Skip to main content

Your Guide to a Career in In-House Practice

Published:
16 Jul 2024
Resources
Your Guide to a Career in In-House Practice

In-house practitioners are crucial to the daily function of the corporations and organisations they represent. In addition to greater autonomy and a diverse workload, in-house legal roles can offer lawyers the chance to immerse themselves in fields they may otherwise never access.

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.

 

Share this article?

RELATED CONTENT

Do you (already) have what it takes? The 7 in-demand transferable skills

Resources

Do you (already) have what it takes? The 7 in-demand transferable skills

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. ​

How to Write a Legal Resume

Resources

How to Write a Legal Resume

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.

Your Guide to a Career in Mediation and Dispute Resolution

Resources

Your Guide to a Career in Mediation and Dispute Resolution

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.

Decisiveness: Why it’s the skill every lawyer needs

News

Decisiveness: Why it’s the skill every lawyer needs

What skills matter most to lawyers? As lawyers’ careers progress, technical expertise develops alongside an ability to ‘read’ what a client wants, needs or might not be saying, as well as other skills like negotiation and business development. Yet the ability to make good decisions is often overlooked as a key skill of good lawyers. 

How to grow your law firm through referral partnerships

News

How to grow your law firm through referral partnerships

No law firm succeeds without referrals, but new firms often struggle due to a limited client base. To overcome this, many firms partner with related businesses or more established firms. We've compiled four tips to help you to grow your firm through referral partnerships, to establish your reputation and a steady client flow.

How lawyer-turned-executive-coach Ellie Scarf brings out the best in leaders and teams

News

How lawyer-turned-executive-coach Ellie Scarf brings out the best in leaders and teams

Ellie Scarf's clients include major multinational law firms and global organisations. Insights spoke to Ellie about what her role involves, and what advice she might have for lawyers and leaders keen to hit peak performance.

Your Guide to a Career in International Arbitration

Resources

Your Guide to a Career in International Arbitration

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.

Meet Jess Grumelart, who studied an LLM to help her upskill and find connections in family law

News

Meet Jess Grumelart, who studied an LLM to help her upskill and find connections in family law

Learn how Jess Grumelart forged a career in family law through a chance encounter at a careers fair - and an LLM in Applied Law (Family Law). We spoke to Jess about her road to family law, how her LLM helped her connect to a community of supportive family lawyers, and what advice she might have for lawyers wondering to align their legal career with their interests and passions.

Legal Practice Management Course NSW - Course Guide

Resources

Legal Practice Management Course NSW - Course Guide

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.

Law Practice Management Course South Australia - Course Guide

Resources

Law Practice Management Course South Australia - Course Guide

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.

Legal Operations Course Guide

Resources

Legal Operations Course Guide

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.

 

Who’s Who – Five of Australia’s Top Lawyers

News

Who’s Who – Five of Australia’s Top Lawyers

Anyone who has needed to wade through law school essays, summer clerkships, and legal document reviews will know that the world of law can be more tedious than David E Kelly would have us believe. However, like any other competitive pursuit, the Australian legal scene has seen its fair share of historic moments and game changing events.

Bridging the Gap: Family Law Resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders

News

Bridging the Gap: Family Law Resources for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders

Family law matters are deeply personal and may be emotionally charged. For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families, these challenges can be compounded by cultural considerations and historical disadvantage.

The cost of law: How litigation funding works with lawyers in Australia

News

The cost of law: How litigation funding works with lawyers in Australia

Insights spoke to Wayne Attrill, a Senior Investment manager with IMF Bentham, a global litigation funding firm, on how litigation funding works alongside lawyers to help meritorious claims, its somewhat controversial history, and its increasing role in resolving disputes.

The Rakes You Love to Hate: Top 10 Wicked Lawyers

News

The Rakes You Love to Hate: Top 10 Wicked Lawyers

Don’t we all just love to watch those onscreen lawyers who thrive on flexible ethics, infuriating tactics, and an unorthodox knowledge of the law? They may even remind us of an adversary or two – wink-wink. The College of Law rounds up the top 10 lawyers you love to hate.

Five Steps to Better Lawyer-Client Relationships

News

Five Steps to Better Lawyer-Client Relationships

Building strong, mutually respectful relationships with your clients helps you fulfil your professional duties – and makes your professional life much easier. Professional rules require practitioners to act honestly and fairly in a client’s best interests and to act with due skill and diligence in service of the client.

