In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Smokeball, we unpack where small law firms are at with their use and understanding of artificial intelligence (AI) and the importance of better utilising emerging technology to, among other things, save time. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Smokeball chief executive Hunter Steele about his passion for uplifting small law firms, the pace of change with AI relative to other market developments over the years, his headline observations about AI in the year that has been, how and why we remain in the “early adopter” phase, and the critical importance of ongoing education by and for practitioners about the relevance and place of such emerging technologies. Steele also reflects on lawyers’ increasing appreciation for how AI will and continues to upend daily operations, the extent to which lawyers are excited about these developments, what Smokeball is doing right now to support practitioners (including its focus on practice management), the nature of queries the provider receives, how clients are responding to their lawyers’ use of such platforms, what the advent and mainstreaming of AI says about the state of the legal market, and what excites him about the opportunities that lawyers will be able to grasp in the future. To learn more about Smokeball, click here.  

A BigLaw firm recently ran an experiment at the South by Southwest Sydney event, in which it tested whether artificial intelligence was capable of besting a senior associate in a mock trial. The end result offers pertinent lessons – not just for lawyers’ use of emerging tech but also for advocates and clients alike. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Lander & Rogers senior associate and innovation manager Jeanette Merjane and digital economy lawyer Kenneth Leung about their respective work at the BigLaw firm and interest in artificial intelligence (AI), the impetus behind testing AI’s capacity to win a court case, how they undertook the experiment at SXSW Sydney, and the questions the firm hoped to answer in doing so. Merjane and Leung also delve into what happened in the mock trial, how well the AI platform performed, what Merjane’s experience was like going up against an AI platform, whether AI is likely to improve its advocacy, the insights gained from running the mock trial, whether the nature of advocacy is changing, whether clients will want to use AI to get the answers they are seeking, and what the experiment teaches us about the importance of human advocacy. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

A new report from a global law firm shows a decline in the number of new class actions across the country. This, one partner reflects, could constitute a “normalisation” of such litigation following the flurry of activity seen after the Hayne royal commission and other market factors. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by King & Wood Mallesons partner Eleanor Atkins to discuss her longtime interest in litigation, her firm’s annual report, The Review: Class Actions in Australia 2023/2024, and its key takeaways and findings, including that class action filings are at their lowest levels in seven years, how and why this might be the case, the cyclical nature of such litigation, and what the reduced volume of filings says about where the Australian market is at right now. Atkins also delves into the areas we are currently seeing more filings and why, what practitioners in this space need to stay on top of, the influence of regulatory spotlights, two cases that the High Court is currently considering and why those matters could be so significant for the class action space, what the coming year could hold for class actions, and why this remains such a stimulating area of law. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In a decade, consulting model firm Keypoint Law has established itself as a national mid-tier, with 80 partner-level lawyers in six capital cities – but one of its biggest challenges moving forward, its CEO says, is that around half of the law firm partners across the country have never heard of it. Becoming better known and having its model better understood, he says, will see the emerging firm become an even bigger player in Australia.  In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Keypoint Law chief executive Warren Kalinko about the decade that has been for Keypoint in Australia, who the firm is and what it does, how receptive practitioners are to the firm’s model, where the firm currently sits in the Australian market, and the biggest hurdles in the way of its continued growth. Kalinko also reflects on Keypoint’s growth targets in the coming years, the specific areas and jurisdictions where the firm sees opportunities for growth, whether practitioners will be more receptive to such a firm model given how much working life has changed in recent years, whether the firm would ever become a listed entity, and what the future could hold for such consulting models in Australia.

Recent allegations of workplace bullying in parliamentary offices are a stark reminder that, in high-pressure professional environments, “bullying cannot be normalised or excused, and the wellbeing of staff must remain a priority”, says one senior human rights and discrimination lawyer. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Elevate Consulting Partners founder Prabha Nandagopal, who was the senior legal adviser to the Respect@Work inquiry, about the extent to which new positive duties to stamp out workplace misconduct such as bullying and sexual harassment have been adopted by Australian workplaces, the lack of education that businesses may have about those duties, and how new workplace norms such as scattered workforces and communication via new technologies has seen a proliferation in misconduct via new mediums. Nandagopal also reflects on the fact that a lack of reporting doesn’t mean that misconduct isn’t occurring, the questions that businesses must ask of themselves in ensuring their frameworks are up to scratch, the need for top-down approaches from leadership, the thematic issues with power in the workplace, having good response plans, and why businesses cannot be complacent about their positive duties.

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with The College of Law, we reflect on how the new Right to Disconnect laws can and will facilitate mindset and communication shifts in professional services workplaces and why those in law should see these laws as a “moment for potential growth”. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Florence Thum, a lecturer and assistant director in NSW for PLT at The College of Law, about her reflections on the advent and passage of the new Right to Disconnect laws, the need for law firms to realign their priorities, adopting a back-to-basics approach and what this looks like, and what meaningful, transparent communication should look like in the new normal. Thum also delves into how individual lawyers can better advocate for themselves in evolving workplaces, making changes to the organisational mindset, building new communication strategies upon a foundation of respect and trust, the challenges that legal workplaces may face in undergoing such a realignment, and why the legal profession needs to see the Right to Disconnect laws as a “moment for potential growth”, and employ empathy in a technologically driven world. To learn more about The College of Law, click here.

A few months ago, Joseph Catanzariti AM turned 65 and thus had to retire from his position as vice president of the Fair Work Commission. His search for work in the months since, he says, has been more fraught than anticipated. Here, he reflects on the biases against senior lawyers who are willing and able to undertake full-time work, the wellness impacts of such ageism, and how he has looked to adapt following his tenure at the nation’s workplace tribunal. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Joseph Catanzariti AM about his career in law spanning over four decades, the statutorily imposed retirements for judges around the country, why it has been so important to him to give back, the sense of purpose he finds as a lawyer, his reflections on being a judge, and the sense of making a difference in society. Catanzariti also discusses how he felt about his imposed retirement from FWC, his realisation that employers were not seeking a full-time 65-year-old professional, the biases dictating hiring decisions and societal impressions, how he has pivoted and responded vocationally, what legal member bodies can do to address the concerns of older practitioners, the wellness issues inherent with undervaluing those practitioners, and how both employers and individuals can navigate such issues. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Job-sharing in law is not common. However, for the co-general counsel of Wesley Mission Queensland, working in tandem brings myriad personal and professional benefits. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with the co-general counsel of Wesley Mission Queensland, Tala Prowd and Helena Kolenbet, about how their job-sharing arrangement came to be, why such an arrangement makes so much sense for them both (personally and professionally, the operational practicalities of job-sharing, and how they successfully navigate the needs of their organisation with key stakeholders. Prowd and Kolenbet also reflect on the rarity of job-sharing arrangements in the legal profession, how and why legal employers must be more open to such vocational pathways (for men and women alike), how other lawyers – in-house and beyond – can and should be unafraid to ask for such flexible arrangements if circumstances require it, and how both employee and employer will benefit from thinking and operating outside the box. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Global law firm Bird & Bird is celebrating 10 years in operation in Australia. To mark that occasion, the firm’s Australian head and managing partner spoke with Lawyers Weekly about the decade that has been, what the future holds, and where the firm sees opportunities Down Under and offers advice to aspiring managing partners. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Bird & Bird Australian head and managing partner Shane Barber about his journey as a lawyer, what constitutes good leadership in law, whether it has gotten easier or harder to be a managing partner, his advice to those seeking to lead firms, and his takeaways from Bird & Bird’s 10 years in Australia. Barber also reflects on the firm’s successes Down Under and what he sees as being the big market challenges to overcome in 2025 and beyond, the corners of the Australian market that the firm will continue to target, and the fear and excitement that drives law firm leaders.

The School of Law and Society at the University of the Sunshine Coast recently celebrated its 10-year anniversary. Here, its dean, Professor Jay Sanderson, reflects on the decade that has been, what’s coming in the future, and how to overcome the issues and trends facing current students and, ultimately, the legal education environment. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Professor Jay Sanderson, dean of law at the University of the Sunshine Coast, about the School of Law and Society at the Queensland-based provider, how and why he got into legal academia, the 10-year anniversary celebrations, what the next decade can and will look like for legal education and students, and the headline issues facing students at present. Sanderson also delves into how receptive students are to increased AI use, necessary evolutions to course content in the wake of market and technological change, predictions for the future of legal education, the role of law faculties in helping student cohorts address the changing landscape, and the critical need to listen to law students and their circumstances.

Jane Bowes cannot recall a time when she was ever as happy and motivated to go to work as she is right now. However, to get to this place, she has overcome hardship and trauma, found success through failure, and learnt – over the course of her vocational journey – that being a “rough diamond” is one of her biggest strengths. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Bowes Legal principal and director Jane Bowes about her unconventional entry into the legal profession, what women have to put up with in law, overcoming traumatic incidents, moving forward productively from such experiences, the importance of mentors and how to find them. Bowes also delves into having a good sense of self, bringing one’s full personality to work and why, being a rough diamond rather than a polished gem, lessons from starting one’s firm and how to push through when you want to give up, appreciating that success comes from repeated failure, and what being a dancer has taught her about life as a lawyer. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Having fallen pregnant shortly after starting her law firm, Melanie Vairawanathan understands not only how imperative it is for law firms to accommodate the idiosyncratic needs of employees but also how essential it is to do so in ways that minimise costs and optimise the quality of legal services. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Melmark Law founder Melanie Vairawanathan about breaking away from the mould of traditional gender roles, the challenge of having a newborn shortly after founding her firm, why it is so important for law firms to be leading the way in not only offering flexibility but also making it central to the business model, and being a business leader that proactively seeks to offer adaptable workplace structures. Vairawanathan also delves into the cohorts of the legal profession that such an approach can and will benefit, countering workplace trends like the Great Break-up, overcoming financial constraints and traditional mindsets in leaning more heavily into a flexible business model, what she thinks is working well and not so well in providing greater accommodations for staff needs, the flow-on benefits for the business in being more adaptable, and why shifting how lawyers work will ultimately be a win-win for all stakeholders. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Research shows that, in recent years, there has been a huge uptick in the number of women professionals leaving their roles in the face of myriad employer shortcomings, both to address idiosyncratic needs and in light of certain unconscious biases. Legal employers, among others, must address such concerns better if they are to retain top female talent. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back freelance general counsel Anna Lozynski to discuss how and why she’s always valued flexible working arrangements for herself, observations of broader take-up of such arrangements by other women lawyers, what the Great Break-up is and why it is significant for women professionals, and the ways in which businesses may be failing their female employees. Lozynski also delves into the sociocultural and vocational structures that make it difficult for women (and men) to break free of traditional expectations and norms, what female professionals are choosing to do if they leave their employers and why, the influence of family planning, the practical steps that employers must take moving forward to better address staff needs, and why employees need to know their worth.

Here, an IP lawyer who produced a film that qualified for nomination at the Oscars, discusses her longtime passion for cinema, balancing her filmmaking with working as a sole practitioner, and how storytelling helps with arguments in the law. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Slater Intellectual Property Lawyers principal Anny Slater about how she ended up in IP law, how she came to love film early on in life, the first film that sparked her passion, her film The Ball and its subsequent success, and why she produces short films. Slater also delves into her filmmaking process and how she manages it against her day job, how and why filmmaking helps her be a better lawyer, the complementary skills and insights from filmmaking to IP law and vice versa, the importance of storytelling in becoming a better practitioner, using the law to tell stories, and the need for creative outlets for practitioners. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special edition of The Corporate Counsel Show, produced in collaboration with Lawyers on Demand, A Consilio Company, we examine the rising significance of self-hosted AI solutions in the legal sector and how they compare to traditional “closed” AI service providers. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Consilio senior prototyping engineer Mitchell Scott about the rise of self-hosted AI models in legal technology, exploring the advantages and disadvantages of this new approach. Scott also sheds light on why self-hosted AI solutions are fast becoming the future of legal AI, particularly for teams seeking to navigate the complexities of sensitive client data. The discussion also covers Australia’s restrained approach to AI adoption compared to other global markets, key risks and harms currently posed by AI, and how legal teams should prepare their data for AI-enabled systems. They also discuss high-impact areas for AI tools, the importance of trial and error in the adoption process, and how Consilio’s new Guided AI Review can better support legal teams in the litigation discovery process. To learn more about Lawyers on Demand, A Consilio Company, click here. To learn more about the Guided AI Review, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Increasingly, ownership of digital assets and resources will form part of estates and, at present, there exists a “real conflict” in how those heirlooms will be treated, as compared to traditional assets like property. The evolving legal landscape, one principal says, requires a different approach to thinking about legal advice. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Tiyce & Lawyers principal Michael Tiyce about the struggles Australian legislation currently has with digital heirlooms and why, the flow-on issues for successful planning and wills and estates, the increased use and ownership of digital assets, and the consequences for lawyers on the ground given the state of affairs. Tiyce also reflects on the extent of cynicism from and a lack of education for Australians when it comes to digital assets, the potential for unjust outcomes in disputes, recommendations to standardise rights and procedures when it comes to digital records and assets, how lawyers can better serve and advocate for clients in the absence of such reform, employing a different way of thinking about property, and what will constitute best practice for lawyers moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Here, we bring you an episode from Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand, HR Leader, in which we unpack the headline hurdles facing the human resources departments in professional services businesses, such as law firms, and how HR can and should manage those issues. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Swaab head of people and culture Angela Sharpe about her work at the Sydney-based mid-sized firm, what motivates her about working in the HR space, navigating talent shortages and increased competition for top candidates, the need to think more creatively about identifying ideal talent, the ever-present mental health challenges in such firms, and the role of HR teams in improving workplace wellness. Sharpe also delves into the myriad legislative changes that HR teams have to grapple with, including the recently introduced Right to Disconnect, the corresponding duties that HR teams must undertake, the emergence of new technologies and how best HR teams must adapt, striking the right balance between streamlining processes and ensuring the human touch doesn’t get lost, and reflects on whether it has ever been more difficult to be in HR in a professional services environment. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Here, we bring you an episode from Momentum Media’s newest show, Contested Ground, in which Joe Hockey, former Australian ambassador to the United States, joins hosts Phil Tarrant, Major General (Ret’d) Marcus Thompson and Steve Kuper to discuss the continued importance of the relationship between Australia and the United States. The trio discuss the fallout of the latest presidential debate between contenders, former president Donald Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, touching on the implications for the bilateral relationship, the role of grey zone warfare and information warfare efforts in the upcoming election and how they may shape the outcome, as well as the importance of the partnership in helping Australia reindustrialise and build a truly sovereign defence industrial base, with a pathway forward to establishing an integrated Australian prime. Contested Ground is a new podcast investigating the complex and murky world of grey zone warfare as nations compete on the global stage. It lifts the veil on how state and non-state actors compete for influence below the threshold of armed conflict, informing business and public sector leaders on how malicious actors exploit Australia’s financial and social systems for their gain. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Australia and its legal profession are embracing diversity more than ever before. Here, one Indigenous law student reflects on her experience interning with a BigLaw firm and how others can put themselves forward for more and better opportunities. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with McCabes intern Lara Jash, a Yuin and Kamilaroi woman, about how and why she came to study law and her experience in the profession thus far, the internship program she is undertaking with one of the nation’s biggest law firms and what it entails, and the broader perspective the internship has offered her into the promotion of diversity in the legal profession. Jash also discusses her perception of the experience of Indigenous law students, the sense of isolation that many feel and how best to overcome it, the need to put one’s self out there and be “bubbly”, how best to put one’s self forward for recognition and advancement, why more law firms should champion diversity for Indigenous Australians, and her optimism that the profession can continue to progress on such matters. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Evolve Resolve, we unpack how lawyers can become more than just technically proficient and transition into leaders that the professional services marketplace both needs and increasingly demands. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Evolve Resolve founder and director Damien van Brunschot about his journey in the legal profession (including being managing partner of the Australian arm of a global firm), how he developed leadership capabilities in law, and why he thinks the development of leadership skills in the legal workplace is still often overlooked. The truth is that for many lawyers, they are simply expected to figure it out themselves. In this episode, van Brunschot also delves into the flow-on consequences of not effectively investing in the teaching of practical leadership skills, including how law firm leaders can meaningfully make time to invest and develop the next generation of leaders. For those intent on climbing the ladder, including emerging leaders, the skills and mindset required to achieve promotion are also covered. Tune in and unpack the journey from technical proficiency to law firm and business leader. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As someone who loves sports and loves being a lawyer, sports arbitration is the “best job in the world” for Alexis Schoeb. Here, he reflects on the nature of such work, recent high-profile disputes, and why he thinks this practice area can and will grow exponentially in Australia in the near future. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Peter & Kim partner Alexis Schoeb about his background practising arbitration, including sports arbitration, in Switzerland for two decades, how his passion for sports provides motivation for his work as a lawyer, what the day-to-day looks like for sports arbitration lawyers, and the cyclical nature of work in this space. Schoeb also delves into the state of affairs for sports arbitration in Australia, why he sees such massive opportunities for practitioners Down Under to grow this practice area domestically, recent and notable cases in sports arbitration, the influence of social, cultural and even geopolitical considerations in such legal work, being both a counsellor and arbitrator and drawing the distinction where required, his predictions for the sports arbitration market ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games, and his advice to those interested in a career in such work. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

At present, the National Children’s Commissioner says, Australia is failing to ensure that the safety and wellbeing of children is a priority. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by  National Children’s Commissioner Anne Hollonds, from the Australian Human Rights Commission (AHRC), to discuss the recently released report – ‘Help way earlier!’: How Australia can transform child justice to improve safety and wellbeing – and what it says about the urgent need to better ensure justice outcomes for Australian youth. Hollonds delves into her role and why it is needed, the key findings and takeaways from the AHRC report, the flow-on consequences of such poor safety and justice frameworks, what the report says about who Australia is as a nation, the need for a National Children’s Act, and how lawyers can better improve safety and wellbeing outcomes for children across the country moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Nikolina Tully runs Australia’s first all-pink law firm (with an all-pink café attached to the firm’s premises). Here, she discusses her strategy and motivation behind such colour-based branding – including to provide hope for clients. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Tully Law founder and legal practice director Nikolina Tully about her early years in the legal profession, how and when she decided to launch her own firm in the personal injury space, initially opting against all-pink branding but eventually deciding to lean into what she truly wanted for her business. Tully explains the psychology behind her colour-based branding and why it is so beneficial for clients, why she attached an all-pink café to the firm’s premises, how she has brought the entire business along for the ride in embracing pink as a theme, the importance of thinking outside the box with one’s law firm branding (particularly in a crowded market like personal injury), and her broader guidance to aspiring or existing firm owners about setting one’s self and one’s business apart from the competition. Both personally and professionally, there is much that a firm owner will learn in the first 12 months of operating a legal practice. Here, we unpack some of the headline lessons, surprises, and tricks that one award-nominated practitioner has gleaned. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes M de Mestre Lawyers founder Mary-Ann de Mestre to discuss what the past 12 months since the inception of her firm have been like, whether she has been able to hold true to her founding mission, demystifying what the first year is like, the non-negotiable things that new firm owners must know, and how overwhelming it can be to start one’s own practice. De Mestre also delves into what has surprised her in the first year, the extent to which she has had to be more of a businessperson than a lawyer, navigating the idea of rebuilding the plane as it is falling out of the sky, tinkering with the broader strategy, and the most important practical steps to take. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

This year, national law firm Caroll & O’Dea celebrates its 125th anniversary. Here, its managing partner reflects on the firm’s journey and where it sees itself moving forward. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Caroll & O’Dea managing partner Hanaan Indari about having spent her entire career at the one firm, how she rose to become its managing partner, the challenge of taking over the firm at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the firm’s approach to flexible working. Indari also reflects on the firm’s history and how it got to be where it currently sits in the professional services marketplace, the longstanding traditional values that the firm looks to uphold, where the firm sees itself moving forward, playing to the firm’s strengths, its utilisation of new and emerging technology and taking innovative approaches, the big challenges for firms like Caroll & O’Dea that loom on the horizon, and what excites her about the firm’s next steps. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

While so-called “Mr Big” undercover police operations have resulted in convictions in some of Australia’s most notorious cases, such as the Daniel Morcombe murder, the admissibility of confessions elicited during such operations and the reliability of those statements may demand further scrutiny. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with RMIT University College of Business and Law lecturer Dr Lisanne Adam and University of Sydney senior psychology lecturer Dr Celine Van Golde about what defines a “Mr Big” operation, how and why they are used, their recent research into the use and reliability of such operations, and the practical issues that these operations can present. Adam and Van Golde also delve into some of the moral and ethical considerations from such operations, the fact that the High Court allowed for use of such methods in 2007, whether “Mr Big” operations are increasingly being used and why police might look to undertake such operations, the challenges or consequences that arise from these operations, the idea that the legal system may “prey on the vulnerable”, how criminal lawyers feel about the use of “Mr Big”, what legislative or regulatory improvements might be needed, and ensuring societal faith in our system. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Over the weekend, new legislation to prevent instances of foreign bribery in Australia came into effect. Here, we discuss what those laws entail, the potential impact on businesses, and how best to move forward, particularly in a time of increased regulatory scrutiny. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with A&O Shearman counsel Jessica Zoller about her interest and career in white-collar criminal matters, what is meant by the term “foreign bribery”, the new laws that have come into effect in Australia over the weekend, the responses from key stakeholders to the laws, and what they will likely mean for the market and broader Australian society. Zoller also dives into whether the new laws go far enough or will need further changes, the current regulatory climate and microscope on business activity, the need to be proactive rather than reactive in ensuring good governance, the challenges for businesses in being proactive, best practice for lawyers on the ground within businesses, necessary procedural improvements to make internally, opportunities for businesses to stand out from the competition, and adhering to new governmental guidance. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

While treating clients with respect is a longstanding expectation, there are a number of factors driving a need to employ greater empathy from lawyers. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Coutts Lawyers & Conveyancers partner and head of injury, compensation and employment law Karena Nicholls about her passion for her practice areas, how she looks after herself given the subject matter, the need to be trauma-informed, and what being empathetic as a legal practitioner means to her. Nicholls also delves into the need for lawyers to be pseudo-psychologists, whether clients are driving a need for lawyers to be more empathetic, the difficulty lawyers may have in being empathetic, case studies where she has been empathetic and achieved a successful client outcome, how empathy has made her a better lawyer, why every lawyer can and should try to be more empathetic, and the practical steps they can take to do so. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Tony Macvean led national law firm Hall & Wilcox for 17 years. Here, and having recently handed over the leadership mantle, he reflects on his professional journey, observations about the market and Hall & Wilcox’s place in it, and why he is so optimistic about lawyers’ contribution to the community. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes Hall & Wilcox partner Tony Macvean (who until recently was the firm’s managing partner for 17 years) to discuss his career at the firm since he was a young professional, the growth he oversaw for the firm in his years as its head, the biggest challenges he faced in those years, becoming more business-minded, and what it’s been like for him to return to full-time practice. Macvean also unpacks the recent leadership process and change that Hall & Wilcox undertook and why it occurred, the broader lessons and strategies that emerged from that undertaking, where he thinks the firm currently sits in the market and where it wants to be, the implementation of an approach to be “courageous”, the top-down culture the firm looks to imbibe, its approach to innovation, what excites him about the firm’s future and that of the profession more broadly, and what comes next for him, both personally and professionally. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Both personally and professionally, there is much that a firm owner will learn in the first 12 months of operating a legal practice. Here, we unpack some of the headline lessons, surprises, and tricks that one award-nominated practitioner has gleaned. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes M de Mestre Lawyers founder Mary-Ann de Mestre to discuss what the past 12 months since the inception of her firm have been like, whether she has been able to hold true to her founding mission, demystifying what the first year is like, the non-negotiable things that new firm owners must know, and how overwhelming it can be to start one’s own practice. De Mestre also delves into what has surprised her in the first year, the extent to which she has had to be more of a businessperson than a lawyer, navigating the idea of rebuilding the plane as it is falling out of the sky, tinkering with the broader strategy, and the most important practical steps to take. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with InfoTrack, we explore how lawyers and conveyancers are perceived by property buyers and sellers and what professionals can learn from these findings. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with InfoTrack’s Head of Property Australia, Lee Bailie, about the recently released 2024 State of Real Estate Report. Together, they unpack key findings and takeaways from the report, highlight what Lee sees as being the “good, bad, and ugly”, and what these insights reveal about the current standing of lawyers and conveyancers in the property market. Lee also delves into areas for improvement lawyers and conveyancers can consider moving forward, processes that need attention, the importance of both proactivity and reactivity, future opportunities, and how InfoTrack’s solutions can support best practices. To discover key findings from the 2024 State of Real Estate Report, click here. To learn more about InfoTrack, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In the current age, clients want (and demand) to know more about their various service providers. Here, we unpack what this means for law firms and how best to strike the right balance for you and your business. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Ruby Assembly director Iolanthe Gabrie and Macedon Ranges Family Law principal Megan Puszkar about the “real period of generational change” being faced by SME businesses across the country, how high a priority evolving communication methods and approaches are becoming in the current age, why clients want to know more about their service providers, and how to take a holistic approach to such change. Gabrie and Puszkar also reflect on the importance of being a “pseudo-psychologist” for one’s clients, the dangers inherent with not rolling with the times, striking the right balance between putting yourself and your brand out there while also protecting yourself and your family, what such an approach looks like for NewLaw practices, what works and doesn’t work, and their broader guidance about riding the wave of evolving client expectations. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The introduction of minimum cyber security standards in Victoria earlier this year reinforces the fact that educating one’s workforce and implementing optimal frameworks to prevent breaches and attacks is not just good practice – it goes to the heart of one’s professional duties as a lawyer. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Law & Cyber principal Simone Herbert-Lowe to discuss her interest and background in practising cyber security, the introduction by the Victorian Legal Services Board + Commissioner of minimum cyber security standards and why the standards were brought in, what it means for practitioners in the Garden State and what practitioners in other state and territory jurisdictions should glean from the standards. Herbert-Lowe also delves into the extent to which upholding certain standards regarding cyber security is at the forefront of lawyers’ minds, the expansion of the remit of professional obligations for lawyers, the potential penalties for lawyers who breach standards or civil liability obligations, what lawyers must do in order to ensure best practice and avoid disciplinary findings, and the need for constant vigilance rather than employing a “set and forget” attitude. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Down periods in his career have presented personal and professional challenges, but what those periods have taught Peter Muzariri is that “fundamentally, everything is going to be OK”. Here, he unpacks navigating times of hardship, how to move forward as a young practitioner, and meaningfully chasing one’s goals. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Costa Asset Management legal counsel Peter Muzariri about his journey of moving from Zimbabwe to New Zealand, studying and graduating in NZ and having a job cancelled as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, how he navigated that setback in his career and what he learnt from it, both personally and professionally. Muzariri also delves into the importance of trusting the process, having meaningful, tangible goals in place, the questions one needs to ask of one’s self, his current goals, how to make time for one’s development and planning, and his broader words of wisdom about believing in one’s self. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

There has long been, Gemma Nugent says, a “convention of having long contracts”, particularly in sectors like construction. Clients, however, are seeking legal documentation that is more easily digested and that they can better comprehend – and she is on a mission to provide this. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes SoundLegal director Gemma Nugent to discuss her journey from the in-house realm to operating as a sole practitioner in Alfred Cove, Western Australia, why she finds contracts work so uplifting, the issues she sees in the design and implementation of many legal contracts, and the diversity of thought among legal practitioners about the necessity or otherwise of long, convoluted contracts. Nugent also delves into what she believes constitutes a clear and easy-to-understand contract, why simplification is a win-win for all parties, convincing clients of the need for simplification, how lawyers can adjust their mindsets in creating contracts that are more fit for purpose and not convoluted for the sake of it, and her broader guidance for practitioners in getting their documentation right in order to ensure optimal client service delivery. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The 20th and 21st centuries have produced some outstanding (and award-winning) legal, or legal-adjacent, motion pictures. Here, we flesh out what makes a good legal movie and why, and what are the best and most enjoyable cinematic experiences involving lawyers. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Keith Ford (deputy editor of Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand, ifa) to discuss his passion for cinema, the tropes and themes that can make up a legal-adjacent motion picture, the myriad forms a legal movie can take, from courtroom drama to class action investigation, and whether legal movies need to be realistic to be good. The episode also delves into the necessity or otherwise of a true story to make a good legal movie, the importance of social, cultural or personal themes that can hit home for the audience, the extent to which the Australian movie industry has produced good legal films, the tenet of injustice being overcome by central characters, and what both Doraisamy and Ford view as being the best legal movies of all time, and what their personal favourites are. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Maintaining passion and momentum while dealing with the day-to-day grind and challenges of running a business and promoting growth in a regional area can be arduous for firm leaders in any practice area. Here’s how Kymberlei Goodacre does it. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Coffs Law Co. principal solicitor Kymberlei Goodacre about her Coffs Harbour-based practice, why she operates in the family law and care and protection spaces, looking after one’s self and one’s team in the face of emotionally draining subject matter, what she’s learnt from a decade of running her own firm, how often she evaluates what’s working or not working as a firm leader, and what has surprised her about the juggle between being a practitioner versus a business owner. Goodacre also reflects on the importance of maintaining the passion for what one does and not simply turning up each day to tick the boxes, the questions one should be asking of one’s self in keeping the flame alive, why putting wellness front and centre leads to revenue growth, how she leverages public holidays to create longer weekends for staff, what she is looking forward to in the coming years with her succession planning, and her broader suggestions for how firm leaders can keep up their motivation levels. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

It is often said that workers don’t quit their jobs; they quit their bosses. To this end – particularly in the current professional services climate – building and nurturing a trusting workplace environment is fundamental for firm leaders. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Travis Schultz & Partners managing partner Travis Schultz to discuss whether firm leaders are doing a good enough job at building and maintaining trust, how and when he came to appreciate the fundamental need to establish trust, how much of priority it has to be, what he sees as being the difference between maintaining a firm’s health versus doing its hygiene, and what he feels constitutes a trustworthy leader in a professional services environment. Schultz also delves into the crossover and differences between leadership and management, whether being a trustworthy leader is more important now than ever before, how best firm leaders can look to build trust across the business, the flow-on effects from fostering and maintaining such trustworthy environments, and how best firm leaders can bolster their capacities to instil trust. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Right out of high school, Vicky Martin worked as an office junior in a law firm, doing all manner of tasks, including emptying ashtrays and taking the boss’ clothing to the dry cleaners. She ultimately got admitted as a practitioner at the age of 50 and was recently promoted to special counsel. Here, she reflects on her uncommon journey, including going in and out of the legal profession, and what the emerging generation can learn from her experiences. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Thynne + Macartney special counsel Vicky Martin to discuss her earliest experiences in a law firm shortly after leaving high school, the myriad twists and turns her life and career have taken since those early days, overcoming a fear of responsibility that practitioners have, and how life maturity brings all-important perspective. Martin also delves into life as a mature-age law student and then graduate lawyer, her insights into goal setting and achieving those goals, building up a contact base, the differences in how colleagues and clients might approach a mature-age professional, and her broader lessons and reflections on how best to climb the corporate ladder and have faith in one’s self and one’s abilities. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!  

Here, the chief executive and managing partner of Gadens joins to discuss the BigLaw player’s recent national integration, its strategy moving forward, the importance of being “Australian at our core”, and what he’s learnt about leadership from the hit TV show Ted Lasso. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Gadens chief executive and managing partner Mark Pistilli about his journey in the legal profession and how he came to head up the BigLaw firm, Gadens’ recent national integration and how and why this was executed, where he thinks the firm currently sits in the legal services marketplace, why he is positioning the firm as “Australian at our core”, and why this approach resonates with clients across the country. Pistilli also delves into the firm’s strategy moving forward and how he intends to overcome market challenges, his role as the firm’s head in driving it forward in the current climate, whether or not the firm is exploring new practice areas, whether the government should be engaging global firms on matters pertaining to national security, what he has learnt from Ted Lasso and how he incorporates that show’s teaching into the workplace, and what motivates him now that he is in the “legacy” phase of his legal career. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In the wake of increased insolvencies across the market, particularly in sectors like construction, preferred creditors like legal service providers may see fees paid to them clawed back by liquidators. Here, we discuss the potential impacts on legal businesses and how best to safeguard your firm moving forward. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by MA Legal senior associate Cristian Urdea to discuss the increased volume of insolvencies in the market, the flow-on effect of clawing back fees, why lawyers are preferred creditors, and the inherent risks with providing legal services to companies that may be at risk of insolvency. Urdea also delves into the potential consequences for firms that may be worried about their bottom line, the “growing general understanding” of the impact of liquidators looking to claw back fees, out-of-pocket disbursements to barristers, putting in place practical steps to safeguard one’s firm, ensuring debts are secured, and why firm owners need to better concern themselves with such financial security questions.

Lawyers promoting their legal practice and broader brand is becoming more commonplace in Australia but is perhaps not as mainstream as in global jurisdictions. Whether tall poppy syndrome or an archaic view of self-promotion, lawyers who modernise brand-building often face reticence or scepticism from certain corners of the legal profession .In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Danielle Snell and Robert McGirr, the founders of award-winning firm Elit Lawyers by McGirr and Snell, to discuss the evolution of self-promotion of a lawyer’s legal services to the market over the years, whether such promotion is client-driven or spurred by the need to stand out from competitors (or both), and the stigma that can surround such promotion. Snell and McGirr also reflect on the myriad sociocultural factors that might contribute to such stigma, how Australians compare on such fronts to their global counterparts, why there remains a long way to go before lawyers’ self-promotion is more mainstream, what a lawyer needs to establish in getting started on the promotion journey, first steps to be taken, differentiating between personal and professional marketing, the relevant modes of communication, and the investment of time required. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Australia’s “housing disaster” could soon turn catastrophic, says former Victorian Supreme Court justice Kevin Bell. To counter this, the nation needs not just legislative action but also a reframing of our collective mindset to view housing not as the Great Australian Dream but as a fundamental right. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes the Honourable Kevin Bell AO KC, former justice of the Supreme Court of Victoria and patron of Tenants Victoria, to discuss his new book – Housing: The Great Australian Right – and why housing is no longer a dream for Australians but rather a “nightmare”, his upbringing in social housing and motivation to see an overhaul of our housing system, and why housing needs to be viewed as a right for all persons across the community. Bell also unpacks the four-pronged disaster currently facing Australia’s housing system, recalibrating the national mindset about housing as a right rather than an investment or commodity, what a national plan can and should look like and why legislation is needed instead of policy, our collective duty to view housing as a human right, and whether he is optimistic that Australia can avoid catastrophe. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In the first six months of this year, plaintiff firms have investigated and pursued a “very broad base of claims”, and even though there has been a softening in filing rates for the year-to-date, it will be prudent to maintain a cautious outlook, one BigLaw partner says. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Allens partner and class actions co-lead Alex Tolliday about how and why he ended up practising in this space, why he finds the “detective work” so rewarding, the key takeaways from his firm’s recently released Class action risk: Interim update report, and what we can learn from the volume of filings seen in the last six months, and what it could mean for the back half of the year. Tolliday also reflects on there having been no shareholder proceedings filed so far this year, the volume of consumer proceedings being witnessed and a pending High Court judgment, how teams like his prepare for what might be coming in the market, whether we will see more cyber and data privacy proceedings being brought, ensuring clients are as prepared as possible for proceedings of any kind, whether ESG-slanted proceedings are being brought, what good leadership of a class action team looks like, and what excites him about working in this space moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In recent years, there’s been a “huge” rise in the number of boutique practices in NSW alone, and such firms, more broadly, are becoming more and more specialised. These trends, together with increased demand from clients for competitive rates, have created a “perfect storm” in which small firms can flourish against the big end of town. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Redenbach Legal principal Keith Redenbach to discuss the increase in specialisation and movement away from generalisation in smaller firms, the modernisation of law as a profession, economic jitters and how these impact upon small-firm owners. Redenbach also discusses the “perfect storm” creating opportunities for specialised, smaller law firms that can offer competitive rates relative to the big end of town, the challenges inherent with staying ahead of the curve, the questions firm owners need to ask themselves in the new financial year, playing offence and defence, understanding why specialisation is so critical moving forward, and why he is so excited about such market disruption. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

While not all allegations of bullying will meet the legal definition of such misconduct, Max Kimber SC reflects, the raising of those concerns will very likely be indicative of broader relationship issues within the workplace, which all employers would do well to address. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back barrister and mediator Max Kimber SC to discuss allegations of bullying in legal and non-legal workplaces, how such alleged misconduct may stem from relationship and communication failures on the part of the workplace, and why prevention and early intervention are so essential. Kimber also responds to whether there is an increase in allegations of bullying or related misconduct in recent years since the COVID-19 pandemic, what constitutes best practice in addressing relationship and communication failures, recognising the positive duties that businesses and team leaders have moving forward, shoring up the fundamentals of workplace culture, finding new ways to speak to one’s employer about necessary team cultural and environmental changes, the role of HR, and his optimism that the profession can move forward in the right ways. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

With the new financial year underway, lawyers looking to expand their property portfolios or get on the property ladder should do the “smart yards”, not rest on the laurels of increased borrowing capacity, and ensure they are getting the best deal for themselves in the current market. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Legal Home Loans director Andrew Johnson and director of sales Cullen Haynes to discuss the state of the “moveable feast” that is the Australian property market, why banks move their rates in line with the Reserve Bank, whether the start of the new financial year brings new opportunities for lawyers to be aware of, and what bankers might not be telling legal professionals about how best to get ahead. Johnson and Haynes also delve into the good news for lawyers who have been promoted in recent times and those who run their own practices, why asking the right questions is so critical, the need to be diligent and not rest on one’s laurels, practical steps that lawyers can and should take at this juncture, meaningfully making time to do a financial wellness check, having a personal board of directors for financial matters, considerations for high-net-worth lawyers, and why if you don’t ask, you don’t get. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The new financial year offers business owners a chance to regroup, recalibrate, and determine what comes next. Award-winning sole practitioner Claire Styles says firm leaders must take a more holistic approach to such a process to ensure better outcomes not just professionally but also personally. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back C Legal founder and principal Claire Styles, who last year won the Sole Practitioner category at the Women in Law Awards, about what it means to design one’s life as a firm owner, why this is so important for her, taking a more existential and holistic approach to such questions, and appreciating what it means to run a small business and have a personal life at the same time. Styles also delves into the growing number of small law firm owners taking the approach she espouses, the practical steps to take and questions to ask in redesigning a life and business approach that makes sense to an individual practitioner, and what she looks forward to in the new financial year. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

According to one employment law partner, the tone of certain disputes between employers and employees is shifting, with issues at the executive level being fought harder and businesses looking to be more aggressive about enforcing restraints. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Hamilton Locke partner Timothy Zahara about how and why he became an employment lawyer and why he finds it so interesting, how executive disputes are becoming harder to settle, how the mainstreaming of psychological risks and a broad sense of burnout is contributing to such disputes, the perfect storm of executives feeling burnt out and no oversight of their output, and the broader implications for businesses and firms in navigating such executive-level disputes. Zahara also delves into the evolving nature of post-employment restraints and how and why there is increased aggression in this space right now, the potential “chilling effect” of such restraints, whether businesses are watching the non-compete debate in the United States and acting accordingly, whether the newfound aggression is a result of post-pandemic environmental trends, what businesses can be doing moving forward to better protect their interests while not constraining employees, what constitutes good leadership moving forward, and what trends might be on the horizon. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Mel Storey has been tasked with growing the presence of global tech firm Pax8 in the Asia-Pacific region. Here, she outlines her practical and strategic vision for achieving this goal, how other law department leaders can support broader business growth (geographic or otherwise), being both more and less human at the same time, and why corporate lawyers should remember to “eat an elephant one bite at a time”. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Pax8 head of legal (APAC) Mel Storey to discuss her journey in law and why in-house life has been so stimulating for her, the mandate she has been given to grow Pax8’s presence in the Asia-Pacific region, her goals for this new chapter of her corporate legal life, and her definition of a good in-house lawyer, and how she’ll look to apply that definition to what she is trying to achieve in her new role. Storey also details the practical steps she is planning to take to grow Pax8’s APAC presence, the questions to be asked of herself and the law department in achieving success, balancing the BAU against the forward-looking growth, incorporating a wellness strategy into the broader approach, the challenges she foresees on the horizon and how she plans to navigate these, and why it is so critical for in-house counsel tasked with business growth to “eat an elephant one bite at a time”. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Until such time as the Fair Work Commission sets precedents from test cases, employers may need to err on the side of caution when it comes to the implementation of the new Right to Disconnect. This does not, however, mean leaders in law should be trepidatious – instead, the new laws are an opportunity for optimal leadership. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Professor Gabrielle Golding from the University of Adelaide to discuss her research into the need for a workplace right to disconnect (which has now become law), what the new laws will look like in practice, the definition of reasonableness, and how employers are broadly feeling about their new obligations. Professor Golding also delves into how leaders can approach their new duties on top of all other competing obligations, the volume of unpaid labour being undertaken in Australia’s workforce, how businesses can react accordingly, the potential for exacerbation of generational differences, the various scenarios in which an employee can or should be contacted, the need to err on the side of caution, and waiting for test cases. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with PracticeEvolve, we unpack the need for law firms to take a step back and evaluate the value being gleaned from their tech stacks so as to better resolve business operational challenges and maximise opportunities. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with PracticeEvolve’s Head of Sales Gab Santos and Head of Marketing Adam Bullion about the PMS provider’s journey in recent years, how and why Australian practitioners have been more innovative than global counterparts, why striking the right balance between innovation and stability is so critical in the current climate, and how well law firms are managing the cost of tech stacks at present. Santos and Bullion also reflect on the questions that firms need to ask of themselves when evaluating tech stacks, how firms can extrapolate better value from their providers, how the evolution of AI and machine learning can and will influence legal software solutions moving forward, and their best practice guidance for firm leaders to strike a better balance moving forward. To learn more about PracticeEvolve, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In an age of rapid tech advancement, PhD candidate Chantal McNaught is fascinated by the navigation of conflict between law as a profession and law as a business. Zooming out and taking a more holistic approach to the purpose of law is essential, she argues. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with New Zealand-based Chantal McNaught, who is a PhD candidate at Bond University and a practice advisory manager at LEAP, to discuss her upcoming dissertation, the philosophical questions in distinguishing between the profession of law and the business of law, navigating the uncertainty of new and emerging technologies, and the need for practitioners to properly reflect on the implications of their use of new tech. McNaught also delves into environmental and external factors contributing to broader uncertainty, the need to think more holistically about one’s role as a lawyer in a changing professional services marketplace, the questions lawyers need to ask of themselves and their businesses, the importance of theory in informing the practical, and why such undertakings are so exciting for lawyers to sink their teeth into. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Once law graduates get out into the profession, the long hours and volume of work can often mean that keeping in touch with friends, including lawyer colleagues, is difficult to the point of feeling isolated. One young lawyer is trying to change that. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Baybridge solicitor Jennie Siow, who recently founded The Legal Mixer, about her experience and social circle at law school, the work she does at Baybridge, her experience and observations of the struggles that new and emerging practitioners have when it comes to maintaining genuine connections, and the flow-on consequences of such social isolation in a tough vocation. Siow also details her efforts to create new opportunities for social interaction for new practitioners, why she thinks such social gatherings are so important, the benefits that recent graduates can glean from such social occasions, how they can overcome fears about their capacity to engage, broader, practical steps to be taken to ensure that one can maintain the connections they have already formed. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Running a successful law firm is trying at the best of times. In the wake of personal and familial tragedy, being a business owner is immensely more difficult. Here, Kelli Martin reflects on how she keeps her firm going while dealing with loss and details what other firm owners can learn from her experiences. (Content warning: This episode contains content that may be distressing to some listeners. Discretion is advised.) In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with KLM Solicitors managing partner Kelli Martin about her firm’s journey since inception, the recent tragedy that struck her family and the toll it is taking, how she and her family are managing, and what she is learning from such processes. Martin also reflects on her efforts to keep her law firm going while navigating personal matters, how she has learnt to lean on and trust colleagues more, understanding the need to reach out to those around you, how her business objectives and plans are shifting in the wake of changing personal circumstances and why, and her broader guidance to small law firm owners. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

While lawyers are adept at navigating conflict on behalf of clients, they are often ill equipped to deal with their interpersonal conflict, says one barrister and solicitor-turned-mediator and executive coach. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Maria Newport, a “recovering lawyer” now working as a mediator and executive coach, about her journey in the legal profession and what drew her to such work, why discussing lawyers’ inability to manage interpersonal conflict is such a critical conversation, whether such capacities have gotten worse since the onset of COVID-19, and how commonplace it is across the profession. Newport also unpacks lawyers’ cognisance of such issues and the time constraints to address them, examples of how an inability to manage interpersonal conflict can have flow-on consequences for lawyers, the nexus to profession-wide mental health concerns, the practical steps that lawyers can be taking to better manage interpersonal conflict, how difficult such self-improvement can be, and why lawyers cannot let this issue fall by the wayside. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode, brought to you by Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand, Cyber Daily, Cyber Security Minister Clare O’Neil unpacks how the Albanese government aims to make Australia the world’s most cyber secure nation by 2030. Minister O’Neil provides host Liam Garman with firsthand insight into upcoming cyber security legislation to keep us safe online, reflects on the threats that keep her up and night, and how the government is tackling such a broad array of online threats – from phishing attacks to credential stuffing and insider threats. She also shares her thoughts on the recent Deloitte report on the Optus attack, clears up some common questions on SOCI/SLACIP, and details upcoming cyber security legislation and what the future of digital transformation looks like in Australia. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In the wake of voluminous change in the industrial relations space, it is critical to reflect on how such legislative updates will impact workplaces of all stripes and how both employers and employees can navigate such evolutions to working life. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back barrister Ian Neil SC to discuss the “tumultuous” past year in industrial relations reform, the myriad changes that were legislated and are coming into effect, what the response from businesses and employers has been to such change, and whether the net effect of such changes will be to drive up the cost of labour. Neil also delves into how businesses can and should respond to the “tidal wave” of changes, why good governance has never been more essential, what the Closing Loopholes and Right to Disconnect legislation means and what its impacts might be, what might be the headline industrial relations issues to contend with in the future in light of such changes, why prudent employers will see the changes as an opportunity, what will constitute best practice moving forward, and the likely volume of work headed in the direction of legal practitioners and HR professionals. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with York Hamilton, we explore the upward trajectory of utilising remote talent, offshoring, and broader business automation considerations in Australia’s legal marketplace and how best legal businesses can proceed in the coming year. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with York Hamilton managing partner Evan Kostopoulos to discuss the need for law firms Down Under to evolve how their businesses operate, the receptiveness to such change in recent years, ensuring your firm isn’t left behind in a rapidly shifting marketplace, the benefits of utilising remote talent, and whether law firms are seeing an urgent need to explore such options in the current climate. Kostopoulos also reflects on the journey of York Hamilton, the business opportunities that can and will open up from offshoring, including potential revamps to business structure and objectives, how to engage with firms that are reluctant to explore offshoring, the place of tech in such conversations, how firms are faring on broader business automation matters, how the legal marketplace will continue to shift, and why offshoring and automation should excite leaders in law moving forward. To learn more about York Hamilton, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As one who has experienced significant adversity in life, Rugare Gomo understands better than most the importance of not just authenticity and vulnerability but also the imperative to be brave and live and work according to one’s own expectations rather than what might be expected of us by others and broader society. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Rugare Gomo, a high-performance coach, author and former lawyer, to discuss how and why he left Zimbabwe for Australia as a teenager, deciding to study and practise law and his journey in the profession, and his realisation that – personally and professionally – he needed to approach life in ways truer to his values and purpose rather than in accordance with external expectations. Gomo details how lawyers can push back against ingrained traits and characteristics so that they can live from the heart, what went wrong in his life when he wasn’t true to himself, overcoming self-limiting beliefs and fear of asking stupid questions, how time-poor leaders can better create safe spaces for staff, how individuals can find safe spaces, how to practically start being braver and more creative, and how and why such an approach to one’s personal and professional has been beneficial for him.

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Naiman Clarke, we explore how best candidates can navigate reviews with their employers regarding salary increases and promotions and what might constitute best practice if one is searching for a new role. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Naiman Clarke director Kristina Steele about emerging trends based on market research and conversations with candidates and clients, current market sentiment, the “wrong” reasons that candidates might put themselves out into the market, against the backdrop of power shifting back towards employers, as well as why candidates need to be pragmatic and realistic about their prospects for higher salaries, better titles, or being better offer elsewhere. Kristina also delves into the questions that candidates can ask of themselves if they do make the decision to enter the market, how employees can and should be communicating with their superiors as they complete their reviews, what might constitute best practice for employers in the current climate, and what she sees as an exciting new financial year ahead in legal recruitment. To learn more about Naiman Clarke, including its new salary guide, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Having to wear multiple hats is nothing new for small law firm owners. In the current climate, and against the backdrop of workplace and legislative change, proactivity is fundamental for leaders looking to stay ahead. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Gallant Law founder and principal Lauren Cassimatis to discuss the evolution of her firm since its inception five years ago, the practical and professional realisations one has around the need to wear multiple hats, how one has to regularly evaluate the hats being worn and why, and what one needs to be on top of as the new financial year hits. Cassimatis also delves into striking the right balance between proactivity and reactivity, whether the idea of wearing multiple hats is becoming harder in the current climate, the need for self-care as an additional string to one’s bow, the practical steps she will be implementing in the new financial year, lessons she has learnt over the years when it comes to balancing competing responsibilities, what constitutes best practice, and what excites her about the next 12 months. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with FeeSynergy, we explore how a firm’s processes can and should be enhanced, including improvements to debtor management, payments, and the overall client user experience. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by FeeSynergy founder and director Miki Simonovski to discuss the ever-increasing importance of ensuring efficient cash flow for your business, best practice client experience when it comes to invoice design and self-service capability, and how law firm owners and business leaders are creating unnecessary headaches for themselves. Miki Simonovski also delves into current issues being seen with debtor management, payment and billing processes and models, client payments, how these issues can be overcome by legal businesses, and how firms can ensure easy wins. To learn more about FeeSynergy, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

When faced with the possibility of losing one of her senior lawyers to a leave of absence, Bree Knoester – by her admission – initially adopted a narrow, traditional mindset around what that departure would mean for her firm. Ultimately, however, she resolved to approach the matter from a wellness perspective and be true to her and her firm’s values to ensure that the business’s interests and the need for lawyers to approach their careers in idiosyncratic ways could successfully intersect. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Brave Legal founder and principal Bree Knoester and senior associate Jyoti Haikerwal about Haikerwal’s decision to take a leave of absence for her personal and educational development, how Knoester initially responded but then reframed her thinking, and why it is so important for firm owners to adopt non-traditional mindsets to such leadership and recruitment questions. Knoester and Haikerwal also discuss how best to prioritise wellness and career longevity for staff, creating supportive, hospitable environments in which staff feel supported and encouraged to speak out, viewing the intersection between business interests and non-linear pathways as an opportunity rather than a problem, and what the future looks like for firms and individuals who can successfully integrate different interests.

