What's your job about?
I am a graduate lawyer, I was admitted in March 2024 and completing a 12-month graduate program. As a graduate at Gadens, you get the opportunity to rotate through two practice groups. I am currently in the Banking & Finance team, specifically Corporate and Institutional Lending which is mostly transactional in nature.
As a graduate lawyer, I assist all members of my team from Lawyers to Partners. Given the fast-paced nature of banking and finance transactions, the tasks provided to me often have a short deadline. My team will ask me to review facility agreements, trust deeds, conduct ASIC and PPSR searches and prepare initial drafts of a range of finance and security documents which are then reviewed and settled by senior lawyers.
What's your background?
I grew up in Melbourne. From a young age, I loved learning and had an interest in law. I began my academic journey at the University of Melbourne, completing a Bachelor of Arts majoring in Criminology, and then completed the Juris Doctor at Monash University. The university marked a significant milestone for my family and I, as I became the first in my family to attend university.
I have always worked throughout my degrees, with my first job being in retail. I didn’t have any previous legal experience or family in the legal industry, so the corporate world seemed quite daunting. During my time at university, I volunteered at an employment legal center and got involved in a lawyer mentoring program. I was then privileged to meet an amazing lawyer who inspired me and helped me navigate the legal profession. I was fortunate to work as a paralegal at commercial firms in my final years at university. These roles provided valuable insights into various legal practice areas and fueled my desire to become a commercial lawyer.
In March 2024, I joined Gadens through their graduate program, a role I have embraced with enthusiasm and excitement for my career.
Could someone with a different background do your job?
You don't necessarily need to begin with a law degree to pursue a career in law. Transitioning from a different background is not only possible but can also be beneficial. Lawyers often interact with clients from diverse industries, so having varied experiences brings fresh insights. A workplace that values diversity—whether in culture, experience, or thinking—fosters an environment where everyone can learn from each other.
Being a good lawyer involves effective communication, both written and verbal. Attention to detail is critical to prevent errors, and strong critical thinking skills are essential for seeing things from different angles. These attributes, along with qualities like teamwork, time management, and a willingness to assist others, are vital for success in the legal profession.
What's the coolest thing about your job?
The coolest thing about my job is the firm's commitment to pro bono work. It's amazing! I get to be involved in projects that make a real difference, even at a junior level. Whether it's helping marginalized and disadvantaged individuals and supporting our community through Ronald McDonald House and St Kilda Mums. I contribute to something meaningful beyond regular legal work. It's incredibly rewarding, knowing my efforts can have a positive impact on people's lives and society. Plus, it's a fantastic opportunity for personal and professional growth, allowing me to develop new skills and broaden my perspective.
What are the limitations of your job?
One limitation of my job as a graduate lawyer is the need to meet tight deadlines and manage competing priorities, which can be stressful. However, a supportive team and a workplace that values work-life balance can ease this challenge. Despite the demands, my current team respects deadlines without compromising personal time, allowing me to manage my responsibilities effectively. Consequently, I have never had to work on a weekend, thanks to a team that prioritizes both excellent client service and employee well-being, which helps in managing stress and preventing burnout.
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