Admission to the Legal Profession

Ian Aldridge, Principal, Progressive Legal, recently opened a sole practice. As a follow on from our previous article Single and Ready to Mingle – Tips for Becoming a Sole Practitioner we asked Ian to reflect on his recent personal experience to provide tips for lawyers who have also decided to open a small practice.

Let’s explore the top skills employers are searching for. So you can demonstrate your worth, stand out from the crowd and land a legal role. ​

Create a standout legal resume with our step-by-step guide. Learn how to format, highlight skills, and polish your resume for your target audience.

The competition is tough, but by knowing what recruiters look for and pitching your skills and experience in their best light, you can make your resume stand out for all the right reasons.

Wondering what the deal is with Practical Legal Training (PLT)? That’s what this webinar is for.

Join us on Tuesday 6 August for a one-hour crash course on PLT. We’ll cover the basics, bust myths and answer questions.

Download this guide to learn more about Dispute Resolution in a nutshell, the core expertise of a Dispute Resolution practitioner, the personal strengths of a Dispute Resolution practitioner, related areas of expertise, as well as specialisation options in Dispute Resolution such as Mediation, Family Dispute Resolution, and Collaborative law.

Download this guide to learn about a Career in International Arbitration. International arbitration is sometimes called a hybrid form of international dispute resolution, since it blends elements of civil law procedure and common law procedure, while allowing the parties a significant opportunity to design the arbitral procedure under which their dispute will be resolved.

Download the NSW Legal Practice Management Course Guide and gain the skills needed to become a principal or partner, opening up new career opportunities in the legal field.

Download the SA Law Practice Management (LPMC) Course Guide and find out how our course can help you transition from lawyer to business leader, giving you the tools to manage a thriving legal practice.

Looking to optimise legal operations and improve service delivery across your firm?Download the course guide. During this course, you’ll cover everything from strategic planning to information governance to financial management. And you’ll walk away with the expertise and confidence to meet today’s legal challenges – head on.

Discover the power of plain language for lawyers with our comprehensive guide. Learn how to communicate clearly, master formatting, and put plain language into action.

Let’s explore the what, why and how of your PLT. And discover how it helps you hit the ground running to accelerate your legal career.

Get ready for your legal job interview with our step-by-step guide. Learn about research, first impressions, and common questions to ace your next interview!

Learn how to write a legal cover letter with our step-by-step guide. Find out what to include, the format to follow, and how to polish your presentation for a law firm application.

Unlock the insider insights to becoming a Family Dispute Resolution Practice (FDRP) in this exclusive recorded webinar by the esteemed experts at the College of Law.

Whether you're a legal professional eager to elevate your skills or a mediator aiming to expand your toolkit, this session covers all the essential details on the journey to becoming an FDRP.

Download your guide to a career in-house for everything you need to know about in-house practice in a nutshell, the personal strengths of an in-house lawyer, the core expertise of an in-house lawyer, related areas of expertise, and career prospects in-house.

Curious about different legal careers? Discover your path as a solicitor, barrister, in-house counsel, or explore roles in NewLaw, courts, community legal centres, government, public notary services, and family dispute resolution. Find the right legal career for you today!

Download your guide to a career in government and public sector law for everything you need to know about government and public sector law in a nutshell, the personal strengths of a government and public sector lawyer, the core expertise of a government and public sector lawyer, related areas of expertise, and career prospects in government and public sector law.

If you are getting serious about starting your own law firm, this one-hour video is for you. 

Discover what law school didn't teach you. Learn 8 new things in the College of Law's Practical Legal Training program, from negotiation to legal tech, and excel in your legal career.

The College of Law has written an eBook guide to thriving as a lawyer, featuring 10 practical tips for new lawyers.

Ever wondered how to stand out and distinguish yourself as a junior lawyer? After running the gauntlet of competitive clerkships, you’ve landed a grad role. In those crucial years, how do you ensure you learn, provide value to your peers, mid-career lawyers, senior associates, special counsel, and partners - and steer clear of the mistakes that might sink or set back your career?

