With graduation season upon us, we asked key academics from La Trobe Law School for their advice to help new graduates transition to a rewarding career in law.
1. Build your professional network
Dr Chris Maylea, Associate Professor in Law, says building a professional network as a student or recent graduate is about finding opportunities that align with your values and goals.
“One effective way to build your network is through volunteering. By offering your time and skills to organisations whose work resonates with your beliefs, you not only contribute meaningfully to the community but also connect with like-minded professionals. These shared experiences form the foundation for genuine, lasting relationships.”
“Attending conferences is another powerful way to build your network. Look for events that are aligned with your interests and aspirations. Engaging in discussions, asking thoughtful questions, and seeking out individuals or panels that reflect your values can help foster connections that go beyond mere professional advantage – they become partnerships driven by a common purpose.”
2. Focus on the fundamentals
“When considering what you will do in practice, I recommend that you practice as a lawyer in your jurisdiction and learn the fundamental skills that you will use throughout the rest of your career,” says Senior Lecturer, Dr Magda Karagiannakis.
“Gain as much experience as you can in drafting, written and oral advocacy, and develop your communication skills with clients, witnesses and counsel.”
“Then consider which area you would like to specialise in. Get advice from practitioners about the advantages and challenges of their practice and the pathways into their specialisations. This may require further study or learning new skills. Then choose your pathway - but always remain open minded to other possibilities.”
3. Find a good mentor
Dr Pascale Chifflet, Senior Lecturer in Law, says mentoring has had a profound influence on her career.
“Before I became an academic, I was a legal officer at the United Nations War Crimes Tribunal in the former Yugoslavia. There, I was very fortunate to meet and work with an Australian Supreme Court Judge who was an incredible mentor and left an enduring mark on me.”
“Of course, I learnt immensely from watching him run what were very complex trials and he taught me a lot about judicial decision-making and writing. But he also exemplified and modelled kindness and decency in all his interactions. He had a very unique way to teach those around him, as a person who guided but did not cajole, who suggested but did not dictate or impose his thoughts and views.”
“These are the qualities I try to emulate with the younger people I mentor now.”
4. Embrace new opportunities
Dr Karagiannakis says that a law degree creates a range of potential career paths both within legal practice and outside it, so it is important for new graduates to remain open to new opportunities.
“Your career in law is likely to be long and varied and you may change course a few times. Embrace this, continue to develop your skills and knowledge, and seize opportunities when they arise.”