Understanding the needs of the business you work for, and becoming more than simply a legal practitioner, is essential for any junior lawyer looking to rise through the ranks. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back UniSuper legal counsel Chloe Giamadakis, an award-nominated in-house lawyer, to discuss how and why she realised that being commercially minded was going to be so critical to her professional development, whether law school prepares one to think beyond technical legal skills, and why commercial know-how is so important in the current climate. Giamadakis also delves into evolving expectations and understandings of what it means to be a lawyer, the first steps to take in becoming commercially minded, questions to ask of one’s self and the law department, how and where networking takes place post-pandemic, how to have conversations with other business functions, lessons she has learnt along the way, understanding the needs of various stakeholders, making time for such professional development, and why she is a better lawyer for being commercially minded. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Substantial inequities remain across Australian society, including but not limited to homelessness, energy and water justice, and disability rights. Here, we unpack where we’re at in combating pervasive social injustice and what the legal profession can be doing more of. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Justice and Equity Centre chief executive Jonathon Hunyor about how and why he became so interested in social justice work, how well Australia is faring in addressing social inequities relative to other jurisdictions, the polarisation of public debate, and the extent to which Australian practitioners want to advocate for social justice. Hunyor also delves into the state of affairs on homelessness, disability rights, civil rights, First Nations people, and energy and water justice, how lawyers can do more to help, how legal employers can and should view their corporate social responsibility, and why the Public Interest Advocacy Centre has changed its name to the Justice and Equity Centre. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

While over-indulgence with alcohol in legal circles is nothing new, it remains somewhat of a taboo topic for lawyers. Overcoming problematic consumption of alcohol is critical for employers and individuals alike to ensure a healthier, happier, and more productive profession. (Content warning: This episode contains content that may be distressing for some listeners. Discretion is advised.) In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by lawyer-turned-counsellor and coach Isabella Ferguson to discuss her journey in the legal profession, her struggles with “problematic” drinking while working as a practitioner, and how and why she now works as a counsellor and coach to legal professionals.  Ferguson also delves into the rates of problematic drinking among the legal cohort and the myriad impacts this has on lawyers (both personally and professionally), as well as the consequences for legal workplaces, the ways that legal employers can better support their workers, and what individuals can do to ensure they are living healthier existences.  Help is available via the Alcohol and Drug Information Service on 1800 250 015, as well as via Lifeline, Beyond Blue, and related resources. State and territory law societies and bar associations also have support resources available via their websites.  If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

For small law firm owners, the stakes are high in tough economic times. Here, we flesh out the impact that the current cost-of-living crisis is having on boutique practices across the country, how best to wade through this period, and why it’s so important to speak with colleagues and knowledge-share. Host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Legalite managing principal Marianne Marchesi to discuss the impact of the current economic climate on small firms and their owners, how worried firm owners are right now about the cost-of-living crisis, and why it is so important to talk about one’s situation and fears with fellow firm owners. Marchesi also discusses the need for longer-term strategies as a business owner, being both proactive and reactive with cost management, investing in the right external advisers to keep the firm afloat, and other practical approaches to ensure that your firm can not only keep its head above water but also continue to thrive in the modern marketplace. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, produced in partnership with TransPerfect Legal, we explore how important data is to businesses in FY25, the importance of good information governance to manage risk, the use of AI in modern legal work, and some advice for in-house teams on how to deal with data before, during and after a dispute or investigation. Host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back TransPerfect Legal director Tom Balmer to discuss key reflections and takeaways from the recent Corporate Counsel Summit, how worried law department leaders are about litigation/regulatory risks, why information governance is so essential in managing these risks, and questions to ask/advice to help businesses improve. We also delve into how and why AI is currently being used to deal with increasing data volumes, the limitations and risks associated, the issues with AI in sales, and some advice for businesses to prepare themselves for disputes/investigations. To learn more about TransPerfect Legal, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Award-winning GC, public speaker, and author Theo Kapodistrias learnt early how essential it was to speak with myriad stakeholders in a language they can all understand. Doing so, he says, opens the door to more successful collaboration and productivity across the board. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Evergen general counsel Theo Kapodistrias to discuss how and why he discovered the importance of being a good communicator and how to speak to others professionally, avoiding “legalese” where necessary, how the post-pandemic working world makes good communication even more critical, and the questions in-house lawyers need to ask of themselves in order to become better at communication. Kapodistrias also reflects on the steps he took to bolster his skill set, the investment of time required, learning how to speak to different business units, the flow-on effects from better understanding how to communicate and engage, how high a priority being a good communicator must be in the current climate, appreciating the different modes of communication, how and why he uses video messaging, how and why he is better off – personally and professionally – for being a good communicator, and the book he is soon to release on these matters. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, produced in partnership with LawVu, we explore new and better ways of working for law departments of all stripes and detail practical steps to ensure the legal team is a driving force – particularly at a time of inflection for such professionals. Host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back LawVu chief legal evangelist Shaun Plant to discuss his new book, How to make in-house a powerhouse: A revolutionary way of working for in-house legal teams, and why he wanted to write it, the longstanding challenges facing law departments across the board, the history of the general counsel, and whether we are at an inflection point for the law department’s relevance. Plant also details the external factors changing the working environment for in-house lawyers, his proposed framework for law departments to become more of a driving force within a business, how to address the daily operational and practical challenges for those teams, the questions that departments need to be asking of themselves to get the most value out of new approaches, and why law departments have no option but to adapt moving forward. To learn more about LawVu, click here. To learn more about Shaun Plant’s book, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Creating a workplace that is safe, respectful and inclusive is not just about mitigating risk and exposure – it helps a business provide a better return on investment. Here, a BigLaw partner details the importance of nurturing the workplace and those within it and how to do so. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Hall & Wilcox partner Fay Calderone to discuss her new book, Broken to Safe, how and why she decided to write it, the state of affairs for combating workplace health and safety issues in Australia, and the appetite among business leaders to enact meaningful change. Calderone also delves into her proposed framework for businesses to ensure they can be more high-performing and increasingly supportive of all staff members, the questions that business leaders need to be asking in order to implement change, the extent to which staff can and should be engaged in identifying the best pathways forward, and whether or not Australia is headed in the right direction in fostering safe, respectful, and inclusive workplaces. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Join us for a special episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, in partnership with LegalVision, where we reveal how your law department can streamline high-volume BAU work and focus on impactful tasks without relying on technology. Host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes Emmanuel Giuffre, LegalVision’s Head of Legal and General Manager, to discuss the innovative methods used by this leading firm. Learn about low-tech transformation projects, building a strong team foundation, and making data-driven decisions. Discover how aligning productivity with business priorities can revolutionise your department. Manny shares key questions to evaluate transformation outcomes, practical steps to initiate these projects, real-life case studies, and insights on LegalVision’s support for general counsel and in-house teams. Don’t miss this chance to enhance your legal function’s efficiency and effectiveness. Tune in now to unlock the secrets of in-house legal transformation. To learn more about LegalVision, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Australia requires much more legal clarity when it comes to making decisions in the best interests of critically ill and dying children, argues one author and academic. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Melbourne Law School honorary research fellow Dr James Cameron, who has authored a new book, Critically Ill Children and the Law: Medical Decision-making and the Best Interests Principle, about the various gaps in the law when it comes to making decisions in the best interests of sick children, the challenges this presents for both parents and medical practitioners, and various examples of how this can play out in practice. Cameron also details the extent to which change might be on the horizon, the legislative and regulatory changes that are urgently needed, how to determine what is reasonable in the current climate post-pandemic, and his proposed framework to address the legal challenges and gaps currently being witnessed in the medical system. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

How can law firm partners, in practices big and small, lead on psychological and psychosocial hazards when remuneration structures revolve around profit generation? Andrew Douglas has ideas for how such workplace leaders can meaningfully dedicate themselves to making a difference for their staff rather than simply relying on slogans. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back FCW managing principal Andrew Douglas to discuss his concerns about partner capacity to lead on wellness issues given remuneration structures and frameworks, how his firm has attempted to foster and embed a new culture and environment, and whether legal workplaces are incompatible with optimal wellness given the focus on profit. Douglas also delves into what he has learnt about the role of a law firm leader like himself, making time rather than finding time to manage staff needs, navigating such needs in a post-pandemic world, better aligning purpose with profit (and everything in between), firm leaders’ scepticism to make necessary changes, and the practical steps that fellow managing partners must take. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Jennifer Tutty was once told that she could never be a lawyer and a DJ at the same time. Now, having practised for 20 years and grown a successful practice, she has pertinent guidance for firm owners about how to build one’s brand, put one’s self out there, and flourish. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Studio Legal founder and principal Jennifer Tutty to discuss the inception and growth of her boutique firm, how working as a DJ and networking in nightclubs helped build her brand and clientele as a new lawyer, what it taught her about the importance of branding, why music and creativity are so uplifting for her, and how mindful such activities are. Tutty also reflects on how being a DJ has helped her run a successful firm, navigate people’s scepticism, what she’s learnt from her experiences over 20 years in law, the importance of wellness in small firms, what has surprised her in her two decades of practice, her guidance to other firm owners ahead of FY2024–25, and what excites her about the future of her own practice and her firm. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Clayton Utz, we reflect on how cyber security and data privacy will, in the future, impact every point of professional life and thus require more forward-looking approaches. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Clayton Utz partner and head of cyber and data governance Brenton Steenkamp to discuss how and why he ended up in cyber, why the work is so purposeful and meaningful for him, what Clayton Utz offers clients in this space, and why the BigLaw firm is investing heavily in cyber. Steenkamp also details what a day in the life of a cyber partner looks like, whether it is becoming more difficult to work in the cyber space, the indisputable need for preparation, getting into the head of threat actors in order to better serve clients, what conversations with clients typically look like, building resilience, flexing one’s muscles, and the opportunities for cyber practitioners moving forward. To learn more about Clayton Utz’s work in this space, click here.

As lawyer Melisa Sloan has discovered, making time to properly reflect on significant rites of passage – from buying your first home to caring for an ageing parent – not only offers pertinent personal lessons but also makes one a better professional. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Madison Sloan Lawyers founder Melisa Sloan about her journey in law to date, how and why she discovered the importance of reflecting on the big moments in life, what she has gleaned from such reflections, and what others can learn from such experiences. Sloan also stresses the importance of regular reflection, how busy professionals like lawyers can make time (rather than find time) to take stock of life’s happenings, why it is so meaningful and purposeful, how to identify moments in life to reflect on, and the practical steps to take in doing so. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Earlier this week, Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand, Space Connect, hosted the Space Summit 2024. At that event, three legal experts discussed the latest and most pressing ethical considerations pertaining to the proliferation of activity in space and the accompanying legal developments. Panel moderator Jerome Doraisamy spoke with Professor Melissa de Zwart from the University of Adelaide, King & Wood Mallesons partner Annabel Griffin, and Akin senior counsel Dr Michael Mineiro about the headline current ethical issues and concerns in space law, how well placed Australian laws and regulations are to deal with the state of affairs, balancing free enterprise against notions of no ownership in space, and the laws regarding the mining of space resources. The panel also delved into national security considerations, the ethical questions about sending humans to the moon, future tech such as environmental modification in space, and future predictions and warnings about ethics as it pertains to the “space race” and beyond. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, produced in partnership with LexisNexis, we explore how law departments can successfully utilise emerging technologies like generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) to provide optimal value as a business function. Host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back LexisNexis Asia and Pacific managing director Greg Dickason to discuss the provider’s recent ANZ Sentiment Survey, the extent to which the use of emerging technologies is skyrocketing among corporate counsel, whether they realise the breadth of opportunities from such tech, what in-house counsel need to understand about AI at this critical juncture, and how teams can best determine what they need such emerging tech for. Greg also details the need to invest time in such products to save time later, the main use cases for GenAI for corporate counsel as they currently stand, identifying the right solution, appreciating how the right solution can help solve broader problems across the law department, the risks of generic products, saving money for the business by way of the right product, the importance of a unified user experience, and navigating the broader challenges of AI regulation. To learn more about LexisNexis’ offerings in this space, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

With a new financial year just one month away, now is the time for sole practitioners and small-firm owners to take stock of the year that was and plan for the year ahead. For this award-winning practitioner, not losing sight of what one wants to achieve and living life and one’s business by design is front of mind in ensuring ongoing success. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Conveyed founder and chief overlord Melissa Barlas – who won the Sole Practitioner of the Year category at the 2023 Australian Law Awards – about her primary reflections on FY2023–24 and what has been learnt, meaningfully triaging urgent priorities, striking a balance between proactivity and reactivity in formulating a business plan, and the importance of aligning one’s personal life with the objectives and outcomes of a legal business. Barlas also delves into what FY2024–25 will look like for her firm and what her headline focus will be, how she determined the pathway forward and why, the questions SME firm owners need to be asking of themselves and their businesses in building a strategy, looking after one’s self, the extent to which one can take notice of what’s happening socioculturally or politically, opportunities on the horizon, and what she’s looking forward to in the coming year. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Dr Nadia Stojanova, a Victorian barrister, recently completed a doctorate in law reform and regulatory changes to address workplace bullying. Here, she details the precursor factors to such misconduct in the workplace, the “patchwork” system of laws governing this space, and what workplaces can and must do to stamp out bullying. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with barrister at the Victorian Bar, Dr Nadia Stojanova, about her personal and professional passion for employment and industrial relations matters and how she got into such work, how she navigates said matters, why she undertook a doctorate in this space, and the state of affairs nationwide regarding workplace bullying. Stojanova also reflects on whether the legislative and regulatory frameworks are not keeping pace with evolving workplace environments, the “patchwork” of laws, what needs to be urgently addressed, the precursor factors to bullying in the workplace, the various elements of the risk management-based workplace design her thesis promotes, whether such a design should be led by legislators and regulators or by businesses, and her optimism that Australian workplaces can adopt her strategy for addressing such misconduct. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On top of being the GC in the healthcare sector, Nina Stamell also works as a birth doula, supporting women and their partners in the childbirth and postpartum journey. The wearing of both hats, she has discovered, has broadened her perspective on what it means to be an informed, considered in-house professional. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back MyHealth general counsel and company secretary Nina Stamell to discuss her work in the healthcare sector and what she enjoys about it, what it means to be a birth doula, what she finds so meaningful about supporting women through the birthing journey and how she approaches individual cases. Stamell also reflects on how she balances her schedule as a senior in-house professional and doula simultaneously, how lawyers can sell the undertaking of such roles on top of their in-house duties to workplace superiors, the main takeaways and transferable professional lessons from her work as a doula to her role as a GC and co sec, the importance of informed consent, finding pursuits that are meaningful and rewarding, and why she’s a better legal professional as a result of her work as a doula.

Wotton + Kearney has grown from half a dozen staff in one office to over 700 staff in 10 offices across three countries. Here, its chief executive partner discusses the BigLaw player’s growth strategy, recent Singapore expansion, sale of a minority stake to a private equity firm, AI and transformation investments, and more. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes Wotton + Kearney chief executive partner David Kearney to discuss his own journey in law, how and why W+K was founded and what its vision was from the start, its push to establish itself as a major insurance player in Australia, why it expanded into Singapore and the opportunities to be realised, as well as various practice areas it has recently moved into with appointments from BigLaw rivals. Kearney also reflects on the firm’s sale of a minority stake to Straight Bat and why that sale made sense for the firm, transitioning from a partnership to a corporate entity, whether such a transition makes sense for all large law firms, W+K’s investment in artificial intelligence and innovation, why such evolution is so exciting, the firm’s approach to workplace and culture matters, and more. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Naiman Clarke, we explore the shifting market dynamics that can and will impact how big, or small, lawyers’ salary rises might be in the new financial year and how to adjust expectations accordingly. Host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Naiman Clarke managing director Elvira Naiman to reflect on how the market has changed since the start of this financial year, the disconnect between employers and employees regarding expectations for remuneration, the power shift being witnessed back in favour of employers, and the increasing difficulty in finding equitable and reasonable solutions for pay packets. Naiman also delves into the extent to which employees and candidates need to temper their expectations ahead of FY2024–25, the questions one should ask ahead of a salary review, how employers can better manage expectations by facilitating honest conversations, and why the revised stage-three tax cuts might influence the amount one gets in a pay rise. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

More international vocational opportunities are coming up post-pandemic. Here, a senior BigLaw practitioner reflects on his years living and working in Japan, what he learnt (personally and professionally), and how and why more up-and-coming lawyers should consider such moves. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with K&L Gates special counsel Nathaniel Rowe about how “fascinating” a country Japan is and why he fell in love with it during his formative years, the cultural differences between Japan and Australia, the myriad business and government roles he held while living there, and what it’s like to practice in a global city. Rowe also discusses the vocational insights and perspective one gets from working in such a legal environment, the challenges he faced while working there, the questions Australian lawyers should ask of themselves if they want to make such a geographic and professional move, how to secure secondments, why he’s a better lawyer for having worked in Japan, and why there has perhaps never been a better time to live and work in the Land of the Rising Sun. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As an accomplished violinist and composer, Jad Al Masri understands the importance and clinically proven benefits of play. It allows him, he says, “to see opportunities that others would find it difficult to see”, thereby offering a perspective on legal practice that will set him apart as a new practitioner. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with law graduate, violinist, composer, and creative director Jad Al Masri about his interest in entering the legal profession, how he became a violinist and what inspires and motivates him to play, the “euphoria” he feels while playing, his work as a composer and his process for producing music, and what he hopes to achieve when he has “jam sessions” to experiment with different sounds. Al Masri also reflects on the extent to which external, environmental factors influence his musical works, what he hopes to achieve in music (including as a creative director), how and why he has to make a concerted effort to look after himself, striving to be the best professional on all fronts, how young lawyers can make their mark on the world, why they should have creative outlets, and his broader advice on the value one can glean from play and experimentation. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this Momentum Media exclusive, produced by Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand Defence Connect, former prime minister Scott Morrison discusses a range of topics, including that he believes the People’s Republic of China and the United States of America are already in a “Cold War under a different guise”. Host Robert Dougherty and Australia’s 30th prime minister, Scott Morrison, discuss: Morrison’s departure from politics and plans for the future, his new role as non-executive vice-chairman at American Global Strategies and as an adviser with venture capital firm DYNE. A recent visit to South Korea, Australia’s relationships in the Indo-Pacific, as well as speculation surrounding defence companies Hanwha and Austal. About a modern, grey-zone Cold War between the United States and the People’s Republic of China. Australia’s increasingly complex relationship with the People’s Republic of China and a recent incident between a PLA fighter jet and a Royal Australian Navy helicopter. The empowerment of Australia’s closest neighbourhood partnerships with Nauru and the Solomon Islands and maintaining the Indo-Pacific status quo. Australian involvement in, and the behind-the-scenes formation of, the AUKUS trilateral partnership, its original intent and vision. The US presidential election and possible re-election of Donald Trump. The accomplishments and downfalls of Morrison’s career in politics and during his time as the 30th prime minister of Australia. Morrison’s own experiences with Australian Defence Force equipment such as F-35 stealth aircraft, Bushmaster protected mobility vehicles and a personal favourite – the Nimitz Class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Maddi Thimont works 25 hours per week as head of legal for a data insights and analytics company. Constructing the working week in such a way allows her not only to be more present for her family but also for her workplace. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Sagacity head of legal Maddi Thimont, who is based in the United Kingdom, about how she came to work for Sagacity on a reduced schedule, why such a working week is suitable for her (personally and professionally), and the balance it can offer to in-house lawyers. Thimont also fleshes out how and why she’s a better professional for working less than a full-time load, her elevated capacity to compartmentalise across the board, whether one has to sacrifice salary in order to have a shorter week and what the workload looks like, how in-house lawyers can go about securing such working arrangements for themselves, and why law departments will benefit in offering such arrangements do prospective and existing staff. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

For 25 years, Gareth Woodham has worked as a property valuer in multiple Australian jurisdictions, and he is regularly called in as an expert to provide valuations in family law matters and commercial property disputes. Here, he fleshes out what such work looks like and what practitioners can learn from an outside expert like himself. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Augmen Consulting principal valuer Gareth Woodham about what a day in the life of a property valuer looks like, what his process is in valuing properties and the extent to which such determinations are reactive and/or proactive, and his involvement in legal proceedings. Woodham explains how and why valuers like himself are engaged for legal proceedings, the types of litigation and family law disputes that he typically works on, the increase in family law matters in recent times and what his litigation work is like, the “high stakes” in reaching valuations, how best practitioners can work with valuers, and his advice to lawyers involved in disputes that valuers are engaged for. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In the face of the ongoing scourges of domestic, family, and sexual violence committed by men against women across the country, a law student-led advocacy group is looking to break down legislative barriers, amend policies in institutions, and provide platforms for the wider community. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with law students and WGG Australia founders Giorgia Wilson and Sarah Welfare about how and why they both entered the legal profession, the proliferation of family, domestic and sexual violence against women in Australia and the gaps they have identified in addressing such scourges, and what their advocacy group is doing to address it. Wilson and Welfare also delve into who should have responsibility for addressing such matters, what they have learnt (both personally and professionally) from their advocacy, how they look after themselves given the sensitivity of the issues being addressed, why men in law need to be better involved in combating these scourges, how they plan to expand WGG Australia across the country, and their messages to emerging lawyers everywhere about being better advocates. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

It can be easy for small-business owners and leaders to expect too much of themselves or overreact if they are seemingly falling short in perfectly managing the juggle of multiple duties – particularly if one is a working parent. However, there are ways to work through such thought processes and perceptions. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Curae Law director Lucy Dickens to discuss why it is so important for firm leaders to be open about struggling to manage the juggle, recent examples where she has felt that she was burning out, showing vulnerability so that your teams can feel comfortable doing the same, and how the need to wear so many hats can exacerbate difficulty in balancing all interests. Dickens also reflects on a recent instance of catastrophising and what she learnt from that experience, gaining perspective on the seriousness of issues that can and do arise, questions to ask of one’s self to determine pathways forward, how tricky it can be for working parents to navigate such concerns while also being small-firm owners and leaders, and the need to find people you can trust and talk to. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

A former musician himself, Julian Hewitt now represents big-name Australian artists, including Flume, RUFUS DU SOL, and Tash Sultana. Here, he unpacks the myriad directions that daily life as a music lawyer can take. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Media Arts Lawyers partner Julian Hewitt about his own musical journey up until the time he became a practising lawyer, whether his background in the industry provides him with a perspective that sets him apart from other practitioners, and the extent to which a music lawyer has to be a jack-of-all-trades. Hewitt also reflects on how dynamic the music industry is, the impact of external environmental factors on his clients, the many ways in which people make a career in creative spaces, helping clients break into overseas markets and identifying opportunities to allow them to do so, and his best practice principles that other lawyers can learn from. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Since 2007, experienced in-house counsel David Sinclair has been leading expeditions to the Arctic and Antarctic. He’s discovered, during his multiple ventures to the polar regions, that there are more similarities between leading such trips and in-house legal work than one might think. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Islands and Ice Travel director David Sinclair, who is also an experienced legal counsel who has worked for BHP, Newcrest Mining, Orica, BlueScope, and Energy Australia. He speaks about how and why he decided to set up a travel company that explores the polar regions, the perspective he’s gleaned on the challenges facing those corners of the globe, and how he balances his in-house roles with running his travel company. Sinclair also delves into being able to engage with people from all over the world that he otherwise would not have met, what he’s learnt (personally and professionally) that have improved him as a legal practitioner, the transferable skills he’s picked up from his time in the polar regions, how other in-house lawyers can craft their own personal adventures, realising one’s sense of self, and the importance of being kind and creative. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Local Court solicitors often do not have enough time to communicate with clients in ways that might assuage fears. If those practitioners can better adapt their approaches, there will be positive flow-on consequences – not just for those clients, but for the community at large. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Legal Aid NSW Local Court criminal lawyer Matthew Wade and lived experience expert Jody Letts about why it is so important for lawyers to be better at delivering bad news, whether bedside manner is lacking for lawyers, whether lawyers have the capacity and bandwidth to learn how to be more empathetic in their news delivery, and the consequences of not delivering bad news in the right ways. The guests also discuss the solutions for lawyers to improve on this front, evolving and adapting one’s approach, questions a lawyer should be prepared to answer, what works and doesn’t work, and how and why the community will be better placed if lawyers can get better at delivering bad news. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As a corporate lawyer, the idea of moving into a not-for-profit (NFP) role initially didn’t appear logical to Elisabeth Flett. However, since making the decision to transition and settling into such work, she has discovered that working as a lawyer in the NFP space has provided her with an elevated sense of personal and vocational purpose. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Cancer Council NSW general counsel and company secretary Elisabeth Flett about the day-to-day work she does with her organisation, being at the coalface of such important work for Australian communities, how and why she came to transition from a corporate role to work in the NFP space, and the questions one has to ask of one’s self in making such vocational decisions. Flett also delves into overcoming self-limiting thought processes about what a legal career can or should look like, looking for NFP opportunities rather than waiting for them to present themselves, and why making this career transition has been so rewarding and purpose-driven for her. If you like this episode, show your support by  rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The passage of legislation allowing for a right to disconnect for Australian workers provides law firm owners across the country an opportunity to challenge the paradigms that they hold around flexible working and design a workplace that works for their employees and fosters productivity, argues one director. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back in house nous director and employment legal counsel Natasha Hannah to discuss what is meant by the term “right to disconnect”, whether and how professional services firms are responding to the passage of its legislation, the concerns that employers have, and hurdles to be overcome in the new environment. Hannah also details the contractual and policy changes that small-firm owners will have to undertake, the various conversations that should be had both with one’s staff members and a firm’s clients, how to navigate those conversations and textual changes, designing a workplace accordingly, striking the right balance with generational attitudes and business needs, undertaking such changes against the backdrop of other firm concerns, and seeing the new legislation as a business opportunity. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Having reflected on the relationships in her personal and professional life that have helped her feel “most secure, supported, and passionate”, Giovanna Bongiorno has advice for the next generation of lawyers on whom they need to invest time in so as to thrive. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Curtin University commerce/law student and KPMG employment tax consultant Giovanna Bongiorno about the relationships that have been most meaningful and inspiring for her, how and why she learnt about the importance of a three-tiered relational network, and how those tiers intersect and complement each other. Bongiorno also discusses the extent to which the next generation of lawyers are cognisant of the need for these tiers and whether they invest time in them, whether virtual learning impedes one’s ability to develop networks, practical steps to develop and maintain networks, carving out time to invest in relationships, and how and why she is a better emerging professional for having a three-tiered relational network. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The domestic and global appetite to consume sports and entertainment keeps growing. As such, legal work – in its myriad forms – will continue to expand alongside it, says a global firm partner. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Squire Patton Boggs partner Tony Chong to discuss what’s happening in sports and entertainment law, the issues and challenges being faced on the ground by practitioners, the need for legal teams to continually anticipate evolutions in the sporting and entertainment realms, and staying on top of the social, cultural and even political zeitgeist in understanding how the environment will evolve. Chong also details the need to immerse one’s self in the industry, engaging with other practice groups, the potential need to be a jack-of-all-trades, taking a case-by-case approach, how legal work in these spaces will continue to grow, and why it is so exciting to be at the forefront of such change. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In an evolving sociocultural landscape, criminal lawyers must continually adapt their approaches to clients and service to the broader community. Recent rises in instances of offending by youths, for example, offer a chance for such practitioners to ensure best practice and step up their game. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Gallant Law senior in-house advocate Jonathan Brancato about how and why he became a criminal lawyer, his passion for advocacy, what’s happening on the ground for practitioners and the reported increase in offending by youths, and why practitioners are seeing such increases. Brancato also delves into how practitioners can respond to such changing circumstances, the need to adapt one’s approach to client management, approaches he has adopted that have worked and not worked, broader sociocultural challenges that criminal lawyers have to grapple with in the current age, opportunities for best practice that can be grasped, and the need to take a more holistic approach in servicing one’s broader community. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Much is made of what law firms can and must do to support their clients. But what of the client itself? Here, we explore the responsibility of law departments to create and maintain better relationships with their external providers. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Cognetic Legal & Consulting founder and principal Damien Sullivan to discuss why it is so important for law departments to ensure their clients want to remain on their legal services panels, the things law firms are looking out for from their clients at this juncture, and how and why law firms should be comfortable providing constructive criticism and feedback where necessary. Sullivan also reflects on how front of mind such concerns are for law departments right now and how high a priority it should be, some of the things that those departments are currently getting wrong, the need to strip things back to basics and get the fundamentals right, and other practical steps that in-house teams can and must employ, as well as how those legal teams can better balance internal pressure against how they treat their external providers. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Sven Burchartz knew he wanted to be a lawyer in year 10. Since then, his vocational journey has taught him a lot about what it takes to succeed as a business leader – including how leaning into his passion for motorsports has aided his growth. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Kalus Kenny Intelex principal Sven Burchartz about how he realised he wanted to be a lawyer as a teenager, whether the principals of growing and managing boutique law firms have evolved in recent decades, being different and memorable as a business, adapting to what’s happening within one’s practice, and knowing the right questions to ask of one’s self. Burchartz also reflects on his passion for motorsports, how he is mindful that it’s the only time he is truly on his own, how he is better personally and professionally for having time behind the wheel, and what other lawyers can learn from race car driving. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with LexisNexis, host Lauren Croft speaks with LexisNexis executive vice-president and chief technology officer Jeff Reihl, executive vice-president and chief product officer Jamie Buckley, and Asia-Pacific managing director Greg Dickason about all things generative artificial intelligence (AI) and its transformative impact on legal workplaces. The guests dive deep into the world of emerging tech and explore how generative AI is reshaping legal workflows, the competitive advantages it offers for lawyers, challenges and opportunities in the Australian legal market, and the importance of retrieval-augmented generation (RAG) for AI accuracy, as well as share vital advice for integrating AI into legal practice. Reihl, Buckley and Dickason also share their perspectives on the future of AI in the legal profession, potential areas of significant impact, and best practices for law firms navigating the evolving landscape of technology and AI. To learn more about LexisNexis and its work in this space, click here.

Given how much the professional services marketplace is set to change in years to come, emerging law graduates must ensure they are open-minded and adaptable to change so that their vocational capabilities are suitable for the evolving landscape. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes Law Wise Youth founder and creative director Chami Rupasinghe to discuss her motivation for undertaking a postgraduate law degree, her desire to undertake community service, leaning into her creative side, ensuring that self-care doesn’t get sidelined, and how and why her organisation, Law Wise Youth, came about. Rupasinghe also fleshes out the need for careers and vocational information to be more readily available to those coming through the ranks, her reflections on launching various projects and an e-commerce business in the current climate, having a diversified professional offering, what questions one must ask of one’s self in better crafting their vocational offering, the need to have business skills up one’s sleeve, the importance of personal branding, and her advice for others in ensuring their skill set is fit for purpose. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Here, an award-winning young lawyer reflects on how she has developed and grown her personal and professional networks and how this has allowed her firm to flourish. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Crossover Law Group founder and principal Marial Lewis to discuss the importance of both personal and professional connections across jurisdictions, how soon boutique firm owners should be looking to develop such relationships following the inception of their practices, and what such firm owners can learn from her experience as a migration lawyer looking to bolster her network. Lewis also delves into the practical steps to start garnering such relationships, how to balance this priority against other urgent priorities for boutique firm owners, thinking differently as leaders of small legal practices in a post-pandemic climate, and why she is a better lawyer for having invested time in the development of her personal and professional relationships. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As businesses resume travel activities in the post-pandemic world, the landscape of corporate travel has significantly evolved. In this special episode, brought to you from Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand, HR Leader, Rodger Cook, general manager of global security services at World Travel Protection, delves into the intricacies of business travel. With costs soaring and risks constantly evolving, leaders must put their best foot forward to ensure their workforce remains safe and secure in business travel. Cook’s extensive travel experience has been pivotal in understanding the needs of businesses when they send employees abroad. He emphasises the importance of duty of care, ensuring companies are well informed about the risks associated with travel and how to mitigate them effectively. He also discusses the benefit of transferable skills, as his experience boasts diversity in professions. Such transferable skills are becoming increasingly crucial as companies face talent shortages. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Having come from national and global law firms, the leaders of award-winning boutique Hazelbrook Legal understand what it takes to succeed as a BigLaw business and as practitioners, and they are leveraging those lessons to build a strategic approach that befits a smaller firm environment. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Hazelbrook Legal managing partner Hugh Griffin and partner Lucy Adamson about their respective experiences in national and global law firms and what they learnt from such roles, how they are looking to bring their experiences from those bigger practices to the boutique environment, and how best to “get the best of both worlds” in having a personalised workplace culture while working on matters traditionally seen as the remit of bigger players. The pair also flesh out how to stay true to a firm’s values, how well the firm has performed since its inception 10 years ago, what works and doesn’t work in crafting a winning culture, the frequency of check-ins on whether the strategy is working, and what motivates them to ensure that their boutique practice can continue to win big work while maintaining its unique cultural approach. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As a lawyer and veterinary nurse, Michelle Neil is dedicated to serving the community around her. Having experienced significant hardship in her early life but then finding the right support systems, hearing others’ stories, and ultimately being able to share her own helped her realise that the legal profession is open to anyone who wants to help others. (Content warning: This episode contains content that may be disturbing or distressing to some listeners. Discretion is advised.) In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Vitality Law lawyer Michelle Neil to discuss what she calls her “unorthodox” personal journey, the impact that her upbringing had on her, what “high-controlling” environments are like, learning how to break free, and how she eventually managed to carve out her own path and enter the legal profession in her 30s. Neil also reflects on her work as a freelance veterinary nurse and why such work is so meaningful to her, why law became a worthwhile vocational path for her to pursue, lessons learnt from rebuilding one’s life, opportunities for next-generation lawyers to flourish, how her experiences inform her approach to lawyering and client service delivery, and ultimately why – no matter one’s background – there is a place for anyone in this profession. Help is available via Lifeline on 13 11 14 and Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636. Each law society and bar association also has resources available on their respective websites. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Caitlin McConnel has had a vocational journey unlike any other, having served as a Federal Court judge’s associate and now working at Clayton Utz while also being a sixth-generation farmer and working on her family’s property in regional Queensland. Her two vocations give her a unique perspective on law, national needs, and what’s needed moving forward. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Clayton Utz senior associate Caitlin McConnel about her journey in law to date, how she became involved in her family’s farming work and business, how she balances farm work with legal work, and what lawyers can learn from farmers. McConnel also delves into the myriad agricultural issues and challenges she sees both on the land and in her work, what is needed to address such matters moving forward, her perception of ever-increasing climate litigation and work in the natural capital markets space, and serving the community both as a farmer and as a legal professional. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Having spent years in the hospitality scene, including as an owner of a nightclub and bar, Jeremy Koadlow understands the importance of authenticity, appreciating where people are coming from, and how best to serve the community. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with MA Legal associate Jeremy Koadlow about his professional journey and work in hospitality venues, what such work taught him about managing and serving people, the perspective he gleaned that other lawyers can learn from, and how important and valuable non-traditional pathways can be for one’s journey. Koadlow also reflects on the need for authenticity in one’s interactions with clients, the place for resilience in one’s work, why it is OK (and indeed useful) to have experienced a non-linear pathway in law and in one’s career, and how best those coming through the ranks can gain more perspective on working life and bolster their offerings for clients. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

For small law firms, it is not so much a question of if your practice will be impacted by a cyber incident but when. As such, firm owners must be prepared to respond so they can return to normal business operations as quickly as possible and with minimal disruption. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with McGrathNicol partner Brendan Payne about the biggest lessons learnt from cyber incidents and subsequent business responses in the last 12 months, the extent to which law firms are prepared (or not) to manage cyber incidents, and how well law firms are doing compared to other professional services counterparts in putting in place the right proactive measures to prevent attacks. Payne also explains the issues surrounding structured versus unstructured data that law firms will have to grapple with, the current hurdles facing law firm owners when it comes to effectively managing existing risks, questions that firm owners should be asking of themselves so they can take the right practical steps, and how much education should be undertaken versus using external providers. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In the competitive landscape of talent acquisition and retention, Australian businesses are increasingly recognising the importance of an effective onboarding process. Here, in this special episode brought to you by Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand, HR Leader, host Jack Campbell sits down with Lauren Karan, director at Karan & Co, to discuss just how crucial it is to get this step right. Karan emphasises that onboarding should commence the moment a candidate signs their contract. This period is delicate, as new hires are often counter-offered by their current employers and have yet to establish a relationship with their new manager. With the rise of remote and hybrid work models due to the pandemic, onboarding has faced new challenges. Maintaining communication is key. Whether through team chats or scheduled video calls, it’s vital to ensure new hires feel integrated and supported, even when working from a distance. However, the responsibility of onboarding should not be shouldered by HR alone. Managers play a pivotal role in the process. Karan argues that managers should take the initiative to connect with new hires, scheduling regular check-ins and being readily available to answer questions. This not only helps the new employee settle in but also demonstrates the manager’s commitment to their success. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Very few students and new lawyers are crystal clear on what they want to do for the entirety of their careers. Putting one’s self out there and experimenting with different options not only helps one discover different vocational pathways but also gives one a better sense of self and purpose for a legal career. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Jonah Farry (QUT law student, HopgoodGanim law clerk, and QUT Law, Innovation and Technology Society co-founder) about how and why he became interested in innovation as part of his education journey, the “gaping holes” he’s seeing for the next generation of legal professionals, why trial and error in finding one’s career path is so important, and whether students are cognisant of the need to get out and try new things. Farry also reflects on his own journey of trial and error and what he has learnt from those processes, the opportunities he has been exposed to and how he is better placed as an emerging practitioner, how easy or difficult it can be to put one’s self out there, challenges for emerging lawyers to overcome in seeking new and exciting opportunities, the questions those students and grads can be asking of themselves, and why such work can be so uplifting and rewarding. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In 2008, Ecuador enshrined the rights of nature in its constitution. But where is such jurisprudential thinking at in Australia? Here, property and commercial lawyer Mieke Elzer discusses the idea of nature’s rights at law, particularly in the wake of the successful Sharma appeal. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Attwood Marshall lawyer Mieke Elzer about the myriad forms of environmental law and how the earth law stream emerges from it, what is meant by ecological jurisprudence and where we’re at with such legal considerations, the notion that the natural environment – from trees to oceans – can or should have legal standing, and where Australia sits in relation to global counterparts on such questions. Elzer also delves into the likelihood or otherwise that the natural environment can or will be recognised in Australian law, increasing litigation being seen or to be seen in this space, what it would take for a test case to emerge on the legal standing of the natural environment, bringing the judiciary along for the journey in shifting mindsets, and how all legal practitioners can be more environmentally conscious in their daily operations – both for the community and for themselves.

According to Maria Jockel, immigration law is a “complex, highly regulated area of law, which is totally and utterly underappreciated” regarding its significance for nation-building in Australia. In the face of the government’s recent moves in this space, work for immigration lawyers will continue to be complex but also stimulating, she says. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with BDO global and national immigration law leader Maria Jockel about her personal story of growing up in displaced persons camps, how and why she came to work in immigration law, the importance of “nation-building”, what the federal government’s 10-year strategy for immigration law looks like, and what it means for lawyers in this space. Jockel also details the state of affairs for corporate compliance with immigration matters and what practitioners need to know, practical steps to be taken with regard to being across the myriad of legislation, policy and flagged changes, the need to be “brave-hearted”, and what excites her about the future experience of immigration lawyers in Australia. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

When working in a large law department in a big Australian company, ensuring that the legal team’s work remains aligned with business objectives requires optimal collaboration and communication. Here, three general counsel from Tabcorp reflect on their work and how they work together to achieve such ends. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Tabcorp group general counsel Ivana Kovacevic, general counsel of technology procurement, data, and privacy Fiona Tyas, and general counsel of M&A, treasury, and corporate services Tom Boyd to discuss the foremost challenges being faced by large law departments as 2024 gets into full swing, the road maker’s dilemma, data analysis and other required legal transformation projects. The conversation also fleshes out prioritising cyber concerns, how market factors can influence a company’s movements and performance, identifying and working towards strategic priorities, best practice approaches for achieving such priorities, aligning business and legal strategies, bringing the broader law department along for the ride, effective leadership of emerging counsel in the new normal, and lessons learnt since the start of the year when it comes to keeping a “laser focus” on the end goal. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The adverse consequences on one’s holistic health from being overly sedentary are well established. In the modern working world, where lawyers are tethered to devices and the separation between home and work is blurred, being physically active is more essential than ever before. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by TEDx speaker, personal trainer, fitness presenter and author Lizzie Williamson about how a lack of physical activity during the day can have deleterious consequences for professional services workers, how social media can exacerbate how one is feeling, and why it can be so difficult for lawyers to get up and move during the working day. Williamson also delves into the flow-on consequences for lawyers who are overly sedentary, overcoming a lack of motivation, the impact of negative motivation on one’s psyche, the roadblocks in the way of good practices, tips to get started on a more active journey, how leaders can encourage small steps for their teams, overcoming perfectionism, and realising what kind of day lawyers want to have. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

There are so many amazingly successful women in the finance industry, but only a small number have a strong brand and online presence in this traditionally male-dominated industry.    As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we want to help more women raise their profile and showcase the incredible professionals in this space.   In this episode, partnered by Mortgage Choice (part of the REA Group), we’re picking the brain of its executive manager, corporate communications, events & franchise marketing, Sally Chadwick, to find out: How to build a brand presence.  The benefits of having a strong brand presence. Top tips to help you get started today. And much more!

Helen Tung – a barrister, space lawyer, and College of Law lecturer in international arbitration – is brimming with excitement about the myriad vocational pathways currently available in space law. For practitioners of all stripes (particularly women lawyers, for whom there are no barriers to entry), space law is a rich, stimulating and rewarding emerging field, she says. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, and in conjunction with International Women’s Day, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Ms Tung about how and why she got into space law, the issues, challenges and emerging trends she is seeing in this field, and how lawyers across the board can transition to work in this space, regardless of their expertise and backgrounds. Ms Tung also delves into why she is so passionate about seeing more women practitioners involved in space law and how the traditional barriers to entry aren’t as apparent in this field, how she informs next-generation lawyers about space law, and her predictions for how the emerging field of space law will evolve in years to come. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, produced in partnership with Xakia, we explore newly released research detailing how legal teams with 10 or fewer staff manage digital solutions and how mature their use of technology is at this critical juncture. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Xakia founder and chief executive Jodie Baker about the need to examine how digitally mature small in-house legal teams are, given where the market is at, her key takeaways from the research conducted by Agile Market Intelligence, how staffing levels can influence a team’s level of digital maturity, as well as the impact of budgetary constraints. Ms Baker also delves into the varying relationships small teams have with technology solutions such as business tools, digital signature, matter management, contract management, reporting and analytics, spend management, and artificial intelligence, where small teams are digitally mature, where they are not, and the potential reasons that small teams might not be adopting some technology as fast as others. To learn more about Xakia, click here. To read Xakia’s white paper, titled Legal Tech for Teams Under 10, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As next-generation professionals enter the workforce at a time of monumental technological and professional change, lawyers coming through the ranks not only have an opportunity to think outside the box and be more creative in crafting a vocational path – but they arguably have a duty to do so. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Best Wilson Buckley Family Law graduate solicitor Natalia Hutchison to discuss how and why she became a family lawyer, what thinking big as an emerging practitioner means to her and why she thinks it is so important in the current climate for those coming through the ranks to embody, and how innovation feeds into such an attitude. Ms Hutchison also reflects on her journey of travelling multiple hours per day from rural Queensland to get to work, how her perception of the profession has shifted over time, the issues and challenges standing in the way of new lawyers being able to think big, lessons she has learnt, practical ways to think outside the box, the need to be adaptable and flexible, overcoming reluctance or scepticism about one’s capacity to think big, catering to one’s wellness needs, and what excites her about the opportunities in front of next-generation lawyers. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Legalwise Seminars, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Legalwise Seminars managing director Jacquelyn Simon about what lawyers need to know about continuing professional development (CPD) and offers tips for them ahead of the looming deadline. The pair discuss how the accumulation of one’s CPD points is something that sneaks up on practitioners each year, the need for lawyers to get the balance right in getting their points and navigating a turbulent market, the CPD rules that are commonly misunderstood in Australia, whether it is possible to accrue all points online or if in-person learning is needed, the core areas of CPD to be complied with, whether one can defer extra hours accrued to subsequent years, what lawyers want from their CPD at this point in time, and how Legalwise is looking to support practitioners of all stripes in the current climate. To learn more about Legalwise Seminars, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Here, reigning Banking and Finance Partner of the Year Stuart Cormack offers insights into what day-to-day operations look like for practitioners in this space, what he finds meaningful and stimulating about such work, and how best those coming through the ranks can succeed in B&F. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Gilbert + Tobin partner Stuart Cormack about his journey in law and how and why he became a banking and finance lawyer, the expertise one needs to become a practitioner in this space, the crossover with other firm practice areas, the current trends he is seeing in the market, and why he finds such work so meaningful. Mr Cormack also details international opportunities that lawyers in this space can explore, what constitutes best practice for B&F lawyers in the face of market challenges and how best to engage with clients, the key traits that make a successful B&F lawyer, opportunities for those looking to exit private practice, and his advice to this coming through the ranks. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, brought to you from Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand, Cyber Daily, journalists Liam Garman, David Hollingworth, and Daniel Croft provide critical insights for business leaders on how to craft an investor and media relations strategy in the event of a breach. The trio discuss the latest news before diving into how cyber breaches require all hands on deck to get a company back to business as usual, provide anonymised case studies of investor and media relations strategies that have allowed companies to take control of the narrative, and detail top tips for businesses to get on the front foot in the event of a breach. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As a new boutique firm owner, Stefani Janson appreciates being able to define her vocational legacy while enjoying the rollercoaster of being a business owner. Part of her early success is down to having found and nurtured a tribe that is helping her flourish. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Hestia Law principal Stefani Janson about her personal and professional motivations, her initial reflections on being a firm owner and its challenges, how prepared one can be to launch a new legal practice, her self-awareness and how that has aided her development with the new firm. Ms Janson also details her views on the need for a personal board of directors and where this idea came from for her, the importance of finding one’s tribe in law and leaning into that, the questions one needs to ask in building such a network and how diverse it can or should be, examining that board’s utility and need for refreshing (if applicable), how high a priority having such a board should be for small-firm owners, and why she is a better lawyer and person for having such support in her professional life. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

NSW Chief Justice Andrew Bell recently said that judges and magistrates need further support, or the Australian court system will risk judicial crisis. For these two senior criminal law practitioners, the comments ring true, with processes in the state’s courts needing to be urgently bolstered for the sake of practitioners, clients, and the community alike In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Taylor Rose consulting principals Angela Cooney and Trudie Cameron (national practice director and practice director at Armstrong Legal, respectively) to discuss what’s happening on the ground in state courts and the “crazy workloads” being dealt with, how and why the situation has become so unmanageable, the exhaustion being felt by advocates, and whether the advent of virtual hearings has helped or hindered in addressing such backlogs. The trio also reflect on the impact of such issues on practitioners, those on the bench, clients and the broader community, what solutions are urgently needed and from whom, reactive strategies that can be implemented by individuals, basic courtesies that lawyers can extend during matters to make things go more smoothly, and how best advocates can be looking after themselves during such difficult times. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with Thomson Reuters, host Jerome Doraisamy and Thomson Geer chief executive partner Adrian Tembel flesh out the cultural, structural, and hierarchical changes needed in firms and in-house teams to future-proof businesses for the modern marketplace. The pair reflect on the rate of change in professional services firms, how big a priority tech and innovation must be for national law firms like Mr Tembel’s, the need to have a longer-term perspective on what change is required and how best to implement it, and what changes he is making within his firm and why. They also discuss the key questions that business leaders must be asking in retaining top talent and ensuring optimal utilisation of technology into the future, avoiding looking for “quick wins” with innovation, how taking a longer-term approach feeds into a business’s talent retention strategy, keeping one’s finger on the pulse regarding market shifts, and how Mr Tembel intends to continually drive his firm and its broader strategy forward. To learn more about Thomson Reuters and its work in this space, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

From the perspective of senior in-house lawyer Shiara Mutukisna, governance is “now more important than it’s ever been”. To this end, ensuring best practice approaches both within the law department and in its work with cross-business functions and external stakeholders must be a top priority this year – particularly because “uncertainty is the new normal”. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with BeiGene senior director and senior legal counsel in APAC Shiara Mutukisna about being inspired to become a lawyer while watching her barrister grandfather in Sri Lanka, retaining one’s motivation to serve the community and do good work, macro trends impacting upon the healthcare space, and headline challenges pertaining to governance in the new year. Ms Mutukisna also delves into how to put in place the right structures to build trust across a business, the right questions to ask of one’s law department, evolving the in-house lawyer from being a “naysayer”, practical steps she has taken within her team to get on the front foot with good governance, collaborating with external providers, balancing firefighting needs against proactive governance strategies, and instilling the importance of good governance in those coming through the ranks. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Having faced significant health issues in recent years, award-nominated young lawyer Melissa Arndell has learnt how critical it is to slow down, take stock, live one’s values, and believe in one’s abilities as a professional. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Bourke Legal associate Melissa Arndell to discuss what took her and her family out to regional NSW, taking her practice inland, what the personal injury market is like out in the regions, navigating her practice area while also being close to the community, whether there are substantive opportunities for emerging practitioners who move inland. Ms Arndell also reflects on having experienced significant health issues in recent years, the flow-on consequences (both physically and personally) from such experiences, building resilience to manage tricky times, her motivation for her chosen practice area, practical ways to live one’s values, managing the juggle between work and family, compartmentalising pressure, and being true to one’s self as an emerging practitioner. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The passage of “Right to Disconnect” laws in Australia will be the latest addition to the ongoing discourse around the ways in which professional services workers, including lawyers, should undertake their duties. Here, we check in on the state of affairs and why being “deliberate” is so important. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Hall & Wilcox partner Fay Calderone to discuss what’s happening on the ground with regard to the debate around working arrangements for lawyers, the intersection between legal compliance, safety and flexibility, why workplaces must be “deliberate” about how they are leading and managing staff and their idiosyncratic needs, and the likelihood of court proceedings around workplace relations increasing in the near future. Ms Calderone also reflects on the pertinent lessons learnt for business leaders coming into the new year, whether firms are implementing a “wait-and-see” approach to top-down approaches, the reasonableness of wanting staff back in the office, the need for more organic and empathetic approaches, where such staff management sits in the triage of urgent responsibilities for law firm partners, and how employees can be navigating such conversations with their employers. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Some lawyers feel that in-office collaboration will be best for team collegiality and productivity, while others want to lean more heavily into using technology and work-from-home arrangements to best serve clients and businesses. Striking the right balance between competing interests is a challenge that leaders in law firms and in-house teams will likely be grappling with for some time. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Mills Oakley partner Dalvin Chien about the quandary of getting lawyers back to the office (or not), the advantages of using new and emerging technologies to work in more modern ways, the broad benefits of working face to face with one’s colleagues, whether the law facilitates or prohibits such ways of working, and how leaders in law can be informing themselves about what might work best for their teams’ idiosyncratic needs. Mr Chien also discusses an informal survey he conducted recently to gauge market sentiment about what legal work can or should be done remotely versus in the office, and the impacts of the location of the undertaking of such work, as well as his real-life experiences, observations and practical tips about what constitutes the right balance. Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In the current climate, effective management of the holistic wellness of litigation teams is going to be paramount – doing so will require encouragement of organic community, as well as drawing lessons from unexpected places, such as team sports. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back award-winning litigator Matthew Littlejohn to discuss moving from Darwin (where he practised as a barrister) to Melbourne to manage the litigation team in Victoria’s Office of the General Counsel, what teams like his do and the challenges facing such teams in the current climate, balancing proactive and reactive issues, and interpreting lessons from different Australian jurisdictions in practising law. Mr Littlejohn also delves into the role and duties of litigation team leaders in 2024, the ever-increasing importance of managing staff wellbeing and why this is so pertinent in litigation, safeguarding against social isolation when staff are working from home, encouraging staff collaboration and communication and why it needs to be organic, his foray into competitive rugby with the Melbourne Chargers and how it helps him be a better person and lawyer, leadership lessons he’s taken from the rugby field, and what other litigation team leaders can learn from the experience of rugby players. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

To deliver effective legal services, lawyers need to be able to recognise and respond to their clients’ trauma and take a more informed view of their clients’ broader experiences. Here, we unpack how this can be done and why it is so essential. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Legal Aid NSW manager Jennifer Chen and lived experience advocate Rachel Thomas about what trauma-informed lawyering is, the introduction of a toolkit from the federal Attorney-General’s Department and what it hopes to achieve, and the emergence of such an approach to legal services domestically and abroad. The trio also discuss the impact that a trauma-informed approach from a lawyer can have on clients in need, why it is so important (from a client perspective) for a lawyer to be trauma-informed, the potential consequences (for clients and court processes) if lawyers are not adequately trauma-informed, adhering to one’s duties to clients and the court, overcoming scepticism about such an approach, and how best lawyers can better educate themselves on new ways of delivering legal services. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Leo Cussen Centre for Law, we explore the rapidly evolving professional services landscape and how today’s students, grads and juniors can bolster their arsenals to succeed in the future. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Flinders Law School dean Tania Leiman and Leo Cussen Mentor and Justice Lab convenor, Bianca Paterson to discuss the importance of new skills in the post-pandemic market, the headline trends for emerging practitioners to be on top of, the place of tech and innovation in the legal profession, using one’s legal qualifications in a diverse range of vocational avenues, and what education institutions like Leo Cussen are doing to ensure tomorrow’s lawyers are fit for purpose. The trio also discuss empowering emerging practitioners to craft their own career pathways, needed mindset shifts, the myriad challenges that younger professionals are currently grappling with (including the cost of living), what it means to thrive in the modern world, what those coming through the ranks can be demanding from education providers, and what the next generation has to look forward to. To learn more about Leo Cussen, click here. To learn more about Leo Cussen’s collaboration with Flinders University, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Coming into 2024, award-nominated GC Teresa Allan is motivated to ensure optimal levels of resilience and connection across her law department. Doing so, she submits, will put the team in the best possible position to succeed in the current climate. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Capgemini vice-president, general counsel and ethics and compliance officer Teresa Allan about the importance of exploring how to set up one’s law department to succeed in the new year, various personal setbacks she experienced in 2023, the lessons she learnt from trying times, why having transparent conversations with one’s team is as important as ever, and the need for resilience and reconnection. Ms Allan also delves into the holistic hurdles that might be getting in the way of optimal resilience and positive reconnection within one’s law department, how to navigate sustainability issues and balance team management against constant firefighting, segmenting team members to undertake proactive or reactive tasks, tackling the projects that a department can reasonably manage, what her definition for success in 2024 is, and what motivates her to achieve it. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The Reserve Bank of Australia’s (RBA) recent decision to hold the cash rate at 4.35 per cent will have significant implications for investors. In this episode of The Smart Property Investment Show, host Phil Tarrant chats with Finni Mortgages CEO Paul Glossop about why the RBA’s latest interest rate decision comes at a turning point in the nation’s financial landscape. The duo discuss how lowering inflation and stabilising cash rates could lead to a “trust jail” for investors whose banks refuse to reprice in line with rate reductions. The episode also reveals the far-reaching consequences of the current government policy, which may disincentivise investment in the long term. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!  

