I graduated from the University of Western Australia in 2023 with a Juris Doctor. Before that, I completed a double degree in Science and Global Studies at Monash University. I was drawn to Mills Oakley for the opportunity to rotate through different practice areas, to work on complex and challenging matters, and to learn to work at a high standard under the guidance of its experienced and passionate practitioners.
Having supportive colleagues and mentors is fundamental. This is because the learning curve as a junior lawyer is significant, as is the transition to working full-time in an office.
I find having the ability to seek guidance, not to mention being able to break up the day with a friendly chat where needed, is an invaluable way to stay engaged and motivated.
Both the clerkship and graduate programs are designed to foster this type of support, with each person being assigned a buddy and mentor throughout both programs. Mills Oakley also facilitates regular events (both formal and informal) that assist with internal networking.
My time as a clerk at Mills Oakley was great. It also gave me an accurate insight into life as a graduate at Mills Oakley.
The structure of the Mills Oakley clerkship, with two distinct three-week rotations for each clerk, is extremely beneficial. Compared with other clerkships where you might not rotate, or otherwise only rotate for one to two weeks in each team, I found the Mills Oakley structure more conducive to finding a rhythm and to getting to know each team.
My advice would be to embrace each challenge as a learning opportunity. If you find yourself in an area that feels unfamiliar or with a task that feels daunting, have a go and ask informed questions when you need to. This is the best way to develop your interests and skills.
The practical difference between coursework at university and its application in legal practice is significant. During my clerkship, I found that while my coursework helped me to understand the context of the work I was undertaking and how to engage in legal problem solving, having an open-mind and willingness to try was just as important.
By maintaining an open mind, I am continuously adjusting my interests and career goals. For example, before clerking in Property I had never worked in a transactional (“front-end”) team. I really enjoyed my time in Property, which influenced my preference to rotate through Corporate Advisory (another transactional team) during my Graduate year.
The office-wide Christmas party that took place during my clerkship was a great time. The clerks got ready together and then caught the tram down to the venue where we shared a drink, caught up with other colleagues, and watched the annual Graduate video (which was hilarious). Not only was it a nice opportunity to celebrate the end of the clerkship, but it was also good to get to know the firm in a more relaxed environment.