Webinars recorded and facilitated by the Centre for Legal Innovation.

We’ve created this guide to equip you with practical tips for establishing a successful law firm. Complete with checklists, activities and other resources, we hope this guide will set you on the right path – from the outset.

Significant changes in legal delivery are occurring around the globe. Traditional ways of doing business have given way to innovation at lightning speed. Shift your way of thinking, solve problems efficiently and identify new opportunities for growth.

What’s the difference between management and leadership? This subject is a road map to understanding the complexities and motivations of individuals and teams, and how to lead them to success.

Take your job search to the next level with our comprehensive resources for law students and graduates. Master the art of crafting a standout LinkedIn profile, including your URL, profile picture, summary, experience, connections, and recommendations.

Don’t let your first day in a practice be a daunting one. Read up on what it’s like to step into the real world of law.  

Download your guide to a career in family dispute resolution practice for everything you need to know about FDR in a nutshell, the personal strengths of a FDR Practitioner, the core expertise of a FDRP, related areas of expertise, and career prospects in FDR.

Whether you’re studying or have already completed your law degree, you may still be mulling over where you’d like your career to go. And that’s okay. But doing the PLT is a good idea regardless. Here’s why. 

So how do you know what path to pursue when you don’t have a clue? Here are 6 strategies to help you find a career that’s right for you. 

Kathryn Kearley webinar on navigating recent the family law changes and the College of Law's family law postgraduate programs.

In Australia, the legal profession is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements and complex demands from clients and employers. Legal operations professionals, not necessarily with legal backgrounds, are pivotal in integrating new technologies, project management, and process improvements to meet modern market needs.

Download our Nationally Accredited Mediator Training handbook, if you are considering adding mediation to your skill set. Inside you'll find everything you need to know about the course.

Download the Dispute Resolution Postgraduate Course Guide to learn how our program can equip you with essential skills to resolve conflicts effectively and build a rewarding career in this growing field.

Download the Graduate Certificate in International Arbitration Practice Course Guide and unlock the skills needed to navigate complex, cross-border legal disputes with confidence and efficiency.

Download the Property Law Postgraduate Course Guide and discover how our specialised program can help you build expertise and thrive in this dynamic field.

Have questions about acing a job interview? Send 'em in, because your invited to a live Q&A with Lisa Tozer, the Interview Coach.

On Tuesday 26 November, Lisa’s going live to tackle your job interview questions, back by popular demand after our Careers Academy! Just send in your questions when you register, and Lisa will answer them live!

While completing her law degree and Practical Legal Training with the College of Law, Helena Hanna also kept up with her interests outside of studies. Learn more about Helena and her law degree experience.

Learn how Chelsea Donoghue merged her lot of arts and law: How she managed her study while on world tours, what she loves most about her work at Sanicki Lawyers, and what’s next.

Kerala Drew found the path to qualifying as an Australian lawyer fraught with roadblocks. Learn how she landed her first job in law, what set her College of Law PLT experience apart from prior study, and what advice she might have for lawyers looking to join the Australian legal profession.

Here are 6 tips to help you leave a lasting impression and showcase your worth. 

Discover the key differences between law school and real-world legal practice, including handling complex cases, simplifying legal jargon, managing tight deadlines, and developing essential soft skills.

Download your guide to a career in property law for everything you need to know about property law in a nutshell, the personal strengths of a property lawyer, the core expertise of a property lawyer, related areas of expertise, and the career prospects in property law.

This guide will help you navigate the first steps towards becoming a partner. It will help you reflect on your own motivations, assess your skill set, and determine the best path forward in your career.

Download the QLD Legal Practice Management Course Guide to learn how our program can prepare you to manage a law firm or take on a leadership role within an established practice.

Download the WA Legal Practice Management Course Guide to learn how our course can help you meet the requirements for a Principal Practising Certificate and successfully manage a legal practice.