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Settify, we explore the circumstances that have led to an increase in family separations and inquiries to practitioners and how best those professionals can ensure optimal client service delivery moving forward. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Settify global chief executive Paul Psaltis to discuss the seasonal nature of increased separations and subsequent inquiries and how the current climate is perpetuating such a spike, the implications for the market and practitioners alike, the existence of a “perfect storm” in this practice area (including more acrimonious separations), and the need to find new and more creative ways to engage as a practitioner. The pair also reflect on the questions that lawyers in this space should be asking of themselves and their practices, undergoing a mindset and practical shift in one’s daily operations, overcoming key hurdles that impede business development, making necessary investments in one’s practice, and the opportunities that can and will flow from the utilisation of the right technologies and platforms. To learn more about Settify, click here.

Next week, the Reserve Bank of Australia will make its first cash rate decision for the year. With inflation dropping, there is much that legal professionals looking to purchase property or expand their existing portfolios need to be across – particularly to avoid missing out. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Legal Home Loans director of sales Cullen Haynes and lending manager Rachael Massoud to discuss the current state of affairs in the market, how lawyers can interpret the recent lowering of inflation, the likelihood that the Reserve Bank will keep the cash rate as is to start the new year, and how lenders are reacting to next week’s RBA decision. The trio also discuss the incoming fixed-rate expiry cliff and how to ensure you are prepared, why getting pre-approval in place sooner rather than later will be critical for lawyers in the coming months, the serviceability factors that lawyers should be across, and the myriad benefits afforded to lawyers and legal businesses both through Legal Home Loans and when it comes to borrowing capacity (regardless of the size of one’s property portfolio). If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

When engaging in a transformation project to optimise the law department’s work, there are myriad lessons to be learnt to ensure that such a project is as successful as possible. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with NCC Group head of legal (APAC) and head of data governance Elizabeth Duncan-Lee about working in a cyber security business and helping build a safer world, what it means to undertake a transformation project and what she and her team are currently working on, optimising daily operations, and the questions to be asked in getting started on such projects. Ms Duncan-Lee also delves into the practical steps to be taken in the implementation of transformation projects, how best to carve out time for the law department’s other duties (including firefighting) while undertaking a transformation project and striking the right balance between competing priorities, how often to evaluate a project’s success and direction, knowing when the team can be confident in an outcome and how long to allow for a new approach to work, and lessons learnt from engaging in such transformative processes. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In the current climate, utilisation of new technologies is not about “sprinkling magic AI dust” on one’s existing practice – it’s about identifying efficiencies for clients whose expectations and demands are shifting with the times and making one’s firm fit for purpose, at a time in which competition is as fierce as ever. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Stirling and Rose managing partner James Myint to discuss the value and meaning he derives from specialising in technology, having skin in the game in advising clients on tech advancements that his firm also looks at, the sister company his firm is launching, the need for smaller legal practices to invest in having multiple arms to the broader business, and how and why striving for efficiencies across the board is so essential for firms. Mr Myint also delves into the headline takeaways and implications from the tech evolution in recent times for law firms big and small, how practice methodology is shifting or being reinforced in the current climate, what it means to be competitive and what a law firm can and should look like in the age of artificial intelligence (AI), why the duty to be efficient has to underpin a firm’s response to all market challenges, and the questions that firms must be asking of themselves. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Given its transient population and also environmental and cultural diversity, practising in the Northern Territory offers a vocational experience unlike most, if not all, Australian jurisdictions. There are also idiosyncratic challenges to navigate, meaning creative business approaches are key, with myriad lessons to be learnt for SME firm owners. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with AFL Withnalls head of family law in Darwin, Vanessa Farmer, about why family law is a meaningful vocational pathway for her, life in the Northern Territory and why it’s professionally rewarding but also challenging, and its unique environmental and idiosyncratic factors for Australian lawyers. Ms Farmer also reflects on her 25-year career in practice to date, the hurdles currently being faced for practitioners in the NT and implications for sole practitioners, thinking creatively to attract and retain staff now that she is part of a national entity, collaboration with like-minded practitioners, trends to look out for this year, adhering to strict parameters for one’s working day, and the need for emerging leaders to both back themselves and pay attention to detail. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

A few months ago, the Federal Court found in favour of five former students of a Melbourne-based school who had alleged anti-Semitic bullying and harassment, with the quintet being awarded substantial damages by the state of Victoria. Here, one of the partners involved in the proceedings unpacks the case and its broader implications. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes Cornwalls partner Richard Hutchings to talk about the case of Kaplan v State of Victoria (No 8) [2023] FCA 1092, the headline takeaways and findings from the proceedings, how he and his firm came to be involved in the matter, the significance of an apology being delivered, and why the proceedings are so important in the current climate. Mr Hutchings also reflects on whether we may now see further such proceedings being brought across Australian jurisdictions, whether our laws are currently fit for purpose in navigating such discrimination issues, how and why law firms of all stripes should be more willing to take on these kinds of matters on a pro bono basis, lessons for such firms coming out of these proceedings, how his team navigated evolving court processes, and his interest in human rights law more broadly. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Law students – especially those unsure about what they want from their careers – should proactively seek as much diverse experience as they can. As Hayden McLoughlin has discovered from working in-house, one will be much better placed from having taken up such opportunities. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with NIOA Group paralegal and QUT law student Hayden McLoughlin about being open to new ideas and pathways as one progresses while studying, how he “fell into” an in-house role as a student, whether in-house work is undersold to students as a vocational pathway, and what his duties look like in his current role. Mr McLoughlin also reflects on the capacity for students to become better-rounded graduates if they engage in in-house work, the benefits he has gleaned, challenges he has faced and overcome, how undertaking a summer clerkship has complemented his in-house experience, why law students need to seek as broad a remit of experience as they can, questions one should ask of one’s self, and why students must go out and seek value. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Reflecting on the biggest challenges facing SME firm owners in Western Australia, Nicola Watts says that leaders have to be consistently engaging with their staff to not only attract and retain top talent but also to better understand and appreciate evolving attitudes to career trajectory for those coming through the ranks. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with O’Sullivan Davies principal Nicola Watts on practising family law in different Australian jurisdictions and navigating the idiosyncrasies, the opportunities to tailor one’s practice that emerge from such differences, the headline issues and challenges she’s seeing for practitioners out west, and why these are so significant. Ms Watts also reflects on hurdles being faced regarding talent attraction and retention, the need for shifting mindsets from business owners, engaging in regular conversations with staff about what changes are needed, practice-specific challenges she’s anticipating in 2024, doing one’s best to keep ahead of market trends, opportunities for business owners in the new year, and why firms cannot simply rely on their reputations amid changing vocational attitudes. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, produced in partnership with Axiom, we unpack the provider’s recent research into the unsustainably onerous burdens placed upon general counsel, the flow-on consequences from such workloads, and what needs to change moving forward. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Axiom chief commercial officer David Pierce about the provider’s recently conducted GC Survey and its concerning findings about the volume of work against the backdrop of lower budgets, hiring freezes and inadequate resourcing, the on-the-ground experience of general counsel in the current climate, whether the reputation of in-house roles as being better for work/life balance stacks up, and what Mr Pierce sees as being the most urgent issues to be addressed for law department leaders. The pair also reflect on the sustainability of in-house roles in their current forms, flow-on consequences for law department leaders if urgent issues are not suitably addressed, the potential for self-fulfilling prophecies to come to fruition, efforts being made in-house to navigate issues faced, making life for those in-house easier, and Mr Pierce’s optimism that such issues can be overcome. To learn more about Axiom, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Disenchanted with adversarial processes that she felt weren’t serving clients, Anne-Marie Cade sought and discovered a new approach in parenting coordination. Speaking to Lawyers Weekly following a Churchill Fellowship on the subject (which saw her visit 16 global cities to explore such practices), she unpacks why parenting coordination is so essential in family law matters in Australia moving forward. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Ms Cade, an accredited mediator, lawyer, and parenting coordinator, about how she got a Churchill Fellowhip, what parenting coordination is and why she sees it as being so important, her global research into the implementation of such an approach in family law matters, what Australia can learn from overseas examples, and the receptiveness of Australian practitioners to parenting coordination. Ms Cade also reflects on the need for such an approach in the Australian market at present, what jurisdictions here should avoid from global counterparts, her predictions for the uptake of parenting coordination in Australia by year’s end, challenges she foresees to its success and popularity as an approach, and what excites her about her work in this space moving forward.

Mariah Saad wears multiple professional hats: she is both a graduate trademark lawyer and founder of a loungewear fashion brand, LONELY IS MY HAPPY. Pursuing both pathways, she says, makes her a better and more rounded professional. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with LegalVision graduate Mariah Saad about her work with the fast-growing NewLaw firm, her lifelong interest in fashion, how and why she founded LONELY IS MY HAPPY during the COVID-19 pandemic, and being deliberate with her marketing and branding about empowerment and confidence as it pertains to wearing loungewear. Ms Saad also reflects on wanting people to talk more about their mental health struggles and having her label champion such conversations, how law students and young lawyers have responded to her label, how her legal employer has embraced her work, how she manages her time and the juggle, what she has learnt in the course of being a business owner and young lawyer simultaneously, what advice she has for emerging legal professionals about broadening one’s skill set, and why they should be unafraid to pursue their passions. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In some pockets of the legal profession, the notion of wellbeing has arguably been embraced as a marketing tool for talent. With worldwide rates of psychological distress having been exacerbated in the wake of COVID-19, legal employers need to consider stripping things back to basics to ensure meaningful, substantive approaches to supporting staff. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with FCW managing principal Andrew Douglas and Wellceum founder and chief executive Desi Vlahos about the “significant damage being done to young people”, the emerging realisation that responsibility for wellness doesn’t fall just on an individual, the exacerbation of mental health issues in recent years, and the proactive and reactive steps that employers must take if they are to properly engage with this issue. The trio also reflect on regulatory action in prosecuting employers over psychosocial hazards, the need for employers to see themselves as having positive duties to manage staff wellness, where Australian workplaces currently sit relative to global counterparts, overcoming longstanding and ingrained practices in Australian legal workplaces, why firms may not be making as much progress on wellness as they are on matters such as artificial intelligence, and what constitutes good governance. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In the wake of substantial change to the landscape, practitioners are having to undergo shifts in their mindset and approach, including in the charging of costs to clients in a cost-of-living crisis. Such change is giving rise to a need for practitioners to revamp and expand their operations, argues one partner. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Norton Law Group partner Gabriella Pomare to discuss the evolution of the dispute resolution landscape for family lawyers in recent times and the challenges that have emerged as a result, shifting client expectations and demands, and the need to keep costs down. Ms Pomare also delves into various avenues of resolution, including family therapy and parenting coordination, balancing the need to retain clients versus keep one’s business afloat (particularly against the backdrop of high inflation and the cost-of-living crisis), the need to explore new and better ways of operating and practising, knowing how and where to start on such a journey, staying relevant in 2024, and what such practitioners have to look forward to in the new year. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

One year ago, Jarrod Kenney founded his own law firm – while still working full-time in a separate role. Here, he reflects on the myriad challenges involved with starting a legal practice as a concurrent career, setting parameters defining a competitive edge, and what he’s learnt both about himself and the experience of practitioners along the way.    In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Kenney Legal principal Jarrod Kenney to discuss the challenges of entering the legal profession while also working in a separate full-time career, having clear parameters of one’s expectations of one’s self and thus managing client expectations, navigating the myriad challenges of starting a new business while working elsewhere, and what he has learnt from that experience.    Mr Kenney also delves into navigating conversations with clients about capacity, establishing a competitive difference given his different operating hours, staying on top of market changes and evolutions, and what his unique experience of starting a law firm while also working in another job has taught him about what constitutes success for boutique practitioners. 

In this special episode, brought to you by Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand, HR Leader, leadership expert and author Margot Faraci discusses the concept of “love leadership” and how harnessing this can help better leadership. Trust is a crucial aspect of this, she says, and those who incorporate it into practice can help to build better relationships with employees. Ms Faraci also discusses the power shift in the job market, with employees having more say in their working arrangements. She advocates for a more consultative leadership style that balances consultation with decisive decision making and empathy with results-driven performance. Another area delved into was psychological safety and its impact on performance. Ms Faraci suggests that leaders should focus on building a culture of psychological safety. By choosing capable team members and fostering trust within the team, leaders can drive sustainable performance. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode, brought to you by Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand, HR Leader, money and wellness coach Marc Bineham joins to give his expertise in the often-overlooked area of wellness: financial wellbeing. In the current economic climate, financial stress plays a key influence on workplace wellbeing. Interest rates, inflation, and a rising cost of living have taken their toll on the population, prompting the need for intervention. This stress doesn’t just negatively affect the individual; it can translate into a staggering loss of productivity for organisations and the wider economy. Businesses can assist their employees by implementing financial wellness policies. Mr Bineham touches on the stigma surrounding money discussions and how people are more comfortable sharing personal life details than their financial status, a cultural trait that hinders open conversations about financial health. He advocates for a cultural shift, similar to campaigns encouraging open discussions about mental health, to normalise financial wellbeing discussions. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Fiona Wong initially studied medical science but ultimately became a migration lawyer – and is now an award-winning practitioner in that space. Here, she discusses the state of affairs for practitioners in this space coming into the new year. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Gilton Valeo executive director and partner Fiona Wong (who won the migration category at the 2023 Partner of the Year Awards) about how and why she became a migration lawyer, what she finds so stimulating about this practice area, the state of affairs for practitioners in this space, and whether now is the most difficult it has ever been for such lawyers. Ms Wong also reflects on striking the right balance between proactivity and reactivity in how one interprets what’s going on in the world and thus advising clients, evolving client demands and expectations, how lawyers in this space can keep their heads above water, what constitutes best practice for those working in this space, and her advice for those coming through the ranks in migration law. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In the wake of the global pandemic, retail leasing law has seen a shift in the balance of power, with more creative and complex agreements now being negotiated. Here, a partner with over two decades of experience unpacks these changes and more. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Bartier Perry partner Andrew Grima about why legal work in retail leasing has been so stimulating for him across his career, the state of affairs in this space over the past year and the perfect storm that has emerged, the need for more creativity amid greater complexity in agreements, and the solutions that have been required. Mr Grima also delves into whether solutions can be applied broadly or if all matters must be taken on a case-by-case basis, legislative changes that are influencing negotiations, managing clients’ idiosyncratic needs as well as practitioners’ needs, what lawyers in other practice areas can take away from the recent experience of lawyers in retail leasing, and how best to liaise with in-house legal teams moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Mary-Ann de Mestre has created a dual vocational pathway for herself as both a legal academic and law firm owner. It’s a journey she strongly feels others can replicate, in ways that make sense to them, if they are proactive, self-aware and on top of their schedules. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Macquarie University academic and M de Mestre Lawyers founder Mary-Ann de Mestre to discuss managing the juggle between academic and firm-owner life, why having two different (but complementary vocational pathways) is so meaningful for her, what she’s hoping to achieve with her newly launched firm, and taking a more modern approach to boutique practice. Ms de Mestre also details seeing legal education as part and parcel of her mindset as a small-business owner, how her practice aids her academic approach, how to wear multiple hats at once, creating a meaningful career journey for one’s self, how those coming through the ranks can build the best career possible for themselves, asking the right questions of one’s self, and redefining what a legal career can look like. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Team management, and ensuring the law department can perform in small, agile workplaces, is at the top of Luana Melis’ priority list as a leader. Creating such productive environments takes time, she says, and requires meaningful reflection on processes and a focus on softer skills, among other key approaches. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Time & Place general counsel and company secretary Luana Melis to discuss the tough market conditions faced by the property and construction sectors in recent years, how and why team management is the highest of priorities for her, determining best practice for managing teams, and the importance of agility in identifying pathways forward. Ms Melis also reflects on what high performance means for her in the context of an in-house legal team, balancing the legal team’s efforts against the performance of other business functions, the need for mindset shifts, practical ways to achieve and maintain high performance, lessons learnt along the way, marrying up the importance of sustainability with performance, and recalibrating the idea of high performance amid changing market conditions. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The positive duty to eliminate sexual harassment and other forms of misconduct came into effect earlier this week. Here, we unpack what best practice should look like for employers and how to demand better from multiple stakeholders – especially in a climate where prevention lags behind other business priorities. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Elevate Consulting Partners founder Prabha Nandagopal to discuss the need for institutions to better protect individuals from various forms of misconduct and ensure such behaviour gets stamped out, the newly enforceable positive duty to eliminate sexual harassment and other forms of misconduct, how ready employers are for such enforcement, and how misconduct may have evolved since the age of the pandemic. Ms Nandagopal also delves into the seven standards that employers need to be across, who needs to be taking responsibility in organisations moving forward, the extent to which individuals can and should be demanding change, how clients can demand better from their external providers and vice versa, and how and why those in businesses of all shapes and sizes can ensure that such duties do not get lost in the triage of urgent priorities in the current market. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

There is a strong nexus between being a good black-letter lawyer and being a trusted business adviser. For Heela Arsala, this means understanding and learning from internal stakeholders so as to ensure alignment between what is being negotiated and drafted and optimal business outcomes. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Buchan general counsel Heela Arsala (who was a finalist in the GC of the Year category at the 2023 Women in Law Awards) to discuss what it’s like working as an in-house lawyer for an architectural firm and her reflections on such work in recent years amid the global pandemic, why authenticity is so critical in drafting contracts for one’s business, especially when it comes to urgent priorities such as environmental, social and governance considerations. Ms Arsala also delves into the need to retain and make time for the black-letter legal skills to best support one’s business, why being a good lawyer makes one a good business adviser, bringing other business units along for the ride in negotiating contractual clauses, having broader awareness of corporate behaviour, and looking ahead to growth phases and how to support one’s business through such a transition. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Every transaction is unique in its own way, and therefore particular attention must be paid to anything one drafts, Despina Priala stresses. In an evolving landscape – namely the commencement of the Unfair Contract Terms regime – lawyers must take particular care in how they’re servicing clients and their individual needs, starting with being a good listener. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Priala Legal director and legal practitioner Despina Priala to discuss why care in the drafting of contracts is more important than ever in the current climate, whether artificial intelligence is increasingly being used in the drafting of contracts, and the commencement of the Unfair Contract Terms regime and its implications for the practitioners. Ms Priala also reflects on whether getting back to basics in contract drafting is required, whether there are particular questions that practitioners must be asking of their clients, why being a good listener remains so essential, creating time for the fundamentals of being a boutique firm owner, and ensuring the best advice possible in idiosyncratic circumstances for clients. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Patrick Dawson is passionate about promoting the profession in regional and rural areas. With a fast-growing practice in NSW, he has been able to diversify and upskill across multiple areas and be a more flexible practitioner for those on the ground who rely on their lawyers. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Patrick Dawson Law founder and principal Patrick Dawson to discuss his practice’s rapid growth since inception, the motivations for launching a practice in the regions, reflections on the challenges faced, enabling a new business to thrive, and appreciating how personal professional services can be for one’s clients. Mr Dawson also delves into tailoring a business to suit the needs of the surrounding environment, how best one can go about this as a business leader, the state of play for regional practitioners at present and emerging trends, the importance of advocacy for those in the regions, and the experience of regional practitioners moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Lawyers are privileged to have a voice, Joanne van der Plaat says, and therefore have a duty to roll up their sleeves and listen to those whose voices don’t get heard. Having recently served as president of the Law Society of NSW, she is now turning her sights to the federal seat of Eden-Monaro, having been preselected by the Liberal Party to contest the next election. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with the Law Society of NSW’s immediate past president, Joanne van der Plaat, about her legal career to date, why issues pertaining to regional practitioners and business issues are so critically important, the big takeaways from her time as president of a major legal member association, and lessons she’s learnt about the state of play for NSW-based lawyers. Ms van der Plaat also reflects on how she came to nominate for preselection for Eden-Monaro (a federal electorate close to Canberra), why she’s standing for the Liberal Party, what she hopes to bring both to her community and the Parliament if elected, why lawyers are well placed to address ongoing community concerns, how and why she’s a better lawyer for having served others, and why other lawyers should better utilise their unique skill sets for community service. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with the College of Law, we unpack how practitioners can and should view generative artificial intelligence at this juncture, what to look out for in the new year, and what will constitute best practice moving forward. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Centre for Legal Innovation (CLI) executive director Terri Mottershead and Gilbert + Tobin chief knowledge and innovation officer and partner Caryn Sandler to discuss the key takeaways from the recent Legal Generative AI Summit (hosted by the CLI), the headline lessons about the use of gen AI from the past 12 months and what those lessons say about the current state of affairs. This includes why practitioners feel so overwhelmed by the pace and breadth of the change. In tackling this immense change underway, Terri and Caryn suggest some key questions lawyers can ask themselves (and their firms) to help determine the uptake and utilisation of AI. Topics covered include:   How legal education is evolving in this space and what professional development will look like. The responsibility of legal employers with regards to staff development and the support of junior lawyers. Reaffirming the value that lawyers place on themselves and their services. A rethink of client relationships and their needs. Best practice in 2024 and coming gen AI products and services. To learn more about the Centre for Legal Innovation at the College of Law and its offerings in this space, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In late 2022, Renee Roumanos lost her home (and office) to a fire. That traumatic experience taught her an enormous amount about navigating traumatic experiences, leaning on one’s professional network, and how best to prioritise, manage and communicate within one’s business. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Renee Roumanos Legal principal Renee Roumanos to discuss the night her home (and office) burnt down and the insurance headaches that followed, having to look after her family and figure out how to keep her new business afloat, how she came to lean on legal professionals around her, and the perspective she has gleaned from going through such extraordinary circumstances. Ms Roumanos also reflects on how one begins to take practical steps forward after such events, the difficulties that lawyers have in asking for personal or professional help, how she ensured that her firm did not suffer and how she engaged with clients during this time, her perspective on what it means to be a good lawyer and communicator, what she’s learnt about resilience, and why she’s so motivated to give back moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The RBA has handed down its final decision for 2023 – and it’s already setting the scene for 2024 market dynamics. In this episode of Property Finance Uncut, Smart Property Investment’s Phil Tarrant and Finni Mortgages’ chief executive Paul Glossop predict that Australia is either at the top – or very near to the top – of the rate hiking cycle. Comparing the current situation in Australia to the circumstances being seen over in the US, Paul and Phil note the leading indicators that could predict how the RBA acts over the coming 12 months, and offer some insight into how savvy investors can take advantage of a different set of conditions as we come into 2024.  

Here, we take a look back on the year that was for corporate legal professionals in Australia, the implications on the recruitment landscape, and what it all means as we head into the new year. Host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back G2 Legal Australian director Daniel Stirling to discuss the key takeaways from the past 12 months, whether talent shortages are likely to continue in 2024, considering permanent versus contract hires and the market circumstances that might dictate such recruitment patterns. Mr Stirling also delves into the factors driving candidates (including hybrid and remote working conditions), how law departments can ensure they are attractive vocational prospects in the new year, whether the evolution of legal technology is impacting recruitment at this juncture, and his sense of positivity about the in-house market as 2024 approaches. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Here, we discuss the recent passing of legislation which the Attorney-General said will make Australia’s family law system “simpler, safer and more accessible” for separating families and their children. What are the implications for practitioners in this space? In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Barry Nilsson principal Genevieve Morgan to discuss how and why recent amendments to family law legislation came about, the state of affairs in family law since Howard-era changes, the Constitution and perception of bad laws, and the key takeaways from the recent passage of legislative amendments. Ms Morgan also discusses the response from family lawyers to the amendments, how the landscape will remain grey until a test case comes about, the need for re-education, how practitioners can navigate the short-term uncertainty, what best practice might look like moving forward, and opportunities for practitioners to redefine their operations. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Here, we unpack the recently released 2023–2030 Australian Cyber Security Strategy, its implications for lawyers and legal service providers, and the best practice principles that will be pertinent moving forward. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Cyber GC founder principal Annie Haggar (a former winner of the General Counsel of the Year category at the Australian Law Awards) to discuss how and why the federal government’s new cyber security strategy has emerged, how Australia is faring relative to overseas counterparts on cyber matters at present, and the headline takeaways for lawyers and legal services providers from the new strategy. Ms Haggar also dives into how the market has responded to the new strategy, the extent to which various legal practice areas have received suitable guidance, the questions lawyers, firms, and teams must be asking of themselves and their businesses, whether proactive refusal of work from those whose processes aren’t up to scratch should be implemented, why lawyers must be at the heart of cyber responses moving forward, and why lawyers need to view cyber as part and parcel of their duties to the courts, clients, and the broader community. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The positive duty to eliminate sexual harassment in the workplace became law last December, and the one-year grace period employers were given to comply is about to expire. Here, we dive into the work employers must do to ensure compliance with the new duty. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by byrne∙dean head of strategy Samantha Mangwana to discuss the significance of last year’s Respect@Work reforms, the positive duty to report and eliminate unlawful conduct, how that new duty can be applied in post-pandemic working environments, and penalties or enforcement actions that regulators can take. Ms Mangwana also reflects on the seven standards for organisations to comply with, the headline structural and cultural challenges for legal employers to navigate, the actions that those employers must immediately take, and her level  of optimism that legal workplaces can and will be able to make progress moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The president of Queensland Law Society, Chloe Kopilovic, is concerned about the readiness or otherwise of emerging practitioners to either start their own practices or have the capacity to hit the ground running as an employee in a smaller legal practice – and she’s not alone. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with QLS president and FC Lawyers director Chloe Kopilovic about being such a young president of a major legal member association, why discussing the need to better equip those coming through the ranks to succeed in the SME space is so critical, how and why the issue is becoming more stark, and whether lengthier induction periods are required in legal education and professional development. Ms Kopilovic also reflects on the flow-on consequences for graduate lawyers not being ready to open their own practices or assume a caseload or business responsibilities, the practical steps that different stakeholders can take, including and especially what those looking to enter the SME space can do, and how employers can better prepare grads entering their businesses, and the need to ensure the delivery of law to the community can continually improve. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, X and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with JustFund, we unpack the recent national rollout of the Priority Property Pool list, its impact on the family law system moving forward, and what it all means for practitioners and their clients. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by JustFund Co-Founder and Co-CEO, Jack O’Donnell; JustFund Client Success Manager, Erica Henson-Hatton; Soden Legal Principal, Sandra Soden; and former judicial registrar and dispute resolutionist at ADR business Myra Aris & Co, Angelo Bistolaridis, to discuss what the PPP is, its national rollout, the justification for said rollout given what those on the ground are experiencing, and how it works and who is eligible. The panel of guests also delve into the myriad impacts on practice, the workloads that practitioners are currently grappling with, how to stay on top of relevant changes, the courts’ next steps, and how legal funding can assist those going through separation and wanting to avoid court proceedings. To learn more about JustFund, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with Thomson Reuters, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Piper Alderman managing partner Tony Britten-Jones and chief operating officer Chris McLean about the shifting roles of external providers and in-house teams looking to evolve in the current climate. The guests discuss how necessity is the mother of invention, the headline operational changes being seen from in-house teams at this juncture, striking the right balance between rolling with the times versus wading in cautiously when implementing changes, and how big firms can best be supporting their teams in the utilisation and uptake of technological advancements. Mr Britten-Jones and Mr McLean also reflect on increased sophistication from in-house teams when dealing with their external providers and how law firms have to adapt in dealing with their clients, the need or otherwise for trial and error in determining best practice, taking calculated risks and grasping opportunities, and lessons being learnt from the pace of change. To learn more about Thomson Reuters, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Following the Women in Finance Summit and Awards 2023, we’re catching up with some of the leading women in the financial services space. In this episode, we chat to Rebecca Warren, executive general manager of small-business banking at CommBank, about how she navigated a historically male-dominated industry over her 20-year career and why she believes inclusion and diversity are not just morally imperative, but key to achieving superior business results. Tune in to find out: Why she loves commercial finance. The secret power of ‘quiet achievers’. How CommBank is creating a more inclusive and supportive work culture. And much more!

Here, we explore whether the profession is making headway in ensuring proportionate briefing to the Bar, necessary approaches for the successful implementation of an equitable briefing strategy, and how far the profession still has to go. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with barrister Dr Kylie Weston-Scheuber and Victorian government solicitor Matthew Hocking about the state of affairs for equitable briefing in various courts and jurisdictions, how the Victorian Government Solicitor’s Office has become a gold standard in such briefing to women barristers and what strategies it implements. The guests also reflect on the cultural, structural and social hurdles that may be preventing progress on equitable briefing, whether there are self-imposed hurdles, the impact (if at all) of the advent of virtual hearings, how in-house teams fare compared to private practice counterparts, the need for data and accountability, the importance of a client-driven approach, and whether there is reason for optimism moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with Thomson Reuters, host Jerome Doraisamy and National Australia Bank general counsel Sharon Cook flesh out the pace and impact of technological change upon corporate legal teams and how best those teams can ready themselves for the turn of the decade. The pair discuss why such a conversation about the future is so essential, the extent to which technology continues to evolve, how law departments can be at the forefront of such change so as to better support their businesses, effectively managing risk, bringing whole teams along for the journey of evolution, and the duty of leaders to better understand and appreciate current and looming change. Ms Cook also delves into some of the changes her own law department has implemented, what has been learnt from such initiatives, and how best other in-house legal teams can look to take practical steps to ensure they remain trusted advisers to their businesses in an ever-changing professional services marketplace. To learn more about Thomson Reuters, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with Clio, we reflect on the next set of challenges for practitioners when it comes to self-education on the powers and capabilities of emerging technologies and the need to meaningfully triage and prioritise for the health of your practice. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Clio founder and chief executive Jack Newton, who is based in the United States, about where the provider sees Australia as sitting in the global market at this juncture and why, what is so exciting about the Australian marketplace at present, the headline trends and challenges to look out for as the new year approaches, and how practitioners can best identify necessary practical steps moving forward. Mr Newton also delves into Clio’s AI strategy and its push in the Australian market, ensuring the right resources are being deployed for one’s tech stack, avoiding a “set and forget” attitude with existing practice management platforms, realising the “hierarchy of data needs”, appreciating whether your practice is at on the adoption spectrum, and why cloud solutions remain so critical. To learn more about Clio, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

While progress has been made in recent years to ensure that business development is easier for male and female professionals alike, Sue-Ella Prodonovich muses, there remain environmental hurdles that make BD more difficult for some. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Prodonovich Advisory principal Sue-Ella Prodonovich (who also regularly serves as a judge for Lawyers Weekly awards programs) to discuss how business development can and does prove more difficult for women leaders in law, the suggested reasons for this, how the post-pandemic landscape impacts such difficulty (if at all), and what professionals on the ground tell her about such hurdles. Ms Prodonovich also reflects on the extent to which male counterparts in the profession are cognisant of such perceived imbalances, how the market is looking to better level the playing field, whether the looming new year is throwing up any new challenges to grapple with in successful BD for women professionals, practical ways to ensure that BD is easier for all, and how to keep BD at the top of the priority list, even amid so many competing priorities. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

For Steve Lancken, mediation has always offered ways and means of resolving disputes that produce more satisfying and productive outcomes for parties. Here, he details the lessons he’s learnt over more than two decades as a mediator and how best to serve clients in an ever-changing landscape. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Negocio Resolutions managing director Steve Lancken (who won the Mediator-Arbitrator of the Year category at the 2023 Australian Law Awards) to discuss how and why he became a mediator, how few client matters he saw proceed to litigation in the earlier iteration of his legal career, what he finds so rewarding about mediation, and his views on the current climate for mediators in Australia’s marketplace. Mr Lancken also reflects on the rise of mediation in recent years, the most common mistakes made in mediations, the need to actively use certain language to manage clients’ states of mind,  pitfalls to avoid, how to glean the necessary lessons to succeed, the do’s and don’ts for successful mediators, shifting one’s mindset, and his excitement about the next generation of practitioners coming through the ranks, who better understand and appreciate avenues like mediation. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Following the Women in Finance Summit and Awards 2023, we’re catching up with some of the leading women in the financial services space. In this episode, we chat to Suzanne Wood, state general manager residential broker Victoria/Tasmania at Westpac Group (and state chair of the Women of Westpac employee advocacy group), about how she climbed the career ladder in banking and the power of having strong female role models. Tune in to find out: How she learnt the art of having difficult conversations. The perils of unconscious bias and how to tackle them. How Westpac is supporting women through the Women of Westpac employee advocacy group. And much more!

Anthony Kearns is increasingly concerned about what he sees as objectively unsustainable work practices and higher levels of distress among a highly resilient demographic. Here, we unpack how and why such issues are impacting in-house teams and what some of the practical steps might be to meaningfully move forward. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Lander & Rogers chief client experience officer and consulting practice group leader Anthony Kearns to discuss why safety and sustainability require urgent consideration by law departments, the extent to which current issues and psychosocial hazards are a product of our times or longstanding concerns, and how and why such matters are so front of mind for law department leaders. Mr Kearns also reflects on the “roadmaker’s dilemma” facing in-house teams, the extent to which such teams can or should be comfortable with the idea of letting others down, ensuring clarity of purpose and other practical steps that law departments can take at this critical juncture, and why he remains optimistic about the potential for in-house teams to problem-solve. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The recent vote on a proposed Voice to Parliament for Indigenous Australians was the latest in a long line of failed referenda in our nation’s history. But why is it so onerous to amend our Constitution? In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Professor Emerita Anne Twomey from the University of Sydney, who was a member of the constitutional expert group advising on the proposed Voice, to discuss her long-time passion for constitutional law, why national constitutions require updating from time to time, how compulsory voting in Australia influences the success or otherwise of referenda, and whether we are now at a point where it is proving too hard to change our Constitution. Professor Twomey also reflects on what may be required to make needed constitutional change possible and what has been considered thus far, the role that lawyers have to play in pushing for change where necessary, the need for better and broader community education and awareness on civics, and why it can be a problem for a nation’s founding document to appear, at times, immovable. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Criminal law, Andrew Tiedt says, is an incredibly challenging but also rewarding practice area – and, increasingly, he sees opportunities for practitioners to be advocates in jury trials and utilise their extensive skill sets. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back J Sutton Associates director Andrew Tiedt, an accredited specialist in criminal law, to discuss why the practice of criminal law is so stimulating, the extent to which being advocate is the remit of barristers only (and whether any lawyer can be an advocate for their clients), why he describes himself as a “solicitor advocate”, and if other criminal lawyers are self-identifying as such. Mr Tiedt also reflects on how and why he became a practitioner who runs many of his own jury trials rather than briefing out, whether trial advocacy is something that more practitioners can aspire to, whether moving to the bar is for him, how practitioners can develop the requisite skills to be better advocates, how colleagues respond to him calling himself a “solicitor advocate”, movement away from adversarial practices, and the need or otherwise for more open-mindedness when it comes to our understandings of advocacy. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The Federal Court of Australia recently rejected the ABC’s attempted use of the public interest defence in defamation proceedings brought by former special forces soldier Heston Russell. Here, we unpack the technicalities of the new defence and how it played out for the national broadcaster. Host Naomi Neilson is joined by Elit Lawyers by McGirr & Snell founder Robert McGirr to discuss what the new public interest defence to defamation is, what transpired in the recent Russell v ABC case, reflect on various submissions made by the parties during those proceedings, lessons learnt from this test case, and how this high-profile matter might impact upon defamation proceedings in Australia moving forward, if at all. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Most in-house lawyers that Michael Milnes speaks with are inundated with email, and often spend a significant part of their day working in, and interrupted by their inbox. Here’s how he is looking to overcome it. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with TPG Telecom senior corporate counsel Michael Milnes about the scourge of being flooded by emails and why it’s such a big problem for in-house legal teams, how a clogged inbox gets in the way of addressing the urgent priorities, how having a full inbox can be seen as part and parcel of one’s role and why this is problematic. Mr Milnes also discusses what he has learnt about managing his inbox, imbibing a top-down culture around clearing one’s email inbox, whether external providers have a role to play in supporting their clients, the need for a mindset shift in getting the little things right, the increasing need to address this issue in the post-pandemic climate, and his broader words of wisdom for in-house lawyers in better managing such administrative tasks. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with Thomson Reuters, we look back on the year that was in the legal tech space, what we’ve learnt, and what to expect in 2024.   Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Thomson Reuters’ Head of Commercial and In-house at Practical Law, Tyrilly Csillag, and Director of Client Relationships, Shelley Mulhern, to discuss the key takeaways from legal tech developments and utilisation in the last 12 months, how teams both in-house and in private practice have had to adapt and evolve, and what the rise of generative artificial intelligence, in particular, has meant for legal service delivery. The guests also detail what those teams on the ground are saying about such tech developments, concerns around cyber security, the nexus between tech utilisation and staff retention, rethinking professional development pathways, what the experience of lawyers will look like in 2024, trends to anticipate in the coming year, and how Thomson Reuters can continue to assist private practitioners and in-house teams in ensuring best practice. To learn more about Thomson Reuters and its offerings, click here. Thomson Reuters invites in-house counsel who’d like to hear more about these trends to join its upcoming, complimentary roundtable: RSVP here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with CT Group, we explore the state of affairs for IT in Australian legal practices: what’s working and isn’t working, and how best to position your firm moving forward. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by CT Group director James Hey to discuss why optimal information technology processes are so critical at this juncture, what firms are currently doing well and why, the importance of effective collaboration and communication with IT providers, the need for proper investments of time and capital, and avoiding a “set and forget” approach by proactively looking for improvements across the business. Mr Hey also delves into the issues impacting efficiency within legal businesses right now, the questions firms need to be asking, improving awareness of the shortcomings to be addressed, the “Essential Eight” coming into effect next year, IT trends moving forward, what will constitute best practice in the new year, and how CT Group can help. To learn more about CT Group and its offerings, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Taking a gamble: The fanfare surrounding this year’s Melbourne Cup significantly pales in comparison to what’s going on over at the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA). In this episode of Property Finance Uncut, Smart Property Investment’s Phil Tarrant and Finni Mortgages’ chief executive Paul Glossop shed a light on the trajectory being set by Michele Bullock, the recently appointed governor of the RBA. Having only commenced in the role in September, the November rate decision marks her first opportunity to put her stamp on the top job – and today’s rate decision points to the future direction of her governance. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Sales, Caralee Fontenele argues, are the oxygen that a law firm breathes. Without it, a firm won’t have clients and thus cannot thrive. Appreciating how integral sales is, and shifting one’s language and approach to client interactions, is fundamental for long-term success. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Caralee Fontenele (director of Collective Family Law and Scalable Law) to discuss why sales is a critical component of being a business owner in law, how it has become an even more urgent priority, and the biggest hurdles in the way of SME firm owners becoming good at sales. Ms Fontenele also reflects on her own journey as a business owner in law and how she came to appreciate the importance of sales, using the right language and adjusting one’s mindset, appreciating the difference between being “salesy” versus being educational, how best to determine the best sales approach, and the importance of the little things in getting a sale across the line. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Ahead of the Women in Finance Summit and Awards 2023, we’re catching up with some of the leading women in the financial services space. In this episode, we chat to Anjali Crossette, manager of motor operations at non-bank lender Liberty, about breaking barriers and misconceptions about car finance and why she believes the industry needs to showcase gender diversity across every rung of the career ladder. Tune in to find out: Why the finance industry is an attractive industry to work in for women. The progress being made in gender diversity in car finance. How Liberty is leading the way by example. And much more!  

In this special episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with Unisearch, we explore what has been learnt from the advent of generative artificial intelligence over the past year, what it means for practitioners, and how best to respond to the evolving landscape. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Sparke Helmore Lawyers partner Dalvin Chien and UNSW senior lecturer and Unisearch expert Dr Sebastian Sequoiah-Grayson to discuss the “biggest socio-technological leap forward” since the internet, the perfect storm that has emerged in the post-pandemic age, the rate of uptake and acceptance of generative AI from the legal profession and key takeaways from its advent, and the practical challenges that are emerging as a result. The guests also dive into whether we will see a standardised global response to the regulation of AI, how to regulate technology more broadly, what might constitute best practice for lawyers on the ground at this critical juncture, the reinforcement of principles for optimal client service delivery, and how the role of the lawyer will continue to evolve in the near future. To learn more about Unisearch Expert Opinion Services, click here If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

There is a bright spotlight on data security right now, particularly in the wake of the recent $20 million penalty imposed on Meta for misleading data protection claims by the ACCC. In the face of such regulatory scrutiny, lawyers have a pertinent role to play in safeguarding businesses and consumers alike. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Holding Redlich special counsel Emily Booth about the recent multimillion-dollar penalty imposed on social media giant Meta and the legal implications that led to that punishment, trends being seen from the consumer watchdog, how Australia’s regulations compare globally, and the challenges the current state of affairs is presenting for lawyers in the data and privacy space. Ms Booth also delves into the practical steps that lawyers can take with regard to safeguarding clients and promoting good governance, looming trends for lawyers to be aware of in the wake of advancing artificial intelligence and other technologies, working collaboratively with in-house teams, and why legal work in this space is so stimulating at this critical juncture. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

If employees feel happy and supported and can bring their personal values to the workplace, Justine Aubin says, they will be more productive. More importantly, however, being an accommodating firm leader is the right thing to do in an evolving professional landscape. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by August & Claire Lawyers principal Justine Aubin to discuss why providing optimal support for one’s staff is of the utmost importance and what she has learnt about this critical need, how the pandemic age has influenced her approach to showing support as a business leader, and how to put in place healthy and supportive frameworks in one’s firm to better support the familial and personal needs of one’s staff. Ms Aubin details her own experiences of providing such support to her staff (a number of whom have young families), the forces driving her to facilitate such an accommodating workplace and culture, fostering work-life integration, whether sees an increase in such approaches across the profession, how the approach influences the many hats that boutique law firm owners have to wear, and what will constitute best practice for firm leaders as working life continues to evolve across the professional services marketplace. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, produced in partnership with LOD, we explore the phenomenon of “constant firefighting” that law department leaders are facing, as well as trends around artificial intelligence, data fluency, and ESG. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by LOD head of market insights Mark Dodd and Canon Oceania chief legal counsel David Field to discuss the findings from LOD’s recently released annual Global Survey Report, how and why general counsel feel like they are constantly putting out fires, the extent to which GCs are currently exploring AI, increases in data fluency, and how and why the priorities of Australia-based law department leaders differ to their global counterparts. The trio also delve into the need for investment in capability and building appropriate systems, entropy in human systems, overcoming the need for constant firefighting, the strategic importance of ESG, and broader reflections on LOD’s survey findings and what they mean for law departments across the country, as the new year approaches. To learn more about LOD’s Global Survey Report, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Some lawyers know, from the outset, what they want to practice in. Others accidentally find themselves in a certain area of law. James d’Apice, he tells Lawyers Weekly, allowed his area of practice to find him. Here, we explore how and why lawyers come to select their specialities and – once they’ve done so – how to communicate it to the world. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back lawyer and Coffee and a Case Note founder James d’Apice to discuss how and why legal professionals end up in specialised practice areas, how he ended up in his speciality of corporations law, and the extent to which lawyers can fall into certain areas of practice. Mr d’Apice also responds to whether lawyers should be asking questions of themselves in selecting a specialist practice area as to whether or not that niche is a meaningful one for that individual, why how one feels about their speciality is so essential, practical tips around communicating one’s speciality to the broader market, striking the right balance with branding in the modern age, and how carving out one’s niche feeds into one’s sense of self as a person and practitioner. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Ahead of the Women in Finance Summit and Awards 2023, we’re catching up with some of the leading women in the financial services space. In this episode, host Maja Garaca Djurdjevic is joined by Olympian and financial adviser at HLB Mann Judd, Sarah Carli, to discuss how she made her way from the track to financial advice. Ms Carli, who competed in the 400-metre hurdles at the Tokyo Olympics in 2020, reveals the valuable skills she has learned as an adviser that have positively impacted her athletic career, as well as how she balances being a professional athlete with working full time. Tune in to find out: The importance of a supportive work environment. How she balances her professional and athletic commitments. How there are more transferable skills between athletics and advice than many might expect. And much more!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Clarence Professional Offices, we explore how sole practitioners and small-firm owners can leverage support (both personal and professional) in the course of building a successful business. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Clarence Professional Group director Tony Jansz, as well as Gallant Law principal and founder Lauren Cassimatis and Walsh & Walsh Lawyers principal and practice director Julian Walsh, to discuss the critical importance of community support for lawyers and business owners, how to overcome the myriad challenges that small-business owners in law will face, leveraging support mechanisms and how such support makes one a better lawyer and business owner, and why membership in entities like Clarence can make such a difference. To learn more about Clarence’s Workspaces for Lawyers, click here.

For David Dwyer’s legal team, proactivity on environmental, social and governance (ESG) considerations is key – it does not wait for movement from regulators or competitors, nor does it wait for emerging trends to materialise. ESG is, he says, a “wonderful avenue” through which law departments can be forward-thinking and better embedded within businesses. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Unilever general counsel David Dwyer about the high significance of ESG in the pecking order of urgent priorities for law departments, the balance between proactive and reactive steps to be taken by in-house lawyers, having underlying plans in place and the role of the GC in enacting such strategies. Mr Dwyer also delves into the importance of an all-encompassing approach, setting the stage within the legal team for the achievement of goals, undertaking internal analyses, engaging in trial and error, how his team and the broader business implemented a net zero strategy as well as achieved B Corp certification, ESG considerations moving into the future, and the lessons he and his team have learnt along the way. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Annabel Biscotto, the immediate past president of the Australian Law Students’ Association, understands how difficult it can be for the next generation of lawyers to post publicly in the online realm as they wade into the profession. As she has learnt, being genuine and authentic is the surest way to develop a brand to be proud of. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Ms Biscotto to discuss her tenure as ALSA president, what she has learnt about herself and the journey of emerging lawyers from that 12-month role, the importance of putting one’s full self forward in the modern marketplace, and how it has become part of one’s professional development. Ms Biscotto also discusses how she tries to be genuine and authentic when posting online, navigating anxiety about such public-facing content, being empowered from owning one’s personal and professional brand, practical tips for getting one’s brand started, and what excites her about the younger generation leading the charge in adding more colour to lawyers’ identities to the outside world.

Claire Styles has always had a flair for entrepreneurialism and has long been passionate about being a business owner. Such drive serves her well as a mediator – as the art of mediation requires, she says, a commercial lens to best resolve disputes. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with C Legal & Co founder and principal Claire Styles (who is a finalist for Sole Practitioner of the Year at the upcoming Women in Law Awards) about her longstanding desire to be a business owner in law, how business imperatives drive her practice approach, the state of affairs for mediators and negotiators, and how the professional landscape is shifting. Ms Styles also delves into the big challenges for practitioners in this space moving forward, what she feels constitutes best practice, adopting a commercial lens to one’s approach to mediation, what other boutique firm owners can learn from the experience of mediators, and how practitioners across the board have to adapt their practices heading into the future. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Anika Valenti, who won the Excellence Award at this year’s Australian Law Awards, joins us to reflect on taking a deeper, more holistic approach to client service delivery and why teaching and learning are at the core of her engagement with those she serves. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Terri Janke and Company senior associate Anika Valenti (who is also a two-time winner of the Senior Associate of the Year category) about her background in the film and television industry prior to her legal career, working with First Nations clients, seeing herself as a teacher for clients and how she looks to work deeply with, and take a holistic approach to, her clients. Ms Valenti also details the critical importance of relationship building, applying her approach to service delivery to all practice areas and all cultural demographics, how lawyers can adopt a more holistic approach, the broader perspective she’s been able to glean about the practice of law, and what excites her about her continued journey in the legal profession.

Ahead of the Women in Finance Summit and Awards 2023, we’re catching up with some of the leading women in the financial services space. Deslie Taylor, principal at Mortgage Choice Ormeau in Queensland, is one of the top brokers in the country, having settled over $1 billion in loans in her 16-year career and taken home numerous awards including Mortgage Broker of the Year at the Women in Finance Awards multiple years in a row. In this episode, we chat to Ms Taylor about how she runs her award-winning brokerage and find out from Aaron Slater, general manager of distribution at Mortgage Choice (principal partner of the Women in Finance Summit and Awards 2023), how we can help support and create more inclusive workplaces. Tune in to find out: The power of being an empathetic leader. The art of practising continuous improvement. How Mortgage Choice’s Aspire program is supporting women in finance. And much more!

