What's your job about?

I am a law graduate within the Construction and Infrastructure Team at HWL Ebsworth Lawyers, Brisbane. My team provides advice to multiple stakeholders at all stages of construction and infrastructure related projects, which means we assist in contract negotiation, drafting and management. Additionally, we provide advice and representation where disputes arise at any stage during a project, which may include attendance at adjudications or commencing litigation.

I'm often asked to attend client meetings to understand our client's concerns and then prepare an advice or undertake other specific tasks such as reviewing a draft contract or providing advice regarding risks and suggested contractual departures. A practical example of this would be drafting a new clause to safeguard a client against an identified risk. 

Where my client is involved in a dispute, I will review the facts of the matter and provide advice on whether the client is likely to win or lose if the matter proceeded to court. This assists my client to understand the risks of litigation and to make an informed choice on whether they should attempt to settle the matter. All my work is supervised, and I am consistently provided excellent opportunities to grow.

What's your background?

I grew up on the Gold Coast and started my professional career as a registered nurse.  After some years, I decided that I wanted to pursue a career in law - so I went back to university.  When I was in my final year of law, I attended a networking event where I met several employees from HWL Ebsworth Lawyers ('HWLE'), and I was pleased with how friendly and professional they were. Consequently, after the event, I applied for the HWLE Winter Clerkship Program. The Winter Clerkship allowed me to work at HWLE for three weeks.  During this time, I was able to learn about the culture of HWLE and I knew that it would be a fantastic place for me to grow as a professional. After the Winter Clerkship, I was offered a place in the Graduate Program. The Graduate Program was a 12-month experience whereby I rotated through three practice areas. I enjoyed the diversity and challenge of Construction and Infrastructure the most, and I was delighted to accept a permanent position within the team at the completion of my Graduate Program.  I have been settled in the team for two weeks and I'm so grateful for the many opportunities I have been given. 

Could someone with a different background do your job?

Absolutely! In my view, the more perspectives we have in a workplace, the better. The key characteristics required for my job are being a good listener, having strong attention to detail, being a clear communicator (both oral and written) and problem-solving skills. The key process to performing well in my role is to understand what is being asked of you, work through a problem logically, and then provide a clear and concise answer. I can’t stress enough that these characteristics can be taught so if you have an interest, give it a go!

What's the coolest thing about your job?

Every day is different and interesting! I am always solving diverse problems and there is such a sense of satisfaction when I find the answer!

What are the limitations of your job?

My job can be hard. To provide advice, I often need to review voluminous documents which can be time consuming and stressful when there is a deadline. Also, it can be challenging to provide advice in very complex matters and I can feel quite drained by the end of those days. That being said, being interested in the work greatly assists in my motivation to undertake and face the challenges of my role. If I am having difficulties, I always have the support of my team.

3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student...

1. Be kind to yourself and remember to tackle a problem step-by-step!
2. Network, attend events and get involved in as much as possible within your dream industry.
3. Follow what interests you, not what anyone else says you should do.