Since completing her Practical Legal Training (PLT) at the College in 2023, Stella Richards has been a valued part of the commercial team at leading Australian law firm Russell Kennedy. But she started out in a different field entirely. Stella’s story shows that hard work, determination and a good deal of courage can lead you to your perfect career – even if you change direction once or twice along the way.

Podcasts recorded and facilitated by the Centre for Legal Innovation.

Download the Commercial Litigation Postgraduate Course Guide to explore how our tailored program can enhance your legal expertise and open up new opportunities in the profession.

Learn about the process of becoming a lawyer, from meeting the requirements to applying for admission and receiving your practising certificate.

For many lawyers, the idea of working overseas can seem like a daunting prospect. A career in law can often be limited by the regions in which your qualification allows you to practice, while at a glance many foreign economies can seem more precarious than Australia for a lawyer. However, for those brave and enterprising enough, the fruits of overseas legal opportunities can be bountiful.

How do you stand out in Australia's competitive legal market, filled with talented solicitors? We spoke with Shona Rowan, a people and culture consultant, high-performance coach, and bestselling author, about what it takes to rise above the rest. Here, she shares five expert steps to help lawyers reach their full professional potential.

Download the Wills and Estates Postgraduate Programs Course Guide and discover how our program can equip you with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complex world of estate planning, probate, and elder law.

Download the ASEAN+6 Legal Practice Postgraduate Course Guide to discover how our program can prepare you for navigating complex international agreements and disputes across the ASEAN+6 region.

Learn practical tools and strategic approaches to spearhead your organisation into the future.

PLT is a structured training program designed to help you develop the practical, day-to-day skills you will need as an entry-level lawyer. Completion of a PLT program is the second essential step to being admitted as a lawyer – the first being your law degree. Click the link below to learn more.

As a family lawyer, you will influence the lives of families who come to you for support and expertise during times of great upheaval and trauma. Download your guide to a career in family law.

Have you thought about postgraduate studies? Not sure what it's like, what it takes, and the positive impact it could have on your career? This webinar recording was presented by Tatiana Rabaeva, Head of Postgraduate Programs. It will offer you the opportunity to hear live and gain more insight from the College program Lecturers and Alumni, Adeline Shiralli and Crispian Carlowe.

Download your guide to a career in business law for everything you need to know about business law in a nutshell, personal strengths of a business lawyer, core expertise of a business lawyer, related areas of expertise and career prospects in business law.

In this guide, we take you through everything you need to find (and land) a perfect fit. Expect plenty of insider secrets along the way!

Download the Postgraduate Programs Course Guide today and discover how our practical, hands-on approach can equip you with the skills and knowledge you need to succeed.

Download the Family Law Postgraduate Course Guide to learn how our program can help you develop the skills and knowledge needed to guide families through complex legal challenges and build a fulfilling career.

Learn how to align workforce planning and strategy in an ever-evolving workplace. Using a wide range of case studies and resources, you’ll consider the practical challenges of a multi-generational workforce, the paradox of being both profitable today and ready for tomorrow and the different ways to communicate your insights to stakeholders.

Learn more about Jason Feng and his latest initiative, practisinglaw.com.au, which provides practical step-by-step guides, like File Management for Junior Lawyers, or answers to FAQs. It’s an entirely free service that Jason contributes to the legal community.

Discover the diverse career opportunities your law degree can unlock. Learn the difference between a lawyer and a solicitor, explore life as a solicitor or barrister, and delve into various legal specialities and alternative careers.

Download your guide to a career in commercial litigation for everything you need to know about: commercial litigation in a nutshell, personal strengths of a commercial litigator core expertise of a commercial litigator, related areas of expertise, and career prospects in Commercial Litigation.

How to highlight your service experience to stand out and land a legal role.

Get the essential information on pursuing a legal career in Australia. From law degrees to practical legal training, we cover everything you need to know about becoming a lawyer.

