1. WHAT DREW YOU TO THIS FIRM?

I was drawn to ABL’s unique take on excellence and professionalism that encourages individual flare and creativity.

2. What areas have you worked in?

• ABL private [private client practice]
• commercial
• public interest

3. What type of work have you done in each of these areas?

Drafting succession planning documents and commercial agreements, establishing charitable trusts and foundations, providing a range of legal advice for charities and not-for-profit organisations and researching all those niggly questions that pop up.

4. What clients have you done work for?

Mainly private clients and not-for-profit or charitable organisations.

5. Have you had much client contact?

By day four of my life as a law graduate at ABL, I had clients calling and emailing me directly (which was rather scary at the time, however I’ve learnt to thrive on the responsibility challenge).

6. Have you been given much responsibility?

Most of my work comes directly from my supervising partner. Often I am given instructions, handed a file and told, “it’s your responsibility now”. That being said, I have plenty of support and always have the opportunity to ask questions and seek guidance along the way, from my supervising partner and buddy (a junior lawyer in the department).

7. What type of training have you undertaken at the firm?

The training program for law grads at ABL is in-house. On top of the basics (IT, legal research etc), we cover the legal practice areas relevant to the firm. These training sessions are taken by the partners of the firm and are usually based around real cases that they have run. The sessions are always hands-on and full of laughs - think mock commercial mediations and unfair dismissal conciliations. It’s a great way to get to know everyone around the firm, and learn how the different practice groups operate.

We have also had some great workshops to develop our communication, problem solving, work management and business skills. Our presentation skills session was not for the faint-hearted and last week’s grammar and punctuation seminar was thrilling for the word-nerds among us.

8. What hours do you generally work? What is expected?

My average work day is 9 - 5.30. Of course there are those crazy days, but for me they are few and far between.

It is expected that you stick around and pull your weight when you are needed and that you go home when you’re not busy.

9. How have you received feedback about your performance?

I have an ongoing and open dialogue with my supervising partner - I receive regular feedback regarding my performance over a cup of coffee.

10. How would you describe the culture and working environment within the firm?

Dynamic, challenging, supportive and quirky.

11. What do you like most about working for the firm?

Being kept on my toes. Fast-paced and challenging work, diverse clients and the many colourful personalities around the office make dull days a rarity.

12. What tips would you give to someone applying to your firm?

Make your application a true (and thoroughly proof-read) reflection of yourself and your best assets, and highlight why you want to work at ABL.