Aboriginal Professional Legal Placement Program
The Professional Legal Placement Program is a component of the Legal Aid NSW Judge Bob Bellear Legal Careers Pathways Program. The Program provides recent Law graduates with the opportunity to complete their formal twelve week on-the-job Practical Legal Training (PLT), to be eligible for admission as a solicitor.
Legal Aid NSW supports its new solicitors in developing fulfilling legal careers. PLT students will be involved in challenging work that makes a difference.
The skills learnt will prepare successful applicants for future advancement within the legal profession and gives them a good grounding in case management, across a number jurisdictions in different legal fields of practice.
What we offer
The Professional Legal Placement Program incorporates formal twelve week on-the-job practical legal training. This period satisfies the practical requirements of the Legal Profession Admission Board in order for Law graduates to be eligible for admission as a solicitor in NSW.
PLT students will participate in orientation and induction with the support of supervisors and a 'buddy', so they can learn the skills needed to be an effective solicitor in either the Family, Criminal or Civil Law practices.
Practical one-on-one support with experienced solicitors in real situations means successful applicants won't be stuck in the office doing purely administrative tasks for the duration of their PLT. A strong peer group will always ensure students are part of a team and opportunities for self-development are ongoing.
Locations
The placements are potentially state-wide. Applicants desired locations will be taken into consideration, however Legal Aid NSW's operational requirements will be a factor.
Eligibility
The Professional Legal Placement Program is open to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander graduates who;
- Are of Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander descent and identify as such;
- Have completed their university studies to obtain a Law degree (LLB or equivalent) and;
- Are eligible to undertake Practical Legal Training.
Legal Aid NSW advertises for the PLT program via a number of different avenues including I work for NSW, Koori mail, Our Mob, University Indigenous Law Centre’s and/or Law faculties.
All applications must be submitted online at: I work for NSW.
Further information
For more information regarding the Judge Bob Bellear Legal Career Pathways - PLT program see the Overview of the Professional Legal Placement Training Program or contact the Aboriginal Services Branch