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Page 1: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Gold sponsor Silver sponsor

Page 2: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

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Exhibition hall

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Page 3: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 3

Exhibitor booth numbers

1 ANU Legal Workshop

2 Cooper Grace Ward

3 TressCox Lawyers

4 Queensland University of Technology – PLT

5 University of Queensland

6 Johnson Winter & Slattery

7 Piper Alderman

8 Clayton Utz

9 Bond University

10 Maurice Blackburn

11 CQUniversity

12 Survive Law

13 Ashurst

14 McCullough Robertson

15 Spark Helmore

16 King & Wood Mallesons

17 HopgoodGanim

18 Minter Ellison

19 Corrs Chambers Westgarth

20 K&L Gates

21 Allens

22 Herbert Smith Freehills

23 DLA Piper

24 Norton Rose

25 Queensland Law Society

26 The College of Law

Page 4: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Expo program

12pm Registrations open

12.30 –1.15pm Applying for jobs? Résumé writing and interview skillsA panel of HR executives and managers will give you the inside tips on exactly what they’re looking for in résumés – discover how to stand out from the crowd and make an impression during interviews.

•McCullough Robertson•Herbert Smith Freehills•Maurice Blackburn•Survive Law

1.45 –2.30pm Options in law – where can your degree take you?Family law, corporate law, criminal law, commercial litigation? There are so many options! Join senior associates and partners as they discuss and provide insight into their different areas of practice.

•Cooper Grace Ward•Norton Rose•Clayton Utz•DLA Piper

3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to know in the first yearGet the dirt from a panel of early career lawyers on what it’s really like to work in a law firm and what’s expected of you as a clerk or graduate.

•Corrs Chambers Westgarth•Minter Ellison•King & Wood Mallesons•K&L Gates

4pm Expo close

Page 5: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 5

Contents

6 Allens

7 ANU Legal Workshop

8 Ashurst

9 Bond University

10 CQUniversity

11 Clayton Utz

12 The College of Law

13 Cooper Grace Ward

14 Corrs Chambers Westgarth

15 DLA Piper

16 Hopgood Ganim

17 Herbert Smith Freehills

18 Johnson Winter & Slattery

19 K&L Gates

20 King & Wood Mallesons

21 Maurice Blackburn

22 McCullough Robertson

23 Minter Ellison

24 Norton Rose

25 Piper Alderman

26 Queensland University of Technology – PLT

27 Sparke Helmore

28 Survive Law

29 Tress Cox Lawyers

30 University of Queensland

31 Graduate employment and vacation clerkship guidelines

32 Clerkship FAQs

33 Graduate FAQs

34 Graduation – what happens next?

35 Legal careers – what are your options?

38 Queensland Law Society student membership

Page 6: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Allens is a major legal force in Asia, with lawyers and business services employees working in offices from Beijing to Brisbane and beyond.

Allens also has an integrated alliance with global law firm Linklaters. This alliance gives our clients access to the best Australian law firm coupled with the global coverage and quality of Linklaters.

More than half of the world’s top 100 companies choose Allens as their legal adviser and the reason is clear: our people are passionate about law.

Our lawyers work in streamlined teams to deliver clear solutions to clients and to reach their full potential as legal practitioners.

We value excellence in everything we do and employ people who are technically excellent and capable of building strong relationships with colleagues and clients.

We look for imagination, interests and intelligence.

We celebrate different perspectives and individuals who add to the unique fabric of our firm.

We employ people with varied interests and we have policies in place that support them to reach their full potential.

For more information, visit allens.com.au/careers.

ContactChrista Howat P&D Client Relationship Consultant 07 3334 3051 [email protected]

allens.com.au

Graduate positions Positions available: TBC

Closing date: Monday 19 August 2013

Method of application: allens.com.au/careers

Vacation clerkshipsPositions available: TBC

Closing date: Monday 18 March 2013

Method of application: allens.com.au/careers

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Page 7: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 7

The ANU Legal Workshop in the Australian National University is Australia’s largest university-based legal practice program. We provide Practical Legal Training in the Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice (GDLP).

Becoming a Practitioner (BAP) is the first part of the program and is a five day pre-requisite face-to-face intensive offered in cities Australia wide.

We also offer:

•flexible online delivery•concurrent enrolment with your LLB & JD studies•your choice of 20, 40, 60 or 80 days legal placement•direct or reciprocal admission to legal practice nationally•substantial credit towards an ANU LLM.

We have an efficient and friendly administrative team who are available to answer any questions students may have about the program. Many of our academic staff are practising lawyers.

For further information please call 02 6125 4463, visit law.anu.edu.au/legalworkshop/gdlp or email [email protected].

Australian Migration Law and Practice

Legal Workshop is also Australia’s largest provider of the Graduate Certificate in Australian Migration Law and Practice. This unique online program, comprising four courses each of 10 weeks duration, is the required qualification leading to registration as an Australian migration agent.

Visit anulaw.anu.edu.au/migration or email [email protected] for more information.

ContactAnnette Armstrong Marketing Coordinator 02 6125 4454 [email protected]

law.anu.edu.au/legalworkshop/gdlp

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Page 8: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

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

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.

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.

We are approachable, good listeners and easy to deal with. Ashurst attracts people who contribute to our culture of high performance, honesty, friendliness and teamwork. We realise that success does not come overnight but over time with the support of on-the-job learning, mentoring and continued development programs. Personal coaching, approachable partners, open discussion and the support from each of our practice teams will help you develop from law student to trusted lawyer.

ContactMarnie Devitt People Development Business Partner 07 3259 7456 [email protected]

ashurst.com

Graduate positions Positions available: 10

Closing date: Monday 19 August 2013

Method of application: ashurst.com or cvmail.com.au

Vacation clerkshipsPositions available: 30

Closing date: Monday 18 March 2013

Method of application: ashurst.com or cvmail.com.au

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Page 9: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 9

Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice

(Available on-campus and online)

Duration for on-campus program

15 weeks on-campus plus 15-week placement

Duration for online program

Practical training –

1 semester (15 weeks, full-time); or 2 semesters (30 weeks, part time)

Plus Practical experience – 15 weeks (75 days)

Description

The Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice or Professional Legal Training (PLT) program is an alternative to undertaking a traineeship or clerkship. The program develops ‘lawyering’ skills, such as legal research, analysis and problem solving, legal writing and drafting, interviewing and oral communication, advising, advocacy, dispute resolution, professional ethics and conduct and accounting. You are taught in a practical context in a simulated office environment.