How to Become an In-House Lawyer

News

How to Become an In-House Lawyer

It’s a common question: how do you become an in-house lawyer? Is there a good time to make the move? How do you prepare, via secondments or other relevant experience? What qualities make a great in-house lawyer?

In-house is a very different environment to a law firm, especially as most in-house teams are still relatively small – often between three to six lawyers.

Clear and simple: 5 strategies to strengthen your commercial drafting skills

News

Clear and simple: 5 strategies to strengthen your commercial drafting skills

We caught up with Chris Bland, a seasoned solicitor, general counsel and principal of Legal Tradecraft Consulting who shares his top 5 commercial drafting strategies. 

Perfectionism in the legal profession: Secret weapon or secret shackle?

News

Perfectionism in the legal profession: Secret weapon or secret shackle?

Often touted as a lawyer’s secret weapon for success, perfectionism can boost productivity and improve your case results. But there is a shadow to this trait. We spoke with Shona Rowan on how to spot, harness and tackle perfectionism – for a constructive and sustained legal career. 

Plain Language for Lawyers

Resources

Plain Language for Lawyers

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.

PLT essentials: Why it exists and what's involved

Resources

PLT essentials: Why it exists and what's involved

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.

How to Prepare for a Legal Job Interview

Resources

How to Prepare for a Legal Job Interview

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!

How to Write a Legal Cover Letter

Resources

How to Write a Legal Cover Letter

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.

How to Land a Legal Role

Resources

How to Land a Legal Role

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!

Becoming an FDRP: What you need to know

Resources

Becoming an FDRP: What you need to know

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.

Your Guide to a Career in In-House Practice

Resources

Your Guide to a Career in In-House Practice

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.

“It’s crucial to see your legal education as ongoing, always.” – Kiarah Grace Kelly

News

“It’s crucial to see your legal education as ongoing, always.” – Kiarah Grace Kelly

Kiarah embodies the archetype of a lifelong learner – and she’s kindly shared her career tips from a serial student

You know the law, but do you know your client?

News

You know the law, but do you know your client?

Obtaining clear instructions from your client may seem like a straightforward requirement as a lawyer. However, this can be easier said than done if a client is in a fraught emotional state (and if they are seeing a lawyer this may be the case) or if there are differences in culture. Special Counsel Olamide Kowalik knows this all too well, as part of the Springwood-based Revolution Law team, Olamide advises clients from a wide range of backgrounds. We asked for Olamide’s advice on navigating these issues in order to gain clear instructions. 

Space Law: the final legal frontier with Helen Tung

News

Space Law: the final legal frontier with Helen Tung

Space law is a growing field as humanity embraces space exploration with renewed vigour, propelled by private interests and national endeavours. We caught up with Helen Tung, College of Law lecturer in international arbitration, on her pioneering career in space law and to find out about the opportunities available for those interested in exploring the final legal frontier.

How to get into administrative law with the Administrative Appeals Tribunal Member Bridget Cullen

News

How to get into administrative law with the Administrative Appeals Tribunal Member Bridget Cullen

Learn how Bridget Cullen carved a career in public law and her advice for becoming an administrative lawyer.

Vale Professor Emeritus Sandford Clark AM

News

Vale Professor Emeritus Sandford Clark AM

The College of Law wishes to express its condolences to the family of the late Professor Sandford Delbridge “Sandy” Clark AM who died in Melbourne on 2 November 2022.

Overview of the November consultation on Family Law Amendment Bill (No. 2) 2023

News

Overview of the November consultation on Family Law Amendment Bill (No. 2) 2023

Family Law is undergoing a series of major reforms to the Family Law Act 1975 (Cth) which involves proposed changes as set out in the Family Law Amendment Bill (No. 2). Family lawyer and College of Law adjunct lecturer Kathryn Kearley provides an overview of the second tranche of reforms which have been moving through a consultation process, this ended on 10 November 2023. Here is a brief covering the Consultation on the Family Law Amendment Bill (No.2) 2023.

How to handle Direct Speech after Gan v Xie [2023] NSWCA 163

News

How to handle Direct Speech after Gan v Xie [2023] NSWCA 163

A recent case before the New South Wales Court of Appeal, Gan v Xie [2023] NSWCA 163, resurfaced issues regarding direct speech, and how it ought to appear in an affidavit. Barrister Jonathan Tsang, a College of Law graduate, spoke to us about the key implications following this decision, and what lawyers need to know moving forward.

