Lawyer at Sparke Helmore Lawyers
Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of International Relations at Australian National University (ANU)
What's your job about?
I am a lawyer in the Workplace team at Sparke Helmore Lawyers. My team provides legal advice to a diverse range of clients on employment law compliance, workplace policies, and employee relations. We assist organisations, businesses, and individuals in navigating complex issues such as contracts, disputes, terminations, discrimination claims, and workplace safety. Our goal is to ensure that legal requirements are met and risks are minimised.
In my role, I typically review client documents, conduct legal research, draft legal advice, prepare chronologies, and assist in the preparation of evidence for matters before the Fair Work Commission or Federal Court. I also attend witness meetings, draft investigation reports, and help negotiate and prepare settlement documents.
What's your background?
I grew up in Sydney and completed my schooling there before moving to Canberra in 2018 to attend the Australian National University (ANU). At ANU, I studied a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) and Bachelor of International Relations. After completing my degree mid-way through 2023, I celebrated by travelling in Europe for three and a half months. I then moved back to Sydney and started in the graduate program at Sparke Helmore in February 2024.
The graduate program at Sparke Helmore consists of two rotations, each lasting six months. This structure has allowed me to gain valuable experience in different areas of law and work alongside a diverse range of talented and inspiring lawyers. In August 2024, I moved to the Workplace team, where I have been developing my expertise in employment law by handling various aspects of workplace disputes and advisory work. This opportunity has been exciting, allowing me to apply the knowledge and skills I gained during my studies and initial rotations.
In February 2025, I will permanently join the Workplace team as a lawyer. I’m thrilled to continue growing in this area and contribute meaningfully to the team’s work. I look forward to the next chapter of my legal career as I continue to learn and evolve within the firm.
Could someone with a different background do your job?
A law degree is essential for the job; however, obtaining a graduate position in a specific area of law shouldn't be limited to those with prior experience. Employers value transferable skills such as problem-solving, communication, and analytical thinking. With the right training and a willingness to learn, someone from a different background can quickly adapt and make valuable contributions. At the start of our careers, a strong work ethic and curiosity are just as important as experience in employment law.
What's the coolest thing about your job?
The most rewarding part of being a graduate lawyer specialising in employment law is the opportunity to assist with resolving disputes that affect governments, businesses, careers, and personal livelihoods. It is fulfilling to know that your work directly influences the well-being and success of organisations and individuals. Being part of solutions that bring clarity and fairness to complex situations is incredibly satisfying.
What are the limitations of your job?
Being a lawyer means managing the pressure of billable hours. Recording every minute of your day can be tedious, especially when your workload is determined by senior team members, which can limit your control over meeting your targets. However, billable hours are a reality for all lawyers in private practice, regardless of their experience, and they serve as an essential way of assigning value to the work you do.
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