Professional recognition

The course is modeled on the Law Society of New South Wales professional program and is fully accredited by the admission authorities in New South Wales and Queensland. Mutual recognition legislation facilitates the process of practitioners admitted in one state seeking admission in other Australian jurisdictions.

Professional outcomes

The Postgraduate Diploma in Legal Practice program entitles you to be admitted as a solicitor in Queensland or New South Wales.

ContactPeter Scanlan Director of PLT 07 5595 2284 [email protected]

bond.edu.au

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Page 10: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

CQUniversity Bachelor of Laws covers all areas of law required to satisfy professional accreditation and enables graduates to proceed to practice as a legal practitioner after completing the required professional training.

Our mission is to be Australia’s premier online legal education provider. Our vision focuses on teaching and learning, research and community engagement. We aim to support student success through the alignment of teaching pedagogy and practice with modern mobile technologies.

Our three year Bachelor of Laws is specifically designed for busy students who want maximum flexibility in their study of law as they manage jobs, family and other commitments. We teach our courses using Apple iPads, iTunesU, Moodle and Collaborate with an unwavering commitment to quality teaching.

We have a strong emphasis on developing legal drafting, advocacy and research skills together with a commitment to providing a solid legal education designed for legal practice. We use problem-based learning which ensures your education is both practical and work ready. Our research program supports our teaching and learning and our staff are familiar with current developments in the law, with this knowledge passed onto our students. We engage with the community by putting our expertise online for all to see through iTunesU.

For an iTunesU demonstration or to find out more about why you should study law at CQUniversity, visit our stand today.

ContactClaudia Vaile Marketing Officer 07 5440 7046 [email protected]

cqu.edu.au

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Page 11: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 11

Clayton Utz is a top-tier law firm with a difference. We take a fresh, pragmatic, commercial approach to legal practice focusing on getting the best results for our diverse and blue-chip client base. By bringing together teams of lawyers with unique and diverse skills, we advise on some of the countries largest and most complex details and litigation and provide expertise to cutting edge international projects.

Our strong relationships at all levels of government mean we are at the forefront of critical policy development and regulation. We have a substantial commitment to making the legal system accessible through our pro bono practice and Community Connect Program.

Our Brisbane office was named Employer of Choice at the 2012 Brisbane Lord Mayor’s Awards. The award recognises the market leading initiatives we have introduced in the last 12 months demonstrating leadership in the development of our people, commitment to employee development, incentives and work/life balance.

The firm is organised into four core departments, consisting of various practice groups. The Brisbane practice areas are:

• Corporate: tax, energy & resources, technology & intellectual property, mergers & acquisitions, government and workplace relations & safety

•Banking & Financial Services• Litigation: commercial litigation, corporate/taxation litigation,

litigation & dispute resolution and insurance & risk litigation• Property, Environment & Construction: real estate, environment

& planning and construction & major projects

We look for future employees who will be a good cultural fit and are keen on living the firm’s values everyday. Our culture is based on the behavioural values of trust, respect and cooperation, values fundamental in all our relationships.

Clayton Utz strives to provide a work environment that is professionally and personally rewarding, believing success comes from striking the right balance between work and leisure time and cultivating a wide range of interests.

ContactAnna Walsh People & Development Manager 07 3292 7419 [email protected]

claytonutz.com

Graduate positions Positions available: limited number may be available

Closing date: Monday 19 August 2013

Method of application: claytonutz.com

Vacation clerkshipsPositions available: approximately 35

Closing date: Monday 18 March 2013

Method of application: claytonutz.com

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Page 12: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Australia’s largest provider of practical legal training

The College of Law sets the standard for practical legal training in Australia. The College is Australia’s largest provider of practical legal training, with campuses in Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne and Perth. We also conduct programs in Canberra and Adelaide and onsite sessions in London.

While we have a national approach which reflects an increasingly national profession, our lecturers are state-based to ensure that local variations in practice are incorporated into our programs. You get the best of both worlds.

The College of Law difference

Our practical legal training programs are primarily delivered online via our Learning Portal. We’ve developed the coursework specifically for online delivery and work hard to ensure it is practical and relevant to your needs as a graduate lawyer. In our online environment you have access to a wide range of learning resources and the support of your lecturers. The online program is closely integrated with face-to-face activities to give you the best learning opportunities.

Flexible study options

Only the College can provide you with a large choice of start dates for your practical legal training program, not just twice a year. You can also choose to study full-time or part-time depending on your preference or circumstances. Our Queensland campus also offers an evening program.

Work experience options

At the College we offer two work experience options which you can choose to suit your situation:

Option 1 – 75 days of work experience

Option 2 – 25 days of work experience plus the Clinical Experience Module.

ContactMichael Jones Marketing Manager 02 9965 7164 [email protected]

collaw.edu.au

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Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 13

ContactAlexandra Morton Advisor – People and Culture 07 3231 2406 [email protected]

cgw.com.au

Cooper Grace Ward is a Queensland-based law firm with local, national and international clients, and is one of Australia’s fastest growing commercial law firms. The firm has 24 partners and comprises around 230 people, of which 105 are lawyers.

In 2009 and 2010, Cooper Grace Ward was recognised as Best Australian Law Firm (revenue less than $50 million) at the BRW Client Choice Awards. The firm has been highly commended by the Hewitt Best Employer survey and for the past three years has been identified by the Federal Government as an EOWA employer of choice for women. These represent only some of the nationally recognised awards we have received which reflect the value we place on the relationships we have with our clients and all Cooper Grace Ward team members.

We are not prepared to rest on our past accomplishments and continue to build a truly high performance culture where our people are respected and valued, information is freely shared, involvement and ideas from everyone is encouraged, learning an imperative and our clients receive outstanding high quality service from technically strong and commercially astute lawyers.

Our support for law students and law graduates to complete their undergraduate study or their PLT is among the best and includes resources such as fully paid PLT course, use of WP resources, study support groups, additional leave, legal mentors and PLT co-ordinators.

