Graduate Lawyer

These professionals work under the guidance of experienced lawyers and contribute to various legal tasks

Back to career advice

Job opportunities

Available for law

Average salary

$73K

For graduate lawyer

Job growth

21.0%

5-year projection

What is a Graduate Lawyer?

A Graduate Lawyer is a recent law school graduate who is embarking on the exciting journey of a legal career. These professionals work under the guidance of experienced lawyers and contribute to various legal tasks, gaining practical experience and building a foundation for a successful career in law.

Tasks and Duties:

Legal Research : Conduct in-depth legal research to support case preparation.
Document Drafting : Assist in drafting legal documents, including contracts and agreements.
Client Interaction : Communicate with clients, gathering relevant information and providing updates.
Courtroom Assistance : Support senior lawyers in courtroom proceedings, including preparing briefs.
Compliance and Due Diligence : Ensure legal compliance and conduct due diligence on legal matters.

How to become a Graduate Lawyer?

To pursue a career as Graduate Lawyer, you should:

Complete a Bachelor’s Degree : Obtain a Bachelor of Laws (LLB) or postgraduate Juris Doctor (JD) degree if you already hold a degree in a non-law field.
Admission to Legal Practice : Successfully complete the Practical Legal Training (PLT) course accredited by the relevant state or territory legal admissions authority, or alternatively complete a graduate diploma of legal practice.
Supervised work : Complete 18 to 24 months of supervised practice at a law firm to become eligible to apply for a Practising Certificate.
Networking and Internships : Build a professional network through internships, clerkships, and networking events to gain practical experience and increase job opportunities.
Professional Development : Stay informed about legal developments, and consider postgraduate studies or certifications to enhance expertise.

What does the first six months look like as a Graduate Lawyer?

During the initial six months as a Graduate Lawyer, you will typically undergo a comprehensive induction into the company, familiarising yourself with the firm's practices and procedures. You work closely with senior lawyers, gaining exposure to different areas of law and honing your skills. The focus is on transitioning from theoretical knowledge to practical application, with opportunities to assist in real cases. You may attend client meetings, observe courtroom proceedings, and participate in legal research projects. Regular feedback and mentorship contribute to your professional growth and integration into the legal profession.