Chloe Taylor has always loved fashion and has developed a keen interest in social media. Combining those interests into a niche legal practice area has provided this generalist lawyer with a new, exciting (and fast-growing) vocational pathway. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Hall & Wilcox lawyer Chloe Taylor to discuss what fashion law is, how and why she became interested in it and was able to turn it into a practice area, what the day-to-day looks like for a lawyer in this space, and how adept she has had to become with TikTok and social media more broadly as part of that practice. Ms Taylor also reflects on operating in a practice area that evolves with the times, seeing social media proficiency as part and parcel of one’s professional development, being proactive about carving out a niche practice as a generalist lawyer, looming trends for fashion law and its development as a practice area in Australia, and finding creative ways to implement new practices for one’s firm. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Award-winning senior associate Mei Gong has noticed that some young lawyers are reluctant to nominate for law awards, as they feel – among other things – that they might be undeserving. Experience has taught her that not only is this not true, but that those who do put themselves forward for recognition will reap a multitude of personal and professional rewards. Editor’s note: submissions for the 30 Under 30 Awards 2024 close on 26 October. Please contact Mitch Crisafulli on 0449 523 760 or via email if you have any questions. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Johnson Winter Slattery senior associate Mei Gong (who won the Competition, Trade and Regulation category at the 30 Under 30 Awards 2023) to discuss her journey in law to date, how and when she first nominated for a Lawyers Weekly award, being a finalist in one year and winning in the next, and her perceptions of reluctance or fear among others to put themselves forward, and why. Ms Gong reflects on the steps involved in making an awards submission, the flow-on benefits that come with seeking such feedback on one’s work outside of the normal professional development process, the perspective one gains from looking back on their work in the past 12 months, why young lawyers should have more confidence in themselves, and overcoming self-limiting mindsets in order to celebrate one’s many achievements as an emerging leader in the legal profession. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Here, chef and lawyer Elise Pulbrook reflects on her time on MasterChef, what lawyers can learn about time management from cooking, and how to look after themselves through food. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Elise Pulbook, a lawyer at Baraka Lawyers and former semifinalist on MasterChef Australia, to discuss her life and journey, her love of cooking and experience of appearing on MasterChef, how she balances multiple hats (including a chef’s hat), and the lessons she has learnt about herself through her cooking and catering work. Ms Pulbook also reflects on what the legal world can offer the food world, being a good manager of one’s time, the myriad opportunities for lawyers and others to look after themselves through food, and how best legal professionals can practically enjoy and immerse themselves in cooking. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with the College of Law, we explore the “kindness in law” movement and its inextricable link to legal education and the ongoing development of practitioners moving forward. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with College of Law executive directors Deborah Battisson and Ann-Maree David (ACT and Queensland, respectively) and Balance Family Law co-founder and lawyer Jonathon Naef about the importance of the “kindness in law” movement and how and why it came about, why the College of Law is invested in this movement, and the ever-increasing need for such a shift in the training of practitioners across the board. The guests also reflect on how significant the shift towards kinder modes of practice is relative to other urgent professional priorities for lawyers, the practical takeaways and lessons from the recent inaugural Kindness in Law Forum (including how to implement kinder approaches in daily scenarios) and the business case for kindness moving forward. The College of Law is working to imbibe kindness in its educational offerings; it is a strategy that proposes a different industry outlook, one with the potential for creating a more well-rounded profession moving forward. There is so much more to this movement than just being “kind”; it is about building a sustainable and more equitable legal industry. To learn more about the College of Law and its offerings, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

“Snail girl era” is the latest social media movement to gain steam, following fads like “quiet quitting” and “bare minimum Mondays”. Such trends might seem like flashes in the pan, but they need to be viewed more holistically as legal workplaces try to get the most out of themselves and their employees in a post-pandemic world. Host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Resolution123 founder and principal Carly Stebbing to discuss the emergence of the “snail girl era” trend on TikTok, what it means and why it is significant, how the legal profession can and should view such trends in the so-called new normal, and why lawyers of certain demographics may be attracted to ways of working that differ from more traditional expectations. Ms Stebbing also reflects on her approaches to work – both in her early years of practice and now as a business owner and working parent – and what she has learnt from prioritising her needs, what other lawyers and leaders can take away from her experiences, how workplaces can move to better accommodate idiosyncrasies, and how individuals can reasonably negotiate for desired conditions so that all parties can be as productive, efficient and successful as possible in a professional services environment that remains uncertain and volatile. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Ahead of the Women in Finance Summit and Awards 2023, we’re catching up with some of the leading women in the financial services space. Joanna James is an advocate for constant reinvention and resilience, having herself adapted to change over her career in the finance space. Having worked in the lending space for more than 20 years – including as the general manager of non-bank lender Mortgage Ezy – she now helps support women in building successful businesses through Artemis Space, a women’s community group delivered by the Finance Brokers Association of Australia. In this episode, Annie Kane sits down with Joanna James to find out: Why success is subjective. The power of visualisation, emotionalisation and manifestation. Why she believes the finance industry is a great industry for women. And much more! If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, produced in partnership with Wolters Kluwer, we explore the daily practical and professional concerns for corporate legal and how best those in-house can grapple with such challenges in the current climate. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Wolters Kluwer content management analyst (corporate and commercial law, APAC) Samantha Sachdev, as well as Noumi Limited group general counsel and company secretary Justin Coss, to discuss the key lessons and takeaways from the 2023 In-House Counsel trends survey report and how the market is currently responding to said challenges. The guests also discuss how best law department leaders can effectively manage their time in the face of myriad concerns, the critical importance of technology as a solution, practical steps that in-house teams can and must be taking at this juncture, making necessary investments for your team, and broader guidance for corporate legal to navigate the breadth of practical and professional concerns as we move towards a new year. To learn more about the report and Wolters Kluwer, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

For Lucy McPherson, practising in estates provides tremendous scope to support people on personal and sensitive matters and in times of need. Increasingly complex jurisdictional issues in cross-border matters, however, are creating challenges for lawyers in this space. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Attwood Marshall Lawyers special counsel Lucy McPherson about why wills and estates has always been such a personally and professionally rewarding practice area for her, the state of affairs for practitioners in this space, the elevated level of complexity in litigious matters in a post-pandemic world, and the myriad challenges this presents. Ms McPherson also delves into the opportunities that can and will arise from these challenges, the importance of embracing new modes of practice as opposed to adversarial or combative approaches, the push for reform and a national framework for estate litigation, and the trends moving forward that make wills and estates such a “special” area of law. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In Australia, it is legal to lie in political advertising for election campaigns. Against the backdrop of the proliferation of social media platforms, and a changing cultural zeitgeist pertaining to trust in institutions, Australia’s electoral laws are becoming unfit for purpose. As recent elections – including this weekend’s Voice referendum – have shown, this needs to urgently change. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Marque Lawyers partner Kiera Peacock to discuss how and why she became so interested in electoral legal work, the existing issues in Australia’s legal framework in our electoral system, the wave of misinformation produced in election campaigns in Australia, and what lessons can be learnt from the referendum on the proposed Voice to Parliament. Ms Peacock also reflects on the danger of following the examples of electoral misinformation being witnessed in overseas jurisdictions, what legal updates may be necessary moving forward, how best practitioners can help ensure laws are fit for purpose, and why such legal work will be so critical moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The role of the general counsel is “becoming bigger and bigger every day”. With corporate regulations focusing strictly on governance, law department leaders can and must be meeting the moment. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Corrs Chambers Westgarth partners Abigail Gill and Sandy Mak about why ASIC is shining such a light on directors’ and officers’ duties, key takeaways and lessons arising from the recent proceedings involving The Star, and whether now is one the hardest times in living memory to be a general counsel. Ms Gill and Ms Mak also detail the ever-important need for proactive safeguarding of a business, the practical steps that can and must be taken, navigating the inherent practical challenges, the need for curiosity, managing the burden of competing urgent priorities, and best practice principles for law department leaders at this critical juncture.

Ahead of the Women in Finance Summit and Awards 2023, we’re catching up with some of the leading women in the financial services space. Tanya Sale co-founded mortgage aggregation group outsource Financial with Andrea Tassis 13 years ago, with Tanya now one of the very few female chief executives in the mortgage industry. In this episode, Annie Kane sits down with Tanya Sale to find out: How a piggy bank triggered her love of finance. Why she started her own aggregation business. Why she believes support is critical to succeed as a female business leader. And much more!  

Australian lawyer Shankari Chandran, who spent 10 years as the head of pro bono and community affairs for a global law firm, recently won the prestigious Miles Franklin Literary Award. Here, she speaks with Lawyers Weekly about lessons from novel writing, the need for strong communities, and the nexus between community and the rule of law. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Ms Chandran about her journey in law, how and why pro bono legal work has always been so meaningful to her, and the “inspirational commitment” of Australia’s big firms to pro bono and community work. Ms Chandran also details her experiences as a writer, what she has learnt – personally and professionally – from the publishing process, her reflections on the importance of strong, healthy communities and what we can glean from those diverse backgrounds, the nexus between the rule of law and the creation of communities, how lawyers can better immerse themselves, and what excites her about her continued literary and professional trajectory. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As the end of the year nears, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has clearly set its trajectory towards 2024. In this episode of Property Finance Uncut, Smart Property Investment’s Phil Tarrant and Finni Mortgages’ chief executive Paul Glossop once again reflect on the latest RBA decision and its impact on the Australian financial landscape. The duo discuss the continuing phenomenon of fixed rate mortgages coming to an end, before unpacking how investors can look to capitalise on upcoming opportunities for equity extraction.  

Australia’s legal profession has undergone significant change over the years. Appreciating the nature of that change, and taking the right practical steps to navigate one’s early years, is fundamental both for purpose and success. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Elit Lawyers by McGirr & Snell managing partner Danielle Snell (who recently won the Managing Partner of the Year category at the Australian Law Awards) and welcomes paralegal and law student Isabella Best to discuss their reflections on the law school experience, utilising mentors, getting professional development, the mental health scourge and being a businessperson in an evolving professional services landscape. The pair reflect on their respective experiences in law, what has changed and why, what those coming through the ranks need to know about the changing environment and how best to put one’s self forward to not only have purpose as a practitioner but also discover success in the process. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode, brought to you via Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand, HR Leader, we discuss why flexibility and hybrid work should be a continued focus going forward, despite some forcing employees back to the office full-time. Host Emma Musgrave is joined by Avanade modern workplace lead Stef Shoffren to reflect on the fact that even though 86 per cent of companies in the post-pandemic era are confident they have found the right balance in terms of people-first work models like hybrid or remote working, 55 per cent have not provided their employees with a genuine choice about when or where they work. The pair discuss findings around Avanade’s “People first. Or people false” research, which reveals a gap in what organisations are promising and what is being delivered to employees, and detail advice for technology-cautious employers and how to better utilise data and experimentation to create an effective working environment for all. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode, brought to you via Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand, Cyber Security Connect, we explore the latest cyber security trends facing businesses and detail need-to-know intelligence to keep Australian businesses safe. Host Liam Garman is joined by Rapid7 senior director of threat analytics Christiaan Beek to analyse the most common threat vectors exploited by cyber criminals, including unpatched software and old hardware systems, before discussing how businesses can implement strategies to minimise these threats. The pair then dive into the world of ransomware, examining the operating model of cyber gangs and how the dark web serves as a marketplace for threat actors, and reflect on how businesses can be breached through downstream attacks and insider threats before wrapping up with some practical security guidance for businesses. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode, brought to you via Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand, Space Connect, ANU lecturer Dr Cassandra Steer discusses where the ethical and legal boundaries lie as we enter an uncertain decade of military and political conflict.  Dr Steer, who is a mission specialist at ANU and a lecturer specialising in space law, space security, and international law, has over a decade of international experience teaching at universities in Australia, Europe, North America, and South America. Here, speaking ahead of her appearance at Space Connect’s Australian Space Summit, she discussed the emerging sector of space law and the weaponisation of space. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As this recruiter-turned-award-winning practitioner has learnt, it is fundamentally important to put one’s self forward in order to succeed. Effective networking and business development, right from the outset of one’s legal career, is necessary in the current climate. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Moulis Legal associate Lochlan Worrell about his background in recruitment and what it taught him about the jobs market, the need to build genuine and trusting relationships, navigating the rise of online networking, and practical ways to approach in-person networking. Mr Worrell also outlines the importance of not selling one’s self too much, managing one’s time well, what he thinks constitutes good business development for individuals, the questions one should ask one’s self to identify their personal brand, first steps to take, overcoming nerves, and lessons he’s learnt. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Award-winning partner Aylin Cunsolo considers herself lucky to be working in a space that she is passionate about and that is also a “key challenge of our generation”. The energy transition, she says, is set to impact many areas of law and is one that lawyers across the board need to be on top of. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Baker McKenzie partner Aylin Cunsolo, who recently won the Partner of the Year category at the Australian Law Awards, to discuss her journey as an energy and projects lawyer, how and why there’s no turning back with the nation’s energy transition and where Australia is at on that journey, and what’s happening with investment activity at this juncture. Ms Cunsolo also discusses the challenges and trends that partners and teams in this space are grappling with right now, best practice approaches, nurturing the development of the next generation of lawyers in this space, evolving thinking on what makes a good partner, why all lawyers need an understanding of the objectives and drivers of the energy transition, guiding clients rather than forcing decisions, and why such work for partners of all stripes is so exciting.

Melissa Barlas always wanted to be her own boss. Now an award-winning practitioner, she’s found the right balance in her firm, having invested in the right processes and people and can relish the experience, both personally and professionally. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Conveyed director and founder Melissa Barlas, who recently won the Sole Practitioner of the Year category at the Australian Law Awards, about her upbringing and being the first in her family to enter the legal profession, identifying a point of difference and the perspective she’s gleaned from that difference. Ms Barlas also reflects on the state of affairs for sole practitioners in the current climate, anticipating the hurdles to be overcome in the near future for such business owners, being a thought leader and wearing the multiple hats of small-firm owners, striking the right balance so that one can still enjoy the journey of running a firm, investing in the right people and processes, and remembering why one decided to go out on their own and ensuring it is a rewarding experience. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode, brought to you via Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand, HR Leader, we explore whether it is time to give up on the notion of a traditional nine-to-five. Host Emma Musgrave is joined by Carly Koemptgen to discuss why and how Aussie bosses can take advantage of talent out there that might not necessarily exist in their immediate backyard. Ms Koemptgen, 25, is currently travelling along Australia’s east coast, working in an arrangement that suits both her personal and career aspirations. She takes listeners through how her set-up works and why she sees other Gen Zers following suit. She also discusses what employers should be doing to capture young talent, how her generation is reshaping office life and the best ways to stay motivated in a remote working environment. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

What the next generation of lawyers is currently learning won’t necessarily be what they need to thrive in years to come. As such, new approaches are needed, says an award-winning law student. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with a fifth-year law student at the University of Technology, Sydney, Kurt Cheng, about the evolution of legal education and why rethinking academic models for the emerging cohort of legal professionals is so critical in the current climate. Mr Cheng discusses the work he is doing with his university council to revamp educational approaches, the perspective he’s gleaned about needed changes, updated learning models, the importance of social impact, the place for artificial intelligence in evolving education standards, striking the right balance in producing law graduates, what career fulfilment looks like to him, and how students can seek opportunities and remain inspired. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with the Mediator Standards Board, we explore the importance of upskilling in mediation in the current market. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Mediator Standards Board deputy chair Stephen Dickinson and treasurer Linda Kochanski to discuss the role of mediation in an evolving professional services marketplace, the extent to which lawyers are upskilling in mediation, the environmental factors driving legal practitioners towards mediation, and how such training offers a competitive edge.  Mr Dickinson and Ms Kochanski also delve into the extent to which accreditation is applicable across the board, how it offers a broader and more holistic approach to daily legal practice and service delivery, the skills and characteristics to be gleaned, arguments for investing in such training, and making time for professional development. To learn more about the Mediator Standards Board, click here.

The rise of flexible and remote working arrangements has brought into sharp focus the need for employees to effectively demarcate between home and work. If new rules preventing employers from contacting workers outside of hours are required, how should this be implemented? In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Adelaide Law School senior lecturer Dr Gabrielle Golding to discuss the current climate surrounding flexibility, the proliferation of mental health concerns for workers, the urgency of addressing workplace issues for business owners and leaders, and what Australia can learn from overseas jurisdictions. Dr Golding also delves into the ways in which Australia could introduce “right to disconnect” rules or laws, whether cultural mindset shifts are needed, whether there is an appetite for such changes in Australia right now, the dangers inherent in not taking action, whether there is a place for individual responsibility in driving change, and how workers could push for change. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Here, two partners from the Boutique Firm of the Year discuss the need for litigators to do things differently and ensure that client experiences and outcomes provide positive transformations. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Resolve Divorce partners Rose Cocchiaro and Chanel Martin to discuss necessary mindset and model shifts for small legal businesses, how firm owners can and should look to implement such changes, responding to changing and increased client expectations, and the idea of “responsible lawyering”. Ms Cocchiaro and Ms Martin also detail the need to move past discomfort around the idea of doing law differently, overcoming resistance from the legal community to change approaches, the importance of in-office collaboration in implementing new strategies, reflections on what it means to be a good business owner in law, and why looking for better, strategic options is so essential. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with TransPerfect, we explore how legal professionals can reframe their thinking and approaches to business development in the new normal. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with TransPerfect Director Tom Balmer, who is responsible for the legal technology provider’s rapid growth in Australia, about why branding and BD is such an important conversation for lawyers in the current climate. Tom also details some of the lessons he’s learnt about branding and BD from his career in sales, top tips for utilising social media platforms, improving in-person networking skills, and the mindset shift that lawyers need to have in order to meaningfully collaborate and succeed in the post-pandemic market. To learn more about TransPerfect, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Here, we speak to partners of award-winning and award-nominated transactions teams, respectively, about what makes a good team in such legal practice areas in the current climate and how best such teams can navigate looming challenges and trends in the coming year. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Herbert Smith Freehills partners Philip Hart and Jason Jordan about their respective interests and careers in transactional legal work, the headline hurdles that teams in these spaces have had to grapple with in the past year, how leadership of such teams has had to evolve, and the all-important need for a holistic, commercial lens over one’s work. Mr Hart and Mr Jordan also delve into the increased expectations being placed on teams at this critical juncture and why, the practical steps teams must take in the wake of evolving client needs, what works and doesn’t work when it comes to managing transaction teams, future hurdles to contend with, and why they are so passionate about the work they both do moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with nrol, we reflect on the upcoming Women in Law Awards and how one recruitment firm looks to support female candidates in the profession. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by nrol director Jesse Shah to discuss gender-based recruitment issues across various sectors, his perception of such issues as a male recruiter, what concerns him about the experience of women seeking new roles in the legal profession, and why supporting the Women in Law Awards as principal partner is so important to nrol. Mr Shah also argues for the need for the legal profession to not be complacent in the push for parity, whether female candidates are increasingly seeking out employers with favourable workplace policies and family incentives, how his firm is ensuring that women are being put forward to prospective employers, whether employers are meeting recruiters halfway on such a push, and why it is so critical for recruiters to push back on unconscious bias. To learn more about nrol, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As former Managing Partner of the Year Danny King puts it, she doesn’t expect others to prop her up without her propping them up in return. As such, her firm has successfully implemented a model that is more consultative, collaborative, and individual-driven rather than top-down. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Danny King Legal founder Danny King (whose firm recently won Workplace Relations and Employment Team of the Year at the Australian Law Awards) to discuss the importance of authenticity with staff and moving away from traditional workplace structures, leveraging one’s staff in different ways, and allowing greater freedom for staff members to identify how they want to produce work for the business. Ms King reflects on how staff have responded to her business model since its introduction, the evolutions that have been made and why, the opportunities in implementing a “create-your-own-adventure” model for law firms, how other business owners in law have responded to her model, whether she is optimistic that the rest of the profession can move towards such non-traditional structures, and why they will benefit from doing so. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

With its latest cash rate call, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has set the scene for spring  – sparking discussions among property investors and home owners about the implications for mortgages and property prices. In this episode of Property Finance Uncut, Smart Property Investment’s Phil Tarrant and Finni Mortgages’ chief executive, Paul Glossop, share the latest insights on current market conditions and advise property owners and potential investors to consider their options. The duo emphasise the importance of reviewing existing mortgages to ensure they are the most suitable for current market conditions, with the time ripe to explore better options, given the fact that banks are already reducing their fixed rates. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

General Counsel of the Year Kate Sherburn returns to the show to discuss why it is critical for the law department’s work to reflect the broader business, its mantra and operations. Taking such an approach, she says, better allows corporate legal to be a good influence. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Who Gives a Crap legal beagle Kate Sherburn – who won the General Counsel of the Year category at the 2023 Australian Law Awards – to talk about why aligning the in-house legal team’s work with the business’s purpose is so critical, how she has looked to do this in practice, and the positive impact that such pushes can have. Ms Sherburn also fleshes out correlating legal work with branding and marketing, whether a balance is needed between business positioning and perceptions of lawyers’ roles, improving impressions of the lawyer’s role within a business, having a better understanding of the business one is working for, and how taking these approaches makes one’s legal work more fun and interesting, even amid challenges. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Like many professions, law can sometimes be about who and what you know. As this award-winning practitioner discovered, if one is the first in their family to become a lawyer, throwing one’s self into vocational opportunities not only helps one better understand the profession but puts one in better stead with prospective employers. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Acorn Lawyers associate Samantha Moon – who recently won the Rising Star (Private Practice) category at the 2023 Australian Law Awards – to discuss her reflections on being the first in her family to study and practise law, realising that she didn’t have a network as some of her classmates did, and how she moved to address this disconnect and work her way through as an emerging lawyer. Ms Moon outlines what she did to build her network and glean professional skills, how such professional development can be undertaken in a post-pandemic world, how such efforts bolstered her resilience, why all emerging lawyers need to immerse themselves in opportunities, and her advice on how to navigate the current climate and put one’s self in the best possible position to succeed. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, we read into a new book released by a corporate lawyer and explore its major themes of parental leave policies and workloads on new parents. Host Naomi Neilson is joined by lawyer-slash-author Stephanie Vizard, who recently won the HarperCollins Banjo Prize for Fiction in 2022 for her new book, ‘The Love Contract’, which follows single mum Zoe, her new daughter Hazel, and their neighbour Will. In a fun and moving story, the three are thrown together by the dire shortage of childcare services and the parental leave policies that Will’s law firm highly encourages him to take – so much so that a promotion into a partner position may be on the cards. With her own law career to draw on, Steph tells listeners about her own personal experiences with parental leave policies following the birth of her first child and explains what her own workplace did right. Steph also shares what it was like to combine her creative passion with the law (and how she balances them with being a new mother) and there are great tips for other lawyers hoping to do the same. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Clarence Professional Offices, we explore what lawyers and legal businesses can and should be looking for in a workspace and ways to mitigate the risk of a conventional office lease. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Clarence director Tony Jansz about the swinging pendulum between working from home and working from offices, whether the legal professional lends to being in an office, the importance of community and collegiality, and how lawyers build trust and confidence with their clients. Mr Jansz also reflects on the evolution of the physical workspace as a result of the global pandemic, adopting a holistic approach to one’s working week and what that should feel like, practical steps to tailor the working week to suit one’s needs and those of the business, being uplifted by one’s working environment, and what Clarence is and what it offers legal professionals and businesses. To learn more about Clarence Professional Offices, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Becoming a partner in a law firm is a hugely exciting and satisfying moment, Aabid Farouk recalls. The transition, he notes, is not without its challenges – understanding how best to navigate that transition is critical. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Hazelbrook Legal partner, Aabid Farouk, about his journey in law and towards the partnership of award-winning firm Hazelbrook Legal, what it feels like to make partner, how one can begin to take steps to transition into one’s new role and duties, and the questions to be asking of one’s self in this process. Mr Farouk also reflects on the lessons he learned in those initial months of partnership, what works and doesn’t work, making up lost ground if one hasn’t taken the right steps, proactive versus reactive actions, making the necessary mindset shifts, what excites him about the experience of new partners coming through the ranks, and his broader words of wisdom for those joining the partnership. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!  

In this episode, brought to you via our sister brand Cyber Security Connect, we unpack why Australia has become one of the world’s most attractive targets for cyber criminals and how Australian businesses can protect themselves. Host Liam Garman speaks with AUCloud managing director and chief executive officer Peter Maloney about the factors that make Australia such a tempting target for cyber criminals, some of the latest tactics and strategies employed by those malicious actors to target businesses and families, how these methods are becoming more sophisticated over time, and just who is committing the attacks. The pair also discuss how managed security operations centre (SOC) service providers can support businesses, and what businesses must learn from the recent large-scale attacks to build a more robust cyber security framework. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Commonwealth Bank, we explore the myriad fiscal considerations for law firm partners across various stages of their careers and how best they can look after themselves. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Commonwealth Private’s national director of professional services, Alen Sirol, and Clayton Utz’s former chief executive partner, Bruce Cooper, about the importance of financial guidance across the life cycle for law firm partners, why such considerations are so critical, whether the legal profession does a good enough job of communicating the need for good fiscal management and navigating fluctuating market challenges at various intervals of one’s career. The trio delve into the factors for consideration when one is aspiring to the partnership, becoming a new equity partner, transitioning to a senior partner, and once one has exited a firm partnership. The group also discusses the importance of proactivity, practical steps that must be taken, and broader advice for partners of all stripes. To learn more about Commonwealth Private, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As a junior practitioner who has suffered debilitating mental health struggles, Kian Rafie is determined to see the legal profession get better at talking openly about our individual experiences. Talking, he says, can make all the difference. (Content warning: This episode contains content that may be disturbing or distressing to some listeners. Discretion is advised.) On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Piper Alderman lawyer Kian Rafie about the importance of having more frequent conversations about mental health struggles for lawyers, his motivation to be a lawyer, and his journey with and through anxiety, depression and suicide ideation as a junior practitioner. Mr Rafie also reflects on where he is now relative to years gone by, the support he has received from legal professionals, why talking is so important, overcoming the bravado that exists among Australian men, balancing the need to protect one’s self in a still-traditional sector versus addressing one’s struggles, practical steps that have helped him get better, and other words of wisdom based on his experience for those coming through the ranks. Help is available via Lifeline on 13 11 14 and Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636. Each law society and bar association also has resources available on their respective websites. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

While progress has been made in promoting the myriad career paths available to law graduates, some vocational options are still being glossed over, says an award-nominated in-house counsel. As such, those coming through the ranks have to be deliberate about identifying the various pathways available to them. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Yarra Capital Management legal counsel Chloe Giamadakis, who was a finalist in the rising star (in-house) category at the recent Australian Law Awards, about the evergreen need for the next generation of lawyers to be fully across the bounty of career options to be explored. She reflects on her own experiences of law school and early career, how and why she went into an in-house role so early in her own vocational journey, the progression options available to those in-house, the extent to which the next generation is aware of the options available to them and what options need further fleshing out, being proactive about finding out the various options, finding mentors, why it’s OK to investigate “alternative” career paths, and why being unafraid to try new things is so critical. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

While Carl Gene Fordham feels that the majority of lawyers and judicial officers “do a fantastic job” in working with interpreters and translators, there are underlying issues that must be addressed, he says, so that access to justice is not impeded for persons across the community. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with NAATI-certified interpreter and University of Queensland casual academic Carl Gene Fordham about the work of interpreters and translators in Australia’s court proceedings, the problems that such professionals are seeing in said proceedings and in their engagement with court processes, and why such problems exist. Mr Fordham also details what he sees as being the flow-on consequences if lawyers or judicial officers do not meaningfully work with interpreters and translators, the practical steps that legal professionals can take to ensure better collaboration, the training and education to be across, and why making such efforts remains so critically important. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Aldermane director and principal Rory Alexander – who won the Innovator of the Year category at the 2023 Partner of the Year Awards – about the mindset he brought to the founding of his legal business, his outlook on innovation and what he wanted to do differently (based on what he’d observed in his legal career up to that point), and structuring one’s business in accordance with innovative strategies and structures. Mr Alexander also reflects on imbibing a culture of innovation, how he implements innovative thinking in the practice area of government procurement, grasping opportunities in one’s area/s of legal practice, responding to what’s happening in the market, and his broader words of wisdom for partners and business leaders to think in more innovative ways. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Colin Biggers & Paisley managing partner Nick Crennan about the biggest issues facing heads of large firms in this financial year, the difference between managing and leading, and much more. Mr Crennan reflects on his 35-year journey with Colin Biggers & Paisley and becoming that firm’s managing partner, the state of affairs for Australia’s legal marketplace and the challenges being presented, how those challenges compare to previous market cycles, the “tipping point” being experienced, and ongoing presence of uncertainty. He also delves into the distinction between management and leadership, how and why BigLaw firms will shore up particular practice areas and what strategies are employed when doing so, taking a long-term view of the market, the five big issues for FY24, and the role of managing partners. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Many law department leaders understand, by now, that legal transformation is a commercial imperative. As such, ensuring that one’s in-house team is taking the right steps to meaningfully transition its practices and processes is critical. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back KPMG global head of legal services Stuart Fuller to discuss what legal transformation is, where the profession is at in enacting the changes proposed by such a concept, and how his law department has looked to make a change in recent times. Mr Fuller also outlines how law departments can and must be leveraging generative artificial intelligence, better utilising existing tech stacks, the need to proactively gauge what legal transformation will be needed in the future (particularly during times of economic uncertainty), how to balance the need for transformative approaches against the other urgent priorities for law departments in the post-pandemic age, and more. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Naiman Clarke, we explore the importance of ethically going out to market as a candidate for a new role – especially given how prospective employers may react. Host Jerome Doraisamy is once again joined by Naiman Clarke managing director Elvira Naiman to discuss some of the latest trends being seen in legal recruitment as we come off FY23, including a reflection on the slowing of salary increases and how the market has shifted from being one for candidates to being one for sellers. Ms Naiman also details some of the bad behaviours that are being witnessed and undertaken in the market right now by candidates, how and why such behaviours are manifesting, how candidates can ensure they conduct themselves in more considerate and transparent ways, how candidates and employers can respond to environmental marketplace shifts, and what will constitute best practice for those exploring a change in their vocational journeys. To learn more about Naiman Clarke, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

BigLaw partner Peter Hunt, an avid sports fan, says there is much that legal professionals can learn from the new-age style of cricket being played by the English national team. Lawyers, he submits, should look to all corners for guidance on how best to adapt and evolve their practice and service delivery in an ever-changing marketplace. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with McCabes partner Peter Hunt about the phenomenon of “Bazball” (the England cricket team’s new style of play) that was most recently on display in the Ashes series against Australia and the lessons that can be drawn from that style of play for legal professionals to be adopted into one’s approach to practice. Specifically, he reflects on the importance of being bold, taking calculated risks, backing one’s self, and the need to stay strong, as well as learning from one’s failures, what we can all take away from the Matildas’ success in the ongoing FIFA Women’s World Cup, and drawing inspiration from all aspects of life in how one can and should be a better lawyer. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Lea Hiltenkamp, an associate at HFW, to discuss the challenges and issues facing young lawyers in relation to workplace culture. Ms Hiltenkamp highlights the lack of support around reporting sexual harassment in the profession, which she has been working to improve in her role on the Young Lawyers WA committee and Women Lawyers of WA sub-committee on sexual harassment reporting. She emphasised the need for clear and transparent processes for addressing and resolving complaints of sexual harassment, particularly in smaller firms that may not have dedicated HR departments. She also details the need for those coming through the ranks to trust their gut instincts about choosing the right workplace and finding an employer with whom one feels motivated to get out of bed in the morning, can have fulfilling work, and makes you want to be and stay a lawyer. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Two recent experiences with senior counsel have given Sach Fernando pause for reflection on the extent to which racism and unconscious bias still exist in Australia’s legal profession. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with the principal lawyer of Maxiom Injury Lawyers, Sach Fernando, to discuss recent instances where senior counsel made culturally insensitive comments that served as a reminder that, despite progress, the legal profession has lingering issues pertaining to racism and cultural diversity. Those two instances served as valuable lessons for Mr Fernando in determining the best path forward – not just for one’s self but for one’s clients, business and staff. He reflects on his own journey as a lawyer with Sri Lankan heritage, the responsibility to ensure that clients are treated with dignity and respect, and the importance of speaking up in a strategic and professional manner if and when the time calls for it.  If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, CXT Legal director Christos Tsonis – who won the corporate category at the 2023 Partner of the Year Awards – discusses adopting a mindset and approach to help grow your legal practice into a nationwide operation. Mr Tsonis talks about his journey in law and setting up CXT Legal, practising in private market transactions, the importance of understanding clients’ commercial objectives and delivering value through legal advice, and the need for flexibility and adaptability in the face of market changes and trends. He also touches on the need to imbibe a mindset of growth and national presence in one’s employees and how best to work with and for clients right across the country.  If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

After over a decade in-house, Jeremy Hanrahan decided to head back into private practice, joining the partnership at Lander & Rogers. Here, he discusses the requirements to succeed in making such a vocational move. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Lander & Rogers partner Jeremy Hanrahan about his expansive career (both in private practice and in-house), what he learnt from more than a decade of working in-house, how and why he decided to go back into a law firm, and the personal and professional drivers for such a transition. Mr Hanrahan also details the importance of staying adaptable and open to opportunities, the personal adjustments required when making career shifts, including the importance of self-care and maintaining a work/life balance, the nuances of understanding client needs from both an in-house and private practice perspective, the importance of problem solving and being solution-oriented and shares his views on the current state of the employment and industrial relations workplace safety space, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in the field. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with lawyer, academic and COO Fabi Fugazza about the pervasive issue of unconscious bias in the legal profession and how it impacts hiring, sourcing and progression practices. Ms Fugazza – a lawyer at Equity Generation Lawyers, sessional academic at Western Sydney University and the University of Sydney, and chief operating officer of the Italian Coalition for Civil Liberties and Rights – stresses that unconscious bias is not limited to overtly discriminatory behaviours but also includes covert, unintentional biases that can significantly impact recruitment and progression within organisations. She shares alarming insights indicating that unconscious bias is still prevalent in the legal profession and reflects on the fact that despite the increasing number of women lawyers in Australia, only a small percentage reach leadership positions – a disparity that is not limited to gender but extends to ethnic and racial minorities as well. Ms Fugazza offers practical suggestions for combating unconscious bias, including standardising interviews, focusing on objective data, setting diversity goals, and fostering open conversations about bias within organisations. She also proposes the idea of “blind” recruitment processes, where identifying information is removed from applications to reduce bias. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Modaxo and Trapeze Group senior legal counsel Emilie Franklin, who recently won the TMT Lawyer of the Year category at the Corporate Counsel Awards, about navigating the challenges and opportunities that come with being the inaugural in-house lawyer for a business and building legal structures and processes from scratch. Ms Franklin emphasises the importance of team growth and nurturing young lawyers to ensure a seamless transition to the remote work environment. She also shares her strategies for maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders overseas, fostering collaboration, and securing a seat at the executive table. The duo delve into the delicate balance between effecting change without disrupting the established organisational flow, especially for legal departments often seen as an impediment rather than an enabler. Ms Franklin offers practical advice on engaging with stakeholders and creating positive test cases to gain support for substantial changes. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode, Smart Property Investment’s Phil Tarrant and Finni Mortgages’ chief executive, Paul Glossop, discuss the current state of Australian lenders and the property finance landscape following on from yet another rate decision. The duo delves into the latest Reserve Bank meeting and its impact on interest rates and mortgage rates, discussing conflicting data on unemployment and within the retail sector, and the potential for future rate fluctuation. Paul highlights the significant rental growth in the past 12 months, making it an opportune time for property investors, before emphasising the importance of investors taking proactive steps to refinance, extract equity and borrow responsibly. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Law can be an elitist profession. Socioeconomic diversity can put some practitioners at a disadvantage in building relationships in a profession in which one’s network is one’s net worth. However, as one award-winning lawyer explains, there are ways that practitioners and the broader profession can overcome such disparities. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Emplawyer managing principal Michelle Dawson, who won the employment category at the 2023 Partner of the Year Awards, about the effects of socioeconomic disparity on lawyers’ careers, and the need for broader recognition and opportunity. Ms Dawson details her personal and professional experiences, outlines the practical steps she has taken to succeed and offers her guidance, both for individuals and the broader profession, to address socioeconomic diversity as part of broader diversity and inclusion efforts profession-wide. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!  

In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Morgan Collens, a paralegal at Nevile & Co Commercial Lawyers in Melbourne, to discuss what she has learnt about the need for the next generation of legal professionals to take control of their personal and financial futures, specifically by ensuring they have a will and testament in place. Ms Collens discovered her passion for wills and estates while working with lawyers. She emphasises the importance of considering wills and estates early in one’s career, particularly for the younger generation, including members of the queer community who may have unique challenges in estate planning. She highlights the need to view oneself as a client and to list all assets, even small ones like bank accounts or share portfolios, to ensure a smoother transition for loved ones after one’s passing. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Stephanie-Kate Bratton, a lawyer, author, and mother, about her personal and professional journey and why showing our children all that lawyers do is so important. Ms Bratton reflects on her journey in the legal profession (which has taken her overseas to work in-house with one of the world’s biggest companies), her health struggles and what perspective she has gleaned from such hardships, being an advocate in the workplace, and what inspired her to create the “My Mummy Is…” book series for young children. She also discusses her thoughts on the importance of role modelling (especially for women in the legal profession), the experience of working parents in law and managing the juggle, reconciling one’s identities as a lawyer and parent, as well as her reflections on the progress made in addressing gender issues in the profession, and how far we still have to go.  If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show – produced by our sister brand, Cyber Security Connect – we explore the impact of and response to the cyber breach suffered by national law firm HWL Ebsworth, including the statement that cyber security coordinator Air Marshal Darren Goldie released. Hosts Liam Garman and Daniel Croft dive into the latest news in cyber security in Australia, beginning with a discussion of ANZ bank CEO’s decision not to sign up to a voluntary anti-scam code that would see banks required to reimburse those who fall victim to scams. The pair then discuss the impact of the HWL Ebsworth breach and the statement that cyber security coordinator Air Marshal Darren Goldie released regarding his response to the attack. The episode wraps up with an outline of the current status of artificial intelligence (AI) regulation and the concerns raised by both governments and the private sector regarding the risks of AI development with disinformation and more. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Theo Dorizac, the general counsel at Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) in Australia. They discuss the media and entertainment landscape, successful in-house team management, wellness considerations for law departments, and leadership during the post-pandemic new normal. Mr Dorizac shares how he transitioned from private practice to working in media law. He shares his passion for working in a creative space while using his legal skills. They delve into the importance of wellness in law departments, especially during the pandemic, and how SBS implemented formal work goals to address wellbeing. Mr Dorizac emphasises the significance of understanding the impact of decisions made in the media industry and being curious about the world to be an effective in-house lawyer. They discuss the current challenges faced by in-house counsel in the media and entertainment sector, such as defamation law reform, digital liability, and privacy issues. As the media landscape evolves rapidly, Mr Dorizac stresses the need to balance the excitement of change and new technologies with sticking to first principles and keeping things simple. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy sits down with Emily Purvis, the principal of PURE Equine Law. They discuss the importance of client-centricity in a niche legal practice and the practical aspects of driving a business forward in such a specialised area. Ms Purvis recently won the sports and entertainment category at the 30 Under 30 Awards. They discuss the founding of Ms Purvis’ firm, her passion for horses, and her desire to serve an underserved market within the equine industry. Ms Purvis emphasises three key principles that guide her practice: technical excellence, innovation, and accessibility. She also stresses the importance of managing client expectations and finding cost-effective solutions to better serve her clients. Ms Purvis also discusses lessons that other lawyers can learn from her experience in equine law. She encourages lawyers to know their market well and be open-minded to creative solutions. She advocates for client feedback and constant adaptation to better serve the clients. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Madison Marcus, we discuss how best those who have recently been elevated to more senior roles can successfully transition into their new duties and responsibilities. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Madison Marcus director Benoir Bayssari about his vocational journey (including his brief foray into dentistry), how he assumed a leadership position, the need for approachability as a leader, how leaders have had to adapt their thinking and strategies in recent times, and lessons Mr Bayssari has learnt during times of hardship in the market. Mr Bayssari also delves into the extent to which leaders have to get creative in the post-pandemic new normal, practical steps for lawyers who have been promoted to senior associate, special counsel, partner, and other roles should take in assuming their new duties, where they can be looking for external guidance, whether in-office working will be critical for such professional development, how new leaders can look after themselves, the need for proactivity, and what is exciting about assuming new leadership responsibilities in the current climate. To learn more about Madison Marcus, click here.

In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Naomi Neilson sits down with author Claire Baylis to delve into her thought-provoking book, Dice. Ms Baylis, who previously studied law and worked as a law academic, shifted her focus to fiction and legal research in Rotorua, where she became involved in the Trans-Tasman Jury Study, which forms the backdrop for her novel. Dice revolves around a sexual assault crime committed by four boys who create a dangerous sex game based on the throw of a dice. The unique aspect of the book lies in its narration, as it is told through the perspectives of each of the 12 jurors.  Ms Baylis joins the podcast to shed light on the complexities of sexual consent within legal settings, the impact of social media, the role of intoxication in trials, and the difficulties jurors face when dealing with sexual violence cases.  The pair discuss the efficacy of adversarial trials, particularly in sensitive matters like sexual assault cases and explore whether alternative approaches might be more suitable for delivering justice in such instances. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Beacon Legal, we explore the market trends and lessons coming out of FY23 and what lawyers across the board need to know as FY24 gets into full swing Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Beacon Legal director Alex Gotch about the headline takeaways and reflections from the past 12 months and what has stood out in the legal recruitment space, the stabilisation that is currently being experienced in the market, how lawyers can and should be interpreting what is currently happening with salaries, and how lawyers are faring relative to those in other sectors. Mr Gotch also talks about what is being seen with regard to bonuses being paid, expectations for certain practice areas, whether now is a good time for lawyers to be thinking about living and working overseas (on the back of salary and bonus trends in Australia), practical steps to take to put one’s self in the best position moving forward, and his advice more broadly on the back of the year that was. To learn more about Beacon Legal and its newly released Salary & Market Report, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Scott McCartney, a Wotjobaluk man and chief executive of the Kinaway Chamber of Commerce Victoria, and Matthew Karakoulakis, a Kokatha and Narungga man and principal solicitor of AMK Law, to discuss the issue of black cladding. Black cladding refers to businesses that falsely represent themselves as Indigenous-owned when they are not. Mr McCartney and Mr Karakoulakis discuss the negative consequences of black cladding and its impact on the Indigenous business community and the broader community. They highlight the need for proper certification and education to address the issue, as well as the role of lawyers in advocating for regulatory and legislative changes to prevent black cladding. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!  

In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy interviews Rex Afrasiabi, the principal of MA Legal and Bond Conveyancing Property Lawyers, about maximising profits in the new financial year. Mr Afrasiabi discusses the challenges in the current economic climate for boutique firms and emphasises the importance of setting realistic goals, conducting regular business health checks, and creating a roadmap for success. The pair also converse on the value of a positive firm culture and the impact it has on staff satisfaction and client experience. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The law is becoming more colourful and unique, Kiarah Kelly says, and the more that emerging legal professionals lean into their idiosyncrasies and showcase such personality to clients, the better off the profession – and those it serves – will be. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Brisbane Family Law Centre practice leader Kiarah Kelly, who recently won the family law category at the 30 Under 30 Awards, about what motivated her to enter the legal profession, how she navigates it on a personal level, what it means to have an imperfect path, and why she embraces her imperfections on her vocational journey. Ms Kelly also discusses how and why younger lawyers are more attuned to the notion of embracing one’s individuality, how she does it (practically) on a day-to-day level, how others can look to move towards leaning into their uniqueness, why it will benefit clients, and how best employers in law can support and encourage such individuality. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Prominent personal injury lawyer Henry Carus has been in practice for four decades. While it has not always been an easy ride, it is a journey he is still very much enjoying, and here, he shares some pertinent wisdom for other practitioners striving for such longevity in the profession. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Henry Carus + Associates principal Henry Carus about his reflections on over four decades in legal practice, how and why he chose this vocational pathway, why it is so critical to be respected as a practitioner, the numerological concepts that are meaningful to him, and how he looks to incorporate such principles into his practice. Mr Carus also delves into his approach to managing and looking after staff, the practical ways to stay on track with one’s approach to practice and leadership, the importance of continual learning (regardless of one’s tenure), lessons he’s learnt in 40 years of lawyering, the wisdom he’s gleaned, and his advice for those coming through the ranks. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with nrol, we dive into the vocational benefits of undertaking an overseas secondment or moving overseas as a lawyer. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with nrol director Jesse Shah about whether lawyers in Australia are increasingly thinking about moving overseas as we emerge from the COVID-19 pandemic, which lawyers are most interested in such a move and why, and if now is the right time for lawyers to be considering moving overseas for legal work. Mr Shah details the myriad of professional benefits that can come from spending time practising overseas, why more lawyers can and should consider this vocational option, his own reflections on having lived and worked in multiple countries over the course of his career, the questions one should ask one’s self about the prospect of such a move, and nrol’s recent international expansion. To learn more about nrol, click here.

Law department leaders will face significant challenges in the new financial year, however, effective utilisation of one’s resources – from emerging platforms to team members’ capabilities – will help GCs be better placed to navigate such pressures. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Deloitte partner and general counsel Tala Bennett about her interest in the technology space, how she manages such a large law department and delegates accordingly, and why she sees talent and technology as being the headline challenges for in-house legal teams in the new financial year. Ms Bennett also discusses how to find the right balance when managing the idiosyncratic needs and desires of one’s staff members, why privacy and security will remain such critical issues for law departments to grapple with, the ever-increasing need for good communication with stakeholders, effective triaging of priorities, facilitating an inclusive team approach, the need to embrace AI, and the opportunities for engagement with one’s leadership. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Having left Iraq with his family during a period of turbulence, Milad Juma understands full well how fortunate he was to have the opportunities in front of him. It’s something he does not take for granted, and he is adamant about giving back. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with PRD Legal principal Milad Juma about his firm’s strategic alignments with not-for-profit organisations, why retention of one’s desire to support the community is so critical, how being a leader in a boutique firm gives one the capacity to make greater contributions to the community, and how he got started on driving his firm to better service the community. Mr Juma also reflects on being multilingual and how this helps his provision of legal services, the perspective that lawyers can glean from community service, how the pandemic impacted his work in this space, how his firm’s efforts will continue into the future, and how he plans to develop those coming through the ranks and imbibe the importance of community service in them. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

A legal degree can be particularly challenging, especially during the final year. Having had two part-time jobs, a cadetship and a legal internship while working, law student Georgia Fryer can attest to this better than most. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Lauren Croft speaks with proud Dharawal woman and University of Sydney law student Georgia Fryer on juggling multiple jobs while studying and how law students should be prioritising their time. Ms Fryer is the 2023 recipient of the Australian Academy of Law’s annual First Nations Scholarship, a cadet at Legal Aid NSW, and has two part-time jobs, in addition to studying a bachelor of laws and having recently completed a bachelor of arts (media and communications). Now in the final year of her legal degree and looking at completing her practical legal training course later this year, Ms Fryer delves into how she manages to balance her commitments, when to prioritise work over university and vice versa, and the importance of looking after one’s wellbeing through law school. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As someone who grew up during the advent of social media, the advertising laws surrounding such platforms have become a point of fascination for Isabella Orlic. There is, she details, a huge amount happening legally in this space right now. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with BlackBay Lawyers graduate Isabella Orlic about her interest in advertising law and how it pertains to social media platforms, the inherent challenges being seen and experienced at this juncture, and whether the law is keeping up with the proliferation of development. Ms Orlic also discusses the onuses being placed on lawyers operating in this space, current regulatory guidelines and how they play out in certain examples (including how lawyers can advertise themselves), best practice for advertising, the emergence of “bluewashing”, and why practising in advertising law is so stimulating. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!  