Cooper Grace Ward is a vibrant, energetic, growing and diverse team, supporting and developing our people to meet the changing needs of our clients. We take personal responsibility and pride in our work and have fun while we do it. We are proud of what we achieve for our clients and of the lifestyle choices available to our team members. If this sounds like a team you’d like to be a part of and you value mutual respect, outstanding service, team spirit and honesty like we do, then we would love to speak with you.

Graduate positions Positions available: 5

Closing date: Monday 19 August 2013

Method of application: cgw.com.au/careers

Vacation clerkshipsPositions available: 5 (CGW offers part time employment to law students rather than vacation clerkships)

Closing date: November 2013

Method of application: cgw.com.au/careers

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Page 14: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Corrs Chambers Westgarth is one of Australia’s largest law firms. We have around 1,000 people throughout Australia, but our vision is not just about size. Our vision is about being the leading law firm in target industries that are driving Australian and international business. Industries like energy and resources, financial 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.

With an integrated network of offices 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 significance. We advise 60 of the ASX top 100 listed companies, four of the top 10 Fortune 500 companies and some of the world’s largest organisations.

At Corrs we believe in fostering a work environment that promotes flexibility and diversity. It’s an essential part of our strategy, because our differences help us to think differently. 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.

ContactTania Connors Human Resources Adviser 07 3228 9465 [email protected]

corrs.com.au

Graduate positions Positions available: approximately 12

Closing date: Monday 19 August 2013

Method of application: corrs.com.au/graduates

Vacation clerkshipsPositions available: approximately 30

Closing date: Monday 18 March 2013

Method of application: corrs.com.au/graduates

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Page 15: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 15

DLA Piper is a truly local, truly global law firm.

Joining DLA Piper means not only joining an experienced local team, but also being part of a global team of 4,200 lawyers based in nearly 80 offices across more than 30 countries around the world.

In Asia Pacific we have offices in Bangkok, Beijing, Brisbane, Canberra, Hong Kong, Melbourne, Perth, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, Sydney and Tokyo.

We’re committed to conducting our business in a way that is consistent with our values, which are aligned to our clients, our people and our communities.

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 Australia, we advise approximately a third of ASX 100 companies or their subsidiaries and all levels of government as well as international clients looking to enter the Australian market.

Through our pro bono practice, we also act for hundreds of charities, community groups, social entrepreneurs and low income individuals who would not otherwise have access to legal services to improve education, economic empowerment and equality.

Our clerkship program offers penultimate law students the opportunity to participate in a structured four week program where you will have the opportunity to get to know the real us. You will participate in induction training and a variety of practical workshops and seminars as well as being invited to join in an array of social activities. You will have the chance to work alongside lawyers who are involved in international, multi-jurisdictional deals.

ContactSacha Wright Human Resources Manager 07 3246 4144 [email protected]

dlapiper.com

Vacation clerkshipsPositions available: 8–10

Closing date: Monday 18 March 2013

Method of application: dlapiper.com

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Page 16: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

HopgoodGanim’s focus is on our clients and our people. Our vibrant internal culture is centred on business mateship and a passion for the law, while our employee-focused initiatives have been recognised on a national scale. We were named a Gold Employer of Choice by Australasian Legal Business in 2010, 2011 and 2012, and have previously been named an Employer of Choice by Queensland Law Society.

With offices in Brisbane and Perth, we offer strategic advice across the full range of corporate, commercial and family legal services to clients based throughout Australia and across international borders. We are particularly well-known for our work in resources and energy, capital markets, M&A, property, and planning and environment law, in addition to housing one of Australia’s best-regarded family law practices.

With a strong commitment to ongoing development and progression, we offer our people a real chance to fulfil their career aspirations. Our two-year graduate program gives you the opportunity to work in two of our practice areas for a year each. You will be exposed to a variety of complex and challenging cases and our open door policy means you will work closely with partners and practitioners who are leaders in their fields. We also cover the costs for our trainee solicitors to complete an in-house practical legal training course with The College of Law.

HopgoodGanim also offers vacation clerkships during the winter and summer university breaks, with our clerks working in two different practice areas during their time with the firm.

ContactAllison Dunn Human Resources Adviser 07 3024 0177 [email protected]

hopgoodganim.com.au

Graduate positions Positions available: TBC

Closing date: Monday 19 August 2013

Method of application: hopgoodganim.com.au

Vacation clerkshipsPositions available: 18

Closing date: Monday 18 March 2013

Method of application: hopgoodganim.com.au

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Page 17: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 17

Herbert Smith Freehills formed from the 2012 merger of Freehills’ Australian practice with Herbert Smith’s international practice. Our clients include many of the world’s largest and most ambitious organisations. We support clients with their dispute resolution, finance, corporate, projects, real estate and employment law issues. As a leading global firm, we offer clients an integrated service across our 20 offices around the world. Ours is a merger of equals: we have no ‘head’ or ‘branch’ office; global management is shared by both legacy firms with representation from all our regions.

From the moment we merged it was clear how strongly our cultures are aligned. We believe technical ability is not enough: we understand that the business of law is fundamentally about human relationships. This means a culture built on creating exceptional working relationships with both clients and colleagues. Across the world our offices share a long history of embracing diversity. We see our ability to accommodate a wide variety of personalities and viewpoints as a real strength and competitive advantage and are proud to be recognised for this work.

We’re delighted our vacation clerks and graduates often talk about Herbert Smith Freehills’ friendly yet professional culture, challenging work, regular client contact and partner support as features that distinguish us from other firms. Whichever office in the world you find yourself in, we’re confident you’ll be working with people who value the same things you do.

Have a look at our careers film to see what we mean: herbertsmithfreehills.com/careers/our-careers-film

ContactTanya Dunbabin People & Development Adviser 07 3258 6571 [email protected]

herbertsmithfreehills.com

Vacation clerkshipsPositions available: 20 –27

Closing date: Monday 18 March 2013

Method of application: cvmail.com.au

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Page 18: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Established in 1993, Johnson Winter & Slattery is a relatively young law firm that now occupies a unique place in the Australian legal market. We are differentiated by a ‘tier 1’ practice capability and premium client portfolio normally associated with much larger firms, along with a genuinely collaborative culture.

