Whether you’ve dreamt of defending the innocent in courtrooms, drafting groundbreaking legal documents, or advocating for justice, the legal profession offers a huge array of opportunities to make a meaningful impact. In this post we’ll take you through every step of how to become a lawyer in Australia. From getting an undergraduate degree to PLT (don’t worry, we’ll explain what that is), this is your roadmap to embarking on a career in law.
What does a lawyer do?
Ever wondered what lawyers actually do? Well, they’re the legal champions of our society, ensuring that everyone gets a fair go under the law.
Picture this: You find yourself in a tough spot, facing a legal puzzle that seems impossible to solve. Who’s there to guide you through the maze of laws and regulations? You’ve got it – a lawyer. Whether they’re helping you navigate the complexities of buying a house or defending your rights in a sticky situation, lawyers are the people making sure that the gears of justice keep turning for each and every one of us.
Lawyers wear many hats. Sometimes they’re in court, arguing cases and defending people who need help. Other times, they’re behind the scenes, researching laws, drafting contracts and making sure everything’s above board. But being a lawyer isn’t just about knowing the ins and outs of the law – it’s about applying that knowledge to real-life situations and making a positive difference in people’s lives.
Where do lawyers work?
In Australia, lawyers aren’t just confined to courtrooms. They’re working right across the private and public sectors.
You could choose to work for a large corporate law firm, handling complex commercial matters such as mergers and acquisitions, and litigation on behalf of corporate clients. Or maybe a boutique firm is more your style, working for individuals, small businesses and niche industries, offering specialised expertise in areas like family law, property law and intellectual property rights.
How about a legal career in government – whether at the federal, state or local level? You could work within government agencies, departments, and regulatory bodies, shaping and enforcing laws, drafting policies and representing government interests in legal proceedings.
Another potential avenue is serving as an in-house counsel for a company. You could work across many different industries, providing guidance on compliance, contracts, risk management and corporate governance – you’re the legal eagle making sure the operations of an organisations hit the legal mark.
How to become a lawyer
Step 1
Your first step is to complete an undergraduate degree. One that contains the Priestley 11.
The what now?
The Priestley 11 are the eleven law subjects that you’re required to complete in your undergraduate degree for admission into practice as a legal practitioner in Australia. Why the odd name? Well, they are named after a 1992 committee led by Lancelot John Priestley that got together to decide what the minimum academic requirements for a lawyer are. They are:
- Administrative law
- Civil procedure
- Company law
- Constitutional law
- Contracts
- Criminal law and procedures
- Equity and trusts
- Evidence law
- Professional legal conduct
- Property law
The good news is that Charles Sturt’s Bachelor of Laws covers all 11. Plus, vital subjects like natural resources law, rural communities and writing for legal professionals. And a choice of electives ranging from technology law to human rights.
Think of it as the 11 plus.
You’ll need a selection rank of 80 to be in line for an offer to the Bachelor of Laws. But remember, that could include an adjustment of five points for completing high school in a regional area, and other adjustments if you’ve aced certain subjects or experienced hardship while studying.
Step 2
Once you have your bachelor’s degree under your belt, the next step is practical legal training (PLT).
This training program hones your skills for the day-to-day realities of practising law. Usually completed over three months full-time or eight months part-time, it includes 75 days of supervised, practical training in legal organisations. Complete it successfully and you’ll earn your Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice, qualifying you to apply for legal practice.
Step 3
Are we there yet? Not quite.
The final step to becoming a lawyer is to apply to the Legal Profession Admission Board for a compliance certificate. This is a State or Territory thing. You apply to the board in your location, and then if approved, you attend an admission ceremony at the Supreme Court to take an oath of office.
Now you can practise law in Australia.
Congratulations.
Although, there is one last thing.
You are required to complete ten continuing legal education (CPD) units each year you work as a lawyer. These keep your skills sharp and your knowledge up to date. There are a variety of ways to meet your CPD requirements, such as attending seminars, lectures and conferences; private study; writing legal articles; and doing postgraduate study.
What skills does a lawyer need?
Being a lawyer isn’t just about knowing the law – it’s about mastering a diverse skill set that will ensure your success in any legal field. Whether you’re fresh out of law school or a seasoned attorney, these soft skills are your essential tools:
- Sharp analytical skills: Cut through complex legal issues with precision. Analyse facts, statutes and case law to build compelling arguments that stand up in court.
- Clear communication: Nail your point every time. Whether you’re drafting legal docs or making your case in court, your ability to communicate clearly and persuasively is key.
- Research expertise: Dig deep to build the strongest case. Unearth legal statutes and precedents with finesse using the latest research tools and techniques.
- Problem-solving prowess: Think like a detective. Spot issues, anticipate roadblocks and then craft ingenious solutions that get results for your clients.
- Eye for detail: Take care of the small stuff. Dot your i’s, cross your t’s and make sure nothing slips through the cracks.
- Time management: Juggle demands like a pro. Stay on top of deadlines, prioritise tasks and keep the legal machine running smoothly.
- Negotiation skills: If you can talk the talk, you can seal the deal. Whether you’re settling out of court or hammering out agreements, your negotiation game needs to be on point.
- Ethical judgment: Be a legal beacon. Navigate ethical dilemmas with integrity and also keep the profession’s honour intact.
- Cultural competence: Speak the language of diversity. Understand and respect clients from all walks of life to be the best advocate you can be.
[How’s this for an sweet hack? You could get entry into the Bachelor of Laws based on your soft skills. Check out the Charles Sturt Advantage for all the details.]
Let’s do this
So, now you know how to navigate the path to a career in legal practice. If you’re ready to take the next steps or have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of uni advisers. They’re here to provide guidance, support and insights tailored to your individual journey.
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