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Plenti, we do a deep dive into all that has happened in the family law space in recent times and what such developments mean for practitioners. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Plenti head of legal finance Rose Dravitzki, Lavan partner Framy Anne Browne, Mills Oakley partner John Mazzotta, and Lander & Rogers partner Genevieve Dee to discuss recent updates in family law, the impact on the day-to-day experience of practitioners, significant and notable remaining challenges, the experience of those in Western Australia, and how the current economic climate may be influencing the on-the-ground experience of those operating in this space. The guests also discuss the necessary practical and professional steps that family lawyers must take in the face of such pressures and market forces, responding to the increased volume of activity, the extent to which experiences differ across the country for family lawyers, the financial considerations for practitioners, and notable lessons and takeaways from recent headline cases. To learn more about Plenti, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

More so than many sectors, construction has experienced myriad crises in recent years. In the face of such challenges, award-nominated legal counsel Omro Alansari has learnt the importance of making sure one is equipped to handle crises, if and when they arise. In this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Omro Alansari, the group legal counsel at Ace Contractors Group, about his attraction to the construction sector and how he wound up working in-house in this space, the state of affairs for construction in recent years and why it has been so challenging for legal counsel, and what constitutes a crisis. Mr Alansari also dives into the practical steps to take in order to make one’s self and the law department crisis-ready, how to triage those actions, managing one’s self personally as part of such actions, whether crises are still afoot for construction counsel, lessons he’s learnt about becoming crisis-ready, and what he knows about himself — both personally and professionally — that he didn’t before staring down various crisis-like situations. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

With the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) announcing its monetary policy decision for July, borrowers are now left to ponder if the latest move indicates the central bank is kicking the rate can down the road or signaling a change in its trajectory. In this episode, Smart Property Investment’s Phil Tarrant and Finni Mortgages’ chief executive, Paul Glossop, give a catch-all on the rationale for the latest reserve bank decision by unpacking the trends in inflation and job wage growth. They also discuss the preparations Australians are making for the anticipated “mortgage cliff”, and offer valuable insights into the future actions of the RBA in the coming months. Highlighting the worst is not over for mortgage holders as the impact of the rate hikes continues to bite, the duo emphasise the importance of borrowers not only scrutinising loan rates but also seeking a structure that will effectively “keep the wolf at the door”. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

One must always be looking for better ways to do one’s job, says Yule Guttenbeil. In the context of artificial intelligence (AI), this means exploring how best such technologies can be incorporated into a legal practice and leaning into such modes of operating. In this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Attune Legal principal Yule Guttenbeil to talk about how and why he first became interested in AI, how he came by his ethos of finding better ways to do one’s job and how that ethos has served him, and how experimenting with AI platforms has spurred both excitement and trepidation. Mr Guttenbeil also delves into the headline challenges for AI use for practitioners at this juncture, efficiencies he has been able to identify by using such platforms, the need to be prepared to lose some time in one’s day, in the short term, to gain long-term benefit, lessons he has learnt from his extensive use of various AI platforms, how he thinks such tech will change daily practice for boutiques, and what he is looking forward to with such developments. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

There is an inherent open justice and transparency on one hand and national security on the other. At present, the Human Rights Law Centre argues, Australia is not striking the right balance between the two — which risks undermining our democratic processes. In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Human Rights Law Centre senior lawyer Kieran Pender to discuss HRLC’s recent submission to the Independent National Security Legislation Monitor (titled Open Justice, Closed Courts), why open justice is so pertinent to a functioning democracy, the current legislative provisions that need consideration, and the consequences of having certain proceedings shrouded in secrecy, such as in the cases of Bernard Collaery and Witness K. Mr Pender also discusses the constitutional implications arising from the current legislation, striking the right balance between transparency and national security, how worried lawyers should be about the integrity of our justice system, the state of affairs with recent cases and what is happening next with those proceedings, and when the National Security Legislation Monitor will hold hearings into these matters. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Having worked in-house for more than 25 years, Peter Connor feels strongly that if corporate counsel can adopt the right framework for their daily operations, particularly in a volatile market, they can unlock opportunities that otherwise may not be available to them. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with former international in-house lawyer AlternativelyLegal founder and chief executive Peter Connor about what makes life as a corporate counsel so great, from his perspective, the need for such lawyers to transition even further into the business realm and develop corresponding acumen, and why business concerns have to be at the forefront as opposed to legal ones. Mr Connor explains the nexus between business acumen and professional agility, unpacks the T-shaped approach for corporate counsel, how to understand and appreciate what the corporate vision can and must be, practical steps to turn one’s self into more of a businessperson, ensuring the current climate isn’t impeding one’s ability to further develop, balancing the need to transition against other urgent priorities for the law department, and why unlocking new pathways and opportunities will be so rewarding for those adopting the right approach. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Migrants are returning to Australia post-pandemic, and with more and more non-English speakers in our community, some firms may see a need to build international desks that can better service those persons to ensure equal access to justice. Both from the perspectives of legal service and business needs, building such a desk makes a lot of sense. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Robinson Gill principal Lu Cheng about her experience in running her firm’s China desk, how and why the opportunity to build such a capability within her suburban firm came about, what is so important about building such desks, and the ever-present need to ensure equal access to justice to those in the community. Ms Cheng also responds to questions about whether or not offering such services for non-English speakers in the community will become a duty for law firms of all stripes, the challenges in establishing an international desk within a law firm, how to manage client relationships for those non-English speakers, ensuring that business owners and leaders see the value in establishing an international desk, and the trends dictating the need for such capabilities. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The legal profession, Rose Inglis believes, is becoming more open-minded to the possibilities and opportunities that arise from thinking beyond blackletter skills. Developing more holistic skills will help lawyers better unlock their career potential, she says — thereby allowing them to live their best professional lives. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Rose Tinted Law principal Rose Inglis about her journey as a now-former solicitor and the vocational epiphanies that occurred along the way, the impact of certain professional realisations upon her, why it is so important for lawyers to occasionally learn hard lessons about themselves and their careers, and the need to ask certain questions of yourself. Ms Inglis also reflects on the proliferation of legal professionals straying from the supposed traditional path, whether those who do not take the time to be introspective could be falling behind their peers, finding new and more creative ways to gain insight into who you are as a lawyer, and what excites her about more and more lawyers unlocking their career potential moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

It is crucial, award-winning legal counsel Christopher Doherty believes, for in-house lawyers to be motivated about the business they are working for. Having such purpose, being curious and employing the right approach to boot will spur counsel to success. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Virgin Australia senior legal counsel Christopher Doherty about his experience of working in-house in diverse sectors, why in-house life is so motivating for him, and striking the right balance between being the generalist that a business needs versus developing expertise in particular areas. Mr Doherty also discusses his perspective on the “T-shaped professional” and why such an approach is so critical for in-house lawyers, having such an approach be transferrable across sectors, why he is so interested in the aviation industry, the headline challenges he is seeing in this space right now, believing in the business one works for, and the all-important need for curiosity. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Award-winning lawyer Stephen Annicchiarico feels strongly that the greatest sense of professional achievement comes from having built, or contributed to, something from the ground up. Here, he reflects on his experience creating his firm’s IP practice as a young practitioner. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with WRP Legal & Advisory senior associate Stephen Annicchiarico, who recently won the IP category at the 30 Under 30 Awards, on what motivates him about working as an intellectual property lawyer, how and why he realised that there was an opportunity for him to build his firm’s practice in that space, and how to go about convincing firm leaders to let an emerging lawyer take on such a responsibility. Mr Annicchiarico details the practical and educational steps he took to ensure he could successfully build his practice, how being a young lawyer helps in such a process, being nimble and agile, building the practice in Adelaide versus a bigger Australian city, what he has learnt from the journey, the challenges he has faced, and why he sees his trajectory as such a meaningful and rewarding pathway for emerging leaders in law. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Achieving high heights as a young lawyer is not about taking the “right steps” up the ladder — success will instead arise by way of identifying the actions one can take to be the best version of one’s self, be happy and healthy in one’s work and ensure one can meaningfully contribute to the community. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Pragma Lawyers director Nick Malone about his recent appointment to the West Australian firm’s directorship and what such a promotion means to him, his strategy and trajectory moving forward, what kind of leader he plans to be and how he will give back, in the wake of guidance and mentorship he has received during his career. Mr Malone also delves into the extent to which that mentorship influenced his vocational pathway versus his own intrinsic drivers, the practical steps one can take to ensure they remain on a path that is true to them, the questions that one can and should ask one’s self in determining direction, his advice on how to stay true to one’s self, and creating one’s own definition of success. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As the winner of multiple Lawyers Weekly awards, Calli Tsipidis knows a thing or two about how best to succeed as an emerging legal professional. Here, she discusses how the next generation of practitioners can put their best foot forward and why backing yourself is so essential. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Foxtel Group legal counsel Calli Tsipidis about her journey in law to date, why in-house life is so motivating for her, how developing commercial nous is integral in allowing young lawyers to assert themselves, and the all-important need for authenticity, both from one’s self and the workplace. Ms Tsipidis also touches on how best young lawyers can assert themselves and seek out the guidance and support they need to grow, the benefits that can and will flow from backing one’s self both personally and professionally, how to interpret such considerations against the backdrop of one’s wellness, and her broader guidance for why backing one’s self is the key to success and contentment. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with nrol, we explore what candidates are looking for in an employer as the new financial year approaches and how best they can focus on what is most important. Host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back nrol director Jesse Shah to discuss where candidates are at as the end of financial year approaches, what they are telling him about what they are seeking in FY24, whether candidates are leaning more towards having a better workplace culture or a higher salary in the coming year, and how one’s level as a lawyer may dictate such thinking. Mr Shah explains how the proliferation of burnout may be influencing the motivations of candidates moving forward, the extent to which inflation and cost of living may drive one’s thinking, the decrease in the number of firms looking to make above-CPI salary bumps, how best candidates can weigh up the various considerations in front of them, and his advice to all candidates and discusses nrol’s international expansion. To learn more about nrol, click here If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

For Katherine Mackenzie, working in government roles means ensuring protection of the public is at the heart of all that one does. As an experienced public sector lawyer, it is “a nice way to live your professional life”, she says. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency criminal offences unit national manager Katherine Mackenzie about her experience in government departments and why such a vocational pathway has been meaningful, the work of AHPRA, the criminal prosecutions that her team investigates and why, and how the scope of such investigations has evolved. Ms Mackenzie also delves into the 100th prosecution that AHPRA recently undertook, what the day-to-day can look like for such professionals, the looming challenges for such work in the near future and how best to respond, best practice lessons stemming from her work, and legislative amendments on the horizon that can support the work of such criminal prosecutions. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Jessica Rippon has a deep affinity for the construction sector and wants to see it make improvements across the board. This passion, together with her drive to nurture the next generation, makes her well placed, she feels, to best serve clients and the broader community. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Construction Legal principal Jessica Rippon about how and why she developed a passion for the construction sector, the issues she’s seen in the industry that need addressing, changes that should be implemented, how she looks to serve the sector and why boutique law firms need to expand into more holistic offerings. Ms Rippon also details the broader market challenges spurring the need for such holistic approaches to legal and commercial services, what such challenges mean for lawyers on the ground and how she is looking to develop younger practitioners, trends on the horizon that lawyers in construction need to be across, how boutiques can be better advocates for change, and why she remains so motivated to get out of bed in the morning to work with the sector she operates in. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

From insurance sector updates to the advent of artificial intelligence (AI), there has perhaps never been a greater volume of challenging work for personal injury lawyers to do. For Jeremy Roche, ensuring that our nationwide frameworks are operating properly is critical if lawyers in this space are able to support clients and the community as best as possible.   On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Attwood Marshall Lawyers partner Jeremy Roche about his family’s long and storied history in personal injury law, why he is so passionate about this space, how the nature of such legal work has evolved in recent years and why there is so much work in this space right now.   Mr Roche also details the existing issues between compensation schemes across the country and why he thinks Queensland’s model is the “gold standard” across Australia, whether now is the most challenging time ever for personal injury lawyers, trends emerging on the horizon that lawyers in this space need to be across, interpreting changes in the insurance space, and how AI can and will help evolve personal injury and compensation legal work.

On this special episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with LexisNexis, we explore what lessons have been learnt from recent advancements in artificial intelligence and how lawyers can and should be adapting to the brave new world. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by LexisNexis Asia and Pacific Managing Director Greg Dickason to discuss the breadth of change we have witnessed in the development and utilisation of AI in recent months, why use of AI for lawyers isn’t going anywhere, the primary challenges currently being experienced with AI as it continually evolves, and what lawyers can confidently use such platforms for at this point in time. Mr Dickason also reflects on how significant the advent of AI is for daily legal practice (relative to other earth-shattering events), how lawyers should perceive the scale and pace of change, whether lawyers will be left behind if they do not adapt to using AI right now, how much change is still to come and why certain legal tasks may be unrecognisable in the coming years, whether recalibration of what it means to be a lawyer is needed, and how LexisNexis is helping practitioners in this evolution. To learn more about LexisNexis’ work in AI, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Bianca Lau, who runs an award-winning law department at Youi Insurance, argues that we are currently living through a new era for corporate legal professionals — one in which in-house teams have greater scope and opportunity to make their mark. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Youi Insurance head of legal Bianca Lau about navigating the necessary adaptations to management of law departments in recent years, remaining true to the vision one has of the team that one leads, the current state of affairs in the insurance sector and how to perceive its challenges, and anticipating what might be coming for the sector. Ms Lau also details how best to balance what’s on the horizon for in-house counsel and future considerations for the sector one works in, managing competing priorities, bringing one’s team along for the journey, what makes a good in-house counsel and leader right now, getting buy-in across the business, grasping the myriad opportunities to redefine the law department and why we’re entering a new era. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

With the Reserve Bank (RBA) announcing its policy decision for June, borrowers are bracing for another rocky month marked with more mortgage pain. In this episode, Smart Property Investment’s Phil Tarrant and Finni Mortgages’ chief executive, Paul Glossop, talk about the central bank’s move to take another swipe at inflation, how mortgage holders are being caught in the crossfire and why they think borrowers are not completely “out of the woods” just yet. While the duo acknowledge it will take a longer time for the rate rise cycle to reach its last stop, they explore the different ways borrowers can find reprieve amid the rising mortgage squeeze — including a modified serviceability assessment rate offered to those who have a good track record among lenders. Lastly, they advise property owners to focus on “longevity”, explain why one’s borrowing capacity is “just one aspect” of the equation, and discuss the importance of “stress testing” your personal cash flow.

Clients are now demanding more human-centred services, Natasha Hannah says, and as such, law firm leaders must walk the talk when it comes to showcasing greater empathy and consideration for all stakeholders and staff — and ensuring such an approach is all-encompassing. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with in house nous director and principal Natasha Hannah about her journey as an employment lawyer, why being an outsourced in-house lawyer is such an appealing vocational pathway for her, her experience of launching a boutique business while pregnant, and walking the talk when it comes to having a human-centric approach as an employment lawyer. The pair also discuss the place for bias when it comes to being more human, practising law and operating a business in ways that are true to one’s self, how being more human pertains to supporting individuals in the context of child-rearing, bringing stakeholders and staff along for the journey in changing mindsets, communicating effectively about one’s approach to business, how to be more human without sacrificing the firm’s finances, and Ms Hannah’s guidance for firm leaders about putting human considerations at the forefront. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Eleven years ago, the former Queensland state government proposed laws to criminalise gays, lesbians and singles from undertaking surrogacy. Internationally renowned surrogacy expert Stephen Page was among those who fought against the flagged laws and ultimately won that fight. Here, he discusses why lawyers can and must embrace change and always remember to serve others. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Page Provan director Stephen Page about his personal and professional journey, leading the fight against the then Queensland attorney-general’s push to criminalise gays, lesbians and singles from undertaking surrogacy, why this fight was so important and the toll it took on him. Mr Page also reflects on the legal skills he drew on during that fight, how it made him a better lawyer and advocate, why the label “activist” isn’t a bad thing for legal professionals, and how and why it is so critical for lawyers to remember that they are ultimately servants of the court and the communities around them. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Naiman Clarke, we discuss why it is so important for lawyers who are hoping for pay rises in the new financial year to be pragmatic about what salary increases they can garner in the current climate. Host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Naiman Clarke director Elvira Naiman to discuss whether we are in danger of seeing lawyers have unrealistic expectations about their potential salary increases, why lawyers may be anticipating higher-than-normal pay rises, the factors that can and will drive the quantum of increases, and how a potential recession might impact such eventualities. Ms Naiman also reflects on the potential outcomes for lawyers who may find that their salary increases aren’t in line with what they were expecting, whether there could be increased movement between employers in the near future, the salary ranges we might be able to expect in the near future, the incentives being offered by employers in place of bigger salary increases, how to temper one’s expectations, and discusses Naiman Clarke’s upcoming salary guide. To learn more about Naiman Clarke, and find out about its upcoming salary guide, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Here, an ex-police prosecutor turned law student discusses why he has decided to swap ends of the bar table. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jess Feyder speaks with Joshua Kelly, who has spent two decades as a cop and held the role of police prosecutor, about why he decided to begin a law career. Mr Kelly discusses why his role in the police force has aided his understanding of the law and why it gives him a unique perspective to practise from. He discusses cases during his time as a prosecutor that impacted him and motivated him to make the change to law. Mr Kelly also talks about where he sees his legal career going and where Australia’s prosecution system might be flawed. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Given how much the legal landscape is modernising, relationships are more essential than ever before. As Gabriella Pomare says, “it’s who you know, it’s who you get to know, and it’s about putting yourself out there”. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with The Norton Law Group partner Gabriella Pomare about becoming a leader in the firm set up by her father, what leadership means to her in the context of their family law firm, and the challenges involved in being a good leader in the age of COVID-19. Ms Pomare also details her thoughts on good relationship management, instilling the right mentalities in junior staff, navigating idiosyncratic needs and personality differences within a team, building and maintaining relationships with various external stakeholders, what constitutes a good investment of time and energy in relationships, why it is more important than ever before, and balancing such management on top of all other responsibilities for boutique law firm leaders. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, produced in partnership with LOD, we explore how law departments can successfully navigate cost-cutting in these economically uncertain times. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by LOD head of market insights Mark Dodd and senior legal counsel Helena Kolenbet to discuss what in-house legal teams are currently grappling with when it comes to cost-cutting, the impact of such fiscal constraints on those teams, how Australian law departments might be faring compared to overseas counterparts, and whether cost-cutting is at, or near, the top of in-house leader’s list of urgent priorities. Mr Dodd and Ms Kolenbet also outline practical ways that law departments can thrive amid a cost-cutting environment, including ruthless prioritisation, eliminating waste, avoiding over-involvement so as to better manage given tasks, being pragmatic about what can be achieved, and boosting team morale, and how those in-house teams can and will benefit from implementation of such approaches. To learn more about LOD, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Justice David Smuts of the Supreme Court of Namibia shares how he has helped shape Namibia’s laws and legal system to imbed human rights into the country. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jess Feyder speaks with Justice David Smuts about the changes he’s been instrumental in in Namibia’s legal system and how he went about securing those changes. Justice Smuts discusses how he challenged laws and aspects of the constitution, at a time when the country gained independence and its constitution and legal framework were being formed. His Honour also discusses how he has presided over court cases and worded judgments, aiming to influence the law and broader society to move towards equality and rights for both humans and animals. Justice Smuts discusses his career path, his motivations, and the methods he’s used to challenge laws and drive change, reflecting on how Namibia’s society has changed and how the judiciary has played a role in moving the country towards equality. His Honour also muses on the significance of the judiciary in its role of upholding moral principles and human rights for a country and gives advice to Australian lawyers who are passionate about driving positive legal and social change. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Becoming a parent did more than reshape Matthew Hodgkinson’s personal life — it also changed, for the better, his professional pathway, leading him to become a “fractional” general counsel and have a greater appreciation for the need for “forgiving” advice and perspective as an in-house lawyer. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Papillon Lawyers principal and managing partner Matthew Hodgkinson about how and why he ended up being a “fractional” general counsel, what that means and how it differs from being a freelance GC, the familial circumstances that mean operating as a fractional counsel is suitable for his needs. Mr Hodgkinson also unpacks how his vocational journey has shaped his thinking on what it means to be a good general counsel, the need for “forgiving” legal guidance and business advice, how fractional GC life is compatible with the post-pandemic world, whether he thinks the number of fractional GCs will increase in the future, and what excites him about that prospect. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Historically, Simon Tupman muses, the legal profession has associated strong performance as a practitioner with leadership capabilities. In an ever-changing professional services marketplace, he says, leadership in law must have a more all-encompassing approach — because good lawyers don’t necessarily make good leaders. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Simon Tupman — a consultant, speaker and mentor to law firms — about what he believes law firms and legal teams are getting wrong when it comes to identifying leaders and why, whether poor leadership can cancel out any financial benefits that arise from promoting successful practitioners, and whether a revamp of business models in law will be required to better elevate certain leaders. Mr Tupman also reflects on how flexible and adaptable leaders in law have been since the onset of the global pandemic and what they are getting right in the new normal, the need for leaders in law to be more holistic in their approaches, and the key principles he has identified that will constitute effective leadership in the legal profession moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, Sydney-based law student Niki Nojoumian talks about why Australia should lower the voting age, and the legal and societal changes that would surround it. Host Jess Feyder speaks with Niki Nojoumian, a law student whose essay on lowering the voting age in Australia has gained recognition. Ms Nojoumian discusses the changes that should come with Australia adopting a voting age of 16, why it is especially relevant for this change to happen now, and why she found it important to advocate for a lower voting age. She also talks about why she decided to formulate the essay and the influential role her mentors have played in the project, discusses how law students can become engaged with the topic, and gives advice on how to successfully pursue research projects. 

Across Australia, corporate entities have taken a stance on the proposed Indigenous Voice to Parliament. But what happens if a lawyer in a firm has a different view from their employer? On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Swaab partner Michael Byrnes to discuss why so many corporate entities, including law firms, have decided to take a position on the Voice, the market factors driving such corporate positioning, and the potential implications for their employees — particularly those who might have opposing views. Mr Byrnes details the various employment and workplace relations scenarios that will have to be worked through, how employees can reasonably express their views if they are in conflict with their employer’s position, the dangers of overstepping in publicly contradicting one’s employer, and the steps both sides may need to take to ensure freedom of expression is balanced against corporate interests. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with law image, we explore how and why the legal profession is outsourcing much of its non-core work and what leaders in firms and businesses need to know to drive efficiency and productivity in an ever-volatile market. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with law image innovation and technology lead Tim Hall and head of commercial and corporate services Michael Wrobel to discuss what we mean by outsourcing and managed services, the market and workplace circumstances driving law firms and in-house teams towards outsourcing, whether the post-pandemic new normal has accelerated movement towards outsourcing, and existing barriers to meaningfully outsourcing the non-core work of one’s firm or team. Mr Hall and Mr Wrobel also detail their longer-term predictions for outsourcing against the backdrop of the current state of the market, the headline concerns and problems needing resolution for firms and teams, the extent to which proactivity with outsourcing is required, and whether those not outsourcing could be left behind. To learn more about law image, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As an experienced GC, David Cosgrave has learnt that — when determining legal advice in scenarios one will not see every day — appreciating the motivations of people and how to balance risk and goals will help in-house lawyers best serve their clients. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with longstanding general counsel, lecturer and risk governance adviser David Cosgrave about why he gravitates towards litigators when hiring for in-house roles, the importance of having a real-world understanding of risk, how to formulate advice in sensitive and/or unique legal issues and find amicable, acceptable resolutions. Mr Cosgrave details for the listeners his experiences providing advice in such extraordinary scenarios, from speaking to family members of persons on life support to athletes refusing to undergo drug tests, the unique perspective that one gleans from providing advice in such scenarios, and the overarching importance of flexibility and agility in the development of such a holistic approach to in-house life. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Working part-time as a lawyer can often be associated with caring responsibilities. However, as Meg Crawford details, there is a multitude of personal or lifestyle factors that may lead a lawyer to pursue other vocational pathways while maintaining a part-time practice — lawyers always, she believes, have such options in front of them. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Justitia Lawyers and Consultants special counsel Meg Crawford about her journey as a lawyer and  the ups and downs she has experienced in her life, how those experiences have led her towards other pursuits, and how her perception of what she wanted to do vocationally has evolved over time. Ms Crawford also details what her three-day working week set-up looks like and how she makes it work with her firm, changing views on what it means to be a legal professional, how those coming through the ranks can explore part-time working arrangements with their employers if they have other pursuits in mind, shaking off traditional mindsets of the volume of work required of lawyers, and how she feels optimistic about the sustainability of her more holistic approach to her career. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Last week, the Reserve Bank of Australia made the surprise decision to increase the cash rate — the 11th time in 12 months it has done so — given that inflation isn’t coming down. The current economic landscape and subsequent property market offer much food for thought for lawyers. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Legal Home Loans director of sales Cullen Haynes and legal lending specialist Rachael Massoud to discuss why the RBA raised the cash rate this month, the circumstances giving rise to such a decision, the challenges that lawyers looking to buy are now facing, and whether any particular demographic of lawyers is being hit hardest right now. Mr Haynes and Ms Massoud also explore the impact that rate rises are having on lawyers, how to interpret the record profits being made by the big banks at present, the “mass migration” currently being seen in the property market, and detail practical steps to take at this juncture, including refinancing, the questions to be asking one’s broker, escaping “mortgage prison”, and their advice for lawyers wanting to buy right now. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Naiman Clarke, we explore the myriad impacts of a high-stress environment on lawyers and why prioritising one’s health and wellbeing when seeking a new role is not only necessary but also puts one in the best position to then satisfy their vocational and financial goals. Host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Naiman Clarke owner and managing director Elvira Naiman to discuss why mental health concerns remain such a pertinent factor in any conversation about legal recruitment, the current state of affairs for jobseekers and how they are prioritising wellness as a consideration when looking for new legal roles. Ms Naiman also reflects on some of the new-age professional challenges and scenarios that lawyers are dealing with that both impact wellness and influence thinking about vocational pathways, how recruiters can and do look to navigate conversations about wellness with jobseekers in law, how best to perceive and navigate high-stress environments, how to present as the best possible candidate for a vacancy, and why health and wellbeing must be at the top of one’s priority list when looking for a new role in law. To learn more about Naiman Clarke, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

There is a presumption, among some legal professionals, that transactional experience is preferable for those working in-house. As Belinda Wong demonstrates, however, bringing a litigation background to a corporate legal role can be just as valuable, particularly in an ever-changing market. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Laing O’Rourke corporate counsel Belinda Wong about her litigation background and experience to date, the upskilling she has done since moving over from BigLaw to an in-house role, her perception of litigation experience and how it has shaped her abilities as a lawyer, and how her skills have been transferrable to her new in-house role. Ms Wong also outlines how perceived requisite skills may be evolving in the post-pandemic landscape, whether there’s an increased demand for litigators in-house, other trends she sees in the market, whether we will get to a point where litigators are preferred to transactional lawyers, and how best corporate counsel can acquire litigation skills to better support their businesses. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

By his own admission, Nick Mann was naïve about the practicalities of founding a law firm. Because of that, however, he was forced to focus more intensely on his vision for a new practice. Setting and abiding by such a vision, he says, is integral for success. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Polaris Lawyers founder and director Nick Mann about how and when he made the decision to start his own practice, the various considerations he undertook in getting from A to B, identifying what one wants one’s firm to look like, and the difficulty of staying true to that vision. Mr Mann also details the importance of being able to identify if and when a firm owner has erred in the formulation of direction and how best to get back on track, the lessons he has learnt on this front, and what other boutique law firm owners can take away from his experience in thinking about where they want themselves, and their businesses, to be in years to come. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Andrew Raad is only in his early 30s and is already an equity partner at his firm. Having a clear understanding, when he was at law school, of what he wanted to do helped put him on the path to achieving his vocational goals. Figuring out how to pave your own way, he says, is key. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Speirs Ryan partner Andrew Raad about his journey since graduating from law school, reflections on the culture of the tertiary environment and how it can influence students’ thinking about career direction, how he garnered insight and self-awareness into who he was and what he wanted, and how others can best balance those considerations. Mr Raad also delves into the construction of one’s day-to-day, how those coming through the ranks can start asking themselves pertinent questions to better define their own career path, additional steps to take in a post-pandemic market, and how the next generation can and must be receptive to change, especially if and when their careers take divergent pathways. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Firm owner Geoff Ebert has been coaching Australian rules football, including at the professional academy level, for nearly three decades. There are numerous lessons, he says, that senior lawyers can learn from his experience in nurturing the next generation. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Your Online Legal Group principal Geoff Ebert, who talks about his background and career in Australian football, why coaching was of interest to him, what his coaching regimen looks like for teams, as well as his mentality in leading players, and what he gets out of such a vocational pursuit. Mr Ebert also outlines his journey as a legal professional and now firm owner, how he juggles his coaching commitments with his development as a lawyer and business manager, transferrable skills and traits between those two pathways, tackling various mental health challenges that arise with those in his charge, lessons he’s learnt, and what other lawyers can take away from the experience of professional Australian football. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with nrol, we delve into the proliferation of burnout among legal professionals in the post-pandemic environment and its impact on perceptions of the job market in law right now. Host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back nrol director Jesse Shah to discuss the complexity of burnout and factors driving it in the current climate, recent studies detailing the extent to which lawyers are currently suffering, what is being seen on the ground right now with candidates, and what recruiters across sectors have to navigate as a result. Mr Shah also explores some of the lessons coming out of conversations being had with candidates right now as it pertains to burnout in the profession, whether the current climate is making candidates rethink what they want in a legal job, what they are valuing right now, some practical steps that candidates can take to ask themselves the right questions in order to seek a suitable role, and his guidance for those looking to wade through the ongoing turbulence of the new normal. To learn more about nrol, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The law is just one aspect of multifaceted decisions for businesses of all stripes, and for corporate counsel, being integrated as part of the DNA is fundamental in the post-pandemic marketplace. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Investa chief legal and risk officer Lesley Chan about what it means to be a good lawyer and how to achieve success in-house, how perceptions of being a good lawyer in-house have evolved since the onset of the global pandemic, and why juggling multiple hats may no longer be good enough in the current climate. Ms Chan also discusses her views on what’s driving the need for in-house lawyers to be more than just good lawyers, who is driving that need for change, how law department leaders can upskill themselves and their teams, and what excites her about challenging herself and those around her to be better and do more than simply being a good legal professional. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

With the Reserve Bank (RBA) delivering a shock rate decision for May, mortgage holders are left reeling on what steps to take to minimise the impact on their finances. So in this episode, Smart Property Investments’ Phil Tarrant and Finni Mortgages’ chief executive, Paul Glossop, talk about the central bank’s surprising move to resume rate hikes after a month-long pause to check the economy’s pulse and unpack the data points that influenced the latest decision. And while the duo acknowledged the latest cash rate increase will be the “nail in the coffin” for some borrowers due to higher repayments, they encouraged mortgage holders to reassess their current strategy and create a plan that can help them weather the latest rate hike storm. They also unpack the various options available to borrowers, which include mortgage restructuring, refinancing to a fixed or variable rate, or switching to a different lender that offers a more competitive product.

All SME law firm leaders and owners will face hurdles to overcome, both personal and professional. What matters is what one takes away from such trying times and how best you apply those lessons in moving forward. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Gale Family Law director David Gale about some of the setbacks he has faced in his life and why he chose to share those in the public forum of LinkedIn recently, the impact of those setbacks and how he has responded in order to move forward, both personally and professionally. Mr Gale also reflects on the lessons that can and should be gleaned from experiencing certain setbacks, the practical approaches he has applied in navigating those setbacks and what works and doesn’t work, safeguarding one’s self and one’s business from future potential hurdles, whether boutique firm owners can be better at talking about the setbacks they’re facing, and how best he thinks they can discuss them with a broader audience. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, we explore the benefits and risks of artificial intelligence and digital media, how Australia and the globe should go about regulating tech advancements, and the role lawyers play in this area.   Host Jess Feyder spoke with Shane Budden, special counsel in ethics at the Queensland Law Society, about the critical juncture point we are at in the need to regulate new and existing technological inventions, while ensuring doing so in a way that its benefits are not suppressed for individuals and society.   The pair discuss where Australia is at with regulating tech, the major harms facing Australian society, and how Australia can be at the forefront of understanding and regulating new tech creations.   They also talk about how Australia can navigate regulation on a global level and the need to bring tech companies “along for the ride”, delve into the current look of prosecution against tech companies, and how the area may evolve.   Finally, the pair discuss the role of the lawyer, the unique skills and understanding lawyers possess that makes them well placed to tackle issues that new tech poses, and what lawyers can do to assure tech is harnessed in a way that is beneficial for society. 

Being boxed in to a particular area of practice has “never really appealed” to Virginia Crawter. Instead, she has looked to pave her own way in law, allowing her — as a senior legal counsel — to operate in ways that make sense to her, thereby allowing her to provide as much benefit to a business as possible. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Main Sequence head of legal and company secretary Virginia Crawter to discuss the lessons she’s learnt from her varied legal career, whether moving in-house has better allowed her to tick the vocational boxes that are most important to her, the day-to-day of in-house government roles and well as what life looks like for in-house VC lawyers, as well as the headline challenges faced by such professionals. Ms Crawter also outlines what crafting her own adventure means to her, how and why she realised such a mindset would be so important for her journey, how to communicate with colleagues and executives about such an approach, the values or outcomes that one needs to understand, how to respond to resistance to crafting one’s own adventure, pushing back on traditional structures and how other in-house lawyers can better shape their vocational direction in the post-pandemic market. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

For SME law firms operating in emerging practice areas, ensuring that you and your business meaningfully understand the work being undertaken by your clients — rather than simply having a surface-level appreciation — is critical to the longevity of that firm. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Celia Legal founder and principal Chris Elias to discuss growing a law firm in the spaces of fintech and web3, his perspective on building such a business in the current climate, the headline issues and challenges to be overcome and how he looks to be as across new and emerging technologies as he possibly can be. Mr Elias also delves into how upskilling in new and emerging technologies not only helps grow his business but also makes him a better legal professional for clients, how and why lawyers must be better at client experience moving forward, and what boutique firm owners can learn from those practising in emerging areas, including and especially fintech and web3.

A 294-page review of the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) has been released, putting forward 51 recommendations to improve the structure, governance, and decision-making processes of the central bank. The review considered the RBA’s performance over the past 30 years and has recommended the biggest overhaul of the central bank in its 63-year history. In this episode, Momentum Media managing editor of mortgages Annie Kane is joined by the managing editor of property and financial services Phil Tarrant to discuss why the RBA review is calling for two RBA boards, their thoughts on dropping to eight cash rate decisions a year, and Philip Lowe’s reactions to the review.

Numerous overseas jurisdictions have implemented “right to disconnect” laws — recognising that workers should be able to switch off outside of working hours. What’s the likelihood that we’ll soon see such laws implemented here? On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by barrister Ian Neil SC to discuss what “right to disconnect” laws are and why they have been implemented in overseas jurisdictions, how such laws operate overseas, whether the need to disconnect has been heightened since the age of COVID-19, and lessons legislators can take from the experiences in other countries. Mr Neil also outlines whether there is an appetite for introducing such laws in Australia (from legislators and employers alike), whether such rules against contacting staff outside of hours could even work in the post-pandemic professional services marketplace, and whether he thinks Australian lawyers will ever be able to do practice with such laws in place.

In this special episode of LawTech Talks, brought to you in partnership with PracticeEvolve, we provide invaluable insights into selecting the right practice management system for your law firm in a rapidly evolving marketplace. Join host Jerome Doraisamy as he interviews Adam Bullion, the General Manager of Marketing, and Anthony Bryce, the Sales Lead in Australia and New Zealand, from PracticeEvolve. In this episode, they delve into the world of practice management systems and the environmental considerations to keep in mind when selecting the right one for your law firm. Listen in as Mr Bullion and Mr Bryce share their insights on how PracticeEvolve assists firm owners in navigating the complex decision-making process of choosing the best software for their unique needs. They also discuss the essential questions that firm owners should be asking when considering software selection and the benefits and drawbacks to consider. Additionally, the trio explores how software providers can offer maximum value to law firms of all sizes and offer practical advice on securing staff buy-in on new technologies and developing long-term operational strategies for your law firm. Whether you’re a legal practitioner, a law firm owner, or simply interested in the evolving landscape of legal technology, this episode is not to be missed. Tune in now to learn from industry experts on identifying the best practice management systems for your law firm. To learn more about PracticeEvolve’s Legal Industry Outlook 2022/23: State of Cloud – From Migration to Realisation report, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The legal profession has, on the whole, been receptive to adopting new technologies for daily operations. Even among those who utilise tech, however, there remains an element of resistance to change — particularly if using a tech platform means giving over control over a given task, argues one lawyer. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with McLay Legal Consulting principal and consultant Fiona McLay about how prevalent technophobia is among Australian lawyers, why it is an issue for so many practitioners, what we mean by technophobia, and whether lawyers feel duty-bound to complete tasks as traditionally intended. Ms McLay also delves into the most common reasons for technophobia, whether the age of COVID-19 has reduced the number of lawyers who resist using various technologies, the practical steps that lawyers can take to overcome any resistance they may have, how best to undergo a mindset shift in terms of your daily operations, and her broader guidance for how and why lawyers can ensure they are prepared for the future of legal practice. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Madison Marcus, we dive into how firms and practitioners alike can deal with the influx of insolvencies and bankruptcies that could occur if a recession comes to pass. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Madison Marcus director John De La Hoyde about his passion for commercial litigation and insolvency, how and why he came to practise in these spaces, where Australia is at with regards to insolvency against the backdrop of a looming recession and coming out of the pandemic, what clients are currently up against, and how and why it is so important for businesses to be planning ahead and not waiting until it is too late to restructure. Mr De La Hoyde also outlines which sectors are at most risk in the near future and what kind of flow-on consequences there will be for litigators and insolvency lawyers, lessons to be taken from the last economic downturn, what will constitute best practice for lawyers moving forward, how best teams in boutique and BigLaw firms can work across practice areas, how to meaningfully engage with clients at this critical stage and managing one’s self and one’s team amid such turbulence. To learn more about Madison Marcus’ work in this space, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

When selecting external providers, in-house teams may soon have to move away from thinking of certain firms as a “one-stop shop” and instead be more deliberate in choosing great lawyers to make up a legal services panel, argues one GC. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Sydney Fish Market (SFM) general counsel Michael Guilday to discuss SFM’s recent court success, why he looks more closely at individual lawyers in firms rather than the firms themselves when deciding who to brief, identifying the standout individuals with whom one might want to work, the existence of unconscious bias in briefing decisions and whether big firms have been allowed to rest on their laurels in remaining on legal services panels. Mr Guilday also outlines market fragmentation and the proliferation of BigLaw lawyers starting their own boutique firms and how that can impact briefing decisions, his non-negotiables for the constitution of his legal services panel, whether the mindset of looking to brief individuals rather than firms is mainstream yet, how best to shift one’s mindset, and if he thinks “brand name” will ultimately have any bearing on the constitution of legal services panels in the future. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Protecting a boutique practice against cyber risks must be viewed in the same vein as any other business risk, and one will discover that dedicating such time and resources to preventative action is absolutely achievable amid so many other responsibilities, one award-winning practitioner argues. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Law & Cyber founder and legal practitioner director Simone Herbert Lowe — who last year won the Innovator of the Year category at the Women in Law Awards — about what innovation means to her and how she applies that within her own firm, the state of affairs for cyber attacks in Australia, and why boutique practices need to be just as worried about cyber attacks as multinational companies are. Ms Herbert-Lowe also delves into why firms might be a target for different hackers, her practical guidance for boutique firm owners to ensure they are upholding their professional duties and are engaged in best practice, the need to be across proposed legislative changes, the place for limited liability, prioritising urgent needs in anticipation of a possible recession and why boutique firm owners must put themselves forward for recognition for their stellar work. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Naiman Clarke, we dive into what lawyers need to know when considering a vocational shift to corporate legal life, from salary expectations to requisite experience. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Naiman Clarke’s managing director, Elvira Naiman, about how life in-house has evolved over the last two decades and what change has been witnessed since the onset of COVID-19, evolving and emerging trends on the back of the pandemic, what roles law departments are most keen to fill right now, how much experience private practice lawyers should have before moving in-house, and additional skills they may need before doing so. Ms Naiman also details the extent to which branding is important in making such a vocational shift, salary expectations and realities for those shifting to corporate legal roles, post-pandemic and/or recession-inspired fluctuations in in-house roles, and why in-house life may be so rewarding for certain practitioners — but not all practitioners. To learn more about Naiman Clarke, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

With the Reserve Bank (RBA) announcing its policy decision for April, there is much speculation about whether the central bank has reached the peak of its current rate hike cycle or if there is still more pain to come for borrowers. So in this episode, Smart Property Investment’s Phil Tarrant and Finni Mortgages’ chief executive, Paul Glossop, talk about the factors that will affect the bank’s decision-making process in the coming months before unpacking the current sentiment among consumers, particularly borrowers who are bearing the brunt of the rate increases. With owner-occupier refinances hitting a record high, the duo discuss the importance of borrowers “looking under the hood” of their loans before looking into how mortgage holders can “sharpen the pencil” on their finances. Lastly, they also share their opinion on where — and when —  the RBA may choose to close out its rate rise cycle.

Succession planning is something that all boutique firm leaders must proactively prepare for. Knowing how and when is the right price to sell your firm for, however, may be eluding certain business owners. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with California-based practitioner Mike Chastaine about his journey as a firm owner, how and why he ended up selling that practice, adopting a state of mind whereby you’re a business owner providing legal services and the need for flexibility in getting a firm to a position where it can be sold for a price that the owner is happy with. Mr Chastaine also details how to quantify the right price to sell at based on personal circumstances and one’s practice area, any black and white questions that must be answered in determined how and when to sell, realising that — one day — every firm will be handed over in some capacity, being more open to acquisition opportunities and meaningfully working on agile succession plans. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Most people come to law, Matthew Endo says, because they are interested in solving problems. Understanding one’s values prior to entering the profession can be critical, he notes, so that emerging practitioners can be best placed to make a difference. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Squire Patton Boggs associate Mathew Endo about how, as a claims and contract specialist, he came to decide to study and practise law, what he’s learnt from working in multiple jurisdictions across the globe, having a holistic perspective on coming into legal education and his thoughts on the future of online learning for law students. Mr Endo also discusses his views on balancing professional development and legal education, the importance of extracurricular activities in further developing one’s legal skills, how cultural issues in law will continue to play out, and his broader guidance to junior lawyers about how they can put their best foot forward in identifying the right vocational pathways. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Legalwise Seminars, we dive into the rise of artificial intelligence platforms like ChatGPT, the lawfulness of and issues surrounding such tech, and the broader implications for practitioners of all stripes. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Patrick Fair, adjunct professor at Deakin University and principal of Patrick Fair Associates, about ChatGPT and why its advent is so significant, how and why such technologies are only going to get better, the lawful considerations that practitioners have to take into account with these platforms and the need for legislative and regulatory frameworks to catch up to the pace of change. The pair also discuss how platforms like ChatGPT can alter the ways in which practitioners operate day-to-day, the checks and balances that will have to be implemented in utilising such platforms, new skills that will have to be developed, and tasks to be undertaken, the broader implications and opportunities for practitioners across the country, and how Legalwise Seminars is supporting lawyers’ growth on such questions. To learn more about Legalwise Seminars and preview Patrick’s upcoming SoCI webinar series, click here.

Any and all responses that businesses can make to a ransom demand are fraught with risk. Lawyers working with clients in the face of such cyber extortions must be able to navigate the legal and ethical issues arising from breaches and attacks and ensure they are continually upskilling against the threat of this evolving landscape. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Lander & Rogers partner Melissa Tan to discuss the state of affairs with cyber extortion payments, why mitigating factors surrounding the pressure of extortion payments aren’t taken into account by regulators, fueling the fire for potential class action proceedings, and how such ransom demands are fraught with risk, no matter how an extorted entity reacts. Ms Tan also dives into where the law is at on the criminalisation of such payments, how strictly said laws are being enforced, any urgent legislative updates that might be required, mechanisms or frameworks that businesses can and should be putting in place, how to determine what will constitute best practices for lawyers advising in this space, and the realities that such lawyers have to grapple with when dealing with clients. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Relative to other jurisdictions, Australia is “very well prepared” for data and cyber breaches. However, the law remains “untested”, and how proceedings for such breaches will play out remains to be seen. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Professor John Swinson, who teaches privacy law and cyber security law in the School of Law at the University of Queensland, about growing awareness of data and cyber security issues and subsequent legal proceedings, where we’re at with such proceedings, how prepared Australia is compared to overseas jurisdictions and why. Professor Swinson also delves into broader privacy issues, what’s happening in the United States and what lessons can be taken from that jurisdiction for Australia, particularly pertaining to the awarding of damages, how courts here might quantify damages for certain proceedings, whether arbitrary determinations will be needed moving forward, and predictions for what the future could look like. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with nrol, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with nrol director Jesse Shah about the gaps that legal employers are trying to fill, from practitioner to support positions. Mr Shah details the hiring constraints he is currently seeing in the legal profession and why such constraints are in place, whether he thinks the prospect of a recession is having an impact on hiring for certain positions, the state of affairs for legal support roles and how issues can be overcome, and why he believes partners need to take urgent action in filling certain positions. The episode also details Mr Shah’s views on the importance of retention for legal employers, why the current market is the hardest period of his career to date, why he perceives the candidate’s market remaining in place for a while longer, and how best he thinks employers and prospective employees alike can respond to what he’s seeing in the market. To learn more about nrol, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

With the CPD deadline fast approaching, many lawyers will be looking for ways to complete their annual requirements. On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with LawCPD, we discuss why legal professionals may find themselves scrambling to get their points in and how best they can manage in the home stretch. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with LawCPD director Sarah Mateljan about the various circumstances facing lawyers that may impact their ability to accrue the requisite points, whether the post-pandemic new normal has made things harder for lawyers, pain and pressure points in finding time to get points, and practical steps that can and should be taken to avoid overwhelming one’s self in anticipation of the deadline. The pair also detail how best lawyers can ensure they are ticking the right boxes in accruing points, balancing their education accordingly between capped and uncapped, how providers can help lawyers keep an account of their points, what CPD sessions may still be available so close to the deadline, what LawCPD is currently offering, and how best lawyers can avoid the mad scramble this time next year. To learn more about LawCPD, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Onboarding a new director in a law firm is a “really significant decision”. Staying true to the vision of your firm, and remembering what is most important, will help boutique leaders ensure that bringing new people into the fold is successful. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Polaris Lawyers principal and director Meg Caines about her own vocational journey towards directorship, whether it is something she had aspired to, the daily duties and responsibilities for directors of law firms, and what it’s like both personally and professionally. Ms Caines also details what a law firm needs to consider in determining how and when to introduce a new director into the fold, the boxes to be ticked in getting from A to B, how it can be a case-by-case process, the need to be flexible in going through the motions, lessons learnt from previous experiences of bringing on new directors, and her advice to other boutique firm leaders considering bringing more directors into the fold. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Businesses of all stripes must adjust to the evolving economic and environmental landscape, especially with the competition regulator ramping up its focus on key areas, argues one BigLaw partner. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Maddocks partner Shaun Temby to discuss how and why he enjoys his work in competition and consumer law, how and why there have been so many more prosecutions pertaining to cartel activity in recent times, what such prosecutions mean for lawyers working in this space, and how best to advise clients with regard to such a regulatory focus. Mr Temby also unpacks the state of affairs around greenwashing activity and how the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) is viewing this (alongside other regulators), how best to liaise with in-house legal teams about such greenwashing and broader environmental, social and governance (ESG) concerns, the other headline regulatory enforcement priorities that the competition regulator is engaged in, how lawyers can perceive these, and his guidance for practitioners in this space moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Foreign-qualified lawyers, both in-house and in private practice, can and do face myriad hardships practising in Australia. But, as Eimear Fitzmaurice can attest, overcoming those challenges is absolutely achievable. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with in-house property lawyer Eimear Fitzmaurice about her experience of moving to Australia from Ireland to practice, the hurdles that foreign-qualified lawyers have to overcome in new jurisdictions, and what she has learnt, both personally and professionally, since migrating. Ms Fitzmaurice also dives into juggling vocational and financial hurdles as a foreign-qualified lawyer, pulling one’s self through challenging times, how best employers can support legal professionals who have come from overseas (especially in the new normal), why employers should welcome such practitioners, and why those facing such challenges must persist. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Commonwealth Bank, we speak to an award-winning BigLaw partner about the state of affairs in cyber risk, data and technology practices, and how best the legal profession can steer businesses through ongoing volatility. Lawyers Weekly editor Jerome Doraisamy and Commonwealth Bank national head of professional services Daniela Pasini serve as co-hosts, with Corrs Chambers Westgarth head of TMT James North joining, to discuss the key takeaways and reflections from 2022 in the practice of cyber risk, how lawyers must be navigating the legal minefield currently confronting them, and what will constitute best practice in the face of said issues and challenges. Mr North also delves into how we should perceive the legislative framework and whether proposed changes will see Australia catch up to the realities on the ground, whether cyber insurance is worthwhile, building cyber capabilities in-house, and how the rest of 2023 is going to play out in this space.  To learn more about Commonwealth Bank, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Most people study and practise law for emotional reasons, but as lawyers, we are trained to sideline those emotions and consider legal issues objectively and dispassionately. What kind of impact does this have, particularly with regard to LGBTI rights? On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Manchester Law School reader in human rights law Dr Senthorun Raj about a recent research paper he published on the mapping of emotional grammar as it pertains to LGBTI rights in law schools, why this is such an important topic, whether emotion is incompatible with blackletter law, and the extent to which law can or should be divorced from passion. Dr Raj also discusses whether emotional grammar, particularly as it pertains to LGBTI rights, is even more critical in the post-pandemic new normal, the need to get the next generation of lawyers into good habits from day one, how best to incorporate emotional literacy into legal education (both for students and practitioners), and how best individuals can ensure they can upskill on such matters. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Amidst another RBA rate hike in March, Australians are not only facing the looming threat of falling off the mortgage cliff but are also finding themselves trapped in a different kind of financial dilemma — a mortgage prison. Smart Property Investment’s Phil Tarrant and Finni Mortgages’ chief executive Paul Glossop acknowledged the increased pocket pain that borrowers are burdened with, thanks to the central bank’s continued monetary policy tightening in 2023. And while refinancing has become the go-to recourse for borrowers to deal with the blows, they shine a spotlight on borrowers who find themselves unable to switch lenders due to rate hikes negatively impacting their serviceability. On that note, they unpack the “moving parts” that impact a borrower’s serviceability and delve into possible solutions to escape (or prevent) being stuck in mortgage prison.

As a solicitor who is trusted to manage her daily routine as she sees fit — so long as the work gets done — award winner Phoebe MacDougall can’t think of a single reason why lawyers would not be able to perform better if they, too, were trusted to live and practice as they please, rather than in more traditional, cookie-cutter schedules. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back MacDougall & Hydes solicitor Phoebe MacDougall to discuss her firm’s unique approach to flexibility, what her day-to-day looks like, how she makes time rather than finds time for the things that matter to her while also succeeding as a practitioner, and the myriad benefits she (and her practice) gleans from such an approach. Ms MacDougall also delves into how best lawyers and their employers can have substantive conversations about setting up such trusting relationships and schedules, how both parties can and will benefit, the ever-important need for meaningful communication, how to pitch such an arrangement to one’s boss, and why all lawyers can and will be able to perform better if they can be truer to themselves. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Coaching Advocates, we explore the mindset of legal professionals and how best lawyers can reframe their thinking to better ensure personal and vocational success. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Coaching Advocates directors and co-founders Lara Wentworth and Katie Gray about why it is important to better understand and appreciate the mindset of lawyers, the nexus between mindset and mental health, the various traits of lawyers’ mindsets (including scarcity), how common such thinking is, and why it is critical to shift certain deleterious thinking. Ms Wentworth and Ms Gray also explain whether scarcity and related thinking has been heightened in recent years, the consequences of getting stuck in certain mindsets, practical ways to shift detrimental mindsets for lawyers, whether black-and-white rules exist, the legwork that lawyers must undertake themselves in addition to seeking support, and why working with coaches can make all the difference. To learn more about Coaching Advocates, click here.

In the wake of looming law reform in defamation, and given that it is “becoming harder and harder” to successfully sue for defamation, managing client expectations from the outset of proceedings is going to be especially pertinent for practitioners. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Bartier Perry partner Adam Cutri and associate David de Mestre to discuss the state of affairs in defamation law in Australia, lessons coming out of recent high-profile proceedings, where we’re at with the Stage 2 reforms, clarifications around the meaning of “serious harm”, and limitations on the amounts of non-economic loss. Mr Cutri and Mr de Mestre also delve into the proactive and reactive measures that are looming that lawyers in this space will have to be across, how lawyers on the ground feel about the reforms as they presently stand, the headline issues and challenges that defamation lawyers will have to contend with in the coming 12 months, emerging trends from high-profile cases to be across, shifts in the reasoning for bringing defamation proceedings, and best practice moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Blumers Personal Injury Lawyers, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Blumers director Noor Blumer about the state of affairs for confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements and the extent to which such arrangements can come into conflict with the principle of open justice. Ms Blumer details how confidentiality and non-disclosure agreements pertain to our understanding of justice, the extent to which they are prevalent in litigious proceedings, the increase in complainants publicly disclosing the offences allegedly committed against them, and recent cases — including the allegations against Dyson Heydon and the Fox News saga in the United States — that have led the charge on such public disclosure. She also outlines the nexus of such conversations to defamation proceedings, community perceptions and how social media reinforces certain biases, and whether law reform is needed to improve justice processes. To learn more about Blumers Personal Injury Law, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Given how much the working world has changed in recent years, emerging leaders in law have a greater capacity to redefine who and what they want to be in the profession. Ensuring that one always remembers the human element of practice, and is community-minded, will be critical, however. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back HWL Ebsworth solicitor and Voices of Influence Australia chief executive Taylah Spirovski to discuss the many hats she wears and how she juggles her various responsibilities, why her work with Voices is so important, why advocacy must be part of a young lawyer’s journey, and whether holistic success for those coming through the ranks has evolved in the age of coronavirus. Ms Spirovski also delves into how shifts in power are redefining what emerging lawyers can or should look like, getting the best deal for one’s self, practical steps to take to glean broader perspectives, how and why being community-minded is essential, and ensuring you are fulfilled as an emerging leader in law. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

If being tough on crime worked, Attorney-General of the Northern Territory Chansey Paech says, then Australia would be the safest country in the world. What is needed, he argues, is better justice reinvestment and more substantive consultation — such as through the Voice — so that First Nations communities can be given a seat at the table and taken off the menu. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes NT A-G Chanston “Chansey” Paech to discuss his life and upbringing in the Top End, how his early life has informed his perspective and politics, the need to bring all Australians on the journey of sociocultural change, the pertinent suggestions from the Uluru Statement from the Heart that need implementing, and why the proposed referendum to institute a Voice to Parliament is so critical. A-G Paech also talks about the passage of legislation in the NT to raise the age of criminal responsibility from 10 years of age — the first jurisdiction in Australia to do so — and what other law reform he has planned for the Top End, how he engages with other attorneys-general on such issues, the need for more Koori courts, the place of the legal profession in supporting various reforms, the experience of Territorians during the age of coronavirus, and what the legal market in the NT has to look forward to moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Commonwealth Bank, we speak to two partners and practice leaders at BigLaw firms about the tools that those in the partnership will require if they are to succeed in a new-look professional services marketplace. Lawyers Weekly editor Jerome Doraisamy and Commonwealth Bank national head of professional services Daniela Pasini serve as co-hosts, with Mills Oakley partner and head of cyber and insurance Jason Symons and Hamilton Locke partner and head of restructuring and insolvency Nick Edwards joining to discuss what are the most pertinent traits of partners who have been able to build and maintain successful practice groups, how they look to develop those skills in emerging firm leaders, and how emerging technologies can and will support the development of such skills moving forward. Mr Symons and Mr Edwards also detail how to build out a team to manage client demand, addressing future risks, forward-looking skills that will be required, fostering diverse, equitable and inclusive workplaces in a post-pandemic environment, and the advice they have for those coming through the ranks in acquiring all the necessary tools to be a successful, modern law firm partner. To learn more about Commonwealth Bank, click here If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Peter Hunt AM has been a leading advocate for change to the legal classification of psychedelic medicines in Australia, with the hope that it will revolutionise mental healthcare and outcomes for those across Australia. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jess Feyder speaks with Mr Hunt, co-founder of the organisation Mind Medicine Australia, about psychedelic medicines and the changing legalities in Australia. Mr Hunt discusses the mental health epidemic plaguing Australia and how psychedelic medicines such as psilocybin and MDMA can address the mental suffering of people with treatment-resistant depression, severe post-traumatic stress disorder, and other mental health issues. Mr Hunt discusses the legal barriers and complications surrounding access for patients and speaks about the essential role lawyers can play over the coming years. Editor’s note: After the episode was recorded, the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) announced that certain psychedelic medicines would be rescheduled (Friday, 3 February) so that they could be used under psychiatric guidance. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Much has been made of “niching down” and of running micro practices. For Rachael Bosnjak, operating a “niche micro” law firm provides the best pathway to build a purposeful practice from which she can serve clients and the community at large. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Passage Migration Consulting principal Rachael Bosnjak about how and why she became passionate about migration law, whether having an MBA under one’s belt is a prerequisite for running a successful SME law firm, her plans for her business, and what it means to have a niche micro firm. Ms Bosnjak also delves into the need for purposeful practices, how she has established one, what sets a niche micro firm apart from other boutique practices, the headline benefits and opportunities that arise from having such purpose and running niche micro practices, whether this might be an emerging trend, and her guidance to those looking to implement such businesses. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Many emerging legal practitioners find it difficult to meaningfully sell themselves to prospective employers. In an age in which hybrid working and virtual communication are rife, that proposition becomes even harder. Learning how to write a better job application, thus, is essential. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Herbert Smith Freehills graduate recruitment manager James Keane and senior associate Jason Feng about why there is a need for emerging lawyers to write better job applications, whether such writing doesn’t come naturally to new practitioners, and how the age of COVID-19 has made it harder for prospective lawyers to sell themselves. Mr Keane and Mr Feng detail the headline dangers of not being able to write good job applications, discuss a white paper they wrote to help those coming through the ranks write better applications, the balance between showcasing what one has done versus what one has learnt, common mistakes that get made, how much personality one can or should show in an application, practical steps to upskill in such writing, and challenges to be overcome. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As was recently evidenced in a US-based law firm, there remain misconceptions in legal services workplaces about taking parental leave. Here, Danielle Snell — who co-founded her award-winning law firm while seven months pregnant — discusses why such biases continue to exist and what we can do to overcome them. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Elit Lawyers by McGirr & Snell managing director and co-founder Danielle Snell (whose firm won Boutique Law Firm of the Year at the 2022 Australian Law Awards) to discuss why certain misconceptions are such a problem for legal workplaces, the extent to which progress has been made and why cultural shifts must keep pace with policy improvements. Ms Snell also explores how prevalent comments about choosing between one’s career and family life might be, why individual women and men need to be better at supporting each other, whether the age of coronavirus has moved the needle at all in overcoming entrenched biases, the need to be confident in one’s self and be true to one’s own journey, and the practical steps that those coming through the ranks can take to ensure their personal and vocational goals are not impeded. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Many in-house lawyers, Kate Sherburn says, “limped to the finish line” at the end of 2022. Now that the new year is in full swing, corporate counsel must make concerted efforts to better manage themselves and their workloads. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Who Gives A Crap legal beagle Kate Sherburn to discuss her reflections on 2022, how and why many in-house lawyers were exhausted by year’s end, the impact of such exhaustion and why a new approach in 2023 is so essential. Ms Sherburn details what she will be doing this year to be more deliberate about her schedule, what she is most looking forward to (both personally and professionally), what she’s learnt from her own experiences and observations of others, and her guidance to other corporate counsel about best practice in the next 12 months. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

With the RBA serving up a 25-basis-point rate hike in February, can borrowers continue to hold the line? While the going is getting tough for property investors, these experts say it’s time to take control of their mortgage. With the RBA set to continue its fiscal policy tightening in 2023, Smart Property Investment’s Phil Tarrant and Finni Mortgage’s chief executive Paul Glossop look at the possibilities in front of investors to ‘finetune’ their mortgages. As the financial landscape rapidly changes, the pair also unpacks how lenders are becoming more competitive with their offerings, sharing some of the strategies that are available to mortgageholders. The duo also underlines the importance of being proactive in optimising their financial position as the RBA’s rate rise cycle continues in the coming months.