Our business model distinguishes us from our rivals. At the heart of our approach is the recognition that when managing strategic and complex matters, superior outcomes are achieved through the hands-on involvement of expert senior lawyers. We therefore maintain a higher ratio of partners to lawyers than our rivals and focus on assignments that are well suited to this low leverage structure.

This ‘low leverage approach’ results in young lawyers being fully engaged on client assignments alongside more senior practitioners, providing them with development opportunities as well as the chance to develop strong client relationships early in their careers.

Compared with most other law firms we have a relatively flat organisational structure with no fixed work groups or departments, enabling our lawyers to diversify their early experience by working across all practice areas with lawyers from across each of the firm’s offices. The absence of individual and group billing and time recording budgets means that young lawyers can focus on producing excellent work, developing their skills and working collaboratively without undue pressure.

Many aspects of our firm make it a great place for developing lawyers to shine: a consistent flow of high quality work, close mentoring relationships with partners, a focus on teamwork, collaboration and communication as well as the absence of individual and departmental time recording budgets.

ContactMegan D’Cruz Professional Development Advisor 02 8247 9630 [email protected]

jws.com.au

Vacation clerkshipsPositions available: 2–4

Closing date: Monday 18 March 2013

Method of application: cvmail.com.au

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Page 19: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 19

Choosing a career at K&L Gates* is choosing to be a part of a progressive and innovative law firm that continues to grow year on year. We work with market leaders across many industries in a range of exciting areas of commercial law.

We offer you the experience of more than 2,000 lawyers in 46 fully-integrated offices across five continents. We have a one-company, one-team mentality, constantly seeking ways to add value to our clients and your career objectives.

The firm will support your development through opportunities like on the job training, a comprehensive professional development program and further education support. We view your development as an investment in the firm’s future success.

We offer a wide range of social, sporting and networking activities you can choose to be involved in. Our commitment to corporate social responsibility and pro bono work also allows you to give back to the wider community.

Brisbane practice areas:

•Corporate and transactional•Labour employment and workplace safety•Litigation and dispute resolution•Real estate •Restructuring and bankruptcy.

2014 Trainee Lawyer Program

Our Trainee Lawyer Program is designed to give you the technical expertise and commercial context to succeed. The program runs for 12 months, in which time you will complete three practice group rotations. Partners and senior lawyers will support and guide you through each rotation and ensure you get the necessary development. Your buddy, a junior lawyer, will help you transition into your new role.

ContactDavid Forner Human Resources Specialist 07 3233 1230 [email protected]

klgates.com

Graduate positions Positions available: 2– 3

Closing date: Monday 19 August 2013

Method of application: klgates.com

* On 1 January 2013, Middletons merged with global law firm K&L Gates. Our clients now have access to outstanding commercial legal advice no matter their location – in Australia or around the world.

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Page 20: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

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

Teammates: over 380 partners and 1,800 lawyers, making us the 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, financial capitals and the home of information technology – 21 offices globally and the only international legal network to be head quartered in Asia.

Clients: global financial and corporate powerhouses to new industry-makers and all levels of government, some for over 200 years.

ContactOlanda Gislason People and Development Consultant 07 3244 8565 [email protected]

kwm.com

Graduate positions Due to the success of our recent seasonal clerk programs, the Brisbane office has recruited the required number of graduates for 2014 and will therefore not be participating in the graduate recruitment process for 2013.

Vacation clerkshipsPositions available: 15–20

Closing date: Monday 18 March 2013

Method of application: mallesons.com/careers

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Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 21

At Maurice Blackburn, we are interested in making a genuine difference to real people who need help. We do this by providing long-term solutions that help our clients in the long run, not just in the short term. We fight hard for an extra bit more, because our lawyers recognise that a fair outcome is worth fighting for. At Maurice Blackburn, we fight for fair.

Maurice Blackburn offers more than just a job and we believe in a culture of helping employees maintain positive work/life balance. We offer extensive staff benefits including:

• Health and wellbeing initiatives such as gym memberships or financial reimbursement towards health and wellbeing initiative, flu vaccinations, Employee Assistance Programs (EAP) and weekly fruit deliveries.

•Social activities including weekly Friday night drinks.• Opportunity to participate in our Women’s Law Section.

Initiatives include mentoring programs for female secondary students and supporting women’s rights and refugee organisations.

• Involvement in community programs and our social justice practice.

• Study assistance and flexible working arrangements.• Genuine learning and development and career

progression programs.

Maurice Blackburn’s seasonal clerkships and traineeships are highly sought-after in the plaintiff legal industry. When filling out your application, keep in mind some of the attributes of previous successful applicants. These include:

•an understanding of the firm’s history• demonstration of a genuine commitment to our values

(justice, compassion, fairness and tenacity)• personal insight into what motivates you and an ability

to portray why you are interested in plaintiff law.

ContactTanya Lieshout Human Resources Consultant 07 3016 0378 [email protected]

mauriceblackburn.com.au

Graduate positionsPositions available: approximately 5

Closing date: Monday 19 August 2013

Method of application: mauriceblackburn.com.au/careers or cvmail.com.au

Vacation clerkshipsPositions available: approximately 8

Closing date: Monday 18 March 2013

Method of application: mauriceblackburn.com.au/careers or cvmail.com.au

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Page 22: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

McCullough Robertson was established in 1926 and is a premium Australian law firm located in Brisbane (head office), Sydney and Newcastle. With over 440 partners and staff we remain ranked as Queensland’s largest law firm and ranked in the top 20 nationally.

The firm was named Brisbane Law Firm of the Year in 2007, 2009 and 2010, named Employer of Choice by Australasian Legal Business Awards in 2009, 2011 and 2012, as well as for the third year in a row awarded the citation as an Employer of Choice for Women from the Equal Employment Opportunity for Women in the Workplace agency.

We are technically excellent and client responsive. Our lawyers are given the opportunity to work on quality legal matters at a national level across varied industries including: aged care and retirement living; banking and finance; food and agribusiness; government; life sciences; non-profit; real estate; resources and energy; and technology, media and telecommunications.

Our values and culture are not just a set of words; they define who we are and how we do business. McCullough Robertson is committed, connected and commercial.

