If you’re a smart cookie with legal experience then here’s a few hints and tips about getting into the Australian legal world.
“Objection, your honour.” Sorry, I’ve always wanted to say that. If you’re actually qualified to shout that line with vigour then we’re here to give you the lowdown on how to do so in Oz.
For starters, it’s important to know that the Australian legal market is quite small so experience in the field is attractive to Aussie employers.
Law Staff’s senior consultant for temporary recruitment in Sydney, Rosemary Galic, said people looking for secretarial or admin roles need to have strong communication skills as well as the ability to type 60+ words per minute. Solicitors, paralegals, legal assistants and legal researchers need to show advisory, drafting, research and litigation support experience in the relevant area of practice.
For solicitors wanting to practice in Oz, you must be admitted to practice in the relevant Australian jurisdiction and have a current practising certificate. However, If you are happy to assume a role that is not advisory and does not require you to appear in court, then your legal qualifications and experience will suffice.You’d be nuts if you’re not curious how much you could earn for all this work.
Before superannuation, legal secretaries can expect to earn $24-30/hour, admin and litigation support should get $18-25/hour while legal contractors could get anything from $50-150/hour.
The biggest potential hurdle surrounds your knowledge of Australian law.
If you’re moving from state to state it’s important to get your head around the laws of that jurisdiction as they vary in different areas of practice. “You’re in contempt council.” Okay, I’m done. Good luck!
