Why did you choose to join Lander & Rogers?

I chose Lander & Rogers because my first point of contact with the firm reinforced all the values it prides itself on. During my interview, (of course alongside all the other important questions), I was asked about who I was outside of work. I remember having such a genuine conversation about my partner and my family and thinking that the firm must have a huge focus on employee wellbeing if I feel so comfortable during my first interview.

What made Lander & Rogers stand out to you from other firms?

Lander & Rogers delivers on its promise of putting its employees first. Landers invests a lot in its staff across all levels, from partners, to junior lawyers, to support staff and the effect that has on its employees really translates. Everyone at Landers is happy, friendly and approachable. Our open door policy means that everyone has accessibility to anyone and that the pressures of working in a law firm can be shared because we are all part of one big team.

What's life like at Lander & Rogers?

At Landers, everyone is invested in your growth and there are endless opportunities to develop and make new connections, on both a personal and professional level. Our friendly culture means that our employees are comfortable and confident to seek out ways to progress their career. The connections we build internally through morning teas, lunches, Friday night drinks or other social events are just some aspects of the personable vibe at Landers. On top of that, the best thing about graduate life at Lander & Rogers is how many people you meet and get to know during your rotations. All of these things have made life at Landers this past year a huge learning experience, where I feel encouraged, confident and comfortable to ask questions to further my knowledge and develop technical and professional skills.

What was your best moment of the graduate year?

During my graduate year at Landers, I have learnt so much, met so many people and was given so many opportunities that it is hard to pinpoint a single moment. If I had to narrow it down, it would be between 1. Admission alongside my graduate peers because it was a testament to how far we’ve come and how we’re entering this progression together, or 2. My first appearance in court which just made it so clear to me that law and litigation was what I wanted to do. The Graduate revue was also an amazing experience. 

What's one piece of advice you'd give to law students weighing up where to work?

At the end of the day, we all are going to be practicing law - in one way or the other. The area of law is of course important, but you want to work somewhere where you enjoy coming to work every day and are working alongside people who support you, challenge and develop you in respectful ways and encourage your growth. Choose somewhere where you are valued as a person, not just seen as a fee earner.

Shayal Autar

Lawyer