We are committed to our people by providing mentoring and promotion opportunities. Mutual respect is expected at all levels. We’re proud of our independence and work together for the benefit of the firm.

Our benefits come with a real commitment to ensuring employees are supported and genuinely enjoy coming to work. Employee benefits include generous paid parental leave, excellent remuneration, corporate rates for health insurance, in-house cafe, gym and much more.

ContactLeah Sime Recruitment Consultant 07 3233 8640 [email protected]

mccullough.com.au

Graduate positions Positions available: approximately 10–15

Closing date: Monday 19 August 2013

Method of application: mccullough.com.au

Vacation clerkshipsPositions available: approximately 15 (in each intake – winter and summer)

Closing date: Monday 18 March 2013

Method of application: mccullough.com.au

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Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 23

Minter Ellison is a top tier law firm with a strong Asia Pacific focus. We represent major multi-national, regional and local companies as well as government organisations and state-owned entities. With 15 offices around the world, we work on significant cross-border transactions, projects and disputes, in particular in the energy and resources, financial services and infrastructure sectors. Our services are structured around core global practice areas and industry sectors.

Our people, about 1,000 lawyers including partners, are the best and work with the best, delivering practical solutions that assist clients to achieve their business objectives.

Clients trust us with their biggest and most complex transactions, major litigation and problems that span jurisdictions. Our lawyers are legal heavyweights, innovative thinkers, strategists and tacticians. They close deals, resolve disputes and solve problems.

The combined strength of our international office network, comprehensive range of services and highly skilled lawyers enables us to assemble the right people to deliver seamless service to our clients around the world.

We operate within seven major legal divisions, which are:

•Construction, Engineering & Infrastructure• Corporate (competition & regulatory, financial services,

M&A, private equity, technology, energy & resources, communications and infrastructure)

• Commercial Advisory & Dispute Resolution (insurance, insolvency, intellectual property & commercial litigation)

•Finance•Human Resources & Industrial Relations•Real Estate (property, environment & planning, tourism & leisure)•Tax.

Minter Ellison has a strong and energetic culture that is built on our commitment to four core values: integrity and trust, enduring relationships, excellence and balance. We look for individuals who have varied interests, experiences and motivations and who demonstrate a history of success both academically and in other fields.

ContactTarley Slawson Human Resources Consultant 07 3119 6142 [email protected]

minterellison.com

Graduate positionsPositions available: The majority of our graduate positions are filled through the priority offer system, therefore, availability of further graduate positions will be determined later in the year.

Closing date: Monday 19 August 2013

Method of application: minterellison.com/careers

Vacation clerkshipsPositions available: approximately 30–40

Closing date: Monday 18 March 2013

Method of application: minterellison.com/careers

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Page 24: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Norton Rose Australia is a member of the Norton Rose Group, a leading international legal practice offering a full business law service to many of the world’s pre-eminent financial institutions and corporations. We are one of the largest international legal practices in Australia, with offices in Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Perth and Sydney.

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.

We are strong in financial institutions; energy; infrastructure, mining and commodities; transport; technology and innovation; and pharmaceuticals and life sciences.

We take the view that we are only as strong as our people, which is why quality training and flexible work programs are paramount to our business. We deliver an extensive range of training programs targeted at specific stages of our lawyers’ professional development. Our graduate lawyers have the opportunity to be involved in a unique International Rotation Programme and to spend time in one of our international offices.

Our summer clerkship is a unique 10 week program where you will get to know our people and work closely with our associates, senior associates and partners. All in all, it is an opportunity to experience what life is really like as a commercial lawyer.

ContactKatie Dunlop HR Administrator 07 3414 2702 [email protected]

nortonrose.com

Graduate positions Positions available: Graduate recruitment for the Brisbane office comes directly from the summer clerk intakes. If you are interested in becoming a graduate here, you are encouraged to apply for a summer clerkship.

Closing date: Monday 19 August 2013

Method of application: nortonrosegraduates.com

Vacation clerkshipsPositions available: 8

Closing date: Monday 18 March 2013

Method of application: nortonrosegraduates.com

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Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 25

Piper Alderman is a full-service commercial law firm with offices in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Adelaide. With 160 years’ experience and over 350 employees nationally, we have achieved our impressive growth and success by listening to our clients and creating practical and innovative legal solutions.

Piper Alderman promotes a culture of performance excellence at every level of the firm. Our graduates and clerks are high achievers and are given the unique opportunity of playing an active role in delivering innovative legal solutions to our clients from day one.

The development of our law clerks is integral to the success of the firm. We have a buddy and mentoring program to guide you through your new law clerk position. We are looking for people who align with our culture and firm values. We value:

•excellence • teamwork • respect •knowledge • innovation.

Our clerk program is different from the others …

• Rather than a short-lived summer clerkship, we offer our clerks a two year program that leads to a graduate position. Clerks work two days per week commencing from their penultimate year of study through to graduation.

• We provide our clerks with the opportunity to participate in real legal work, which is important for engagement and development. We don’t recruit law clerks to become additional administrative assistants, but rather offer real legal support to our lawyers and partners. You will be kept busy with legal research, drafting and attending court.

ContactBelinda Sathurayar HR Advisor 02 9253 9995 [email protected]

piperalderman.com.au

Vacation clerkshipsPositions available: 5–6

Closing date: 27 September 2013

Method of application: piperalderman.com.au/careers or cvmail.com.au

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We are a leading provider of practical legal training in Queensland, with an enviable reputation for our practical approach.

With 35 years’ experience, we provide you with problem-solving scenarios to make sure you’re job-ready.

We also provide you a work placement in a firm, government department or agency if you’re not already working. Our courses begin throughout the year in full-time, part-time and online modes.

2013 Courses

17 June (full-time on campus; full-time external and part-time)

2014 Courses

13 January (full-time on campus; full-time external and part-time) 24 February (March intake – part-time) 16 June (full-time on campus; full-time external and part-time)

Dates subject to change.

ContactLiz Clark Senior Administration Officer 07 3138 2211 [email protected]

qut.edu.au/legal-practice

Practically, the onlychoice for PLT is QUT.QUT is a leading provider of Practical Legal Training in Queensland,with an enviable reputation for its practical approach. With recentlyrefreshed course content, the program offers problem-solvingscenarios and reflects the realities of a daily modern legal practice.And if you need a work placement, we will provide it.