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with LawCPD, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back LawCPD director and co-founder Sarah Mateljan to discuss the most pertinent trends that legal professionals will need to be across if they are to keep their heads above the parapet in what promises to be a turbulent, uncertain 12-month period. Ms Mateljan fleshes out why lawyers’ use of technology is shaping up to be such a significant trend in the coming year, including the myriad technological considerations for lawyers and why such duties must be seen as part and parcel of a lawyer’s obligations. She also talks about the need or otherwise to “master” hybrid work, the potential hurdles arising from mainstream, long-term flexible and remote working arrangements for legal teams and how best to navigate updated legislative frameworks, and addressing workplace safety in new-look workplace environments, and how best individuals can contribute to such supporting workplaces. To learn more about LawCPD, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Too many lawyers and law students fall into the trap of comparing themselves to their colleagues and classmates and make vocational choices based on a narrow view of what constitutes success and what they think they should be doing (something the host of this show has fallen into the trap of doing in years gone by). Instead, lawyers need to forge their own paths and be true to themselves. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Cassandra Heilbronn, a Queensland lawyer currently based in Saudi Arabia as the chief executive officer of a private family office, to discuss the pertinent issue of lawyers comparing themselves to others and making career decisions on others’ trajectory, the myriad ways in which this can manifest and how it plagues lawyers of all stripes. Ms Heilbronn reflects on her own journey, the advice she offers lawyers she speaks to (as a mentor and as a public speaker), the consequences of falling into the trap of comparison and narrow views of success, the questions one needs to ask in forging a path that is truer to one’s self, any practical steps that can be taken, and why it will be so much more rewarding for legal professionals to avoid the tendency to compare and contrast with others. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

At a time when it is much more difficult for SME law firms to grow organically, ensuring that a business can continue to thrive is more important than ever. Having a successful plan in place for firm acquisitions is one critical avenue that firm owners can take. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Justice Family Lawyers principal Hayder Shkara to discuss his firm’s performance during the age of coronavirus, how and why he had been on the lookout for an opportunity to acquire another practice to complement his first, how the chance to acquire Melbourne Family Lawyers in mid-2022 came about, and the practical steps he undertook to ensure — both personally and professionally — that it was the right move for him to make. Mr Shkara also details the boxes he felt needed to be ticked to move forward on such an acquisition, when it can be advantageous to acquire another practice rather than start a new office from scratch in another city, why acquisitions are never black and white, how to look after one’s self during the process, the need to be open to acquisitions as part of the firm’s growth strategy, and why it is so hard for firms to grow organically right now. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Tom Penglis understands firsthand what issues exist in Western Australia’s criminal justice system. Now the co-founder of the WA Justice Association, he — together with colleagues like advocacy director Steven Thiele — is on a mission to ensure that emerging and existing legal professionals better appreciate the shortcomings of Australia’s justice system and what they can do to improve it. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with WA Justice Association co-founder and non-executive director Tom Penglis and advocacy director Steven Thiele about Mr Penglis’ experience of incarceration, what he learned from his term of imprisonment and how it offered him perspective on the criminal justice system, what WAJA does and why, and how it involves law students in its important work. Mr Penglis and Mr Thiele also discuss the flow-on benefits for emerging lawyers who broaden their understanding of the criminal justice system, why even senior practitioners need to be more familiar with such issues, how to triage multiple urgent advocacy priorities and what WAJA hopes to achieve in years to come. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with Sympli, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Sympli chief executive Philip Joyce to discuss the year that was and what we can expect in the new year in the e-settlements space. Mr Joyce discusses what was learnt from 2022, particularly the impact of legislative developments, the need for more flexibility, choice and efficiency, any potential hurdles that may arise in ensuring ease of access and seamless operations of platforms moving forward, and navigating marketplace headwinds to ensure practitioners and clients can thrive in the coming 12 months. He also delves into the most pertinent and exciting challenges that will be faced in 2023, what Sympli’s outlook for the new year is and what the disruptor is aiming to achieve, his predictions for progress by the year’s end, and what he is looking forward to in the broader e-settlements space. To learn more about Sympli, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

A new report shows that almost half of companies are failing to identify clear modern slavery risks in their supply chains and that too many companies’ promises on corporate reporting remain unfulfilled. Why is this the case, and how can it be overcome? On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Human Rights Law Centre senior lawyer Freya Dinshaw about HRLC’s new report, Broken Promises, detailing corporate failures on reporting requirements, the headline findings from that report, why businesses are failing to meet their obligations, and how a lack of legislative understanding is contributing to said failures. Ms Dinshaw also reflects on how and why blame should be distributed for the current state of affairs, whether there exists a disconnect between companies’ public ESG commitments and what is happening on the ground, why the law department needs to find new and better ways to engage different business functions on reporting requirements, what will constitute best practice for GCs and other law department leaders, and how best those lawyers can ensure such duties remain front and centre, amid other urgent priorities. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Many lawyers, over their career, will identify a vocational niche and stick to that practice area, such as mergers and acquisitions. For Kristen Porter, “niching down” means something else: identifying a sector she feels strongly about, and wearing multiple hats for those in that sector, so as to “really understand” specific businesses. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with O*NO Legal founder and legal strategist Kristen Porter, who refers to herself as “The Real Estate Agent’s Lawyer”, about how and why she came to work with those in real estate, her experience of starting a boutique law firm at the beginning of COVID-19, and why those who started such firms at the beginning of the pandemic have fared so well in the intervening years. Ms Porter also discusses what niching down means to her, how she came by that strategy, why such a pathway is inspiring to her, whether there is and will always be work for those who niche down by sector, the extent to which other lawyers are following her lead, and how best others can niche down by sector if they so wish. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Against the backdrop of a still turbulent and uncertain professional services marketplace, finding ways to increase efficiencies in the law department must remain front of mind — especially as it will make all other urgent priorities much easier to navigate. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with head of legal, office of the general counsel at King & Wood Mallesons, Stacy Ford, about his varied legal career, what he sees as being the headline issues facing law departments right now and why, whether businesses like BigLaw firms are better placed than most corporates at identifying and tackling market challenges, and how his own department looks to manage such hurdles. Mr Ford also discusses why finding ways to increase efficiencies is especially pertinent for in-house teams in the new year, why it is so important to re-evaluate those processes on a regular basis, how optimising a department’s processes makes all other urgent priorities easier to deal with, and what practical steps he advises to ensure that increased efficiency remains front of mind. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Award-winning dealmaker Sandy Mak is optimistic about the M&A outlook in Australia this year. It will be critical, however, for practitioners in this space to take advantage of the fortuitous marketplace trends, she notes. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Corrs Chambers Westgarth partner and head of corporate Sandy Mak — who last year won the Dealmaker of the Year category at the Women in Law Awards — to discuss her headline reflections on the mergers and acquisitions market in 2022 and what lessons were learnt from the past 12 months, why she is an optimist about the market and, particularly, Australia’s position relative to other jurisdictions. Ms Mak also discussed how energy, healthcare and tech sectors are creating fertile ground for M&A practitioners, how ESG considerations can and will dictate success this year, some of the challenges that lawyers will face this year, as well as the opportunities, and some best practice principles for those chasing success in 2023. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Almost 13 years ago, Rebecca Bishop was in a horrific car accident, which she says she is lucky to have survived. Following this, she has not only overcome the physical and emotional trauma inherent in such an accident but has also emerged from it with pertinent life lessons for all legal professionals. (Editor’s note: This episode may be distressing for some listeners. Discretion is advised.) On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Elite Building Services co-founder and self-proclaimed Office Goddess and R U OK? Day community ambassador Rebecca Bishop about how and why she has learnt what is most important to her vocationally, her journey of coming to legal study and navigating that course whilst working, what it’s like being an off-campus student and why being a lawyer is the proudest achievement of her life. Ms Bishop also details the car accident she experienced and the toll it had on her, how she began to move her life forward again, what she learnt from that period of her life, what others can take away from her experiences, and why lawyers should never give up in the face of hardship or adversity. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Leo Cussen Centre for Law, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Leo Cussen executive director Shirley Southgate to discuss the symbiotic relationship between the legal profession and education providers, and why it is so integral. Ms Southgate details the need for such symbiosis, the history of such collaboration, how the age of coronavirus taught the profession new ways of working together on legal education, the importance of proactivity in communicating educational needs, and how best providers can meaningfully create substantive educational programs. She also reflects on the partnerships that Leo Cussen has and how these have been successful, the lessons to be gleaned from 50 years in operation, looming challenges on the horizon, ways to take advantage of market opportunities, new offerings that Leo Cussen currently has, and why such offerings are so enticing as we move forward in the new year. To learn more about Leo Cussen Centre for Law, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Not enough boutique firm owners appreciate that contracts are inextricably linked not only to the day-to-day success of a business but also to an optimal client experience. This has to change. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Checklist Legal founder and chief contract enthusiast Verity White about how and why she became fascinated with the importance of contracts, why having an intricate knowledge and understanding of contracts is so integral for lawyers, the common mistakes that lawyers make with their utilisation of contracts, and what they need to consider when designing contracts. Ms White also details how best to tick the right boxes in contract design, best practice principles regardless of practice area, prioritising contract updates amid the triage or urgent priorities, getting started on the journey, and why those who ignore the need to improve their contract utilisation will be get left behind. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this episode of Legal Lightbulbs, our hosts — Lawyers Weekly editor Jerome Doraisamy and Bowd chief executive Fionn Bowd — speak with Shakti Legal Solutions founder and principal Sheetal Deo about whether the legal profession needs to move beyond conversations about unconscious bias if we really want social change. Jerome, Sheetal and Fionn discuss the nature and prevalence of unconscious bias, where Australia’s legal profession is at in raising awareness of and addressing such biases, why it is exhausting to even still have such conversations, and why the profession may hesitate to explore other avenues of change. The trio also flesh out the unique opportunity that the profession currently has to enact substantial change, what such change looks like, whether radical revolution or a quiet dismantling of existing structures is needed (or whether there is a middle ground to be chartered), the hurdles blocking change, and how best to navigate such movement in the post-pandemic landscape. To learn more about Fionn Bowd, click here. If you have questions you want to see answered on this show, reach out to Jerome at [email protected] or Fionn at [email protected].

Lawyers don’t always appreciate just how pervasive sport is — not just in discourse and society but also in the operational practice of law. Those who aren’t paying attention should do so, particularly given how many lessons can be gleaned for best practice. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Thomson Geer partner Jacquie Seemann about the need for greater cognisance about the place of sport in shaping the direction of society and legal practice, the lessons to be taken from recent sporting controversies both in Australia and globally, the extent to which the community wants sportspeople to discuss important issues, the advent of sportswashing, and how integral sport is to the development and functioning of society and its lawyers. Ms Seemann also discusses her lifelong participation in sport, winning medals at the Maccabiah Games, her involvement in community projects, why keeping up her personal investment in sport is so important to her, and the flow-on benefits she sees for society from sport. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The past two years have seen high levels of movement, inbound and outbound, for in-house lawyers in Australia. With market volatility and uncertainty set to continue in the new year, it is certainly possible, if not likely, that such busy activity will continue in 2023. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back G2 Legal Australian director Daniel Stirling to reflect on the year that was in in-house recruitment, whether predictions made this time a year ago have panned out, what occurred that wasn’t anticipated, and perceptions about the advent or otherwise of the Great Resignation for corporate counsel. Mr Stirling also reflects on the challenges that are expected for the coming year, whether a potential recession will impact in-bound recruitment in certain practice areas, how in-house leaders can leverage resilience and shore up their resources, whether 2023 will see even higher rates of activity in recruitment, and what will constitute best practice for law department leaders in the new year. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Emma Maxwell practises what she calls “NewFamilyLaw”. Operating a legal business in such innovative ways is critical, she believes, in order to not only deliver optimal services to clients but also to practise in ways that make more sense to the modern lawyer. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Anchored Family Law director Emma Maxwell to discuss the advent of “NewFamilyLaw” and why practising in such a way is critical in the post-pandemic new normal, how and why such non-traditional pathways are appealing to her, and the issues and challenges that give rise to a need to practise in different ways. Ms Maxwell also discusses the hardship she has faced whilst practising, what she has learnt from her experiences, why making necessary changes to day-to-day practice benefits everybody, knowing how and when to switch off, what such an approach looks like in 2023, and what excites her about such practical innovation for lawyers in the future. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Emily Hickman has always had, as she says, a “deep care” for humanity and strongly desires to contribute positively to the world around her. As a lawyer-turned-intimacy-and-sexuality-coach, she is determined to help others better connect with themselves and the world around them, which will — among other things — help them be better at their jobs. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with lawyer turned intimacy and sexuality coach Emily Hickman about how and why she entered the legal profession, her desire to do good in the world, the ups and downs she has experienced in changing vocational direction, and the path that led her to upskilling as a coach for intimacy and sexuality. Ms Hickman also outlines the parallels between her former career in law and the work she now does, what an intimacy coaching relationship looks like, creating connections where people actually feel seen, whether lawyers will be more willing to be open about the various forms of intimacy in the future, why it is so important for such professionals to be open-minded to as to better serve clients, and how individuals grow when they venture into the unknown. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Too often, in-house lawyers are afraid that they won’t be seen as hardworking or committed. However, speaking up for what one needs in order to flourish actually demonstrates an ability to adapt and better manage the juggle. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Royal Melbourne Hospital chief legal officer and corporate secretary Fleur Katsmartin about her construction of a pseudo-maternity leave arrangement whereby she retains some work whilst being on leave, why such an arrangement works for her, how best to make such arrangements work in the post-pandemic new normal, and how in-house lawyers can ensure they are getting the best deal for themselves. Ms Katsmartin also discusses her longstanding interest in the health sector, how she fared working as a sole in-house lawyer for a hospital during a global pandemic, the challenges arising during such an age, and lessons learnt for other corporate counsel from being at the coalface. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, shadow minister for cyber security and shadow minister for countering foreign interference, Senator James Paterson joins Phil Tarrant (director - Momentum Media) and MAJGEN (retired) Dr Marcus Thompson to discuss the regulatory impediments preventing Australia from becoming a leader in cyber security. The group begins the podcast discussing the cyber security threats facing Australia and the role of the Australian Security Intelligence Organisation (ASIO) Senator Paterson then details how foreign interference and espionage have overtaken terrorism as the primary security concern for Australia. The team wraps up the podcast in outlining the importance of attracting the right talent with the right skills to power Australian cyber security businesses. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Maithri Panagoda recently celebrated four decades in legal practice. In that time, he has learnt many lessons — including and especially the importance of integrity. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Carroll & O’Dea partner Maithri Panagoda to discuss his journey from Sri Lanka to Australia, how and when he realised that legal practice was his vocational calling, his passion for justice and the rule of law, the most significant periods and experiences in his legal career, and his perceptions of injustice. Mr Panagoda also details the landmark cases he has been fortunate enough to work on, the impact of those cases, his time working in regional Australia, the lessons he has learnt over the course of his storied career, his advice for lawyers in the current climate, and what excites him about the future of law in Australia. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Australia’s legal profession has made great strides, in recent years, in transforming day-to-day practice methodologies. However, are lawyers their own worst enemies when it comes to achieving true and lasting innovation? On this episode of Legal Lightbulbs, our hosts — Lawyers Weekly editor Jerome Doraisamy and Bowd chief executive Fionn Bowd — speak with ALTA president and Legally Yours chief executive Karen Finch about barriers to innovation for lawyers, but also the unexpected creativity of lawyers.  The trio also debate whether legal practice should be focused on innovation even with economic storm clouds on the horizon, and the disparity between box-ticking exercises and truly innovative mindsets. They also provide some practical advice to lawyers who believe that things should be done better, but they aren’t sure where to start. To learn more about Fionn Bowd, click here. If you have questions you want to see answered on this show, reach out to Jerome at [email protected] or Fionn at [email protected]. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In-house lawyers need to be seen as an extension of business objectives. In order to build such an impression, counsel must learn how to effectively and clearly communicate across all business functions. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Airbus One Web Satellites deputy general counsel and University of Miami School of Law Adjunct Professor Krista Russell to discuss her passion for the business of law, the defined role she sees for in-house counsel, the gap in knowledge that law graduates have pertaining to legal practice, and why in-house lawyers need to be especially cognisant of the nexus between communication and business success. Ms Russell also details why overcoming challenges in effective and clear communication is so integral to overcoming other department-wide challenges, the practical steps that in-house counsel can implement to ensure they are communicating in better ways, avoiding particular phrases or terms that might be off-putting to other business functions, and the professional benefits that can be gleaned by corporate counsel if they simply learn to communicate more successfully. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with legalsuper, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with legalsuper executive manager of people and culture, Jessica Lancashire, in the wake of the inaugural Women in Law Forum about how best the profession can ensure female practitioners can thrive and secure their futures. The pair reflect on the evolution of conversations about Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) over the years, the state of affairs for the advancement of D&I in Australia’s legal profession, how well or otherwise the profession is doing in promoting equality for women coming through the ranks, the fiscal imperative in doing so, and the prevalence of self-stigma in having such conversations. Ms Lancashire also details how best existing leaders can support emerging leaders in their growth and development, the need to find new and creative ways to support the next generation, the Artesian Female Leaders Venture Capital Fund and its work to support women lawyers, overcoming change fatigue in the workplace, and how best men can meaningfully be part of such conversations. To learn more about legalsuper, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Leo Cussen Centre for Law, we explore the nexus between lawyers’ professional development and legal innovation, and why thinking differently about education in a post-pandemic market is so essential. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Leo Cussen mentor and lawyer Liz Chase and ANIKA Legal chief executive Noel Lim to discuss the state of affairs in legal innovation, how and why the importance of innovation has been heightened in recent times, the inextricable need to improve access to justice, and the place for partnerships for optimal delivery of legal education in the future, such as that between Leo Cussen and ANIKA. Liz and Noel also delve into the need to develop a disruptive mindset that can heal a broken system, the broader benefits that those coming through the ranks can provide to broader society by thinking and practising differently, the need to avoid being left behind in such professional development, and the pertinent questions to ask one’s self in ensuring an innovative approach moving forward. To learn more about Leo Cussen’s CPD, PLT and partnership opportunities, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!  

Emily Barnes sensed, as an in-house lawyer, that there weren’t enough female mediators, with a glaring gap in the marketing being that certain voices weren’t being heard. Now working as a mediator, she feels it is “the best job I’ve ever had”. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Dewberry mediator Emily Barnes to discuss her varied career paths prior to finding mediation, why moving into this space was so personally and professionally important for her, whether there still exists an imbalance in the mediation space, and her perception of the state of affairs for mediation in Australia as we head into a new year. Ms Barnes also outlines how and why mediation use is increasing and why it is now its own standalone profession as opposed to being a retirement plan for lawyers, the opportunities being created by increased demand for services, practical steps to get more involved in mediation work, best practice principles for mediators, and what mediators have to look forward to. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Earlier this week, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA) raised interest rates for the eighth consecutive month. How should legal professionals who hold mortgages, and those who may hold mortgages in the near future, interpret the moves by the RBA and the economic climate around them? On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Legal Home Loans director of sales Cullen Haynes and legal lending specialist Josh Jaramillo mere minutes after the RBA’s December cash rate call about what the latest rise in interest rates means for lawyers with mortgages, the advent of the “fixed repayment cliff”, and whether lawyers should be looking at breaking their rates early. The pair also detail how younger practitioners who are looking to get into the property market should interpret the current climate, the available good news amidst the pain points, including the incentives that lawyers have access to when borrowing money, what 2023 could have in store, particularly if a recession hits, and the practical steps that all legal professionals can take in considering their financial futures. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Camilla Love started F3 — Future Females in Finance to bring more women into the financial services industry. The program — which won the Women’s Community Program of the Year award 2022 from the Women in Finance Awards 2022 — aims to educate young women about careers and finance and nudge as many of the next generation of female talent into financial services as possible. In this episode of In Focus, partnered by Mortgage Choice, we catch up with the founder of F3 (and managing director of eInvest), Camilla Love, and Mortgage Choice's executive manager corporate communications, events & franchise marketing, Sally Chadwick, to discuss what more we can do to ensure greater female representation in finance. Tune in to find out: The turning point that led Camilla Love to start F3 What we can be doing to welcome more women into financial services What the future looks like for women in finance And much more!

In a predominantly white corporate landscape, Australia’s legal profession can be a daunting place for those who don’t necessarily fit the preconceived mould. How best, then, can one identify one’s place as a lawyer? On this episode of Legal Lightbulbs, our hosts — Lawyers Weekly editor Jerome Doraisamy and Bowd chief executive Fionn Bowd — speak with lawyer turned high-performance life and business coach Rugare Gomo about his journey as a black, gay, migrant lawyer, the fronts on which he felt that he had to fight, and how and why he consciously left the law. Rugare discusses feeling pressure from family and his community, working his way through the legal profession, the issues he felt he couldn’t ask about or discuss, making the decision to leave law and move into coaching, how all professionals can better utilise inclusive language and techniques, the pain points that lawyers have in being able to find their true callings, why mental health can be such a critical tipping point, and why lawyers mustn’t be afraid to ask tough questions of themselves. To learn more about Fionn Bowd, click here. If you have questions you want to see answered on this show, reach out to Jerome at [email protected] or Fionn at [email protected]. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The financial services regulatory regime is “designed to be technology agnostic, so it ought to keep pace as much as possible with new products and new ways of delivering those products”. However, given seismic shifts in recent times, the current regime “just doesn’t fit”. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with K&L Gates partner Daniel Knight to discuss how and why existing laws haven’t kept pace with the rapid evolution of cryptocurrency and changes in open banking and payments, why there is a need for a more tailored response, recent developments that have accelerated the need for new laws, and what such introduced legislation could look like. Mr Knight also responds to questions about the reasonableness and likelihood of forward-looking legislation and regulation in this space, how such developments will impact upon the day-to-day work of lawyers in financial services, whether any fluctuations are likely if a recession hits, what he finds exciting about legal work in this space, and why all legal professionals should be keeping an eye on what’s happening.

With the Reserve Bank of Australia delivering a year-end rate pain and borrowers facing a dreaded “mortgage cliff” this Christmas, these experts recommend mortgage holders change up their holiday plans and take steps to strengthen their financial positions. With the central bank pumping up the cash rate to its highest level in a decade this December, Smart Property Investment’s Phil Tarrant and Finni Mortgages chief executive Paul Glossop call on mortgage holders to review their loans and take proactive steps to weather the rate hike headwinds. The duo also lay out strategies on how investors can strengthen their balance sheets, such as increasing their rental prices, extracting equity, repricing their existing loan or refinancing with a more pocket-friendly lender. They also touch on the latest inflation data and give their take on when the worst will be over for Aussie borrowers.

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Leo Cussen Centre for Law, we explore the “pivotal moment” in recruitment we are currently witnessing and why having a better understanding of how best to attract and retain top talent, by way of upskilling, is critical. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Leo Cussen manager of industry engagement and careers Alex Giannopoulos and Leo Cussen director of CPD Linda Baxter to discuss why the nexus between recruitment and legal education is so pertinent in the current climate, whether team leaders are more cognisant of the need to upskill, the current state of affairs for legal recruitment, and anticipated opportunities for such leaders moving forward into the new year. Alex and Linda also outline their top tips for selecting the right candidate, how to navigate the interview process, getting candidates over the line, best practice principles that may not have been applicable pre-pandemic, and how best to bolster one’s training and professional development on these important questions. To learn more about Leo Cussen, click here.

We “can’t change the world in one day”, says Squire Patton Boggs Perth managing partner Tony Chong. However, he can and is doing what he can to promote diverse workplaces and reduce discrimination in the broader community. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Mr Chong — one of the first non-white managing partners of a BigLaw firm in Australia — about his journey in law (including a background in accounting), whether he aspired to the leadership position he is now in, the value of being involved in community work and not-for-profit organisations, and how best lawyers can roll up their sleeves for such work. Mr Chong also details his focus on diversity at Squire Patton Boggs, what he has observed over the years with regard to the bamboo ceiling, the presence of unconscious bias, what guidance he has for other law firm leaders around Australia, whether he is optimistic about the capacity for meaningful change in Australia’s legal profession, and what is motivating him to be a better leader. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, produced in partnership with LawVu, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with LawVu chief legal evangelist Shaun Plant about empowering in-house lawyers to upskill and have more impact on their organisations. Mr Plant details his legal career to date, why upskilling in-house is so critical, the nexus between such professional development and fulfilment as a lawyer, the four key pillars to a connected legal function (including a focus on productivity, optimising engagement, proactivity and focusing on impact), the evolution or otherwise of best practice principles during the age of coronavirus, practical steps needed, and how to learn the skills essential to becoming a high-performing in-house legal team.  To learn more about LawVu, click here.

Prospective clients, and the broader legal profession, will often have preconceptions about a lawyer’s capacity — particularly when it comes to working women with families. Professionals must, Alana Jacquet says, be confident in their own abilities and vocational pathways, and not let anyone get in the way. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Our Lawyers principal Alana Jacquet about her move from Sydney to the Southern Highlands of NSW, how and why the opportunity arose for her to assume the management of a boutique firm, the challenges she has experienced in running a business and managing a team, and how such experiences have shaped her sense of self as a lawyer. Ms Jacquet also details the struggles she has faced in proving herself to the market given her juggling of family and professional responsibilities, how commonplace such experiences are for women lawyers, the approaches she has taken to push back against such perceptions, and the advice she has for others as to how best to overcome preconceptions about one’s capacity and ability. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Advocacy is, arguably, the “purest form of lawyering”. Learning how to do it well, two senior practitioners argue, is fundamental. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Chamberlains Law Firm director James d’Apice and senior associate Hugh Smith to discuss why advocacy skills are so critical for the next generation of lawyers to develop, what it feels like to be an advocate, and why it is so important to them to better educate those coming through the ranks about best practice. The pair also outline the holistic elements that shape a good advocate, balancing the competitive nature of advocacy against the need to look after one’s self, the non-negotiable tenets of good advocacy, how the age of coronavirus has reinforced or changed best practice principles, what advocacy looks like in the new normal, and how emerging lawyers can get more involved in such legal work.

When engaging an expert like a neuropsychologist, it is imperative that lawyers not only find the right expert but understand and appreciate why they are doing so and, therefore, what the right questions to ask will be. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back author and neuropsychologist Dr Hannah Korrel to discuss how and why lawyers would look to utilise the expertise of neuropsychologists and in what practice areas such expertise would be called upon, whether lawyers properly understand such expertise and know the right questions to ask. Dr Korrel also details the practical steps that lawyers should take in ensuring they are asking the right questions, whether certain questions are one-size-fits-all or if certain principles are adaptable, how to engage the services of the right kind of professional, whether lawyers should upskill on neuropsychology, and why lawyers must be neuropsychological considerations for client service delivery as part-and-parcel of their duties to the court. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

According to Noel Lim, “real justice means maintaining your rights as well as your dignity”. It’s a mantra he’s hoping to inspire in law students and grads coming through the ranks. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Anika Legal founding chief executive Noel Lim to discuss how and why the community legal centre got started, what it aims to do and why such work to ensure access to justice is so important, and how it involves students completing their practical legal training to bolster their professional skills and insight into key justice issues. Mr Lim also details why access to affordable housing is such a pertinent challenge, how the age of coronavirus exacerbated such concerns, how to better look after one’s self whilst being immersed in such legal work, and how best those coming through the ranks can meaningfully make time for volunteer work such as addressing and providing safe and affordable housing. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The recent collapse of crypto exchange FTX not only offers lessons but also provides an opportunity to reflect on the difficulties in regulating the digital assets and cryptocurrency space. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Stirling & Rose founding partner James Myint and managing director Natasha Blycha about what’s been happening in the crypto space, why the idea that crypto and digital assets are not regulated is a misnomer, the myriad difficulties in regulating this space, and whether such challenges can be overcome. The pair also detail what happened to FTX and what lessons can be drawn from this episode, what further regulation we may see in this space, and what lawyers who work in digital assets, cryptocurrency and smart legal contracts have to look forward to in the near future. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Metrics Credit Partners, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Metrics managing partner Andrew Lockhart about all things private debt in the post-pandemic market and what investors are looking at as we look ahead to a potential global recession. Mr Lockhart discusses the state of affairs for private debt, why it has been an attractive prospect for investors across the board and what is driving its increasing attractiveness in the wake of market volatility, what lessons can be learned from previous recessions if indeed another one comes to pass, and why geopolitical issues may have ripple effects. He also delves into the ramping up of restructuring and insolvency, the role of private debt in such times, how best lawyers can perceive the state of affairs in determining how to advise their clients, the practical steps that legal professionals can and should be taking, and what non-bank lenders and alternative investment fund managers may need from lawyers moving forward. To learn more about Metrics Credit Partners, click here.

Krystal Kovac assumed a leadership role in-house in her late 20s, and has learnt the key characteristics that help her bring the most benefit to an organisation – which will be particularly useful if a recession comes to pass in Australia. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Tonkin general counsel Krystal Kovac about her journey to leadership in-house at an early stage of her legal career, the importance of learning by doing, why truly listening to other business functions is so critical, and the balance between proactive and reactive collaboration across the organisation. Ms Kovac also details the lessons she has learned that have helped her professional development as a general counsel, thinking holistically, the “big ticket” items she is focused on right now, her thoughts on how best GCs can make positive contributions in uncertain and volatile times, and the need for confidence in one’s self and one’s ability. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Annabel Biscotto — both on a personal level and as president of the Australian Law Students’ Association — is on a mission to let the legal profession know that neurodiversity, and disability more broadly, is “nothing to be ashamed of”. It’s a conversation, she says, the profession needs to be engaging in more. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Annabel Biscotto, a third-year law student at Curtin University and president of ALSA, about how and why she got involved in extra-curricular activities at law school, her diagnosis and experience with ADHD, why she sees it as being a significant ailment, and how she manages her condition and navigates it day-to-day. Ms Biscotto also reflects on the volume of neurodivergent persons in Australia, whether such conditions are the “new anxiety and depression” in the legal profession in terms of broader awareness, why advocating for better awareness and treatment of disability and neurodivergence is so important for Australian law students, the practical steps that employers can and should take (from a student perspective), and what she would say to profession leaders about these all-important issues if she had them all in a room. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Given the pace of change in work, health, and safety — not just legislatively, but also due to sociocultural and economic shifts in the wake of the pandemic — leaders in law must be well on top of how best to manage their teams, lest they be left behind in a post-pandemic marketplace. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Maddocks partner Catherine Dunlop about the state of affairs of workplace safety laws in Australia, the increased difficulty for leaders to look after staff in a post-pandemic landscape, looming legislative changes at the state and territory level, and how best workplaces can effectively monitor the health and wellbeing of staff in an increasingly hybrid working environment. Ms Dunlop also touches on how best to ensure no one is falling through the cracks, better managing client relationships, the place of the billable hour moving forward, the duty of care that may be owed by law departments to their external providers, the place for individual responsibility, the need for honesty from leaders, and the evolution of workplace policies by legal employers. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Support for Lawyers, we explore the changing landscape around wellness conversations in Australia’s legal profession, and whether the burden of responsibility is shifting in a post-pandemic new normal. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Support for Lawyers founder and director Marguerite Picard about her own journey as a lawyer and the professional struggles she has overcome, the critical importance of proactive efforts to manage lawyers’ wellness, the current state of affairs for the holistic health of Australian legal professionals, and the potential impact of recent marketplace changes. Ms Picard also delves into who bears responsibility for the health and wellbeing of lawyers in the post-pandemic new normal and why, movement away from box-ticking mentalities, the need for greater collective education, and details the Support for Lawyers platform and why it is so beneficial for professionals. To learn more about Support for Lawyers, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with nrol, we dive into the headline hurdles that legal employers are having to overcome, particularly with a likely recession looming on the horizon. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with nrol director Jesse Shah about the current state of affairs for legal recruitment in Australia, the impact of preferences for remote working on hiring, the insurmountable challenges facing SME employers relative to BigLaw competitors and how employers are having to rethink their attraction strategies in the post-pandemic new normal. Mr Shah also touches on the types of roles that are seeing elevated hiring challenges right now and why, the metropolitan areas of Australia that are facing particular issues, the gender split in recruitment at this critical juncture, the need for idiosyncratic approaches to hiring, and how a recession can and will impact upon legal recruitment, given what’s happened in the market in recent years.  To learn more about nrol, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In practice areas like wills and estates, lawyers and clients alike have been heavily reliant on paper in years gone by. In today’s world, such an approach is no longer mainstream. Moving your practice towards more environmentally friendly and technologically reliant processes, and bringing the client along for the journey, is critical. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Safewill Legal lawyer Lauren Solomonson to discuss how and why she became a wills and estates lawyer, why making the transition to paperless is so important — especially for lawyers in this space, the challenges in making such a transition, and navigating the sensitivities of this particular practice area. Ms Solomonson also details her own firm’s experience in making this transition, overcoming hurdles in the shift, evolving pricing structures, what’s happening across the market in wills and estates, challenges for such practitioners, and the extent to which innovation will continue to drive those in this space. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

A limitation of the criminal justice system, ACT-based prosecutor and author Katrina Marson says, is that it is reactive to misconduct such as sexual violence. A more stringent, and proactive approach to education is needed nationwide, she argues — so as to improve sexual wellbeing and reduce harassment and assault. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by ACT Director of Public Prosecutions senior prosecutor Katrina Marson, who is also the author of Legitimate Sexpectations: The Power of Sex Ed. Ms Marson discusses her vocational journey as a prosecutor, why such work is personally and professionally meaningful, the limitations of the criminal justice system and the need to rebalance the burden of responsibility in reducing crime. Ms Marson also delves into what new and improved education about sex could look like, societal receptiveness to the need for better education, ensuring that Australians across the board are exposed to age-appropriate teachings about sexual wellbeing, the broader social implications for improvements in the education system, the role of lawyers in elevating appropriate standards, how best to have “shame-free” conversations, and the broader duties of Australian legal professionals. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Commonwealth Bank, hear from two award-winning innovators about what constitutes successful innovation, in firms big and small, in a rapidly evolving marketplace. Lawyers Weekly Editor Jerome Doraisamy and National Director for Professional Services at Commonwealth Bank, Daniela Pasini, co-host this episode. We welcome Gilbert + Tobin Partner and Chief Knowledge and Innovation Officer Caryn Sandler (winner of the Innovator of the Year category at the 2022 Australian Law Awards) and Peripheral Blue Founder and Managing Director Mellissa Larkin (winner of the Innovator of the Year category at the 2022 Partner of the Year Awards) to discuss all things innovation. Ms Sandler and Ms Larkin reflect on whether innovation is client or firm-led led at this juncture, striking the right balance between proactive and reactive innovation. We delve into what constitutes internal and external innovation in law firms, and embedding transformational mindsets into the teams. We explore the challenges inherent in that process, the essential capabilities needed to deliver great customer outcomes and what the future could look like for innovators in law. To learn more about Commonwealth Bank’s professional services offerings, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

While the Reserve Bank’s rate hike trajectory is painting a grim horror story for mortgage holders, these experts say there’s strategic ways to beat the financial stress. As the central bank announces its cash rate decision for November and warns of more rate pain to come, Smart Property Investment's Phil Tarrant and Finni Mortgages chief executive Paul Glossop explain how borrowers can “sharpen the pencil” on their mortgages. And while inflation will likely continue to be an economic scourge for Aussies, the experts unpack how repricing your existing loan or refinancing with other lenders can help loosen the screws on the household budget. The duo also urge borrowers to talk to mortgage professionals and enumerate what questions should be asked while they’re on the call to make sure they get the sharpest mortgage rates that fits their needs/situation.

Since the early days of her legal career, award-nominated legal counsel Charlotte Olsen has been determined to garner broad, diverse professional experience. Such an approach means that, as a junior in-house lawyer, she is well placed to support not just her law department, but the business more broadly. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with NRL legal counsel Charlotte Olsen about the range of roles she had in law thus far and how such different vocational opportunities have served her, what her day-to-day looks like working for the National Rugby League, overcoming the proactive and reactive challenges in that role, and combining her passions for law and sport. Ms Olsen also outlines how best junior legal counsel can put their hands up to better support across all business functions, determining the best modes of communication in a post-pandemic landscape, how those coming through the ranks can unpack and work through the myriad issues they’ll face so as to better develop and thus contribute to a business, how best senior corporate counsel can aid that development, and what junior counsel have to look forward to in 2023.

The birth of barrister Rhiannon Malone’s son, one year ago, was supposed to be the happiest day of her life, and that of her husband’s. Unexpectedly, it turned out to be the worst day they’d ever experienced. Here, she reflects on the trauma of unexplained loss. (Content warning: this episode may be distressing for some listeners. Discretion is advised.) On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Melbourne-based barrister Rhiannon Malone about her early days as a barrister, her experience with unexplained stillbirth and the impact upon her and her husband, and how such trauma has changed her sense of self (both personally and professionally). Ms Malone also discusses how she has looked to make her way back from such trauma, including getting back into working life, stigma that barristers may feel about such experiences, how colleagues across the Victorian Bar have supported her, and what advice she would offer other lawyers about her experiences. Help is available via SANDS or Pink Elephants for those seeking support in pregnancy loss and via Mercy Perinatal for those seeking information or to support research into prevention of loss. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Madison Marcus, Theresa Armstrong details the importance of learning from uncomfortable or upsetting experiences – from the courtroom to client conference rooms – and how legal professionals can grow into the advocates they need to be. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Madison Marcus director Theresa Armstrong, who is the managing partner of the firm’s Parramatta office, about her storied career in law, why open conversations about upsetting moments with key stakeholders are needed, some of the teachable moments she’s experienced in her own career, why clients may feel emboldened to mistreat their lawyers, and the experience of women lawyers in such interactions. Ms Armstrong also delves into practical ways that lawyers of all stripes can regain their confidence, develop their resilience, build up their emotional intelligence (particularly in a post-pandemic landscape, in which more lawyers are working remotely and flexibly), why lawyers should be unafraid to learn from such upsetting interactions and how doing so will ultimately help them become better practitioners. To learn more about Madison Marcus, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The financial services industry has historically been male-dominated but encouraging more women into the space is not only good for society, but good for business too. In this episode, partnered by Mortgage Choice, Anthony Waldron, chief executive of financial services and Mortgage Choice at the REA Group, outlines how the industry can move away from being “male, stale and pale” and encourage more women into the space. Tune in to find out: The barriers that might be holding back female representation What can be done to encourage diversity in industry Why Mortgage Choice is partnering with the Women in Finance Awards 2022 And much more! If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Five years ago, the Coalition government announced it closed the loophole that enables perpetrators of sexual abuse to hide assets in superannuation. Since then, nothing has changed. As such, Andrew Carpenter is on a mission to ensure that this changes — and soon. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks to Websters Lawyers senior associate Andrew Carpenter about how and why he started working with survivors of sexual abuse, the financial issues they encounter, the impact upon those survivors, and the broader legal and societal implications for perpetrators being able to hide assets in their super accounts. Mr Carpenter also delves into the specific changes that advocates like himself — and numerous foundations he collaborates with, including the Grace Tame Foundation — are pushing for, the likelihood that the new Labor government will introduce measures to close this loophole, the state of affairs in jurisdictions across Australia, and whether lawyers themselves can support this campaign. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Becoming one’s own employer can be a daunting prospect. However, if the right opportunity presents itself, junior lawyers should be unafraid to grab it with both hands. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with award-nominated lawyer and principal of KF Lawyers Australia, Katrina Favre, about the circumstances that led to her leaving her job to set up her own firm, the personal and professional deliberations that went into making that decision, the navigation of client relationships in such a process, and weighing up the pros and cons of such a vocational window of opportunity. Ms Favre also reflects on making such a leap during a global pandemic, ensuring that one’s branding is up to scratch in order to succeed, the challenges to overcome in establishing a new practice as a junior lawyer, the non-negotiable steps that a new business owner must take, thinking of one’s self as a business owner and not just a lawyer, and why others coming through the ranks should be unafraid of setting up their own firms if the timing is right.

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Blumers Personal Injury Lawyers director Noor Blumer to discuss the application of ethics, and ethical conduct, particularly in uncertain and turbulent times, and why ethical conduct remains so critically important for all lawyers. Ms Blumer outlines practical examples of ethical problems she has witnessed during her storied career, why ethical conduct is as important as ever, if the need for ethical conduct is heightened in the current age, navigating particular hypothetical ethical conundrums, whether abiding by ethical conduct rules is becoming harder, and her guidance for fellow lawyers in ensuring optimal ethics in the post-pandemic new normal. To learn more about Blumers, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with LexisNexis, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with LexisNexis executive vice-president and general counsel Ian McDougall about how technology, in general, is proving to be as much of a challenge to the rule of law as a support to it. Mr McDougall details how and why there is an intersection between the rule of law and the advancement of legal technological platforms and processes. Are lawyers losing sight of the importance of the rule of law amidst the mainstreaming of legal tech? He discusses the practical steps that lawyers must take to ensure the rule of law is not lost in the shuffle, why the rule of law is not a competing priority in the wake of myriad market disruption and turbulence, and the benefits that will flow — both for lawyers and their clients — should the rule of law be promoted in one’s use of tech. For more information about the LexisNexis Rule of Law Foundation at their efforts, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!  

Corporate counsel have, for some time, been cognisant of the need to be more adept with cyber security. The recent Optus attack is not only a timely reminder of this need — but it also offers myriad lessons and warnings for in-house lawyers in how they manage their business’ affairs. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes Hall & Wilcox partner and head of cyber Eden Winokur to discuss the fallout from the recent cyber attack on telco giant Optus, the key takeaways from a legal standpoint from that attack, and why in-house lawyers must see this as a wake-up call for ensuring that cyber is front and centre of everything that they do within and for their business. Mr Winokur details the corporate lessons from the attack, practical steps that corporate counsel can and must take moving forward, stakeholders with whom they have to engage, challenges they will have to navigate, and the opportunities to be grasped in prioritising cyber moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Despite multiple award wins, Jason Betts doesn’t allow himself to get complacent. No matter what, he always pushes himself to do more and won’t ever presume that a client is fully satisfied with his service. Being comfortable in such discomfort, he feels, has been critical to his success. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Herbert Smith Freehills partner Jason Betts — who won the Litigation Partner, the Dispute Resolution Partner, and the Excellence Award categories at the 2022 Partner of the Year Awards — about the traits that are necessary to success for law firm leaders, avoiding intellectual arrogance, and having the fortitude to be humble. Mr Betts also explains why he thinks partners must be comfortable being uncomfortable, what that looks like and how to embrace it, what he has learnt from failures in his career, maintaining hunger for the role, and offers advice for aspiring partners in the modern marketplace. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The novelty of working remotely, or flexibly, has not worn off for many legal professionals. The mainstreaming of WFH is, for some, an irreversible trend. But are there ways that the office can become a more enticing workspace? On this episode of Legal Lightbulbs, our hosts — Lawyers Weekly editor Jerome Doraisamy and Bowd chief executive Fionn Bowd — reflect on the bounty of choice that legal professionals have in determining where they work from each day, the systemic and environmental issues that meant that some pre-pandemic workplaces were not conducive to collegiality and development, and why businesses should even see upside in having staff come back in to a shared workspace. The hosts also dive into whether the law office is even salvageable in the post-pandemic new normal, how best collaboration and efficiency can be gleaned in new-look office spaces, the inextricable need for better training and development in person, and understanding that there is no “one-size-fits-all” approach to recreating a vibrant, full office moving forward. To learn more about Fionn Bowd, click here. If you have questions you want to see answered on this show, reach out to Jerome at [email protected] or Fionn at [email protected]. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Advocating for your career as a junior lawyer is “not just about going for the next rung” — so much more is involved, says this professional. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with K&L Gates lawyer Mei Gong about her career to date, how she learnt about the need to advocate for one’s career, why it is so important for junior lawyers to do so, and whether such advocacy comes naturally to her and to other new legal professionals. Ms Gong also discusses her experiences during the COVID-19 lockdowns and how they inspired her to better advocate for herself, what she has learnt along the way, the questions that junior lawyers should ask of themselves in getting started on the advocacy journey, practical steps to take, and what she has learnt about herself — personally and professionally — on her journey. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

One decade ago (to the date of publication of this episode), Lawyers Weekly editor Jerome Doraisamy admitted himself to hospital, in light of his spiralling anxiety and depression, which verged on suicide ideation. Here, he reflects on that period of ill-health, his journey since, and lessons learned. Content warning: This episode contains content that may be disturbing or distressing to some listeners. Listener discretion is advised. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, Herbert Smith Freehills senior associate Codie Asimus interviews Jerome Doraisamy about his mental breakdown 11 years ago, the 18-month bout of ill-health that followed (including hospitalisation), what he learned from his experiences with severe clinical anxiety and depression, and how he feels reflecting on that time of his life, one decade on. Codie and Jerome also discuss the current state of affairs for wellness in Australia’s legal profession, the evolving role of team leaders post-pandemic and the increased need for individual responsibility in the new normal, and also flesh out some advice for lawyers across the board who may be suffering from psychological distress. Help is available via Lifeline on 13 11 14 and Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636. Each law society and bar association also has further contacts available on their respective websites. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

A must-listen for anyone with a mortgage, Property Finance Uncut gives Aussies the latest intel on the lending scene. Join Smart Property Investment’s Phil Tarrant and Finni Mortgages chief executive Paul Glossop to unpack the latest Reserve Bank of Australia cash rate decision.

Since its inception in 1976, Sunshine Coast-based firm Bradley & Bray Lawyers has had numerous iterations. Being open and receptive to change, and incorporating such a willingness into a firm’s business model, is imperative if that business is to roll with the times. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Bradley & Bray Lawyers director Jacob Corbett to discuss his journey to firm leadership in his late 20s, how his firm has evolved since the 1970s and why, and how his mentor instilled in him the importance of seeking out perspectives from the next generation of leaders. Mr Corbett also delves into why new iterations of a boutique law firm are so important in an ever-changing marketplace, how best small firms can evolve with the times, what lessons can be learned from such change, and his advice to other firm leaders about ensuring such change is baked into one’s value proposition and business model. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with mattero, we explore the role that legal tech has played, and will continue to play, in supporting the growth trajectory and success of women legal professionals. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by mattero marketing manager Fiona Chevallier-Knospe, By George Legal director Georgina O’Farrell, TBA Law principal solicitor and founder Jacqueline Brauman, and Balance Family Law director and co-founder Perpetua Kish to discuss the nexus between legal technology and pathways in law for women lawyers, what legal practice management currently looks like for women in the profession, and how day-to-day life as lawyers is shifting following the age of coronavirus. The guests also discuss headline challenges and opportunities moving forward in the post-pandemic market, their experiences to date with legal tech and how it has helped them better manage their businesses, what there is to look forward to with utilisation of tech as law firm owners in the new normal, lessons learned for emerging leaders in law, and what excites them about their use of legal tech (such as mattero’s) in the future. To learn more about mattero, click here.

