Hi,
Just wondering if you are thinking of becoming a solicitor or if you are already one. Just want to have an idea about the job, the challenges and how to get there...
Thanks,

Safaa

Hey Safaa,

This is an Australian perspective. (Also relevant to graduates who have gone over to Allen & Overy's London and Hong Kong Office(s)).

I'm basically regurgitating what I heard in a lecture (by afew partners, senior associates etc) and my private talks with certain solicitors and barristers.

How to get there:
- Killer grades
- Solid LEGAL work experience
- LEGAL internships, vacation clerkships etc.
- Cumminity involvement
- Highly reputable referees

With the top firms, even if these are achieved you may be looked over :(.

The Job: (from what i'm told).
- Good money - sometimes (in a top tier firm; some lawyers earn very little also!!!) You will also know barristers have a fluctuating income.
- Stressful.
- Stuck in an office all day.
- 12 hour days. (Most top tier lawyers repeat this time and time again).
- 6 days a week (thats if you're lucky).
- limited to billable hours; will need to "catch up" on your own time. Because you'll "earn you money" - especially in the top firms.
- expect not to sleep for 3-4 days in a row on big cases/disputes (once you reach senior associate level).

On the up side:
- nice clean respectable job....
- Its in the LAW - if thats where your heart lies, no need to ask more...
- thats all I can think of :).

OHHH - you get to do pro bono work and assist in the administration of justice... I think lawyers do that... not sure.

What area of law are you considering? Top tier firm or smaller firm? Government or private? Can't say much more unless I know these bacause it differs.

I hope this helps - I had some notes somewhere but can't find them.

Cheers mate.

Hey Guys,
Sorry to break the drift.
Please does anyone know how/where I can get a flexible job? I am doing an LLM in KSE but would love to defray my costs with earnings from a part time job. I prefer a research related job, but if that doesnt come on, I wouldnt mind any other thing.
So far, I havent found anything suitable. Does anyone have any useful info please!