The only choice for PLT is QUT.

Full-time, part-time and online.

Apply now, or phone Liz Clark on (07) 3138 2211 or email [email protected]

www.qut.edu.au/legal-practice

LAW-11-688 CRICOS no. 00213J

“The simulated courtrooms are fantastic.The use of technologyto support learning helpsexternal students feelthat they belong in theuniversity community.”

Samantha Flynn,QUT graduate

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Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 27

Sparke Helmore Lawyers is a firm of 600 people working across Australia. Our vision, to be a world-class Australian firm most admired by our clients for our people and performance, shapes everything that we do. The firm was established in Newcastle in 1882 and now we have offices in Adelaide, Brisbane, Canberra, Melbourne, Newcastle, Perth, Sydney and the Upper Hunter.

We serve the needs of the insurance, government, financial services, mining, construction and property sectors. Our expertise spans commercial to construction, workplace to insurance, structuring to superannuation, mining to manufacturing, and property to procurement.

We work with Australian corporations, multinational and foreign owned entities, Federal and State government departments, agencies and local governments. Our knowledge of our clients goes well beyond the legal issues they face. We learn their purpose: what problems they need solving or what opportunities they are aiming to capture.

In 2012 we were named the Government Law Firm of the Year in Australia and Mining Law Firm of the Year in Australia by Corporate Intl Magazine’s Global Awards, and we were a finalist in the Insurance Law Firm of the Year category at the Australasian Law Awards. Our lawyers were also finalists in two categories at the Lawyers Weekly Women in Law Awards and the Lawyers Weekly Law Awards in 2012.

ContactErin Tomicic Office Manager 07 3016 5049 [email protected]

sparke.com.au

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Page 28: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Survive Law began life in 2008 as a wild idea scribbled on a scrap of equity law notes. From humble beginnings, we’ve grown into Australia’s largest online community of law students.

We acquired our small piece of the Internet ‘on just terms’ (s51(xxxi) Commonwealth of Australia Constitution Act) and dedicated it to guiding you through the ups and downs of law school life – with a dash of good humour, cynical bites and general irreverence.

At Survive Law you’ll find plenty of tips and tricks to survive those never-ending readings, obfuscating essay questions, killer exams and assessments, plus information and advice about mental health and wellbeing, careers in law, as well as those all important odes to highlighters, coloured tabs and coffee. You won’t find this sort of advice in a textbook.

We’re written by a team of law students and grads from around Australia and would simply love to meet you on Facebook (facebook.com/survivelaw), Twitter (@survivelaw) or at survivelaw.com.

ContactWenee Yap Founder 0412 687 273 [email protected]

survivelaw.com

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Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 29

TressCox is a trusted Australian commercial law firm that has been operating since 1897. We are based in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane and Canberra and have an enviable reputation in all areas of law.

We are a team of talented, committed individuals who believe in the value of personal relationships and who are connected to each other in the market place to provide our clients with insightful valuable business solutions. To enable us to achieve our vision and to live our values, we look for people who are highly committed, enthusiastic and successful team players.

Students will already undoubtedly be aware that there is no substitute for getting involved in a seasonal clerkship program. This really gives you an insight into what life as a lawyer is really all about. As a clerk with us, you will have the opportunity to be a part of a busy and dynamic legal team doing legal work. What’s more, the rotational nature of our program enables you to move through various practice groups. This is really important because it gives you the opportunity to gain exposure in different areas of law.

We aim to give you practical legal experience and when we can, the opportunity to attend hearings, undertake research tasks, observe client meetings and conferences and get involved at one of our in-house seminars.

This is the first step for a career in law and our seasonal clerks will get a chance to stand out at TressCox Lawyers.

ContactLisa Filetti Senior HR Manager 02 9228 9242 [email protected]

tresscox.com.au

Vacation clerkshipsPositions available: 2

Closing date: Friday 20 September 2013

Method of application: cvmail.com.au

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The TC Beirne School of Law is the oldest and most prestigious law school in Queensland and one of Australia’s leading research intensive law schools.

Since its establishment in 1936 the school has helped to mould more than 20 elite Rhodes Scholars, a Governor-General, High Court judges, Queensland Premiers and countless leaders within the legal and other professions.

In keeping with this tradition the school remains committed to the delivery of high quality, research-led legal teaching to provide knowledge and inspiration to the scholars who are destined to shape the future.

This commitment is measured by a consistently high demand for the school’s taught programs, a record number of Research Higher Degree students and recognised excellence in legal research by a team of globally renowned academics.

As a professional school, our relationship with the legal profession is at the heart of our mission. In recent years, the school has worked closely with colleagues in the legal community to develop high-quality, specialist driven postgraduate programs that meet the needs of law graduates in the workforce and provide highly transportable knowledge and skills to enable graduates to succeed in globally competitive legal and business environments.

ContactBeth Williams External Relations & Events Officer 07 3346 9350 [email protected]

law.uq.edu.au

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Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 31

Graduate Employment and Vacation Clerkship Guidelines

Key dates for 2013

Vacation Clerkships

Monday 25 February 2013 Applications for clerkships open

Monday 18 March 2013 Applications for clerkships close (9am AEST)

Monday 13 May 2013 Offers for vacation clerkships can be made

Tuesday 14 May 2013 Offers for vacation clerkships must be accepted or declined by 5pm AEST

Graduate Employment

Wednesday 27 February 2013 Offers made to current staff/vacation clerks for graduate positions

Thursday 28 February 2013 Offers for graduate positions to current staff/vacation clerks must be accepted or declined by 5pm AEST

Monday 5 August 2013 Applications for 2013 graduate positions open

Monday 19 August 2013 Applications for 2013 graduate positions close (9am AEST)

Monday 9 September 2013 Offers for 2013 graduate positions can be made

Tuesday 10 September 2013 Offers for 2013 graduate positions must be accepted or declined by 5pm AEST

We know the process for obtaining graduate positions or vacation clerkships can be overwhelming. To make it easier for you to find placements, Queensland Law Society has established the Graduate Employment and Vacation Clerkship Guidelines. The Guidelines are published each year in October and confirm key dates for the recruitment process to participating law firms. You’re able to submit applications to multiple firms at one time and consider all placement offers simultaneously – having set dates allows you to make informed and appropriate decisions.