4 tips to powerful verbal communication: How to win cases and influence people

News

4 tips to powerful verbal communication: How to win cases and influence people

You have probably heard it a thousand times before, “confidence is key”. But what does a confident communicator really look like? Research has shown it’s less about ‘what’ you say and more about ‘how’ you say it. Learning to speak clearly and confidently may be hard, but according to Pippa Gardner, Communications Expert and Coach at PG Communications, the results are worth it. Here is Pippa’s Four C Framework to help you speak with influence.

How to protect your firm from cyber-attacks and data breaches

News

How to protect your firm from cyber-attacks and data breaches

As cyber security becomes the domain of organised crime every Australian individual and business has become an unwilling target. Law firms are rarely early adopters of tech and yet they now face complex cyber security threats. Before you embrace your inner doomsday prepper, we caught up with Lawcover’s Legal Risk Manager, Glenda Carry, to find out how law firms are being targeted by cyber security threats, and what steps they can take to mitigate risk.

Opting for ‘on-demand’ CPD courses this year? Here are 6 things you need to know

News

Opting for ‘on-demand’ CPD courses this year? Here are 6 things you need to know

With the rise of online learning, it’s easier than ever to collect your CPD points at a time – and place – that suits you. Not all online courses are created equal. So how do you know if an online, or on-demand course will stack up? Here we explore the six markers of an excellent on-demand legal course.

Innovation Course Guide

Resources

Innovation Course Guide

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.

Leading and Managing People Course Guide

Resources

Leading and Managing People Course Guide

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.

A Lawyer's Guide to Negotiating Salary and Conditions

News

A Lawyer's Guide to Negotiating Salary and Conditions

The College delves into the strategies and tactics that lawyers can employ to effectively negotiate salary and conditions. Drawing on insights from certified Executive and Leadership Coach Sue Billen and Mahlab Managing Director Lisa Gazis, we'll explore how to build a strong case for your worth, understand market trends, and navigate the complexities of negotiating with potential employers.

Graduate spotlight: Krystal Bellamy discovers her inner strength in succession law

News

Graduate spotlight: Krystal Bellamy discovers her inner strength in succession law

Navigating the legal world requires a sharp mind and empathy – especially in matters of succession law. Krystal Bellamy, a Special Counsel at HopgoodGanim Lawyers and College of Law LLM graduate, naturally embodies these traits, which have served her well as a Wills and Estates lawyer. Krystal shares the key to thriving in what some would consider a ‘morbid’ field.

Career options in law

Resources

Career options in law

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!

Your Guide to a Career in Government and Public Sector Law

Resources

Your Guide to a Career in Government and Public Sector Law

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.

So, you want to start a law firm?

Resources

So, you want to start a law firm?

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

Preparing and lodging Land Dealings with NSW LRS: Paper or Electronic?

News

Preparing and lodging Land Dealings with NSW LRS: Paper or Electronic?

The rules governing whether to prepare a land dealing in paper or electronically in NSW can be complex. Here to untangle this complexity is property lawyer and College of Law adjunct lecturer Greg Stilianou, who will step you through what you need to know.

"The LLM set me up beautifully for accreditation” – Adeline Schiralli, Keypoint Law

News

"The LLM set me up beautifully for accreditation” – Adeline Schiralli, Keypoint Law

Adeline Schiralli, Consulting Principal at Keypoint Law (NSW), is a master of Wills and Estates law. Literally. Adeline traces her journey to specialisation, highlighting the College of Law’s LLM as a crucial step to accreditation.

 

8 things you didn’t learn at law school

Resources

8 things you didn’t learn at law school

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.

Free anti-harassment training launched by The College of Law and International Bar Association

News

Free anti-harassment training launched by The College of Law and International Bar Association

The International Bar Association, The College of Law Australia and The Legal Policy & Research Unit have collaborated to develop a set of e-learning modules designed to assist individuals and organisations make the changes recommended by the 2019 landmark report Us Too? Bullying and Sexual Harassment in the Legal Profession. 

Centre For Legal Innovation Webinars

Resources

Centre For Legal Innovation Webinars

Webinars recorded and facilitated by the Centre for Legal Innovation.