The defence industry will likely be one of the most high-profile in the coming years. The pace of change together with sociopolitical, technological and environmental factors make it a fascinating and stimulating space to be in, says one lawyer. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Piper Alderman senior associate Travis Shueard to discuss his passion for defence industry work, how and why he saw an opportunity to steer his legal career in this direction, what the day-to-day looks like for lawyers in this space, and having a heightened sense of purpose as a practitioner. Mr Shueard also delves into finding the best value as a lawyer in this space, the best practice principles for legal service, challenges to overcome in the defence industry space, navigating environmental shifts, trends and opportunities looming on the horizon, his own professional goals, and thoughts on how much the defence industry space might grow in the coming years. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with LexisNexis, we explore the skills divide for technology use in the workplace, the need to acknowledge and embrace the spectrum of proficiency, and how best to bridge that divide in the post-pandemic new normal. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with LexisNexis head of UX research (Asia and Pacific) Chantelle Maree about what the skills divide is, the generational differences driving that proficiency spectrum, the extent to which the spectrum is actual versus perceived, and why addressing that spectrum is so critical for legal practitioners and businesses amidst current market turbulence and uncertainty. Ms Maree also delves into the practical ways that the skills divide can be address, the nexus between the divide and psychological safety, why the divide is not yet insurmountable, the responsibilities upon individuals to upskill, and how LexisNexis can assist. To learn more about LexisNexis, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The management of contractor safety is “one of the most misunderstood areas of law”. At a time when in-house counsel are so busy with other urgent priorities, the safety of their business’ contractors cannot be forgotten. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by LinkSafe freelance legal consultant and ContractorSAFE legal and safety consultant Sue Bottrell to discuss why contractor safety management is such an important conversation, why it is a blind spot for many lawyers right now, and the holistic approach needed to such safety. Ms Bottrell also discusses the practical steps that can and should be taken by employers and their legal departments to shore up their contractor safety management practices and policies, the need to ensure that the onus of responsibility falls on certain parties, and broader guidance for in-house counsel in seeing this broader conversation as being inextricably linked to one’s duties. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

From niching down a firm’s practice offerings to opening a new regional office, Kerri Shaw and Gemma Bunner have learned the importance of regularly evaluating the health and direction of their firm. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Shaw & Bunner Legal founders, Kerri Shaw and Gemma Bunner, to discuss how and why they founded a firm together in the Hunter region in NSW, how the firm has fared in its first few years, why they have opted to scale down the number of practice areas they offer to clients, and the recent opening of their second office, in Gunnedah. Ms Shaw and Ms Bunner also reflect on the general health of regional law firms in the wake of the age of coronavirus, adapting to changing dynamics (both in the market and within one’s own business), why it is so important to regularly evaluate how the firm is performing, the questions that must be asked as part of such a process, and what the future looks like for regional firms such as theirs. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Mediation is on the rise — not just as a practice methodology, but as an avenue for litigious proceedings. Those operating in this space need to not only be able to adapt to changing circumstances, but also unlearn certain traits gleaned as a legal professional. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Nicole Davidson — a Melbourne-based commercial mediator and negotiation consultant who recently won the inaugural Mediator/Arbitrator of the Year category at the 2022 Australian Law Awards — about how and why she got into mediation as a vocational path, why mediation is such a critical avenue, the motivations of clients and whether lawyers are as open to mediation as an avenue as they should be in the course of litigation. Ms Davidson also delves into the headline issues and challenges for mediation as a growth area, whether mediation is on the rise in Australia, navigating evolving environmental circumstances and therefore different strategies and approaches, understanding the little things in the course of mediation, lessons she has learned, and what mediators have to look forward to in the future. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, produced in partnership with LOD, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Australian managing director Paul Cowling and head of market insights Mark Dodd about its recently released report, Risky Busyness, exploring the state of in-house teams globally. The pair reflect on the key challenges being faced by law departments around the world, why risk management is top of mind for general counsel, why talent attraction and retention are such a concern and whether idiosyncrasies of in-house life are contributing to such hurdles. Mr Cowling and Mr Dodd also detail the top priorities for in-house teams, how law departments can better demonstrate value to other business functions, what departments are investing in, the perception of law departments within their businesses, and how legal teams must view the findings of this report. To read the full report, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

It is striking, Victorian shadow minister Dr Matt Bach MP notes, how similar the criminal justice remedies of 200 years ago are to today’s policies and processes. To that end: has Australia learned from history? On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Victorian shadow minister for transport infrastructure, child protection and youth justice Dr Matthew Bach MP about his thoughts on the criminal justice system, and specifically youth justice, in the context of needed law reform — both in Victoria and across Australia. Dr Bach reflects on his career and journey in politics, his PhD in 19th century British history, the similarities between criminal justice approaches of that age and today’s world, lessons to be drawn from such similarities, what might need to change in today’s landscape (particularly against the backdrop of the post-pandemic world), how lawyers can contribute to such processes, and what the Victorian Liberals will do on these fronts if elected later this year. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Empire Group, we explore emerging trends in salaries for legal professionals on Australia’s east coast and what these trends mean for legal recruitment in a post-pandemic market. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Empire Group partner Alison Crowther to discuss the company’s recently released 2022 Legal Salary Guide, explore the latest developments in salaries in Brisbane, Melbourne and Sydney, why such developments are so consequential, and what they mean against the backdrop of the supposed Great Resignation following the age of coronavirus. Ms Crowther also reflects on the phenomenon of “quiet quitting” in the context of recruitment, why emerging trends reinforce what we know about the recruitment market, the role of legal recruiters moving forward, and what candidates can look forward to in the future. To learn more about Empire Group and its salary guide, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Blumers Personal Injury Lawyers, we delve into the practice management hurdles that can and do arise when representing clients involved in high-profile proceedings. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Blumers director Noor Blumer about the rules and principles guiding lawyers in high-profile proceedings and the extent to which media can or should be engaged, difficulty of such management in the age of social media, balancing media engagement against a client’s best interests and advising clients about best practice. Ms Blumer also outlines lessons she’s learnt from high-profile cases in the past, her personal experience in such matters, practical steps to take to better control the media narrative, the critical importance of good communication, what lawyers must avoid doing, and how lawyers can learn more about their duties and responsibilities with media. To learn more about Blumers and its medical negligence work, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Legal work in regional towns is ramping up in the post-pandemic market. For leaders like Najeh Marhaba, it provides a great opportunity to bolster one’s practises amidst increased competition — whilst still enjoying the lifestyle benefits of being out of the major metropolitan areas. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Hicksons partner-in-charge in Newcastle Najeh Marhaba about how he and his family ended up moving out of Sydney and to Newcastle and the Hunter region, his experience of working in regional NSW, how and why there is an increased volume of work in the regions post-pandemic and how such increases bolster national firm’s growth. Mr Marhaba also delves into the looming challenges for regional practices in a post-pandemic market, how well placed regional practices are to withstand the ongoing economic turmoil, growth opportunities for big and small practices in the regions, and why others can and should consider growing their businesses across regional Australia. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this episode, brought to you by Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand, Space Connect, host Adam Thorn speaks with Joel Lisk, a space law research associate at the Jeff Bleich Centre at Flinders University in South Australia and a PhD candidate at the Adelaide Law School. Mr Lisk recently co-authored a research paper on the regulation of satellite constellations and space debris in low-Earth orbit alongside Melissa de Zwart. In this episode, he speaks to Adam about how he found himself in the emerging field of space law and the complexities of the field. They further discuss the increasing risk of space debris on earth and in orbit and look at some of the avenues for regulation. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Instances of bias are “incredibly rare” in Australia’s judicial system. However, given Australians’ right to independent and impartial hearings, it is imperative for lawyers to understand and appreciate how best to serve their clients if and when actual or apprehended bias manifests. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Armstrong Legal national practice director of criminal law Angela Cooney and J Sutton Associates director Andrew Tiedt to discuss the different forms of bias in court proceedings, how frequently bias occurs in hearings, and high-profile instances of bias arising in Australian courts and what was learnt from those cases. Ms Cooney and Mr Tiedt also respond to questions about what can be construed as actual or apprehended bias, what criminal lawyers need to know about managing prospective or perceived bias, whether the advent of virtual hearings helps or hinders lawyers in identifying instances of bias, and how bias can manifest in jury trials. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Many lawyers move in-house seeking greater work/life balance. What they cannot forget, however, is that they may have a responsibility to the health and wellbeing of the law firm’s lawyers they brief. On this episode of Legal Lightbulbs, our hosts — Lawyers Weekly editor Jerome Doraisamy and Bowd chief executive Fionn Bowd — reflect on the extent that law departments, and particularly leaders of those in-house teams, owe a duty of care to the firms that make up their external legal services panels (even if that duty isn’t written into a position description). The pair discuss the moral and ethical imperatives to support other professionals and the need for a holistic approach to stakeholder management. They consider the capacity of firms to turn down work in favour of clients who may offer better working conditions, and the balancing act with which in-house legal teams must grapple when working with firms but also meeting the needs of their internal clients. Jerome and Fionn workshop incentives that could be offered, ways of showcasing value for stakeholders, and other practical approaches that can and should be explored by both sides. To learn more about Fionn Bowd, click here. If you have questions you want to see answered on this show, reach out to Jerome at [email protected] or Fionn at [email protected]. 

A must-listen for anyone with a mortgage, Property Finance Uncut gives Aussies the latest intel on the lending scene. Join Smart Property Investment’s Phil Tarrant and Finni Mortgages chief executive Paul Glossop to unpack the latest Reserve Bank of Australia cash rate decision.

Laura Frederick, a former senior in-house counsel at Tesla, loved her job at the global behemoth. What was missing, however, was a sense of freedom over her personal and professional beings — something that only she could create for herself. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with How To Contract founder and president, and former Tesla lawyer, Laura Frederick about her legal career to date, her experiences at Tesla and what life is like working for one of the world’s most talked-about companies, her background and interest in contracts and how and why she decided to “niche down” into this area of practice. Ms Frederick also explains why niching down was so important for her as a corporate counsel, rather than trying to be the jack-of-all-trades, why she decided to leave in-house to run her own firm, why having freedom in one’s day-to-day is so critical, what freedom means to her, and how best other corporate counsel can source such flexibility and autonomy over their careers. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

No one starts a law firm thinking about how they’re going to exit it. However, it is imperative (particularly in an age of turbulence) to not only ensure continuity in your business once you leave it but also do so in a way that makes both personal and professional sense to you and your successor. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Justitia founding partner Sarah Rey and new managing partner Melissa Scadden to talk about the inception and early years of the Melbourne-based boutique, how and why Ms Rey determined she needed to step away from the position of firm head, Ms Scadden’s career and when and why assuming a leadership role made sense to her. Ms Rey and Ms Scadden also detail their pre-requisites for undertaking a succession process, and the elements involved, the personal factors that go into such considerations, the firm mission moving forward, how succession planning can be undertaken in a post-pandemic market, whether it is incumbent upon firm leaders to have succession plans in place, lessons learned (both personally and professionally) about having completed a succession, and the extent to which managing partners can and should be looking to make themselves redundant. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Australian Bar Association president Dr Matt Collins QC says he is proud of how well barristers across the country have adapted to the new normal in recent years. Looking ahead, the bar is shaping up to be a stronger, more united cohort as a result, he believes. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Australian Bar Association president Dr Matt Collins QC to discuss his personal experiences of practice during the age of coronavirus, how he feels barristers fared in general, the advent of virtual hearings and other changes that barristers have had to grapple with, and whether professionals have had to relearn what it means to be a barrister. Dr Collins also stresses the importance of retaining the art of persuasion in whatever hearing one appears in, what the future looks like for in-person chambers, whether barristers could embrace hot-desking, how regional barristers have fared in this age, turning old courthouses into spaces for virtual hearings, and what he thinks the future holds for barristers all around Australia. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with the Australasian Legal Practice Management Association (ALPMA), learn more about what the future will hold for legal practice managers, including all those with leadership and management responsibilities, as we exit the age of coronavirus. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with ALPMA strategic learning and development manager Fiona Croswell and PwC directors of NewLaw Eric Chin and Carl White about who ALPMA is and what it does, the headline issues for all legal practice managers in the post-pandemic new normal, juggling client expectations in the new normal, striking the right balance moving forward, and necessary skills to ensure that balance. The trio also reflect on the ongoing war for talent and the rise of new roles in legal businesses, the pace of change and need for adaptability, ensuring that all employees feel accommodated and that they have purpose, why the current age is so exciting for legal practice managers of all stripes, and what this week’s ALPMA Summit will bring to attendees across the country. To learn more about the activities of ALPMA, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

“Quiet quitting” is more than a TikTok fad. It may have far-reaching consequences for daily legal practice and the evolution of businesses in law. Is this good or bad for the legal profession On this episode of Legal Lightbulbs, hosts Jerome Doraisamy and Fionn Bowd reflect on what “quiet quitting” means in the context of Australia’s legal profession and why lawyers are so fascinated with the concept. They discuss whether it is reasonable for lawyers to “quietly quit” their jobs by silently refusing to do more than they are paid for and the pejorative nature of the term itself. The pair also flesh out the broader rejection of traditional, longstanding modes of practising law and debate who might be more likely to “quietly quit” their jobs. They ask about the relationship between “quiet quitting” and our duties to the court and our clients, and what “quiet quitting” means against the backdrop of the Great Resignation. Jerome and Fionn touch on the ever-increasing need to appropriately remunerate and incentivise staff and, finally, what lawyers can learn from tradies about work practices. To learn more about Fionn Bowd, click here. If you have questions you want to see answered on this show, reach out to Jerome at [email protected] or Fionn at [email protected]. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The most successful fast-growing companies are ones that are not only open to change, but are “naturally wired” to be comfortable practising and operating in non-traditional modes. The law department plays a critical role in driving such an approach.   On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by harrison.ai general counsel and company secretary Jennifer Mulheron to discuss what life is like at the healthcare tech start-up and why such work is so rewarding, the importance of being open-minded with shifts in one’s career trajectory, and managing the juggle of being GC and co sec.   Ms Mulheron also delves into the hurdles for tech start-ups to overcome in the current climate, moving past a risk-averse mindset, trends on the horizon for in-house lawyers in this space moving forward, whether merger and acquisition lawyers are well-suited to life in tech start-ups, and getting comfortable with practising and advising clients in different ways in the new normal. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

There has been a shift, marketing expert Aleks Czerwinski says, away from traditional business presentation towards establishing emotional connections with clients and communities. Therefore, being authentic is imperative if a firm’s marketing campaigns are to tell a story and resonate broadly. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Pump Me Up founder Aleks Czerwinski to discuss her career to date in marketing and how she came to work with and for law firms, her broad perception of how well law firms in Australia are doing with their marketing efforts, the biggest mistakes that SME firms make with marketing, and misconceptions that they might have. Ms Czerwinski also dives into the hesitancy to commit to campaigns, practical steps that firms must take to ensure longevity from their marketing efforts, whether there is a specific quantum of time required each week to guarantee success, the need to be strategic and deliberate, the importance of authenticity, the platforms that law firms can and should be looking at, utilising awards programs to bolster one’s viability to the market, and the connections that clients are seeking in the modern world. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Jason Symons has always been passionate about growing a business. It’s “in my DNA”, he says. Recently, when the opportunity arose to build a new cyber practice at Mills Oakley, he grabbed it with both hands. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Mills Oakley partner and cyber security practice head Jason Symons to discuss his interest in cyber law, how the launching of his new practice at Mills Oakley came about and why he opted to make the move, what the experience of launching such a new practice has been like, and the balance between proactive and reactive work when building a new group. Mr Symons also delves into some of the challenges of launching a new practice in a national firm, what he is learning from this period, the trends and opportunities he has taken advantage of amidst such a growth period, what his goals are for the group moving forward, and what he’s learned about himself — both personally and professionally — from this chapter of his journey. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Macquarie Business Banking, learn about how law firms across the country were able to adapt to the turbulence of a global pandemic. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Macquarie Business Banking’s National Segment Head for Legal, Matthew Bolle, to discuss the findings and key takeaways from the 2022 Business Barometer report, including the impacts of the pandemic upon law firms, the building of profits during that time, the scale­ to which firms invested in technology, how easy firms made it for clients to do business with them, and the extent to which customer experience was improved. Bolle also details how well law firms appear to be proactive about managing external events like a pandemic, the top challenges for legal businesses, considerations for workplace wellness, whether specialised boutique firms are diminishing, and ultimately how well placed the legal profession is for the post-pandemic market. To learn more about Macquarie Bank’s Business Barometer report, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

From the age of 12, Megan Patten knew she wanted to become a lawyer. However, less than two years after being admitted, she left legal practice. The realisation that she no longer wanted to be a lawyer, she says, was “like a bus hitting me”. (Content warning: this episode may be distressing for some listeners. Discretion is advised.) On this episode of the Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Australian Energy Regulator senior analyst Megan Patten about her lifelong desire to become a lawyer, the work she did once admitted, how and why she realised that she no longer wanted to work as a lawyer and the circumstances surrounding that epiphany. Ms Patten also details prioritising her health and wellbeing during that period of vocational discovery, re-evaluating her sense of self, what she now does for work and why she finds it so rewarding, whether she has regrets about her non-linear professional trajectory, and what other young lawyers can and should take away from her experiences. Help is available via Lifeline on 13 11 14 and Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636. Each law society and bar association also has further contacts available on their respective websites. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Madison Marcus, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Madison Marcus partner and division leader of sustainability/ESG and banking and finance Eric Boone about the elevation of environmental, social and governance concerns as we move into a post-pandemic market. Mr Boone details his vocational journey and how he became so personally and professionally invested in ESG work, particularly modern slavery, and his motivation for serving clients across the board in the best and most holistic ways possible. He also outlines the intersection between ESG and other legal practice areas, the need to “fully leverage” such considerations across practices, the increased prominence of ESG following the age of coronavirus, how Australia’s corporate approaches to ESG compare to global counterparts and whether such organisations are being proactive or reactive about implementing their approaches. Finally, Mr Boone details how organisations can stay ahead of the game with regard to ESG, what constitutes best practice moving forward, and how he sees practice groups such as his evolving in the future. To learn more about Madison Marcus’ work in this space, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Trent Blacket, the co-founder of EMT Partners, helps operate three businesses: a law firm, an advisory firm, and an investment firm. Two and a half years since inception, Mr Blacket remains as excited and engaged as ever and has a clear understanding of how his entrepreneurial thinking can help achieve his personal and professional goals. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with EMT Partners co-founder Trent Blacket about the three arms of his parent business, the concept of lawyers as venture capitalists, why he wanted to establish an operation that is more expansive than the average legal practice, how his experiences working overseas have informed his thinking and direction, and what the journey for EMT has been like so far. Mr Blacket also reflects on the implications for operating a law firm and also making investments for clients, the value proposition of such an expansive operation, how he manages the grind day to day, why entrepreneurial thinking is so critical in a post-pandemic world, what the future holds for his businesses, and what is motivating him moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Like personal relationships, being a business owner in law requires commitment, especially in the face of challenges. Finding ways to maintain love for your law firm, as its owner, is paramount to that firm’s success. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Caralee Fontenele, the director of Collective Family Law and director of Scalable Law, to discuss her journey as a business owner (including learning how and when to hand over responsibilities as a practitioner so as to focus on running the business), understanding the needs of one’s business, what it means to have love for one’s legal business and the importance of maintaining that love even when challenges strike. Ms Fontenele also details the strategies she employs to ensure she keeps up the love even when she’s not feeling it, the need to “spice it up” from time to time, the importance of proactivity in showing love to one’s business, the need to think outside the box, and where the love she has for her own businesses will take her into the future. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Why should law firms invest in technology? How can it shape their future? What difference will technology make to everyday life at the firm? Can efficiency, productivity and successful outcomes be driven by employing the right technology infrastructure? What will the law firm of tomorrow look like? On this special episode of LawTech Talks, LexisNexis head of core product (Pacific) Lindsay O’Connor talks to LexisNexis managing director (Pacific) Greg Dickason about the disruptive change technology is bringing to the legal world, enabling law firms to become more client-centric. For more information on LexisNexis solutions, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Despite the hardship she has suffered as a result of vicarious trauma in the workplace, award-winning lawyer Zagi Kozarov is still highly motivated to support the community around her, especially now that a decade-long fight that culminated in a High Court challenge has concluded. (Content warning: this episode may be distressing for some listeners. Discretion is advised.) On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Kozarov Lawyers principal director Zagi Kozarov, who won the Wellness Advocate of the Year category at the 2022 Partner of the Year Awards and whose firm won Wellness Initiative of the Year at the 2022 Australian Law Awards. Ms Kozarov discusses her firm's growth plans, details the vicarious trauma she suffered in previous employment that led to proceedings over 10 years about duty of care and PTSD in the workplace, the need for employers to better accommodate idiosyncratic circumstances, and why she is keen to remain in criminal law. She also details the triggers she still experiences and the practical solutions she implements to overcome those, how messaging about wellness is changing, and what she wants other lawyers to take away from her High Court case and broader experiences. Help is available via Lifeline on 13 11 14 and Beyond Blue at 1300 22 4636. Each law society and bar association also has further contacts available on their respective websites.   If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Our constitutional system is not separate from our national ecosystem. In the wake of increased litigation pertaining to climate change, it is incumbent upon legal officers, including judges, to consider how “old laws”, such as the Constitution, can and should address “new problems”, like the impacts of global warming. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by UTS Law teaching academic Dr Costa Avgoustinos to discuss how and why the effects of climate change can and will have consequences for the Australian Constitution and the nexus between the Constitution and our ecosystem. Dr Avgoustinos also discusses the key pillars of federalism and corruption in adversely affecting our Constitution in the context of climate change, the role of the judiciary in addressing climate-related concerns, the various political positions that lawyers and judges alike will have and take, the limits on governmental power, and why all lawyers should see the protection of the Constitution as so important when discussing climate change. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Becoming a legal counsel in the defence industry was not a pathway that award-winning lawyer Katherine Stapels planned for, but it is a space that she has come to "really love". On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with DroneShield general counsel Katherine Stapels — who won the Defence Lawyer of the Year category at the 2022 Corporate Counsel Awards — about her vocational journey towards working in defence, what listed company DroneShield does and why its work is so important to Australia, and what the law department is responsible for in achieving the company's aims. Ms Stapels also fleshes out how best to stay in touch with the community of defence lawyers, building relationships across a business, approaching applications with regulatory bodies, navigating the broader regulatory landscape, best practice for defence lawyers amidst all of the environmental challenges, lessons for defence lawyers based on her experiences, and why defence work is so engaging and motivating. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

When Travis Schultz & Partners was launched, its founder — whose name is on the door — presumed the firm would be kept small, with perhaps just over half a dozen staff. Now pushing 50 professionals, Travis Schultz has learned how to navigate the unanticipated scaling of a legal business and how to ensure it thrives. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Travis Schultz & Partners founder and principal Travis Schultz to discuss his firm’s growth journey from boutique to a bigger player in the Queensland marketplace, its beginnings to where it is now, mistakes that Mr Schultz thinks he has made and what he has learned from them, the various arms to sustainability, and when firm leaders need to think about changes to the firm’s position and strategy. Mr Schultz also discusses how and when to share responsibilities with others in the business, the personal challenges of leading a rapidly expanding business, adjustments to the post-pandemic new normal, his firm’s future plans, what “maturity” of the business looks like to him, and other guidance for boutique firm owners about how best to manage unexpected growth and scaling. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Max Beavis always wanted to work overseas — with different clients and in different jurisdictions — as part of his growth as a lawyer. Currently working in London, he spoke with Lawyers Weekly whilst back in Sydney about what it’s like to live and work internationally as an up-and-coming lawyer and how and why others should look into it. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Clifford Chance’s newly qualified associate Max Beavis about his longstanding ambition to work overseas as a lawyer, broaching the conversation with one’s employer about the possibility of making such a move, whether there is a particular approach that lawyers should take when having those conversations or a right time to do so, and how those conversations might go as we move out of the age of coronavirus. Mr Beavis also discusses his experiences of living in London, staying on top of his health and wellbeing while living across the world from his friends and family, what his day-to-day looks like, whether there are lots of Australian lawyers coming back to the UK post-pandemic, whether the mainstreaming of virtual work means young lawyers can get the same international experience from their homes, and other advice he would offer to new practitioners considering such moves. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

There is often a tendency, among legal employers, to immediately seek solutions to workplace risks to mental health. If this approach is taken with psychosocial hazards, however, “invariably, risks are going to get missed”. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with K&L Gates partner Dominic Fleeton and Proactive Action managing director Emma Parsons about legislative changes pertaining to employer obligations for managing mental health risks in the workplace, including the intent to provide said employers with greater detail about what their obligations entail.  Mr Fleeton and Ms Parsons dive into the myriad issues surrounding psychosocial hazards, whether non-traditional approaches are needed in the post-pandemic world, the role of team leaders moving forward, and what will constitute best practice in the future. 

Increasingly, employee share/stock ownership plans are being implemented, one GC says. The law department will play a big part in ensuring that such plans are not only fit for purpose but can help drive businesses forward in the post-pandemic market. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Linktree general counsel Rosanna Biggs about what employee share/stock ownership plans (ESOPs) are, why they are so important and becoming more common, what a typical ESOP looks like, the utility of offering such plans and whether more and more lawyers are keen to take them up. Ms Biggs also discusses the extent to which legal recruiters are seeing them as part of their work, how the law department can help in setting up ESOPs, whether trial and error forms part of such implementation, knowledge-sharing about such plans amongst fellow in-house lawyers, how best the law department can argue for such plans, and what the mainstreaming of ESOPs means for vocational growth moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Whilst gleaning professional benefits such as improved business functions and greater capacity to scale are essential takeaways from the utilisation of legal technology, there are other, broader vocational benefits: ensuring that one can practise in ways that make sense to them is, for one entrepreneur, at the core of the future of legal services. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Firmsy founder and chief executive Claudia King about her motivation for transitioning into the legal tech space, what it means to practise law from the heart and how and why legal tech is critical to this concept, and how practitioners of all stripes can benefit from adopting such an approach. Ms King also explains why it is too important, from a client perspective, for their legal service providers to think about their use of tech in such ways, the hurdles facing lawyers in adopting this approach, how they can once again view their practices as an outlet to feed their souls in the right ways, and what excites her about the broader appreciation and understanding of legal tech and its myriad benefits. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Change is inevitable in the legal profession. Understanding how that change is being managed, and the approaches being adopted to manage such change, is just as, if not more, important as the advent of change itself. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with UNSW senior lecturers Dr Justine Rogers and Dr Felicity Bell (who are the deputy director and research fellow, respectively, for the Law Society of NSW’s Future of Law and Innovation in the Profession (FLIP) research stream) about their recent research, published by Cambridge University Press, into change managers in the law and better understanding the stereotypes we have about those who embrace or are resistant to change. Dr Rogers and Dr Bell detail the interviews they conducted with change managers across the board in Australia's legal profession, the changes being introduced in legal organisations, what we mean by the term “change managers”, the extent to which personality traits impact leadership approaches, what makes a “transformational leader” in law, the need to listen to what change is needed, and much more.   If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Megan Comerford has always loved Australian rules football. Now the general manager of legal for the AFL Players Association, she is in a position to wake up, every day, and undertake rewarding legal work. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by AFL Players’ Association general manager of legal Megan Comerford to discuss her career in law to date, the primary focus on collective bargaining for male and female players, being part of a “niche business within a niche industry”, what the daily grind looks like and how such legal work is evolving, with the advent of the AFLW. Ms Comerford also explains the need to cater to the idiosyncratic needs of both male and female players, in conjunction with their varying personal circumstances, the need to be adaptive and flexible with any external circumstances in the sporting world, the importance of knowledge sharing with legal counsel in other sporting codes, and implementing best governance practices to drive Australian sport forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Since she was a little girl, Sally Callander has wanted to be a lawyer. Armed with education and passion for gender equality and women’s roles in law, she has established her own firm in Mudgee, NSW — a move that has endeared her to locals, thanks to her genuine empathy for their concerns and values, together with her advocacy for women. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Sally Callander Law principal solicitor Sally Callander — who is a finalist for Regional/Suburban Lawyer of the Year at the 2022 Australian Law Awards — about her lifelong ambition to become a lawyer, how and why she and her family moved to regional NSW, her background in sociology and gender studies, and what the early days of legal practice in the regions were like. Ms Callander also details her philosophy on women in the workplace, why she runs an all-female law firm, how the regions are changing, the critical approaches needed in adapting to regional expectations, the challenges she foresees for regional and suburban solicitors, and her plans for expansion into other areas of Australia. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Following her admission last year, Jemma Barnard has recently been promoted to associate at her firm. Here, she reflects on how to get from A to B and lessons learned in assuming greater responsibility and growing as a legal professional. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Travis Schultz & Partners associate Jemma Barnard about her journey from property management to legal studies and then becoming a lawyer, working her way up to associate and what she’s learned in her early days of legal practice. Ms Barnard also discusses being given responsibility for her own file load and management of a paralegal joining her team, the importance of having a good mentor as part of one’s professional development, and what excites her about continuing her journey as a legal professional. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Senator Lidia Thorpe, the first Aboriginal Australian to represent Victoria in the federal Senate, spoke with Lawyers Weekly during the recent Reconciliation Week about what broader Australia can learn from Indigenous legal principles and how existing laws and legislative processes can be alienating for First Nations people. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Senator Thorpe, a DjabWurrung, Gunnai, and Gunditjmara woman representing the Greens in the Federal Parliament, about her personal and political interest in the Indigenous experience in Australia’s legal system, what drives her to advocate for change, and her perception of why there are fewer Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander lawyers in Australia relative to their numbers across the national population. Senator Thorpe also details how she feels existing laws and processes can be alienating for First Nations people and what impact this can have, the importance of self-determination and whether it can be attained in the near future, the benefits of Indigenous legal principles and how they can be applied in modern Australia, and how best lawyers of all stripes can use their professional standing to push for and enact societal change. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Better managing one’s money isn’t just good practice for general life, says law-graduate-turned-financial-educator Paridhi Jain. The skills developed from effectively staying on top of financials can also, she says, make you a better legal professional. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Paridhi Jain, who is the founder of financial education business SkilledSmart, about her own experience at law school and why she would have benefited from having greater knowledge about her financials, how and when she realised that educating others about money was her calling (as opposed to legal practice), and why law students and young lawyers do not worry about their money as much as other demographics. Ms Jain outlines some key lessons that those coming through the ranks in the legal profession must know about managing their money, the attitudes they must be adopting, putting a positive spin on one’s budgeting, overcoming the fear of dealing with one’s budget due to being overextended elsewhere, how much time in the week should be dedicated to money management and how such management will, ultimately, make one a better lawyer. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Adele Anthony has, as she put it, “always wanted to be the bride and not the bridesmaid” when it comes to her career. At 45, she decided to get her law degree, and — now, a few years after graduating — is a finalist for the Sole Practitioner of the Year category at the 2022 Australian Law Awards. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes Your Legacy Lawyer principal Adele Anthony — whose firm is also a finalist in the Regional Firm of the Year category at the upcoming Australian Law Awards — to discuss her career and journey before entering law school in her mid-40s, what drove her (personally and professionally) to be a law firm owner, the need to talk about one’s own experiences with clients, and garnering a more holistic perspective on what her clients are experiencing. Ms Anthony also delves into working as flexibly as possible, the extent to which one should compartmentalise, her approach to new and emerging technologies and how she is looking to market her practice, her plans for expansion across the country, and what guidance she would offer about making career shifts later in life. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Recently, “extensive” reforms have come to pass in tackling the far-reaching cyber security risks facing the nation. These reforms, Melissa Tan, will cut across every industry and businesses of all sizes. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Lander & Rogers partner Melissa Tan about how and why she became involved in cyber security as a legal practice area, why the reforms to the Security of Critical Infrastructure (SOCI) Act were brought in and what positive security obligations now exist, and whether lawyers should be viewing these reforms – including the improved ability for government to provide assistance – as a positive or negative development. Ms Tan also discusses how these reforms compare to the situation overseas, whether lawyers working in this space have any reasonable precedents to follow in adhering to new rules, what will constitute best practice for lawyers advising their clients moving forward, how best to be proactive without a road map, and what lawyers have to look forward to in better servicing clients in the future. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Madison Marcus Law Firm, host Jerome Doraisamy converses with Madison Marcus’ financial services direct lead and partner Perry Hume regarding recent learnings through current developments in the crypto space, why crypto isn’t going anywhere, and how legal practitioners can respond moving forward. Mr Hume delves into the day-to-day of a lawyer practising in the crypto space, the state of affairs in the broader market, whether our definition of cryptocurrency is evolving, his reflections on recent volatility and the consequences of recent fluctuations, and the how and why the crypto world is currently the “Wild West”. He also discusses where Australia is at, where it is heading in terms of regulation, and why practitioners must wrap their heads around the idea that crypto is not going anywhere and that it will permeate across many practice areas. Mr Hume responds to questions about the extent to which firms should invest their efforts in crypto, whether they should accept crypto for services rendered, and what will constitute best practice moving forward amidst the ongoing “digital revolution”. Aligned towards the continued dynamic growth of digital currencies and blockchain technology, Madison Marcus is now accepting cryptocurrency as a form of payment. To learn more about the firm and its work, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

For award-winning principal Keith Redenbach, making decisions based on what’s right and just is far more important than being “shackled by political decision making”. Doing the right thing – based on integrity, honesty and transparency – is a much better path towards vocational satisfaction than being bogged down by negative influences, he says. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Redenbach Legal principal Keith Redenbach – who is a finalist in three categories at the upcoming Partner of the Year Awards – to discuss his experiences working in BigLaw firms (here and abroad), the good and bad lessons he took away from that time in his professional life, how those lessons are applicable to now running his own SME firm, as well as the skills that have served him well as a firm leader. Mr Redenbach also dives into the need to make one’s own luck and how to ensure such success, prioritising health and happiness above all else, navigating jealousy if and when it rears its head, avoiding the weeds of politicking, what excites him about legal practice moving forward and why lawyers must focus more on the achievement of justice. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Prosecutorial work involves not only the responsibility a practitioner has to clients, but sometimes also the expectations of the community. Aaron Guilfoyle - who led the successful prosecution of Ardent Leisure following the Dreamworld tragedy - understands the need to balance all responsibilities. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by MacDonnells Law special counsel Aaron Guilfoyle (who spent nearly two decades at the Commonwealth DPP, including as an assistant director and principal federal prosecutor) about how and why he got into prosecutorial work, the importance of keeping one's emotions in check with overwhelming subject matter, and reflects on his experiences in the Dreamworld proceedings. Mr Guilfoyle also discusses how to wade through the expectations of clients, victims and community members in order to achieve successful outcomes, creating blueprints for success, looming challenges for prosecutorial employers and how best these can be managed, why he moved to the private sector and his guidance for those interested in prosecutorial work.   If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

After stints as a lawyer in the UK and Germany before moving to Australia, Alison Clegg found a home in the oil and gas sector and then in ethics and compliance. Here, she details the foremost considerations for good compliance officers in the new normal.  On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Shell ethics and compliance manager Alison Clegg to discuss what drew her to the oil and gas sector, why ethics and compliance is such a critical cog in the machine of global companies like Shell, how and why she moved away from legal practice and finding positivity in her new vocational pathway. Ms Clegg also delves into what the day to day of a compliance officer looks like, the need to encourage best practice rather than scare colleagues into it, the non-negotiables for someone in her position, the inextricable place of workplace culture in her role and duties, how compliance considerations are trickier in a post-pandemic world given scattered workforces, and whether more lawyers should consider such a pathway. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Having joined the bar in the late 1970s, Max Kimber SC has garnered extensive experience in mediation and dispute resolution. Here, he details his top tips for those seeking greater proficiency in mediation, especially against the backdrop of a rapidly evolving professional services landscape. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Sydney-based barrister Max Kimber about his career at the bar, why he sees mediation as being such an important avenue for exploration by lawyers engaged in litigation, and how the mediation landscape has evolved in recent decades. Mr Kimber outlines 10 things that lawyers engaged in such work must know if they are to be proficient in this space moving forward, including, but not limited to, when mediation and ADR processes can and should be used, how to select the right mediator, the need to educate one’s client about the pros and cons of the litigation process and whether counsel should attend mediations. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As per her firm’s mantra, Kiera Peacock says that the law “should be used as a force for good”. To this end, she has been heavily involved in legal work for and with candidates in the last two federal elections. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Marque Lawyers partner Kiera Peacock about how and why she got involved in legal work pertaining to our electoral processes, what falls under the broad umbrella of such legal work, what the day to day looked like during the recent federal election and who she was working with. Ms Peacock also reflects on the intensity of such legal work in the lead-up to an election, what she has learned about herself both personally and professionally from the election cycle, how other lawyers can be involved in elections work in the future, and why such legal work is so important for the effective functioning of our democracy. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Legal professionals of all stripes are increasingly cognisant of the importance of environmental, social and governance considerations in a successful, modern business. There are a handful of ESG considerations, however, that may be flying under the radar and are in need of greater attention. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Corrs Chambers Westgarth head of responsible business and ESG Phoebe Wynn-Pope to discuss the current, underlying dangers pertaining to ESG and why they are so important to be across, including concerns about lack of integration in businesses, the importance of having a risk-based mindset and how that can and should operate. Ms Wynn-Pope also delves into the extent to which Australian businesses across the board are taking a sufficiently holistic approach to ESG, the stakeholders that must be engaged, the role of the law department in ensuring businesses are adhering to their responsibilities, marketplace shifts to factor into the approach to ESG, and the opportunities that can and do arise from meaningful engagement. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Law firms across the country are currently promoting lawyers to partner. Here, HFW commodities partner Ranjani Sundar reflects on having made partner just over one year ago, what she’s learned and what others must know about being a new partner. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Ms Sundar about life as a commodities lawyer (particularly during the age of coronavirus), how and when she made partner, what she has experienced in the 12 months since becoming a partner, the need for support when stepping into that role and being able to lean into those support systems. Ms Sundar also delves into the importance of having mentors whom you can confide in and trust, being proactive about managing yourself and your workload, the challenges of building a new practice, the need to be adaptable and flexible in what that practice looks like, and her advice for those striving for partnership in a post-pandemic market. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Amelia Schubach may be in the early years of her legal career, but that hasn’t stopped her from putting herself forward – and ultimately becoming – the driver for changes to workplace wellness at one of Australia’s biggest law firms. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Amelia Schubach (a finalist in the Wellness Advocate category at the 30 Under 30 Awards 2022) about how she has always been conscious of mental health issues, how she – as a junior lawyer – became the person leading wellness initiatives and activities at BigLaw firm Hamilton Locke, the right ways to go about having those conversations with one’s superiors, and the impacts that her work has had at that firm. Ms Schubach also reflects on what she has learned about herself, both personally and professionally, from being a driver of such change, how those coming through the ranks can look to influence their workplaces at a time in which workforces are more scattered post-pandemic, whether emerging leaders in law will be the ones who look to spearhead change and move away from traditional thinking, and what she is looking forward to rolling up her sleeves for as her legal career progresses. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Blumers Personal Injury Lawyers, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Blumers director Noor Blumer (Director | Blumers Personal Injury Lawyers, Adjunct Professor, Faculty of Business, Government & Law | University of Canberra) about life in medical negligence law and why it is such an important practice area. Noor details her experiences in “med neg”, including how she entered this practice area, what it involves, its critical importance to broader society, the capacity for vicarious trauma in such work, the need for transparency with lawyers entering this practice area, and how the age of coronavirus has impacted upon the work of lawyers in this space. She also delves into the lessons she has learned, as an expert in this field (both personally and professionally), the extent to which class actions are a feature of med neg law, what constitutes best practice for lawyers in this space, why there is no room for “sloppy” practitioners with such work, and why the impact that such legal work has on the broader health system remains such an exciting prospect moving forward. To learn more about Blumers and its medical negligence work, click here.

In her acceptance speech upon winning the FMCG Lawyer of the Year category at the 2022 Corporate Counsel Awards, Danielle Keyes reflected that there is so much work that goes into rolling a burrito. Here, the GC for Guzman y Gomez unpacks what it takes to succeed as an FMCG in-house lawyer. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Guzman y Gomez general counsel Danielle Keyes to discuss her journey from insolvency litigation in BigLaw firms to working for a major food chain, how she went about adapting to her new and different vocational pathway, and how the age of coronavirus amplified the headline issues and challenges for FMCG business and their law departments. Ms Keyes also reflects on striking the right balance in an often-manic working day, the lessons she has learned about what constitutes success for FMCG legal counsel (and counsel across the board as well), what she has learned about herself as a professional that she may not have discovered had she not entered the FMCG space, and what lawyers in this space have to look forward to in the future. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Following a career in the Australian Navy and then leading the Australian and Canadian arms of a global aerospace and defence conglomerate, Ron Fisher is now serving as principal adviser on defence industry matters for an award-winning NewLaw firm. Here, he discusses why such advisory work is so important for firms and law departments moving forward. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Proximity principal adviser Ron Fisher – who was formerly the president and chief executive of Raytheon Canada and managing director of Raytheon Australia – to discuss his naval career and experience in a major defence technology company, the projects he has worked on in the defence sector and what he learned from those projects, and where defence industry projects may be headed under a new federal government. Mr Fisher also outlines his perception of how legal work in the defence industry space will evolve in the near future, the headline issues and challenges for law firms and in-house teams working in this space, what will constitute best practice for such lawyers, how best firms and departments can advance their proficiencies in defence work, and why defence industry work is such an important and motivating vocational pursuit. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with LexisNexis Legal & Professional, Lawyers Weekly editor Jerome Doraisamy joins a webinar hosted by the global tech provider to reflect on the future of legal drafting. LexisNexis Legal & Professional head of core product (Pacific) Lindsay O’Connor leads a discussion with Mr Doraisamy about how the use of certain tools can help practitioners transform their practices by instantly accessing vast amounts of information online and bolstering their ability to turn said access into actionable insights. Tools like Lexis Create, for example, help practitioners enable context switching, risk mitigation, team collaboration, and much more. The pair also reflect on live polling results coming in from audience participants pertaining to their experiences with legal technological platforms and processes, the broader environmental and professional factors influencing perceptions of legal tech, and what practitioners most need moving forward. To learn more about Lexis Create, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Charles Cho – the general counsel at NSW Treasury – joins the show to discuss his department’s winning of the Government Team of the Year category at the 2022 Corporate Counsel Awards and why government work is so stimulating. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, Mr Cho speaks with host Jerome Doraisamy about the various projects that his law department has worked on in the past 12 months leading to their eventual award win (including and especially the NSW government’s stimulus package during the peak of COVID-19). Mr Cho reflects on the duties of in-house teams in government departments and having a heightened sense of social responsibility, how government work may evolve for in-house lawyers in the near future, his analogy for the difference between in-house and private practice legal work in navigating client relationships, and makes his pitch to other lawyers to consider working in-house in government, in light of the purposeful and consequential work that can be undertaken. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode, produced by Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand, Cyber Security Connect, hosts Phillip Tarrant and Major General (retired) Marcus Thompson speak with Clyde & Co partners Reece Corbett-Wilkins and Avryl Lattin about how cyber has evolved into a legal obligation for businesses and firms. The episode begins with an analysis of the proceedings of the Federal Court against RI Advice, in which ASIC argued that cyber security controls within businesses were fundamental to minimise the threat of data misuse. The guests continue with an analysis of the requirements of financial services reporting in the event of cyber security breaches. Finally, the podcast wraps up with an examination of how businesses can ensure that they are meeting their obligations for data protection. To learn more about Cyber Security Connect, click here.

Water is foundational to life on this planet, and increasingly, we cannot take it for granted. Ensuring access to clean, safe water has been recognised internationally as a basic human right, and here in Australia, we need to start thinking of it as such in how our communities and marketplace move forward. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by University of Canberra Law School senior lecturer Dr Cristy Clark to discuss what is meant by the idea of water being a basic human right, how and when it was recognised as such by the United Nations, when the human right to air may be acknowledged, and the legal implications of recognising water as a human right, particularly against the backdrop of climate concerns. Dr Clark also outlines the state of affairs in Australia in recognising water as a human right, the level of consciousness that Australians have about some of the dire consequences of lack of access to water across the country, what can be done by lawyers and non-lawyers alike, and why this is such an important legal, social and environmental issue for our nation moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The movement away from paper, and acceleration in uptake of technological platforms, is perhaps no more stark than in the conveyancing space. And, there is much more change and excitement still to come. On this special episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with Sympli, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Sympli chief executive Philip Joyce about the state of affairs in the conveyancing landscape in Australia and the acceleration of recent trends, the flow-on benefits from increased marketplace competition, the advent of interoperability and why it is so important, and looming issues and challenges following the passage of recent legislative changes in this space. Mr Joyce also outlines the journey of Sympli as a provider, the need to meaningfully communicate value propositions for practitioners experiencing a high volume of change in their daily practice methodologies, overcoming the potential for “change fatigue”, and what practitioners must be looking out for in the short term so as to grasp the myriad opportunities that lie ahead. To learn more about Sympli, click here.

The notion of “doing more with less” is a foremost consideration for in-house legal teams. For team leaders, ensuring that the health and wellbeing of the department doesn’t fall by the wayside in the process has to be inextricable from such a notion. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by NSW Department of Planning and Environment deputy general counsel of property and commercial Somerset Hoy to discuss the need to be seen as an enabler rather than a roadblock and how this may free up more budget for the legal team, prioritising the health and wellbeing of individual team members when trying to do more with less and whether this is oxymoronic. Ms Hoy also delves into how to ensure that doing more with less whilst catering to wellness is a compatible approach, the need for creative and out-of-the-box thinking, and a reframing of the conversation with other departments in the business, so that the legal team can thrive in the right ways, and also her guidance for law department leaders as to what works and doesn’t work in striking the right balance. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Despite being born with total blindness, Amanda Heal has always been determined to make a difference. Here, the lawyer-turned-author and keynote speaker reflects on her journey in law, the challenges faced in practice and why all can be overcome if one has an underlying mission in their life. Host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Ms Heal about her early life and living with a disability, the struggles she faced in finding work in law, her 17-year stint as a government lawyer, whether those years were formative in helping her find her vocational purpose, and ultimately realising that, deep down, she had always wanted to help and inspire people. Ms Heal discusses the vocational epiphany she had and the steps she took to realise her dreams, the central message she imparts and advocates for, how lawyers can determine if they are living out their true purpose and whether it has to be vocationally driven, what lawyers can take away from her experiences, and if lawyers can and should be striving for more in their lives. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Anjali Nadaradjane has always been interested in international relations – a passion which she has immersed herself in whilst furthering her legal development. It’s an area and skillset, that will be fundamental for the next generation of lawyers, she believes. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by MinterEllison lawyer Anjali Nadaradjane to discuss her long-term interest in international relations and international law, the bounty of projects she has involved herself in (from the US Consulate Sydney Youth Advisory Counsel to New Colombo Plan National Summit), and what she has learned – both about herself and the world around us – from such engagement. Ms Nadaradjane also argues for emerging legal professionals to better educate themselves about the Asia-Pacific region, noting that literacy about our region is essential – not only as the geopolitical and sociocultural landscape evolves, but also so that lawyers can adopt a broader, more holistic understanding and appreciation for legal practice and how best to serve clients in the future. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Legal employers have made great strides in recent years to better accommodate and cater to the myriad wellness needs of professionals. However, there are longstanding structural issues that impact the wellbeing of those coming through the ranks, which are incredibly difficult to overcome. On this episode of Legal Lightbulbs, produced by Lawyers Weekly and Bowd, hosts Jerome Doraisamy and Fionn Bowd discuss the circumstances that give rise to elevated levels of unhappiness as well as psychological distress, anxiety and depression among new practitioners. They talk about reactive versus proactive approaches, inherited structural problems, and whether junior lawyers prefer WFH arrangements as a way of counteracting some of the worst aspects of the workplace. Jerome and Fionn also reflect on whether WFH arrangements will improve happiness levels over time or whether they will give rise to new problems. They ask whether employers have a duty to meaningfully and honestly communicate with staff about the expectations and parameters of legal work, whether there is an individual responsibility to manage one’s own wellness, and ultimately, whether we should take the view that honesty from all parties is essential to moving forward. To learn more about Fionn Bowd, click here. If you have any questions you want to see answered on this show, reach out to Jerome at [email protected].

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with 30 Under 30 principal partner Taylor Root, Lawyers Weekly speaks with two of the finalists for the financial services category about the challenges of the past year and how they have navigated those. Hosts Jerome Doraisamy and Taylor Root head of Australia Hayden Gordine speak with The Fold Legal senior associate Glenjon Aligiannis and Herbert Smith Freehills solicitor Sarah Webster about how and why they got into financial services, the headline issues and challenges that they have had to grapple with in the past 12 months, how the advent of WFH arrangements has changed the nature of financial services work and the opportunities for young lawyers to establish themselves in this practice area. The quartet also discuss cyber security challenges for AFSLs moving forward following a recent Federal Court case and how those proceedings reinforced what constitutes best practice for lawyers, the ever-present cyber security concerns that businesses must be across, what Mr Aligiannis and Ms Webster are most excited about moving forward as lawyers in this space, and what works and doesn’t work when it comes to succeeding as an emerging practitioner. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Twice in his expansive career, award-nominated lawyer Michael Guilday has served as the inaugural general counsel for a business he has worked for. Establishing the law department – as well as its processes and position within the business – whilst ensuring optimal service, brings with it myriad challenges but also opportunities. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Sydney Fish Market general counsel Michael Guilday to discuss how he came to be the inaugural in-house lawyer for two different businesses, the process through which a business will look to engage its first-ever corporate counsel and the reasons for doing so, the need to help reduce costs and address other headline issues that led to the hiring of a lawyer. Mr Guilday also reflects on how overwhelming it can sometimes be to manage such a workload as the only lawyer but also the opportunities that come from such circumstances, the need to be “comfortable being uncomfortable”, the balance between proactive and reactive professional development and training, how and when to debrief following difficult days, and the lessons he’s learned that other inaugural GCs can and must take away from his experiences. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

By its very nature, criminal law sees a greater prevalence of mental health issues than most other practice areas, requiring many lawyers in this space to be “quasi mental health practitioners” as well as legal service providers. Managing this, on top of vicarious trauma, can be trying. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Dowson Turco Lawyers partner Nicholas Stewart to reflect on the myriad mental health concerns that affect criminal law clients and vulnerable communities in Australia, how such health issues have been exacerbated during the age of coronavirus and how these issues have changed the nature of legal service delivery in this time, and the extent to which criminal lawyers are required to go above and beyond in their care for the wellbeing of clients. Mr Stewart also discusses the scourge of vicarious trauma, the difficulty criminal lawyers may have in working remotely from clients, how change can be effected in being able to better cater to mental health concerns, and how the past two years have changed his perspective on what it means to be a good criminal lawyer. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

There has, arguably, never been a better time to not practise as a lawyer. This is because, Sam Burrett says, there are myriad opportunities for the next generation of law grads to find roles in the legal profession that can be more stimulating and exciting than anything we’ve seen before. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Clayton Utz client relationship manager Sam Burrett to talk about his personal journey of coming to terms with not being a practising lawyer (something he’d envisioned for himself) and what this said about him and his career, the social influences around what being a lawyer is, what it means to be in a law-adjacent role, and what such roles could look like in the future. Mr Burrett also dives into why such law-adjacent roles are shaping up to be so important in a post-pandemic world, what they entail day to day, the trajectory of such roles, how to learn more about them, why turning away from more traditional vocational pathways is so exciting, and why there has perhaps never been a better time to not be a lawyer. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In 2010, Dr Dinesh Palipana was involved in a car accident that left him with quadriplegia. Now working as an ER doctor, he has a greater appreciation for the inextricable importance of the law in supporting vulnerable persons in society, as well as his role in advocating for meaningful change. On this episode of  The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Dr Dinesh Palipana, the 2021 Queensland Australian of the Year, to discuss his experiences in law school and subsequent mental health issues, his appreciation for the rule of law and its capacity to help fight for people, the car accident that left him wheelchair-bound and the physical and psychological aftermath of that accident, and how it has provided him with the opportunity to hopefully leave the world a better place. Dr Palipana also outlines the crux of his advocacy and what he is hoping to achieve – not just for persons living with disability, but more broadly – and how the rule of law can assist, how the age of coronavirus has reinforced existing issues in Australian society, and what his personal ambitions are moving forward (including becoming both a pilot and a barrister). If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with LexisNexis Pacific, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with LexisNexis legal software solutions sales manager David Atherton-Cooper about the inextricable need for practitioners and business owners to ensure they are striking a balance that not only makes sense to them but also ensures that they are in control of the firms they operate. The pair reflect on the state of affairs for legal business owners in the wake of the age of coronavirus, where the industry is at with regards to increased commercial activity, demand for private client services, scattered workforces and workplace challenges, as well as additional hurdles including reduced reliance on paper and keeping track of caseloads. Mr Atherton-Cooper then discusses the symptoms that might indicate whether a business owner has crossed the threshold of a firm running that practitioner versus being the one running a firm, the questions that such practitioners must answer if they are to change that dynamic, the place of technology in making life easier, finding the best of both worlds from a practice management perspective, and what kinds of technological solutions business owners should be looking for. For more information on Lexis Affinity and Affinity Connect, click here If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As a property lawyer, what gets Lisa Briese out of bed in the morning is seeing buildings get built. Having spent over 16 years in-house, she now works as an external provider with a team that moved from the in-house realm into an incorporated legal practice – a move which, she says, offers substantial perspective on how lawyers can serve clients and what those clients need from their lawyers. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Arena Law executive counsel Lisa Briese to discuss how and why her team moved from in-house to the external realm – something she says she is seeing “more and more” from in-house lawyers, and the vocational and administrative reasons for corporate counsel to reconfigure the day-to-day makeup of their practices, as well as the lessons for providers and clients in doing so. Ms Briese also reflects on her passion for property law, the joy of being able to tangibly appreciate the work she does while walking down the street, constructing what one’s day looks like once one reaches a certain level, and appreciating what one’s personal boundaries must be. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Queensland Attorney-General Shannon Fentiman joins The Lawyers Weekly Show to discuss the increasing prevalence of scams and other cyber issues, particularly in the wake of natural disasters. Dealing with such issues, she says, must be “right at the top of the list” for lawyers. A-G Fentiman – speaking to host Jerome Doraisamy during Queensland’s 2022 Law Week – detailed why a spotlight on the rise of scams is so important, the extent to which Queenslanders have experienced scams in recent times and why, and the stigma and shame that comes from suffering a scam or cyber attack (whether one is an individual or part of a business). She also reflects on the scams that have been undertaken on the back of multiple natural disasters in the state, delves into the current levels of community and professional awareness of such issues, the proactive steps that private practice and in-house lawyers can and should be taking to prevent scams and attacks, how lawyers can meaningfully assuage the fears of clients, and making data and privacy a priority in the state’s law reform. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, produced in partnership with Maurice Blackburn, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with the firm’s chief executive, Jacob Varghese, about how law departments can proactively and reactively minimise the costs involved with litigation and ensure greater value for their businesses. Mr Varghese – who spoke at the recent Corporate Counsel Summit to in-house lawyers about the state of affairs with litigation costs – dives into the current litigation climate and the inherent costs, whether the age of coronavirus has exacerbated certain trends, the longstanding incentives in place to retain the status quo when it comes to the cost of legal services and how law departments can and should be responding. He also explains the need for in-house teams to “be as creative as possible” in getting lower prices, the danger of “leaving value on the table”, how corporate counsel are performing when it comes to better appreciating the need for value from legal services (especially in a turbulent time), the need to explore litigation funding services, where litigation costs sit in the triage of urgent priorities for law departments and the questions to ask in getting on the right track. To learn more about Maurice Blackburn and its litigation funding services, click here and here, respectively.