For a copy of the Guidelines and full list of participating law firms visit qls.com.au.

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Clerkship FAQs

What is a clerkship?Clerkships are holiday work experience programs that many firms offer to law students. Clerkships can run anywhere from two to 12 weeks.

Why should I consider applying?Not only are clerkships an opportunity to test-drive a career in an area of law that interests you, a large number of firms recruit their graduate lawyers from clerkship intakes.

Where can I do a clerkship?Law students can clerk with a range of organisations and work in a variety of legal areas. Whether you’re interested in refugee, corporate, family, media or criminal law, chances are that there’s a clerkship program out there that suits your interests.

Many small, large and even international law firms offer clerkships. Some government departments, charities and in-house legal teams’ at large companies also run clerkship programs. Large commercial law firms usually have the biggest clerkship intakes.

In many cases, Queensland law students are eligible to apply for clerkships offered interstate – just check with the organisation that you’re interested in.

Am I eligible?Students in their penultimate (second last) year of a bachelor of laws or juris doctor degree are eligible to apply. Firms typically accept applications from students with less than two or more than four semesters of study remaining, but you should check with each organisation.

Most clerkships are paid, full time roles so international students should consult with firms and check their visa restrictions before applying.

When do I apply?Queensland Law Society has developed vacation clerkship guidelines, which provide uniform application and closing dates. This year, Queensland clerkship applications are open from 25 February – 18 March 2013.

Not all organisations that offer clerkships are signatories to clerkship schemes in their state and may accept applications outside these time frames.

How do I apply? The application process varies slightly between firms but most request that law students submit their academic transcript, a CV and cover letter by email, via a form on the firm’s website or via cvmail.com.au. Some organisations also require applicants to respond to several short answer questions.

Are clerkships compulsory?No! If you do not think a clerkship is for you, there is no obligation to apply. There are plenty of other legal work experience and volunteering opportunities out there, and if you later change your mind, some firms also have a graduate intake.

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Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 33

Graduate FAQs

What does a graduate program involve?Many organisations offer structured graduate training programs to smooth your transition from geeky law student to hot shot lawyer. Your first year to 18 months as a graduate will typically include rotations through different areas of the firm so that you can try out the work areas that interest you.

Practical legal training (PLT) is often included in the graduate programs offered by large law firms.

Where can I apply for a graduate role?As with clerkships, graduate roles for law students aren’t restricted to large law firms. Many corporations, government departments, smaller law firms and even community legal centres offer graduate positions.

Larger law firms, companies and government departments usually have an annual intake, while smaller organisations take on graduates when they are needed. Many law firms use their clerkship intake to fill the graduate program and may not offer other graduate roles, or only recruit a limited number.

When should I apply? You should apply for graduate roles during your final year of law school.

Queensland Law Society has developed graduate employment guidelines, which provide uniform application and closing dates. This year, many large law firms in Queensland will be accepting graduate applications from 5 – 19 August 2013.

Not all organisations that offer graduate roles are signatories to this scheme and may accept applications outside these time frames. Many large companies, interstate law firms and government departments accept graduate applications during the first half of the calendar year.

How do I apply? The application process varies slightly between organisations, but most request that law students submit their academic transcript, a CV and cover letter by email, via a form on the firm’s website or via cvmail.com.au.

Survive Law is a website for Australian law students. Check out survivelaw.com for more careers tips, study advice and nerdy law school shenanigans.

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Page 34: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

To practice law in Queensland you’re legally required to be admitted onto the Roll of Lawyers by the Supreme Court of Queensland. Graduates wishing to be admitted must undertake additional legal training through either successful completion of a Practical Legal Training (PLT) course, or by serving as a supervised trainee. Once admitted you will be required to apply for a practising certificate from Queensland Law Society to practice as a solicitor, or the Bar Association of Queensland to practice as a barrister.______

Supervised traineeshipSupervised traineeships cover competencies set by the Supreme Court (Legal Practitioner Admission) Amendment Rule (No 2) 2005 for admission.

Traineeships are conducted in the workplace and are structured to ensure that you receive adequate supervision and assessment. It takes approximately 12 months to complete and is a popular method of admission for those seeking future employment in the State’s top tier law firms.

Practical legal trainingThe most popular method of satisfying the admission criteria is undertaking a Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice known as practical legal training (PLT). PLT is designed to equip you with practical skills like ethics, legal writing and drafting and interview skill among others, for entry into legal practice.

AdmissionThe Supreme Court of Queensland is responsible for admitting you to the Roll of Lawyers and is assisted by the Legal Practitioners Admissions Board, which issues an applicant’s certificate of compliance.

To be eligible for admission, you must have completed an approved law degree, an approved practical legal training course or supervised traineeship at a firm, and be able to satisfy the Admission Board and the Court of your fitness to practice.

Practising certificatesA practising certificate is required to practice as a solicitor in Queensland. Certificates are issued by Queensland Law Society according to Section 52 of the Legal Profession Act 2007 and must be renewed annually. You can apply for full membership and your practising certificate at any time, providing you’re admitted to the Roll of Lawyers by the Supreme Court of Queensland.

Barristers are also required to hold a practising certificate, which is issued by the Bar Association of Queensland.

Visit qls.com.au for more information on how to become a practising lawyer.

Graduation – what happens next?

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Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 35

What are your career options when you graduate? You can work as a solicitor in a law firm, as in-house counsel or as a barrister. Opportunities also exist to work with the community, in government or in fields that focus on justice. Some may require a combined degree or further training.______

Solicitor – working in a legal firmYou will provide advice, work closely with individuals and organisations and liaise with other legal professionals. Much time is spent meeting with clients, researching cases and writing legal documents. Solicitors therefore need a wide range of skills. As well as being able to communicate with clients and develop good working relationships with them, solicitors need to be able to work closely with colleagues, pay close attention to detail and be willing to work long hours. Other key traits include initiative and good judgement, which will assist in working with complex legal information.

Career path

You will start practice as an ‘employee solicitor’ and move onto ‘associate’ and ‘senior associate’ roles by acquiring extensive experience in your relevant area of law. Partnership may follow after a number of years. This involves greater responsibility and status, increased income, a greater influence in how the firm is run and the responsibility of training and mentoring of younger solicitors.