Guide to Starting a Law Firm

Resources

Guide to Starting a Law Firm

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.

An interview with the Attorney-General, Honourable Mark Dreyfus KC MP

News

An interview with the Attorney-General, Honourable Mark Dreyfus KC MP

If you had the opportunity to sit face-to-face with the Attorney-General for Australia, the Honourable Mark Dreyfus KC MP, what would you ask? What would you want to know? Students and staff at the College of Law’s new international headquarters in Sydney were lucky enough to gain this exciting opportunity. 

Introducing the 7 National Principles to Address Coercive Control

News

Introducing the 7 National Principles to Address Coercive Control

Family lawyers must be aware of how violence can affect their clients, their client’s case and so be able to identify domestic violence. On 22 September 2023 the National Principles to Address Coercive Control in Family and Domestic Violence were released by the Attorney-General’s Department (‘A-G’).

How human rights lawyer Nawid Cina saved over 100 lives

News

How human rights lawyer Nawid Cina saved over 100 lives

Nawid Cina managed to evacuate more than 100 vulnerable women and children from Australian-run orphanages in Afghanistan when the Taliban took control in 2021. The orphanages were run by Mahboba Rawi’s Australian charity Mahboba’s Promise, the Australian connection put the women and children living at the orphanages at significant risk from the Taliban. A graduate of the College of Law, we spoke to Nawid to learn more about his human rights work and to gain his legal and career insights.

John Poulsen’s 12 stress-busting tactics for high-performing lawyers

News

John Poulsen’s 12 stress-busting tactics for high-performing lawyers

Managing stress and improving your mental health can help you live a better life - in all areas of your life. John Poulsen, former CEO of Squire Patton Boggs, shares some of his research into the role stress plays in our lives, both necessary and unnecessary, and shares his top 12 stress-busting tactics he has observed successful people adopt.

Why ChatGPT won’t be taking your job in law…yet

News

Why ChatGPT won’t be taking your job in law…yet

Amid the AI hype and calls for a halt to AI, we examined how ChatGPT is used in law and its future impact.

Fiona Kirkman, family lawyer and co-founder of FamilyProperty, has been an early adopter, using ChatGPT for research, reviews, and summaries. We spoke with her to gain insights into its strengths and limitations in daily legal work.

How to navigate the legal professions rules of conduct and ethics

News

How to navigate the legal professions rules of conduct and ethics

Insights has compiled a helpful guide to meeting the legal profession’s requirements of being a ‘fit and proper person, with recent examples of lawyers who have failed to meet these requirements.

Top 10 Legal TV Shows, According to You

News

Top 10 Legal TV Shows, According to You

Let’s face it: most of us were drawn to law at least in part because it’s always looked great on TV. Yes, reasons such as “prestige”, “economic prosperity”, and “a desire to contribute to the justice system” may well have been contributing factors, but would the prospect of becoming a lawyer have really seemed so alluring were it not for the efforts of Alan Shore or Alicia Florrick? 

Major changes to the Family Law Act passed in October 2023

News

Major changes to the Family Law Act passed in October 2023

Significant reforms to Family Law have just passed parliament on 19 October 2023.The Family Law Act (1975) is impacted by these Bills - the Family Law Amendment Bill and Family Law (Information Sharing) Bill. We spoke to Family Lawyer and College of Law Adjunct Lecturer Kathryn Kearley about what these reforms involve and what lawyers need to know.

Property Law Update: Off-the-plan Property Contracts

News

Property Law Update: Off-the-plan Property Contracts

The law concerning off-the-plan purchases can be complex. However, as buyers seek affordable entry points into the property market, this kind of purchase has become more and more common. To help demystify this area of law, we spoke to property lawyer Jane Macdonnell, who is a College of Law lecturer in our popular LLM program. 

Can we improve Australia’s pro bono legal system?

News

Can we improve Australia’s pro bono legal system?

Access to justice is limited for many and while the Commonwealth Government encourages pro bono activity, it is not mandated. Could there be a better pro bono legal system? We talk to Luke Geary, Chairman of Everyday Justice.

Your Guide to a Career in Family Dispute Resolution Practice

Resources

Your Guide to a Career in Family Dispute Resolution Practice

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.