Download your guide to a career in wills and estates for everything you need to know about wills and estates in a nutshell, the personal strengths of a wills and estates lawyer, the core expertise of a wills and estates lawyer, related areas of expertise, and the career prospects in wills and estates law.

If you are considering adding mediation to your skillset, you have come to the right place. Our Nationally Accredited Mediator Training Course Guide is the perfect resource, designed to help you find answers to the most important questions about becoming an accredited mediator.

Download the Legal Business Management Course Guide and discover how our innovative program can equip you with the skills to lead, grow, and succeed in today’s competitive legal profession.

Download the Government and Public Sector Law Postgraduate Course Guide and discover how our program equips you with the skills to navigate complex regulations, protect public interest, and drive legal change.

Download the In-House Practice Postgraduate Course Guide to explore how our program equips you with the skills to manage legal risks, lead internal legal teams, and make impactful decisions within an organisation.

Download the Legal Practice Management Course Guide and discover how our program equips you with practical skills to successfully manage and grow your law firm or legal practice.

Australians hold a rare E-3 Visa status, a visa class currently exclusive to Australian nationals, and making Australia one of a handful of countries (including Canada) offered special access to prized US work rights. This makes Australian lawyers particularly attractive to US law firms and the job opportunities for lawyers in America are eye-wateringly lucrative. Read on for everything you need to know about taking your legal career to the bright lights of the USA.

In today’s competitive legal landscape, there is more at financial play than ever before. Valuable, golden opportunities are there for the taking. Develop a deep, broad understanding of financial performance and the opportunities surrounding your organisation's finances.

In this subject, you’ll uncover insights into the client buying process and experience, for the purpose of growing your targeted customer base and accelerating your business growth.

We spotlight Arnab Ghosh Roy, a passionate migration and family lawyer on a mission to empower the community with his pro bono work. We sat down with Arnab to learn how his migration experience (along with his insatiable drive to make an impact) has shaped his career.

When you apply for a legal role, simply listing a bunch of buzzwords like teamwork and time management won’t get you very far. ​ You need to demonstrate your skills to employers. Here’s how you can promote your skillset with punch and authority.

Uni studies give you a solid theoretical understanding of the law. But practising as a legal professional is much more nuanced than at uni. Here are 6 vital lessons you don't learn at law school. 

Let’s see where you can take your skills to pursue a non-traditional legal pathway.

Thinking beyond traditional law roles? Dive into exciting career paths in legal tech, business, operations, politics, and government. Perfect for lawyers and those with law degrees looking for new opportunities. Explore your options today!

Download the Business Law and Transactions Postgraduate Course Guide to discover how our LLM program can help you develop advanced skills and open new doors in the legal profession.

Download the Family Dispute Resolution Practice (FDRP) Course Guide to learn how our program can equip you with the skills to facilitate peaceful resolutions and empower families in times of conflict.

In this course, you’ll explore the fundamental legal technologies shaping the industry. So you can determine the best fit for your business and harness true innovation.

Drawing on cutting-edge leadership theory and organisational psychology principles, this course will give you the self-awareness and critical thinking you need to become a transformational leader in legal business.

During the course, you’ll discuss the current challenges your workplace is facing with guidance from our Teaching Fellows Daljit Singh and Kristen Kramer. In the process, you’ll acquire the critical thinking and cognitive skills to solve similar challenges in the future.

After completing his Practical Legal Training (PLT) at the College of Law in 2021, Michael joined the AMP Financial Services Legal Team – where he still is today. Drawing on his diverse experiences, Michael has carved a niche for himself in the in-house corporate world, where his holistic approach and passion for ESG are making real, meaningful impact. Read on to hear his story.

The College of Law celebrates 50 years of service to the legal industry. Since it opened its doors in 1974, the College has empowered over 100,000 professionals to achieve their career aspirations in the law. We take a look at the College’s many legal education milestones and hear from long-standing CEO Neville Carter and Chairman Joseph Catanzariti AM.