You can choose to specialise in a field of law or you may prefer to practice in a broad cross-section of areas. Focusing in one area gives you the option to enhance your career through Queensland Law Society Specialist Accreditation. Becoming an accredited specialist is a distinction that firm solicitors can aspire too. For more information on Specialist Accreditation visit qls.com.au/specaccred.

Where you can work

It is not uncommon for graduates to set up their own firms; however most graduates will work in large or medium firms with the aim to specialise. Working in a smaller boutique firm will provide you with a cross-section of practice. Larger firms are mostly located in Brisbane and South East Queensland while regional areas provide the opportunity to work in more personal and intimate firms.

Solicitor – working as in-house counselAs an in-house counsel solicitor you’re often an integral part of the management team and are directly involved in the decision making processes of the organisation. Usually, the in-house legal team takes responsibility of all commercial matters on behalf of the organisation.

Career path

Increasingly, in-house counsels are solicitors with vast experience in the legal profession. Solicitors generally move into corporate counsel after having practiced at a private law firm. Corporate positions are considered attractive because they do not have the personal budget pressures that private law firms have. In many instances, these jobs lead to management positions.

Legal careers – what are your options?

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Where you can work

Most large corporations with international bases have in-house counsel; many medium sized firms also require the support and advice of a legal team. Organisations in industries like mining, energy, media, telecommunication, transport, construction and engineering are a good place to start looking for in-house counsel positions.

Solicitor – working in governmentCountless government departments at federal, state and local level have in-house legal departments. Working in government you’ll be tasked with the responsibility of researching, writing and assisting in the implementation of procedural activities carried out by the departments. The government policy team may be responsible for constitutional, administrative and regulatory law issues.

Career path

In some instances it can be said that policy officers for government are not as well-paid as their private practice counterparts. However, government policy officers are not bound by personal budget pressures and therefore they enjoy more flexibility working in their field of interest.

Where you can work

Federal and state government departments like the Department of Justice and Attorney-General, or at local council level in Brisbane or regionally. There are also government regulatory and statutory authorities that have in-house legal departments, for example Q-COMP.

Solicitor – working to improve access to justiceCommunity legal and pro bono professionals provide less fortunate members of the public with access to the legal justice system. Work in this capacity can offer a rewarding dimension to your career.

As a community legal or pro bono professional you will offer free legal advice, referral and support to people who are experiencing trouble with the law and are unable to afford the full cost of engaging a solicitor. Legal advice may be sought on issues involving the police, landlords, employers, family and human rights. In addition to free legal advice and support you will also work to increase community understanding of legal rights by providing community groups and individuals with legal education and information.

Career path

Working in this capacity offers you the opportunity to develop strong relationships within the community by providing access to the courts and legal system, legal education and advice and representation for little or no fee. You may devote a portion of time to pro bono work while retaining a fee-paying client base in private practice or you could become a full-time community legal practitioner.

Where you can work

The number of private law firms offering pro bono programs to their solicitors has increased. There are also the options of working with community legal centres or for the statutory authority Legal Aid Queensland.

Careers continued...

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Queensland Law Society Legal Careers Expo 2013 37

Barrister – working as an independent legal counselAs a barrister you will play a vital role in the administration of justice and in the functioning of the legal profession. You will be an advocate before courts and tribunals and a consultant legal advisor. Barristers generally receive work through referral from solicitors and represent clients in court. You will be an expert on the rules of evidence and court procedure, in determining the appropriate method and argument for presentation in court, in questioning and cross-examining witnesses and negotiating settlements to discontinue legal proceedings.

Career path

In Queensland, barristers have always practiced as independent legal counsel. By not forming any business partnerships or associations this ensures independence as legal counsel is not compromised. Every barrister is solely responsible for his or her own work. Becoming a barrister will assist if you aspire to become a judge.

Where you can work

Most barristers’ chambers are located in Brisbane, but there are regional opportunities in Townsville, Rockhampton, Cairns, Southport, Toowoomba, Ipswich, Mackay, Maroochydore and other country centres.

Other opportunities in the legal professionThere are many more career opportunities in the legal profession. You may want to research the roles and responsibilities of the following:

•court and legal clerks •paralegal • law librarian •mediator •criminologist.

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Page 38: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

Queensland Law Society provides a dynamic hub for Queensland’s legal community, engaging actively with our members and the public to provide leadership, practical solutions and reliable support.

We assist more than 10,000 legal professionals at varying career stages by supporting their daily working needs through access to education and training, advice and support services, information and resources and through commercial and social benefits. We also represent our members by taking a position on issues affecting the legal profession and acting as a leading voice for improvement and change.

Further information

1300 FOR QLS (1300 367 757) >> qls.com.au

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39

Student membership privileges are geared to transition you smoothly from law student to lawyer. The Society offers valuable resources for study, career and regulatory advice, professional networks and employment contacts and discounted lifestyle products and services. Best of all student membership is free!

News and informationProctor (online version) –

the Society’s flagship publication is a useful study resource, keeping you informed on all aspects of law. A subscription to print editions of Proctor is available to purchase at member pricing.

QLS website –

a knowledge hub giving you access to member-only information to support your studies and transition from student to lawyer.

QLS Update –

a weekly email news service keeping you up-to-date with the latest news affecting the profession.

Queensland Law Society Legal Directory and Diary –

a guide to the legal profession listing key industry representatives. It is a valuable resource for graduating students. Available for purchase at member pricing.

AdviceCareers in law –

launch your legal career with free alerts and information about our annual Legal Careers Expo and the Graduate Employment and Vacation Clerkship Guidelines.

Regulatory advice –

our staff provide you with support and assistance on regulatory requirements for admission and practice.

Networking and Social EventsAccess to your professional community – profile yourself and network at Queensland Law Society networking and social events. Registration available at member pricing.

Education and TrainingConferences and seminars – advance your knowledge and give yourself a professional edge with access to education and training available at member pricing.

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Page 40: Gold sponsor Silver sponsor - Queensland Law Society...• Cooper Grace Ward • Norton Rose • Clayton Utz • DLA Piper 3 – 3.45pm Tales from the trenches – what you need to

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