How the LPMC assisted Elena to take her firm to the next level – and grow from there

News

How the LPMC assisted Elena to take her firm to the next level – and grow from there

Elena Leonardos, principle lawyer at Adelaide Legal Solutions, chose to complete her LPMC when the SA's regulation rules changed. Now, she's executing her 12-month plan to expand her business, and seeing an increase in the firm's profitability.

How Ilvana Nanic pursued her childhood dream of family law

News

How Ilvana Nanic pursued her childhood dream of family law

LLM graduate Ilvana Nanic shares why she finds family law so rewarding, and her advice to lawyers interested in studying The College of Law LLM.

Meet Best Graduating Student in Commercial Litigation, Dominique Mayo

News

Meet Best Graduating Student in Commercial Litigation, Dominique Mayo

Explore how an LLM helped best graduating student (commercial litigation) Dominique Mayo advance her career.

Navigating Family Law Changes: Insights from the LLM Program

Resources

Navigating Family Law Changes: Insights from the LLM Program

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

Reclaiming your career after a career break

News

Reclaiming your career after a career break

Insights explores the issue of when lawyers decide to take a temporary break from the law, and what both lawyers and employers can do help experienced legal professionals return to the profession.

NSW introduces combined Succession & Probate Lists: Key Updates

News

NSW introduces combined Succession & Probate Lists: Key Updates

Recently, the Supreme Court of New South Wales introduced combined Succession & Probate Lists, applicable to family provision claims and contested probate applications. Queensland is also trialling a Wills and Estates List and there are likely to be further implications for other jurisdictions. We spoke to College of Law Lecturer Josephine Pignataro, Special Counsel at HWL Ebsworth, about what you need to know and how this will impact your practice.

REVEALED: The College’s most popular on-demand CPD short courses for 2024

News

REVEALED: The College’s most popular on-demand CPD short courses for 2024

To prepare you for what’s next, let’s unpack the College of Law’s 5 most popular on-demand CPD Digital Subscription courses. It’s the best way to keep your skills sharp – and your mind engaged.

From procrastination to passion

News

From procrastination to passion

Overcoming procrastination is quite simple: passion. There must be an internal desire, not dependent on anything except ourselves. That’s why we enable our learners to choose the courses and practice areas that matter most to them - from family law to advocacy - we’re helping lawyers reclaim their power and focus on the areas that they are passionate about.

Your Guide to a Career in Legal Operations

Resources

Your Guide to a Career in Legal Operations

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.

Nationally Accredited Mediator Training Course Guide

Resources

Nationally Accredited Mediator Training Course Guide

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.

A Guide to Cross-Qualifying as an Australian Lawyer in the UK

News

A Guide to Cross-Qualifying as an Australian Lawyer in the UK

The College delves into the key requirements, steps involved, and potential challenges of cross-qualifying as an Australian lawyer in the UK. We spoke to Duha Al Hassnawi, an Australian foreign lawyer based in London, for her insights on the dual qualification process. Duha is currently enrolled in The College of Legal Practice’s SQE1 prep course.

Dispute Resolution Postgraduate Programs Course Guide

Resources

Dispute Resolution Postgraduate Programs Course Guide

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.

Assessing Mental Capacity: A Guide from the Law Council of Australia

News

Assessing Mental Capacity: A Guide from the Law Council of Australia

For legal practitioners in Wills & Estates, finding clear ways to consider and assess mental capacity in a variety of situations is crucial. We spoke to College of Law Lecturer Josephine Pignataro, Special Counsel at HWL Ebsworth, and Accredited Specialist in Wills and Estates. Josephine shares key elements from the Law Council of Australia’s Best Practice Guide for Legal Practitioners on Assessing Mental Capacity or ‘the BPG’.

How to Write a LinkedIn Profile as a Law Student

Resources

How to Write a LinkedIn Profile as a Law Student

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.

7 lessons to prepare you for practice

Resources

7 lessons to prepare you for practice

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.  

Graduate Certificate in Applied Law Guide

Resources

Graduate Certificate in Applied Law Guide

Looking to boost your legal career but not ready to dive into a Master of Laws (LLM)?
 
The Graduate Certificate in Applied Law might be the answer.
 
Offering a flexible and affordable way to upskill, the Graduate Certificate is a popular option for busy legal professionals looking to sharpen their skills or master a particular field.
 
