ms. Rebecca Sutherland
(Human Resources Generalist)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
http://www.hunthunt.com.au/careers/
graduates-clerkships/ or in hard copy.
(Complete the Law Society Student
Application Form, include a detailed CV,
current academic transcript, HSC results
and UAI or equivalent)
JOHNSON WINTER & SLATTERY SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 25, 201 Bond Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 08 8239 7127
Fax: 08 8239 7100
CONTACT: Ms. Romaine Ponniah
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
www.jws.com.au/submit_your_cv.php
(Applications should include a covering
letter, detailed CV and current academic
transcript)
JONES DAY SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Aurora Place, Level 41, 88 Phillip St,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 8272 0509
Fax: 02 8272 0599
CONTACT: Mr. Peter Brabant (Associate)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications via email to:
(Applications should include a covering
letter, detailed CV and your academic
transcript)
For more information go to:
www.jonesday.com/sydney/careers
KING & WOOD MALLESONS SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY SYDNEY
Level 61, Governor Phillip Tower,
1 Farrer Place, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9296 3579
Fax: 02 9296 3999
CONTACT: Ms. Sam Garner (Graduate
Resourcing Manager)
Email: [email protected]
CANBERRA
Level 5, 7 London Circuit,
Canberra ACT 2001
Phone: 02 6217 6632
Fax: 02 6217 6999
CONTACT: Ms. Melissa Crampton (People
and Development Centre Manager)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
www.kwm.com
(Complete an online application and
include a detailed CV and current
academic transcript)
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92 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
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LANDER & ROGERS LAWYERS SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM AND
GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM
Level 5, Angel Place, 123 Pitt St,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 03 9269 9333
Fax: 03 9269 9001
CONTACT: Ms. Natalie Colton
(Recruitment Consultant)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
www.cvmail.com.au
(Applications should include a covering
letter, detailed CV and academic
transcript)
For more information go to:
www.landers.com.au/jobs
MADDOCKS GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM ONLY Angel Place, 123 Pitt St,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9225 6215
Fax: 02 9221 0872
CONTACT: Ms. Michelle Andrews
(Graduate and Learning & Development
Co-ordinator)
Email: michelle.andrews@maddocks.
com.au
Submit applications online via:
www.cvmail.com.au
For more information go to:
www.maddocks.com.au/careers
MIDDLETONS SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 26, 52 Martin Place,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9513 2571
Fax: 02 9513 2399
CONTACT: Mr. David Forner (Human
Resources Coordinator)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
www.middletons.com/careers
(Complete an online application and
include a detailed CV and current
academic transcript)
MINTER ELLISON SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY SYDNEY
GPO Box 521, 88 Phillip Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9921 4017
Fax: 02 9921 8123
CONTACT: Ms. Liana Hurry
(Graduate Recruiting Consultant)
Email: [email protected]
CANBERRA
Level 3, 25 National Circuit,
Forrest ACT 2603
Phone: 02 6225 3753
Fax: 02 6225 1706
CONTACT: Ms Felicity McCook
(Human Resources Manager)
Email: felicity.mccook@minterellison.
com
Submit applications online via:
www.minterellison.com/careers
(Applications should include a covering
letter, detailed CV, current academic
transcript and our online application).
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93LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
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NORTON ROSE SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 18, Grosvenor Place,
225 George Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9330 8945
Fax: 02 9330 8111
CONTACT: Ms. Yvette Revell
(Recruitment Advisor)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications online via:
www.cvmail.com.au
For more information go to:
www.nortonrose.com.au
SLATER & GORDON SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 5, 44 Market Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
GPO Box 1584, Sydney 2001
Phone 02 8267 0676 / 02 8267 0681
Fax: 02 8267 0650
CONTACT: Ms. Shannon Mack
(HR Advisor)
Ms. Julia Newing (HR Advisor)
Email: humanresourcesNSW@
slatergordon.com.au
Submit applications via email:
humanresourcesNSW@slatergordon.
com.au
(Applications should include a covering
letter, detailed CV and current academic
transcript).
For more information go to:
www.slatergordon.com.au/careers
SOPHIE GRACE PTY LTD SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM AND
GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM
GPO Box 4216, Sydney NSW 2001
Phone: 02 8249 4464
Fax: 02 8249 4001
CONTACT: Ms. Sophie Gerber (Director)
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications via email:
For more information go to:
www.sophiegrace.com.au
SPARKE HELMORE GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM ONLY Level 16, 321 Kent Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9260 2439
Fax: 02 9373 3599
CONTACT: Ms. Andrea McFadzean
(Recruitment Consultant)
Email: andrea.mcfadzean@sparke.
com.au
Submit applications online via:
www.cvmail.com.au
For more information go to:
www.sparke.com.au/careers
THOMSONS LAWYERS SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Australia Square Tower, Level 25,
264 George St,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 8248 5802
Fax: 02 8248 5899
CONTACT: Ms. Kerri Cahalane
(HR Adviser)
Email: kcahalane@thomsonslawyers.
com.au
Submit applications online via:
www.cvmail.com.au
Complete the online application form
and include your covering letter, resume,
and academic transcript.
For more information go to:
www.thomsonlawyers.com.au
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94 LSS CLERKSHIP GUIDE
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TRESSCOX LAWYERS SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 20, 135 King Street,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9228 9222
Fax: 02 9228 9299
CONTACT: Ms. Katrina Willebrands
(HR Adviser)
Email: katrina_willebrands@tresscox.
com.au
Submit applications online via:
www.cvmail.com.au
For more information go to:
www.tresscox.com.au/careers
TRUMAN HOYLE LAWYERS SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 11, 68 Pitt St, Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 9226 9888
Fax: 02 9226 9899
CONTACT: Ms. Kathryn Edghill
Email: [email protected]
Submit applications via email:
For more information go to:
www.trumanhoyle.com.au
WEBB HENDERSON SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY Level 18, 420 George St,
Sydney NSW 2000
Phone: 02 8214 3502
CONTACT: Ms. Karen Rowland
Email: karen.rowland@webbhenderson.
com
Submit applications online via:
www.webbhenderson.com/summerclerk
ADDITIONAL FIRMS RUNNING SUMMER CLERKSHIPS INCLUDE
CHAMPION LEGAL SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM ONLY
From 9 January 2013 to 22 February
2013
Level 3, 60 Phillip St,
Parramatta NSW 2150
Phone: 9635 8266
CONTACT: Ms. Celeste White
Email: [email protected]
Attn: Celeste White
Applications through our website:
www.championlegal.com.au
Same deadlines as the NSW Law Society
Summer Clerkship Program
HERBERT GEER SUMMER CLERKSHIP PROGRAM AND
GRADUATE EMPLOYMENT PROGRAM
Level 12, 77 King St,
Sydney NSW 2000
Ph: 02 9249 4600
CONTACT: Claire Donnelly (Human
Resources Consultant)
Email: [email protected]
Apply through www.cvmail.com.au and
our website. Attach a cover letter, resume
and academic transcript.
For more information go to:
www.herbertgeer.com.au
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Enjoyed this LSS publication?Keep your eyes peeled for
when our Careers Guide,
and quarterly academic
journal, The Full Bench,
hit the stands later this
year. Past and present
publications can also be
found in full at utslss.com.