Download this course guide to receive more information. 
Dress for success: How clothes impact your performance and power

News

Dress for success: How clothes impact your performance and power

What you wear has been proven to impact how you feel and perform, it has also been shown to influence how others perceive and respond to you. Given these findings what you wear to the office, a client meeting, to court, or even a job interview, matters. Experienced style expert and author, Dijanna Mulhearn, provides her expert tips on how lawyers can take their look and feel to the next level and dress for success at work.

Defining success in life and law

News

Defining success in life and law

What does it mean to be successful? Her Honour Magistrate Michelle Harries, former Assistant Director and lecturer at the College of Law WA, shares her insights at the PLT Excellence Awards Evening. The following is an extract from Her Honour’s speech.

What’s so special about specialising? The ins and outs of becoming a specialist lawyer

News

What’s so special about specialising? The ins and outs of becoming a specialist lawyer

Becoming a specialist can be a smart career move. It’s a pathway to new knowledge, opportunities and challenges. But it’s also a commitment. So is specialising the right move for you? Learn the ins, outs, and must-knows of specialising – and what you need to know before you take the leap.

Graduate Certificate in International Arbitration Practice Course Guide

Resources

Graduate Certificate in International Arbitration Practice Course Guide

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.

Property Law Postgraduate Programs Course Guide

Resources

Property Law Postgraduate Programs Course Guide

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

How to break into family law with Jo Bragg

News

How to break into family law with Jo Bragg

Jo Bragg, a solicitor in regional Tasmania, started as a generalist lawyer. Her personal experience of separation, along with increasing client demand, prompted her to move into family law. Insights spoke to Jo about what attracted her to family law, what her day-to-day life looks like in practice, and her advice for lawyers looking to move into the area.

5 reasons to complete your PLT even if unsure about law

Resources

5 reasons to complete your PLT even if unsure about law

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. 

How ESG will impact your area of practice in law

News

How ESG will impact your area of practice in law

Four years ago, ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) principles barely registered, even today many people are left asking – “what is ESG?”. In a nutshell ESG is a framework that is used to assess a businesses’ sustainability and ethical performance. ESG principles are an ever-growing part of doing business today. For those wanting to know more about ESG the College of Law will be holding a free ESG in Australia seminar Thursday 18th of May onsite at the College headquarters in Sydney and online. 

The future has never looked brighter: words from our CEO on the College’s big move

News

The future has never looked brighter: words from our CEO on the College’s big move

After more than 50 years at St Leonards, The College of Law is moving into the heart of Sydney’s CBD in early 2022.

A Lawyer's Guide to Getting Published

News

A Lawyer's Guide to Getting Published

Looking to enhance your area of legal expertise via publication? Academic journals have long been a popular option for lawyers to establish a strong reputation in their practice area.

Find purpose and fulfill your potential: How to decide which career path to pursue

Resources

Find purpose and fulfill your potential: How to decide which career path to pursue

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. 

Property settlements, pets and children’s arrangements in the Family Law Amendment Bill 2024

News

Property settlements, pets and children’s arrangements in the Family Law Amendment Bill 2024

Following a series of reviews of the family law system, on 22 August 2024 the Australian Government introduced the Family Law Amendment Bill 2024 into the Commonwealth Parliament. The Bill sets out very significant amendments, including those relating to property settlements, pet custody and children’s arrangements, which aim to modernise and improve the family law system in Australia.

How to have the career you want with John Poulsen

News

How to have the career you want with John Poulsen

How do you transcend the daily grind to do work you love? When can a career become a calling? What steps can you take to achieve the career you want? We spoke to John Poulsen, former CEO of Squire Patton Boggs and Principal of People Passion Performance, for his insights on getting the career you want informed by an illustrious career in law and leadership.

Navigating Age Discrimination In The Law With Tile Imo

News

Navigating Age Discrimination In The Law With Tile Imo

Bias and age-based discrimination remains an issue in the workforce, despite legal protections. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of age bias claims with Tilé Imo, Associate Director of Caxton Legal Centre. We explore the evolving legal landscape, effective strategies for litigating age discrimination cases, and the emerging trends that lawyers need to be aware of to best serve their clients.

Self-awareness: The surprising foundation to a thriving legal career

News

Self-awareness: The surprising foundation to a thriving legal career

There’s no doubt the legal sector can be an intense work environment. Thanks to heavy caseloads and fierce competition, lawyers and other legal professionals are facing stress, anxiety and burnout on a concerning scale. But according to executive transition coach and CEO at Lucent Global, Ellie Scarf, it doesn’t have to be this way. There’s one tool that can help you manage a plethora of professional challenges. That tool? Self-awareness.

5 tips on how to avoid common ethical breaches for lawyers with Athol Opas

News

5 tips on how to avoid common ethical breaches for lawyers with Athol Opas

The law is a complex field heavily reliant on knowledge, interpretation and advice. This makes for a profession that can have far reaching consequences and, as a result, lawyers are held to high standards. Athol Opas presents annual ethics updates to firms to keep them abreast of recent cases of misconduct and/or common ethical breaches. We spoke to Athol to find out about the most common ethical breaches lawyers should be mindful of and to gain his top tips on complying within ethical obligations. 

What are the top negligence claims facing lawyers today?

News

What are the top negligence claims facing lawyers today?

The College of Law investigates which legal practice areas are most at risk of negligence claims and why. We spoke to Lawcover’s Legal Risk Manager Glenda Carry about the practice areas most affected by negligence claims, what behaviours can lead to adverse claims by clients, and what risk mitigation strategies law practices can put in place.

From LLB to Parliament – Australia’s Politicians-Turned-Lawyers

News

From LLB to Parliament – Australia’s Politicians-Turned-Lawyers

Australia’s recent change in leadership has set the nation’s eyes on Malcolm Turnbull. Over the coming weeks and months, the newly appointed 29th Prime Minister will reveal his mettle as a national leader.

From ballroom dancing to the law: Meet PLT alum Helena Angela Hanna

News

From ballroom dancing to the law: Meet PLT alum Helena Angela Hanna

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.

How to merge your love of music with your legal career: Chelsea's story

News

How to merge your love of music with your legal career: Chelsea's story

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.

Graduates and prize winners recognised in June ceremony

News

Graduates and prize winners recognised in June ceremony

Graduates and prize winners celebrated their achievements, received their awards and honours remotely due to continuing COVID-19 restrictions.

How AI is being used in Family Law

News

How AI is being used in Family Law

To understand where legal AI use cases are showing up within family law, the College spoke with two highly experienced practitioners who have incorporated AI into their legal practice in different ways. Fiona Kirkman, principal at Kirkman Family Law, embraced ChatGPT early on in her practice, while Jenna Downy, solicitor at Family Law Matters, helped train LawY, an AI legal research assistant.

How to exit your job gracefully in law

News

How to exit your job gracefully in law

For the 1 in 4 Australian lawyers considering leaving their job, the current job market is tipped in their favour. However, Australia’s legal profession is tight-knit and relatively small, so reputation matters. If you are leaving your role for fresh challenges, here are our top tips on how to exit your job gracefully in law, from the College of Law’s National Careers Advisors Ruth Beran and Susan Pincus.

RELATED COURSES

Due diligence is the process of analysing a prospective business decision by obtaining and reviewing relevant legal, financial and other information. It’s most often used for the purchase of a business or company. 
Due diligence is the process of analysing a prospective business decision by obtaining and reviewing relevant legal, financial and other information. It’s most often used for the purchase of a business or company. 
We use cookies to compile information about how our website is used and to improve the experience of our website visitors. For more information about the cookies we use, please read our Cookies and Electronic Marketing Policy. To adjust your cookie settings, click 'More information'. By clicking 'Accept and continue', you consent to our use of cookies.
College of Law recommends the use of all cookies to provide you with the optimal experience while visiting our website. Choose below to accept the recommended settings or continue to adjust your individual preferences.

Adjust your settings

We use three kinds of cookies on our websites: required, functional, and advertising. You can choose to opt out of functional and advertising cookies. Click on the different cookie categories to find out more about each category and to change the default settings.
Required cookies are necessary for basic website functionality. Some examples include: session cookies needed to transmit the website, authentication cookies, and security cookies.
Functional cookies enhance functions, performance, and services on the website. Some examples include: cookies used to analyze site traffic, cookies used for market research, and cookies used to display advertising that is not directed to a particular individual.
Advertising cookies track activity across websites in order to understand a viewer's interests, and direct them specific marketing. Some examples include: cookies used for remarketing, or interest-based advertising.