While some businesses may use the NewLaw tag as a “marketing ploy”, there has never been more choice – both for lawyers and buyers of legal services – and, as such, the value of NewLaw methodologies is being reinforced as we head towards a post-pandemic market. , market On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Law Squared founder and director Demetrio Zema to reflect on how well NewLaw firms were prepared for and performed during the age of coronavirus (relative to more traditional practices), how certain methodologies were validated during the last two years, and how the term NewLaw may have evolved during this time. Mr Zema also responds to the idea that “NewLaw is no longer new”, offers his thoughts on large law firms having NewLaw divisions, criticises those who use the tag for marketing purposes without making meaningful change, ensuring his own firm maintains its competitive edge by staying true to its pillars, why clients have more choice than ever before, and what he sees on the horizon for NewLaw practitioners and businesses. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Given how much the marketplace is shifting, professionals and business owners have a duty, Natasha Blycha argues, to bolster their understanding and appreciation of the myriad developments in the digital space. It is not enough to simply use tech platforms, she says – lawyers need to pay attention to the subtleties and broader questions arising from such evolution. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Stirling & Rose founder and managing director Natasha Blycha to discuss what encompasses digital law, her interest in digital law (both personally and professionally), and the legal duties one must assume in better understanding the intricacies of digital law. Ms Blycha also outlines her newly established firm’s practice methodologies, the challenges inherent with staying on top of the fast pace of change in the tech and digital landscapes, accepting equity as payment in exchange for fees for start-ups that may not have the requisite cash flow yet, opportunities and issues on the horizon in the digital law space, and the need for “responsible change” moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Like many sectors, the legal profession had to adapt to meet the demands of the COVID-19 lockdowns. Now is a good time to ask: what positive changes should be kept in the long term, and what problems might need to be solved due to new ways of working? Guest host for The Lawyers Weekly Show, Shandel McAuliffe, asked Michael Byrnes (partner at Swaab) and Carly Stebbing (founder and principal at Resolution123) their thoughts on the future of the profession, the challenges and ideas for overcoming them. The discussion included how to ensure junior solicitors can learn from senior practitioners when working from home. Mr Byrnes also raised that the experience of working from home sometimes varied widely between juniors in more cramped home-working conditions and seniors with the privilege of a comfortable home office. Resolution123, as Ms Stebbing described it, is an “online virtual firm”. From this standpoint, Ms Stebbing shared tips for the profession on how her firm has made remote working a success. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

According to general-counsel-turned-careers-coach Claire Bibby, in-house lawyers are increasingly concerned with being able to live out their values and have a meaningful career – something that is hugely important in the current climate. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Coaching Advocates co-founder and former GC Claire Bibby to reflect on the extent to which discussions of vocational pathways occurred in-house, why things are shifting, the questions being asked and why, and the difference between superficial and substantive discussion points. Ms Bibby also discusses the reasons for the environmental shift towards more comprehensive conversations about vocational purpose, finding new and better ways to lead one’s team, the place of both emotional intelligence and positive intelligence in successful leadership, why professionals are being more proactive rather than reactive about finding their way, and why individuals will be better off for asking those questions of themselves. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Five years ago, Clarissa Rayward started an online community for like-minded legal professionals, which has become so much more than just a knowledge-sharing discussion board, she says – “connection” is what makes such a venture so personally and professionally rewarding. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Brisbane Family Law Centre director Clarissa Rayward to discuss what inspired her to set up The Club (her online community for lawyers), the time and effort that oversight of such a community requires, how it forms part of her broader business plans, and how and why the community she has brought together has been so meaningful and purposeful for her. Ms Rayward also delves into the importance of connection to your colleagues, the ever-increasing need to be nimble and agile in interpreting legal practice methodology, how individual lawyers glean different benefits from being part of such online communities, how such communities for lawyers will continue to evolve in a post-pandemic market, how much time one should spend engaging in their own communities so as to bolster their own businesses, what she has learned from her time with The Club that she otherwise would not have learned about herself and the law, and what the future holds for her community. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

This episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, brought to you by Lawyers Weekly’s sister brand, Cyber Security Connect, unpacks the latest in cyber security policy and how cyber is shaping up to become an election issue. Host Phillip Tarrant speaks with Major General (Ret’d) Marcus Thompson about the impact of the recent Solomon Islands-China agreement on Australia’s security. The pair also provide an assessment of the Morrison government’s actions and discuss the opposition’s policies around cyber security, including Project REDSPICE. This episode also sees an analysis into whether such cyber policies are achievable in their stated timeframe, casting doubt on whether there is a sufficient flow of cyber security graduates to fill a largescale expansion in the cyber security industry. Elsewhere, the pair chat about the latest cyber security news, including recent data showing a fourfold increase in phishing attacks and how his team seeks to continuously improve their cyber security protocols. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The question of how to attract and retain graduate lawyers is “one of the most vexing issues” facing law firms. Why is it so difficult to hold on to the next generation of leaders in law? Welcome to another episode of Legal Lightbulbs: the show that sees hosts Jerome Doraisamy and Bowd chief executive Fionn Bowd discuss and debate the questions to which lawyers have always wanted answers (but have perhaps not felt comfortable asking). In this episode, Jerome asks Fionn about the issues that give rise to new and young legal professionals wanting to move on from the firms with whom they began their careers, why it is so important for firms to figure out better retention strategies, the war stories that can and do emerge from those coming through the ranks, whether greater transparency about the realities of life in big law firms could be the difference-maker and how such honesty harks back to the need for market differentiation. Jerome and Fionn also reflect on whether firms should be more honest about law firms as a business, whether there is a need to imbue individual responsibility in lawyers to learn more about the machinations of the firm in which they work, and the potential utility in offering the “unvarnished truth” about life in law and how it will affect those graduates coming through the ranks. To learn more about Fionn Bowd, click here. If you have any questions you want to see answered on this show, reach out to Jerome at [email protected]. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

We are fast approaching the period in which fraud that took place during the global pandemic, across the corporate landscape, will become apparent. For this reason, and more, bolstering levels of corporate integrity is as important as ever. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back KPMG partner and head of anti-bribery and corruption Dean Mitchell to discuss what we mean by the term corporate integrity, why it is of such personal and professional interest to him, how working in rural East African villages informed his perspective and what lessons he learned from that period of his life, and how the principles of corporate integrity have been reinforced by the age of COVID-19. Mr Mitchell also reflects on recent conversations he’s had with senior professionals across the corporate landscape pertaining to corporate integrity and its state of affairs, why the “washout” of fraud and corruption is coming in the next six months, the practical steps that law departments can and must take at this critical juncture, the need for courage and what it looks like in this context, and more. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Both Annabel and Hugh Griffin grew up in families that ran businesses. Now a married couple, and each bringing their own experiences to the table, the pair understand better than most what it will take to achieve their ultimate goal: to become the “most highly regarded and best boutique law firm in Australia”. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Hazelbrook Legal chief executive Annabel Griffin and managing partner Hugh Griffin to talk about how they met, the different vocational backgrounds they bring to the firm they run together, how and why they decided to run a business together while also being married, and their ultimate plans for their award-winning legal practice. The pair also discuss the opportunities abound in the Canberra market and how this region might grow in years to come, challenges that they’re foreseeing, their approach to recruitment and growing their team, the need for discipline as business owners, as well as resilience and kindness. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Since the advent of work-from-home arrangements, much has been made of the danger of losing the “water cooler conversation” for the sake of professional development. According to one employment and industrial relations partner, however, there are issues across the board that employers and employees alike must promptly grapple with. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Piper Alderman partner Joe Murphy to discuss the myriad and ongoing changes to the nature of work in workplace and employment issues, what we mean by hybrid working arrangements, and the various issues and challenges that he sees arising from the mainstreaming of such arrangements in a post-pandemic market, for the purposes of different lawyer demographics. Mr Murphy also outlines the potential solutions and strategies to the hurdles that he is foreseeing, whether leaders have to redefine what professional development is for those coming through the ranks, the need to balance personal needs against legislative constraints, and obligations upon individual lawyers to ensure their professional development isn’t hampered.

Two-time Golden Gavel winner Olivia Irvine has come to learn, over time, certain things about herself: she is funnier, braver and not as adverse to being uncomfortable as she’d imagined. Such lessons are critical, she says, in living out the career one wants to and becoming the individual one is supposed to be. On this episode of The Protege Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Hazelbrook Legal lawyer Olivia Irvine, who has twice won the NSW-based Golden Gavel competition (an annual comedic public speaking event), about her interest in law from an early age, how and why she got into public speaking, her experience with Golden Gavel and the importance of finding comfort in discomfort while speaking on stage. Ms Irvine also delves into the need for up-and-coming lawyers to challenge whatever preconceptions and assumptions they may have about themselves, navigating hardship if and when it arises, riding the wave of an evolving sense of self, how she has benefited from challenging herself to do and be more, and why others can and must go through the same steps she has in order to become who they have the potential to be, both personally and professionally. If you have any questions about the episode or if there are any topics that you might want us to look into, please reach out – we would love to hear from you!  We’re also always open to new guests, so if you have an exciting story to tell, if you’re standing out as a student or graduate, or if you can offer some tips for our young lawyers, get in touch.  You can reach us here: Emails: [email protected] Socials: Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter or reach out to me directly here.

Increasingly, SME firm owners will have to grapple with how best to manage the idiosyncratic needs of a scattered workforce. Implementing the right steps, Joanne Alilovic says, is essential.   On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by 3D HR Legal director Jo Alilovic to discuss her new book (Homeforce: Building a Connected, Engaged Home-Based Team), why managing the juggle is such a passion area of hers, how and why she has moved away from non-traditional modes of working and how it changes the nature of her life as a lawyer.     Ms Alilovic also talks about the need to remember a firm’s vision, establishing roles, managing details, reorganising one’s team, the need for effective training and support, and the importance of evaluation, how taking such steps has worked for her firm, and other advice she has for boutique professionals. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Myroslav Khmarskyi – managing partner of Ukrainian law firm Avitar – about what is happening on the ground and how his law firm is responding. Mr Khmarskyi joins the show to discuss the work that his law firm does in Kyiv, what it was like in the first days of the invasion of Ukraine and how he felt, what the key realisations have been for Ukrainian people in the past month, the importance of community and the nonsensical nature of materialism. He also delves into how he and his partner are keeping their business running, how they are managing the health and wellbeing needs of their staff in such extraordinary times, the lessons lawyers around the world can take – from a wellness perspective – from the current experience of Ukrainians, what more he thinks lawyers and legal associations can be doing in this time, and his message to lawyers around the world for news consumption during the ongoing conflict in eastern Europe. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Having spent years in senior in-house roles, Sarah Galbally and Shannon Landers are at a point where they want to utilise their expertise to service clients in ways that make personal and vocational sense to them. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes Neon Legal directors Sarah Galbally and Shannon Landers to discuss what it means to be a freelance general counsel, why such a pathway was appealing to them respectively, the kind of work that their boutique firm handles and why, running an outsourced in-house model and creating a hybrid between private practice and in-house styles. Ms Galbally and Ms Landers also discuss how to look after one’s self while marketing services in the ways they want to, what they’ve learned about themselves as legal practitioners that they wouldn’t have known had they not chosen their new vocational pathway, why they think other in-house lawyers can and should consider freelancing as a GC as a viable career, and what boxes might need to be ticked to ensure success on that path. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

SME firm owners who hold their accountants to a higher standard are much better placed to be confident in themselves and how they run their businesses. Accountants who do not help firm owners feel such confidence should be let go. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes TLTurner Group owner and managing partner Terrell Turner – who joins the show from North Carolina – to discuss his accounting firm’s work in advising SME law firms, the issues he sees daily with his clients, how finances are a common problem for law firm business owners, and the most frequent challenges that such firm owners will experience with their accountants. Mr Turner also delves into the questions that firm owners must be asking of their accountants across the calendar year (not just at tax time), the importance of regular, meaningful communication, the red flags and trigger points that firm owners must be aware of in dealing with their accountants (and other external providers), whether such concerns have been amplified during the global pandemic, and why firm owners will be better off by having higher standards for their providers. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with LodgeX, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with LodgeX founder and chief executive Kathy Constan about the impact of legal innovation over the years – how far we’ve come, the current state of affairs and what legal service providers have to look forward to in an ever-evolving marketplace. Ms Constan outlines a brief history of the first and second waves of legal technology, argues why the third wave isn’t something to be feared, what excites her about ongoing and future developments in tech, why she has such a strong academic interest in such evolutions and what excites her about the future, especially having run a boutique practice for nearly three decades. She also fleshes out the state of affairs in e-conveyancing, the looming issues and challenges for providers in this space, the corresponding trends and opportunities amidst the aforementioned third wave of legal tech, and why all legal professionals should look forward to the myriad evolutions in legal service delivery. To learn more about LodgeX, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

When it comes to the sheer scale and pace of change in the development of risk, how we understand it and how to respond to it, in-house legal teams are finding that “the law isn’t being a helping hand”. This needs to change. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes Australian Law Reform Commission senior legal officer Nicholas Simoes da Silva to discuss the commission’s new background paper, Risk and Reform in Australian Financial Services Law, and the evolution in thinking about risk as a drive in financial services law reform. Mr Simoes da Silva spoke about the need for increased flexibility and reduced complexity, the extent to which corporate counsel are subject to legislative changes, the state of affairs for risk and how it has entered mainstream language, how the law isn’t always helpful in assisting in-house teams mitigate risk, and how legislative frameworks need to be able to handle changing approaches to risk and how obligations are imposed on financial services, providers and licensees. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Sarah Jefford is “sick of the mediocrity” in federal politics. This, coupled with her strong sense of social justice and keen awareness of inequity across Australia, is driving her to serve her community as a member of parliament On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by award-nominated family and surrogacy lawyer Sarah Jefford – who is standing for the Australian Greens in the Victorian electorate of Wills – to discuss her 2018 experience as a surrogate for two fathers and how that experience informs her work as a family and surrogacy lawyer. Ms Jefford also outlines her motivations in running for Parliament, why Indigenous issues are so close to her heart, why she thinks lawyers are uniquely concerned with integrity in politics and environmental concerns relative to other professional services strands, how she can serve the community around her and what she’s learned along the campaign trail to date. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Less than a year after he was admitted, award-nominated lawyer Jonathon Naef was presented with an opportunity to help create a new kind of family law practice. He grabbed that opportunity with both hands and is helping bring a new way of working to the fore, thereby changing perceptions of the utility of practising in traditional modes. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Balance Family Law co-founder Jonathon Naef to discuss how he met his mentor and director of Balance Family Law Perpetua Kish, the circumstances that led to the launch of the award-winning practice, the much-needed perspective that new practitioners can and do bring to the table, and why stepping up to help build a law firm was such a good challenge for him. Mr Naef also reflects on the various issues and challenges he has faced and how he has overcome these, how to leverage one’s position as an emerging leader in law, the inextricable nexus between success and kindness as a practitioner, and how those coming through the ranks should put themselves out there to earn opportunities for growth.

Keith Wolahan – a solicitor-turned-barrister who has served multiple combat tours in Afghanistan – believes strongly in serving the community around him. The lessons he has learned in his varied and impressive career will serve him well if elected as an MP.  On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Melbourne-based barrister Keith Wolahan, who is the Liberal Party’s candidate in the Victorian electorate of Menzies, to discuss his career in private practice and at the bar, what more than two decades of service in the Australian Army have taught him, and why the idea of helping people in stressful times has always appealed to him. Mr Wolahan also explains his reasons for running for a seat in the House of Representatives, his vision for Australia and how that vision will serve him well if elected, why the national interest should always trump self-interest, why economic concerns are so important to lawyers, his thoughts on the recent federal budget, and why he has to “earn the trust” of his constituents.  If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Holding Redlich, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with partners Libby Carroll and Christine Lithgow about all things government legal work. The trio delve into the reasons why government work – at a federal, state and local level – is so rewarding, the importance of being able to deliver for the community, how government work has been impacted during the age of coronavirus and the issues and challenges this presented for lawyers in this space, and how the importance of such legal work was reinforced during the global pandemic. Libby and Christine also explain the extent to which government lawyers have to pre-empt what is happening in society and politics, how such proactivity forms part of best practice, what constitutes an effective and meaningful collaboration between external providers and in-house teams, and why government work is shaping up to be so exciting for lawyers in the new normal – as well as being such a rewarding vocational pursuit. To learn more about Holding Redlich’s government work, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

As the head of legal for next year’s FIFA Women’s World Cup (being held in Australia and New Zealand), Emily Jackson is operating in a “very truncated time frame” to help ensure the event is a success. However, she says, such vocational experiences provide a lawyer with myriad lessons, which are “unparalleled” for growth and development. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by FIFA Women’s World Cup head of legal Emily Jackson to discuss how preparations are going for the 2023 event in Australia and New Zealand, how she has ended up in contract positions in-house, the vocational appeal of such contracts, the jurisdictional concerns to grapple with in organising an international sporting event, especially against the backdrop of an ongoing global pandemic. Ms Jackson also discusses the importance of preparedness, particularly given the finite time frames of her current role, triaging dozens of urgent priorities, maintaining optimal relationships with various stakeholders, wading through an “issues-rich environment”, why other lawyers should consider such contracts as part of their vocational journey and what might be next on her horizon. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Treasurer Josh Frydenberg announced numerous measures in last week’s federal budget that will impact upon small businesses such as boutique law firms. Here, we unpack some of those measures and how firms can respond. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Lawyers with Solutions principal Pallavi Sinha about the recent federal budget, delivered on the eve of the 2022 election. Ms Sinha delves into the tax deductions for small businesses, what these mean for firms’ investments in technology and training, and what these measures say about the digital revolution. Ms Sinha also discusses the scrapping of company search fees, mental health support for small-business owners, increased funding for business support hotlines, the need for further assistance in cash flow for boutique law firm owners, how best those owners can support themselves in the near future, and the steps to implement to ensure a successful practice against the backdrop of this budget. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Citizens have a responsibility, human rights law Professor Catherine Renshaw believes, to be politically aware and engaged, and when we contribute actively to our communities, Australia is better off for it. In the face of myriad sociopolitical concerns, she says, now is her time to stand up. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Western Sydney University human rights law Professor Catherine Renshaw – who is standing in the seat of North Sydney, for the Australian Labor Party, at the upcoming federal election – to talk about her varied career in law (from commercial practice to journalism to academia), her lifelong interest in human rights and what all of those personal and vocational experiences have taught her and how those experiences will serve her well in Parliament, if elected. Professor Renshaw outlines the issues that have led her to step into the political ring – including climate inaction, the #MeToo movement and aged care failures – her perception of the issues that are important to Australian legal professionals, how she feels about Labor’s prospects in the seat of North Sydney and why it is so essential that all Australians (not just lawyers) be more involved. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Madison Marcus, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Madison Marcus managing director Ramy Qutami to unpack the art of negotiation and what constitutes best practice in the modern marketplace. Mr Qutami reflects on why he is personally and professionally invested in litigation as a practice area, his view of law as a profession that serves the community around it, the issues and challenges that litigators have to grapple with on a day-to-day basis, and the principles that must be employed in navigating those hurdles. He also delves into the strengths and weaknesses of particular approaches to litigation and dealmaking, the need for adaptability and agility, why adversarial and combative approaches are less conducive to best practice nowadays, the need for proactive strategies as well as the reactive ones, the lessons Mr Qutami has learned from a career as a dealmaker, what he’s most excited about for lawyers in this space moving forward, and how Madison Marcus is preparing for its future in the marketplace. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Welcome to another episode of Legal Lightbulbs: the show that sees hosts Jerome Doraisamy and Bowd chief executive Fionn Bowd discuss and debate the questions to which lawyers have always wanted answers (but have perhaps not felt comfortable asking). In this episode, Jerome asks Fionn about the concept of market differentiation and whether – in a modern legal marketplace – differentiation even exists. The pair talk about the lack of trust that graduates have when it comes to law firm marketing, and they dive into the history of how law firms historically differentiated themselves and what it means to have a “brand”. Fionn and Jerome talk about the importance of truth in marketing, how the fear of imaginary clients get in the way of firm marketing, why law firms are like washing powder, and the need to market what you know to be true about your business. The pair also reflect on a handful of law firms that are getting their points of difference right, the value of filling a void in the market, the black and white principles that firm leaders can use to re-establish market differentiation, whether a lack of differentiation feeds into the need for partners to say “yes” to every client request, and whether there is a place for emerging leaders to speak up about the need for a business to market itself in better ways. To learn more about Fionn Bowd, click here. If you have any questions you want to see answered on this show, reach out to Jerome at [email protected].

HFW – founded in the 1880s – has presences all over the globe. For myriad reasons, it sees its Australian operations as central to the firm’s long-term expansion and success. Here, its Australian managing partner explains why. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by HFW managing partner in Australia Gavin Vallely to discuss the history of the global firm, why it sees opportunities for growth in the Australian market and how the age of COVID-19 has reinforced such thinking, the sectors that will form part of the firm’s growth via its Australian operations, and how much the firm hopes to grow by in the coming two years. Mr Vallely also talks about the importance of not growing simply for the sake of growth, making strategic acquisitions, his role as Australian managing partner in overseeing such a strategy, the challenges he sees in successfully achieving the firm’s goals, the opportunities to be grasped in order to ensure such success, and why he is motivated to move the firm forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Construction is an integral cog in the machine of Australian society. Even against the backdrop of extraordinary challenges during the age of COVID-19, work as a construction lawyer remains exciting and “intellectually stimulating”, say two BigLaw partners. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Baker McKenzie partners Matt Coleman and Joshua Saunders to discuss the state of affairs in the construction industry and the materials shortages that have been faced in the age of COVID-19, how these and related issues have impacted upon the work of lawyers in this space and how such challenges make for such exciting work. Mr Coleman and Mr Saunders delve into why work as a construction lawyer is so “intellectually stimulating”, whether ongoing geopolitical concerns will exacerbate challenges faced here in Australia, trends and opportunities on the horizon for lawyers in this space, whether the work of construction lawyers will look different to pre-pandemic times and what excites these partners about their work moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Given the capacity to work on both commercial and humanitarian matters, migration lawyers can build diversified practices that those in other areas of law may not get exposed to, says one award-winning practitioner. On this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Crossover Law Group founder and principal solicitor Marial Lewis – who won the migration category at the 30 Under 30 Awards 2021 – about how and why she chose migration law as a pathway, the types of matters that one gets exposed to, and finding the right balance between commercial and humanitarian matters. Ms Lewis also delves into the challenges that lawyers in this space can and do face and how to overcome these, opportunities on the horizon for those interested in this practice area, why she decided to launch her own firm focused on this space, what excites her about the future (as a young lawyer), and why others should consider this as a vocational pathway. If you have any questions about the episode or if there are any topics that you might want us to look into, please reach out – we would love to hear from you!  We’re also always open to new guests, so if you have an exciting story to tell, if you’re standing out as a student or graduate, or if you can offer some tips for our young lawyers, get in touch.  You can reach us here: Emails: [email protected] Socials: Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter or reach out to me directly here.

Georgia Steele has over 15 years’ experience as a lawyer, both in BigLaw firms and in-house at a major bank. The skills she picked up along the way (particularly as a litigator) will serve her well, she says, if elected in Hughes in place of incumbent MP Craig Kelly. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with independent for Hughes candidate Georgia Steele – who previously was a senior lawyer and manager for regulatory affairs at ANZ, prior to which she worked at Allens and Freshfields – about her career in law, what she learned in her decade and a half as a litigator, and how she came to be the Independent candidate in the Hughes electorate in Sydney’s southern and south-western suburbs. Ms Steele also explains the issues that are most important to her as a candidate – namely her “exasperation” with the state of federal political discourse, concern about environmental inaction and the need for a federal ICAC – and reflects on the issues that are important to legal professionals, and argues for the need to “really refresh Australian democracy”. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Lawrence Lau started his career as an IT programmer before eventually becoming the corporate counsel for Momentum Media (Lawyers Weekly’s parent company). Here, he muses about his time working in a growing trade media house, why he’s moving to private practice and what he’s learned along the way. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Lawrence Lau (who until recently served as corporate counsel for Momentum Media, working across Lawyers Weekly) to discuss his experiences as counsel in a growing media company, what his day-to-day entailed, how he balanced competing interests and how and why he entered the legal profession as a mature-age student. Mr Lau also delves into the importance of community for in-house lawyers (particularly those working as one-person teams within a business or organisation), key lessons for ongoing success, the need for sole legal counsel to think outside the box, why he’s moving to a private practice role and what he can bring to a law firm, whether he sees vocational pathways for legal counsel in firms right now, and broader musings about the need to sink one’s teeth into an in-house role.

Small law firms can and should look to attract work that may, traditionally, have been the domain of the big end of town. Once a boutique secures said matters, there are certain steps they must take in order to ensure success. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back award-nominated lawyer Trevor Withane – who is the principal of Blackwattle Legal – to discuss why boutique law firms must look to take on big, complex matters that they may perceive to be intended for BigLaw firms, the need to engage contract lawyers and paralegals, other key stakeholder relationships such as barristers and accounting firms, and the importance of being people-focused. Mr Withane also details his reflections on team culture and how best to manage relationships, logistical and technical considerations, including and especially “the IT stack”, bringing clients along for the ride, how best to set up one’s office, the importance of individual and team wellness, and why boutique firms can be so excited about securing big, complex matters if they adopt such a practical blueprint. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

For legal professionals considering property purchases in 2022, there are myriad factors to consider, from when the Reserve Bank will raise interest rates to what’s happening in the world around us. In the face of all such factors, proactivity remains a lawyer’s best friend. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Legal Home Loans lending specialists Rachael Massoud and Luke Mansour about the extent to which lawyers should be concerned about interest rates and when they will be raised, the impact of the Omicron wave – if anything – on the property market, declining purchase rates and geographic trends for property purchasing. Ms Massoud and Mr Mansour also reflect on the continuing trend of purchasing without finance, an increasing number of auctions as opposed to private treaties, whether the recent floods and the onset of war in eastern Europe are affecting, or will affect, prices and/or interest rates, countering any fears of missing out, and tips moving forward. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Having gleaned extensive experience as a legal counsel in the aviation and tech sectors, Andrew Truswell decided the time was right for him to move into private practice so that he might be able to “do more good” as the professional being instructed, as opposed to instructing. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with Biztech Lawyers partner Andrew Truswell, a former GC, about his passion for data, tech and aviation and what he sees as being the foremost challenges at present in those sectors, why he wanted to move from the in-house realm to private practice, and the circumstances in which lawyers in firms can achieve more than law department counterparts. Mr Truswell also details why he feels he might now be better placed to implement data strategies for businesses, how he plans to utilise his expertise for the benefit of businesses, the extent to which law departments are on top of their data obligations, whether the current climate is ripe for in-house lawyers to move to firms to accomplish their own professional ends, and what he is looking forward to in the aviation, data and tech spaces. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

There are many forms of abuse in Australian society that lawyers have to grapple with to support their clients, some of which the law may never catch up with. In a practice area fraught with challenges, lawyers must understand how best to aid not only those clients but also support themselves. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Bartier Perry partners Alicia Toberty and Sharon Levy to discuss how and why their respective legal practices deal with abusive relationships, what constitutes an abusive relationship, the types of abuse that lawyers commonly have to deal with and why, and whether the law has caught up to new forms of abuse, such as “love bombing”. Ms Levy also discusses the shelter she helps run in western Sydney, and she and Ms Toberty detail the myriad challenges for lawyers working in this space, best practice for those with an interest in such law, the need for proactive self-care to avoid secondary trauma, and their broader guidance for those wanting to work in this space. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

With decades of experience behind them, many inspiring and incredible practitioners have made a name for themselves as international lawyers. While the feat may seem quite daunting for aspiring lawyers, our next guest shares why it is entirely possible to get started on this path to international law immediately. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Naomi Neilson is joined by post-graduate law student Sadaf Azimi – who has already gained years of experience in the international law space – to chat about why it is possible for all new lawyers.  The episode is full of tips on where aspiring international lawyers can get started, what skills they should be looking into and how to craft the perfect application. From her own experience, Sadaf talks about why language was a key component of her own submissions and the Australia-based organisations that could lend a hand.  For listeners concerned about how they could fit into this space, Sadaf said it is important to “rise to the occasion” in any job: “I would really encourage anybody who is thinking of applying to not be discouraged from job descriptions. It is likely that everyone will rise to the occasion and be more than equipped to do it.”  Sadaf also shares with listeners what her own international law experiences were like, including at the United Nations and the International Bar Association.  Have a listen below!  If you have any questions about the episode or if there are any topics that you might want us to look into, please reach out – we would love to hear from you!  We’re also always open to new guests, so if you have an exciting story to tell, if you’re standing out as a student or graduate, or if you can offer some tips for our young lawyers, get in touch.  You can reach us here: Emails: [email protected] or [email protected] Socials: Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter or reach out to me directly here.

Welcome to the newest show from the Lawyers Weekly Podcast Network: Legal Lightbulbs. This show sees host Jerome Doraisamy and Bowd chief executive Fionn Bowd discuss and debate the questions that lawyers have always wanted the answers to but have perhaps not felt comfortable asking out loud. In this inaugural episode, Jerome asks Fionn why partners in law firms are seemingly unable to refuse work from clients when presented with it, even if the taking on of said work adds to already-onerous workloads for the lawyers in their teams. Fionn responds with a discussion of the mindset that partners have when it comes to the onboarding and retention of clients, how and why client expectations and demands have evolved over time, the extent to which discounting one’s legal fees reinforces the need to take on any and all clients, the potential consequences for taking on such work, how partners can better communicate the mindset around clientele (particularly in the post-pandemic environment), and how those coming through the ranks can reasonably seek guidance from their superiors as to the practice workload. To learn more about Fionn Bowd, click here. If you have any questions you want to see answered on this show, reach out to Jerome at [email protected].

Sports disputes are incredibly topical right now, including complaints about bullying, harassment, sexual misconduct and systemic inequality and injustice. Not only this, but sports disputes are unique – thereby requiring innovative, adaptable solutions. On this episode of LawTech Talks, produced in partnership with Immediation, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with former New Zealand solicitor-general Michael Heron QC, Immediation head of legal innovation Kelly Hughes and Immediation manager of legal innovation in New Zealand and sports law expert Henry Moore about what sports disputes are, how they differ from other types of legal disputes, and how such disputes have evolved in the age of coronavirus as well as the responses to them. The trio flesh out lessons that can be taken from their experience of impartial and independent complaints resolution mechanisms, why technology is so imperative in resolving sports disputes, how Immediation communicates the importance of tech in this practice area, how technology benefits not just parties to proceedings but sporting organisations more broadly, and how sports dispute resolution can and will evolve as we move forward into the post-pandemic new normal. To learn more about Immediation’s services, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, CyberSecurity Connect director Phil Tarrant and MAJGEN (Ret’d) Marcus Thompson, former head of the Department of Defence’s Information Warfare Division, discuss Russia’s history of cyber war and how this vector will continue to shape peace and conflict in the future. The pair begin by discussing MAJGEN (Ret’d) Thompson’s recent opinion piece in The Australian Financial Review, which dives into Russia’s history of cyber and information warfare. In his piece, he argues that Australia must better prepare itself for cyber attacks, which will be weaponised in reprisal against Australia for supporting Ukraine during the recent conflict. Both hosts continue by discussing the impact of cyber warfare on Australian businesses and how many malicious actors work in concert with state-sponsored groups to exploit the cyber domain. The pair wraps up the podcast by analysing how cyber remains an integral part of both hybrid and grey zone warfare, and that foreign actors will continue to use cyber as an essential attack vector in future conflicts. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!  

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with LawCPD, host Jerome Doraisamy speaks with LawCPD director and co-founder Sarah Mateljan about the lessons learned from the transition to hybrid work and what professional development might look like for lawyers in a post-pandemic world. Ms Mateljan reflects on the advent of online learning for lawyers in recent years, what the mainstreaming of remote and flexible working means for the undertaking of annual CPD requirements for lawyers, the lessons that legal workplaces have learned about effectively communicating with and growing their teams, the inextricable need for optimal wellness and the lessons learned about cyber risks. She also delves into how frequently the nature of legal education can and does shift, how and why lawyers should see legal education as something to look forward to rather than a box to be ticked, the role of providers like LawCPD in reshaping the educational landscape for lawyers, what courses LawCPD is currently offering that lawyers may be interested in, and why the future of CPD is so exciting. To learn more about LawCPD and its offerings, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Special counsel play a critical role within law firms of all stripes. Here, two award-winning practitioners detail how to succeed in this position, particularly against the backdrop of an ever-changing marketplace. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Caroll & O’Dea Lawyers special counsel Hayley Aldrich and Harmers Workplace Lawyers executive counsel and team leader Amy Zhang – both of whom have won multiple categories at Lawyers Weekly award programs – to discuss their respective journeys to the position of special counsel and what this professional does on a daily basis. The two award-winning lawyers also explain how the role of special counsel has evolved in the age of coronavirus, if at all, lessons learned for such practitioners in the last two years, why this particular vocational pathway is attractive separate from the partnership, what challenges are emerging for special counsel, and how best emerging leaders in law can attain this role. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Australia was “once ahead of the curve” when it came to protecting and empowering whistleblowers. However, as Kieran Pender notes, “we are now seeing them being punished”. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Human Rights Law Centre senior lawyer Kieran Pender to discuss the state of affairs in whistleblowing around Australia, including reflection on where our whistleblowing laws once were compared to where they’re at now, and what both major political parties are saying about this umbrella issue with a federal election around the corner. Mr Pender also details numerous current high-profile whisteblowing cases that Australian lawyers should be aware of (such as the trials being brought against former ACT attorney-general Bernard Collaery, ATO whistleblower Richard Boyle and former defence lawyer David McBride), the extent to which Australian legal professionals are paying attention to these cases, how some lawyers are advocating for better whistleblower protections and how Australians more broadly feel about the need to bolster whistleblower protections. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

It is imperative that professionals across law departments better understand and appreciate where their colleagues are coming from so that collaboration and collegiality can be better fostered. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by NOVA Entertainment group general counsel and company secretary Ben Willis and senior legal counsel Samantha Walker to discuss the need for legal counsel of all stripes to acknowledge and respect the needs of their colleagues at different levels within a law department so as to be a trusted adviser not only to one’s business but also for those within one’s immediate team. Mr Willis and Ms Walker also delve into their personal investments in legal work in the media space, how and why that landscape has shifted in recent times, the importance of being motivated by the work of one’s law department, why different thinking has been required for lawyers in this space and what lawyers in media can look forward to. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Award-winning IP lawyer Naomi Pearce has the “preparedness to do things differently”. For her, this means preparing to be flexible, adaptable and creative, but also – and perhaps most importantly – the knowledge that one cannot prepare for every possible situation. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes Pearce IP chief executive and managing director Naomi Pearce – who won the Partner of the Year (SME Law) category at both the 2021 Women in Law Awards and Australian Law Awards – to discuss her journey as an intellectual property practitioner, why she is so passionate about it, how her business fared during the age of coronavirus and the state of affairs in IP law more generally. Ms Pearce also details how her business managed its increased workload in the last two years, the importance of being flexible, adaptable and creative, her broader philosophy on preparedness, recognising the limitations of preparing for any eventuality, the lessons she has learned that other business owners should understand, and what excites her about the future of IP law in Australia and her own firm’s forward momentum. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

One of our 2021 Women in Law Awards finalists shares with Protégé why students do not need to fit into the “perfect” package of what a lawyer should look like – complete with high grades and clerkships – in order to have a successful career. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Naomi Neilson is joined by DLA Piper paralegal and one of our finalists from the 2021 Women in Law Awards Sarah McKenzie to talk about how less-than-perfect grades did not put an end to what is fast becoming a successful legal career in the commercial space.  In the episode, Sarah shares: “I never thought I was a person who would be able to get a clerkship. I wasn’t that star student who was topping all of the courses, I wasn’t involved in moot court. I wasn’t on the law student society. I wasn’t that package of what I thought a perfect commercial clerkship candidate would look like. “When reflecting back on my law school experience, it was looking at my law school experience, my uni experience, [and knowing] that it grew me in so many different ways that just my grades and my transcript could never encapsulate [alone]. It was all those experiences I had in courses and throughout my uni experience.” In the episode, Sarah also talks about the Women in Law Awards and what it has been like to work alongside female leaders in a supportive work environment.  The episode also touches on how Sarah has navigated the legal profession with a disability, including what some workplaces are still doing wrong.  Have a listen below!  If you have any questions about the episode or if there are any topics that you might want us to look into, please reach out – we would love to hear from you!  We’re also always open to new guests, so if you have an exciting story to tell, if you’re standing out as a student or graduate, or if you can offer some tips for our young lawyers, get in touch.  You can reach us here: Emails: [email protected] or [email protected] Socials: Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter or reach out to me directly here.

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with CommBank Professional Services, the reigning Mentor of the Year discusses, among other things, why mentoring should be seen as the right thing to do, rather than simply something employers do for talent retention purposes. Host Jerome Doraisamy and CommBank Executive Manager of Professional Services Julienne Price interview Colin Biggers & Paisley partner Peter Harkin, who won the Mentor of the Year category at the 2021 Australian Law Awards, about why mentoring means so much more than attracting and retaining top talent, his personal experience with mentors, where mentoring programs can make the most difference and what sets good mentors apart. Mr Harkin also outlines what emerging lawyers should look for in a mentor, how lawyers can become mentors in the new normal, how the age of COVID-19 has changed the nature of mentoring relationships, and the need to regularly evaluate one’s approach to mentoring and guiding the next generation of leaders in law. To learn more about CommBank’s professional services offerings and its recent Legal Market Pulse report, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Kate Jordan is the GC of a large listed company and, before that, was deputy chief executive partner of a BigLaw firm. Despite her very impressive resumé, she says she has “still got a huge amount to learn”. Being curious, and asking questions, is critical to success in-house, she says. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Origin Energy general counsel and executive manager, company secretariat (risk and governance) Kate Jordan, who reflects on her journey from BigLaw to a large law department, how she manages her voluminous workload, the importance of being curious and challenging one’s self, and what such an approach has taught her about herself. Ms Jordan also explains why “bringing curiosity to the table” is so fundamental, particularly in the current climate, why being motivated about one’s employer’s mission is integral, how curiosity aids leaders in self-care and management of wellness needs within teams, and how chairing microfinancing not-for-profit Good Return offers her a more holistic perspective, not only on her work but also on her life. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Nicole Russell and her husband tried, for years, to have a child. The IVF journey took an enormous toll on her – emotionally and professionally – until finally, a friend volunteered to be a surrogate for her. This experience, including the legal processes, inspired her to shift her practice area to supporting families, as hers was supported. (Content warning: this episode may be distressing for some listeners. Discretion is advised.) On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Russell Walker Lawyers founder and director Nicole Russell to discuss her journey to conception, the hardship involved with so many years of trying to have a child whilst working as a lawyer, the vocational thought process that led to her setting up her own firm and why practising in surrogacy law made sense for her. Ms Russell also outlines how she managed the journey in the context of legal workplaces, how she navigates any potentially triggering matters that come across her desk, her reflections on the level of stigma that still exists regarding conception for lawyers, how male legal professionals can be champions for their colleagues and their own partners, and why any lawyer experiencing a similar journey to her should “have trust in the process”. Help is available via The Amber Network or Happy Minds for those seeking support and/or further information. Russell Walker Surrogacy also provides resources. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Warning: This show has been marked as explicit Danny King – in her own words – has “never had a filter” and is “fearlessly and shamelessly” herself. Such authenticity, and ownership over her own struggles, all led her to win the Managing Partner of the Year category at the 2021 Australian Law Awards. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Danny King Legal principal Danny King to discuss her journey from graduation to now running her own boutique employment law practice in Sydney, her approach to finding success as a lawyer, the need to embrace one’s true self and not suppress, and how beneficial raw honesty has been for her legal practice. Ms King also reflects on the need for leaders to have self-awareness regarding their mistakes, why acknowledging that not having all the answers can, in fact, be the best attitude to adopt, looming challenges and opportunities for managing partners, and why leaning on one’s family is so fundamental. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Too often, disconnections exist in the working relationships between law departments and their external providers, which can exacerbate wellness issues for individuals and teams. Better understanding and appreciating how to make those relationships work is key so as to better serve clients and also the wider community. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes Canon Oceania chief legal counsel and director of people and finance David Field and Herbert Smith Freehills business development director in Australia Nora Chlap to discuss the friction points that may exist between in-house and private practice and why, the potential impacts upon legal professionals from such friction and whether the age of COVID-19 has worsened such factors. Mr Field and Ms Chlap also delve into the practical ways to improve “legal value chains”, why empathy and open communication is fundamental to such solutions, whether in-house and private practice teams are cognisant of the need for such changes to their working relationships and the improvements to mental health that can and will flow on from making these changes. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Plenti, two leaders of Australian family law firms outline how to create and sustain a successful business – in a challenging practice area and at an extraordinary time in the marketplace. Host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Plenti head of legal finance Rose Dravitzki, Australian Family Lawyers executive chairman Grant Dearlove and Amanda Little & Associates principal Amanda Little to talk about their respective roles in the family law space, what success means to them, why a firm’s financial health is so integral to its success (particularly in a post-pandemic landscape), and the myriad considerations firm leaders have to entertain in ensuring cash flow. The guests also delve into the need to think more holistically about a firm’s finances, how best to grow and develop a family law team, the need to invest in the right technologies, triaging the myriad urgent priorities as a business leader, and other reflections on how best to ensure success in this practice area. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

For one of our Women in Law Awards finalists, standing out from her peers started with a schedule packed full of full-time work and full-time studying. Looking back, she tells Protégé that every opportunity and every experience helped get her to where she is today – and she would recommend that all law students do the same. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Naomi Neilson is joined by Coulter Legal law graduate and one of our finalists from the 2020 Women in Law Awards, Alli Taylor, to discuss how she managed to study and work full time, where she found the opportunities, and why other law students should consider the same.  Reflecting on her experience, Alli says: “The importance of trying to gain experience while studying, I would recommend to any law student. Any opportunity that was presented to me or that I could seek out, I definitely did. I felt as though all the little skills you pick up will always benefit you in the future as a lawyer.”  Alli also shares how she fell into family law while looking for work in wills and estates and talks about what really draws her into this practice. We also chat about some of the work that she’s exposed to and the team she gets to work with.  In the episode, we also chat about the experience of becoming a finalist in one of our awards as a young lawyer and discuss why other aspiring lawyers should apply.  Have a listen below!  If you have any questions about the episode or if there are any topics that you might want us to look into, please reach out – we would love to hear from you!  We’re also always open to new guests, so if you have an exciting story to tell, if you’re standing out as a student or graduate, or if you can offer some tips for our young lawyers, get in touch. You can reach us here: Emails: [email protected] or [email protected] Socials: Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter or reach out to me directly here.    

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with CommBank Professional Services, the reigning Partner of the Year (BigLaw) discusses the myriad aspects of optimal leadership, including and especially empathy, in turbulent and uncertain times. Hosts Jerome Doraisamy and CBA National Director of Professional Services Daniela Pasini speak with Herbert Smith Freehills partner Nicole Pedler – who won the Partner of the Year (BigLaw) category at the 2021 Women in Law Awards – about the need for firms to be adaptable, the challenges faced by firms and their leaders when it comes to talent retention, the need for vulnerability and trust within one’s team, and corresponding skills that leaders must display. The trio also explore what constitutes “legal excellence” in the current climate, growth areas in the 2022 marketplace and what Ms Pedler predicts for her own practice area, ensuring flexibility as part of a talent retention strategy and the importance of bringing one’s whole self to work in order to build a community, and a business that attracts and retains the best staff. CBA was a gold partner for the 2021 Partner of the Year Awards. To learn more about its professional services offerings and its recent Legal Market Pulse report, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Kate Jones has worked in-house for three blue-chip companies, including most recently as the general counsel for Samsung. Here, she discusses what she’s learned and what she sees as being essential to success as a leader of such big teams. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by the outgoing general counsel and company secretary of Samsung Electronics Australia, Kate Jones, to reflect on her career to date and what she has found to be most rewarding, the importance of comradery and collegiality, and how the age of COVID-19 reinforced the need for soft skills. The pair also discuss the pressures involved with leading the law department of public-facing companies, which soft skills will be fundamental moving forward, the challenges surrounding talent retention, the inherent duties of leaders of large law departments (especially with regards to wellness), and what she sees as being the most important priorities for those leaders in successfully managing their big teams. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

When it comes to retaining clients, reigning Sole Practitioner of the Year Sarah Stoddart says that being authentic and transparent, including about one’s health challenges, makes one more than just a lawyer – it makes one a trusted adviser. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Vitality Law Australia director Sarah Stoddart – who recently won the Sole Practitioner of the Year category at the 2021 Women in Law Awards – to discuss how her multiple sclerosis diagnosis has informed her approach with clients, how she has navigated the virtual nature of client service delivery in the last two years and the biggest lessons for engagement in that time. The pair also talk about the critical importance of meaningful and authentic communication, knowing where to draw boundaries, how best other sole practitioners can become more upfront with clients if they so wish, where client engagement sits as an urgent priority on one’s “to-do” list, and creative ways that business owners can look to build a client base that is “sticky”. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Warning: This show has been marked as explicit In 2021, Dr Hannah Korrel advocated the need to break up with bad bosses. Here, she returns to the show to discuss individual responsibility in having a “low tox life” in a workforce that is more hybrid and flexible in nature. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back author and neuropsychologist Dr Hannah Korrel to discuss the myriad toxic issues facing working legal professionals in the age of coronavirus, how difficult it can and might be for lawyers to undo that toxicity, and the need for team leaders new and creative ways to create more inclusive, collegiate workforces. Dr Korrel also delves into the toxicity that will remain problematic for lawyers in 2022, practical steps that lawyers must take to remove or at least reduce toxicity in their day-to-day working lives – both personally and professionally – how cognisant lawyers and their employers are of the deleterious nature of said toxicity and the need to address it, and more broadly, why such change will result in a healthier, happier and more productive year ahead. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Emma Cleveland and Andrew Goldstein like to practice “on the fault lines of in-house, BigLaw and NewLaw”. It’s an approach to modern legal service delivery, they say, that will be pertinent in a post-pandemic market. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Cleveland & Co founder and chief executive Emma Cleveland and Asia-Pacific managing director Andrew Goldstein to discuss their practice methodology, how and why undertaking legal service delivery in such ways will be fundamental for practitioners heading into the new normal. Ms Cleveland and Mr Goldstein also discuss the attractiveness of the Australian market at this point in time, identifying best practice for various projects, evolving duties and responsibilities for in-house work, why they wish to operate in particular niches and how receptive businesses in Australia will be in future to such ways of working. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In the last 12 months, there has been an “avalanche” of clients using and requiring assistance with cryptocurrencies, offering much work for firms with expertise in this space. Will part of this new wave of work include class action proceedings? On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Salerno Law managing partner Cliff Savala and associate Krish Gosai to discuss the advent of cryptocurrency as a legal practice area on the rise, what work in this space entails, how and why clients are using cryptocurrencies, and why Salerno Law saw an opportunity to lean into crypto as a practice area. Mr Savala and Mr Gosai also respond to queries about whether there is fertile ground for class action litigation in the cryptocurrency space and why such proceedings might be initiated, getting Australia to a point where such proceedings are not necessary, and what the market has to look forward to in the cryptocurrency space and what is exciting from a legal practitioner standpoint. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In addition to its external responsibilities, GreenLaw has made a commitment to ensuring its members are processing all the emotions that come with being on the front lines of climate change legal work and activism. Its head of community sits down with Protégé to discuss how this has made such a big difference already. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Naomi Neilson is joined by Australian National University (ANU) student and GreenLaw’s head of community Emma Bryant to discuss the wellbeing program behind the young person-led organisation and her role in creating initiatives to engage and connect with all its members. Given the work that GreenLaw does, Emma explains that it can often feel “doom and gloom”, with members often left holding the weight of the impending climate crisis. In a safe space under the initiative, members are given the opportunity to go over topics like eco-anxiety and recognise when they might be feeling burnt out. The episode also touches on what GreenLaw has already achieved in its short history and what it has planned for the future. Off this, Emma shares some tips on how young and aspiring lawyers with an interest in climate change can get involved. There’s also some exciting news about GreenLaw’s new independence from ANU and how it plans to continue working with the university going forward. Have a listen to the entire episode below! If you have any questions about the episode or if there are any topics that you might want us to look into, please reach out – we would love to hear from you! We’re also always open to new guests, so if you have an exciting story to tell, if you’re standing out as a student or graduate, or if you can offer some tips for our young lawyers, get in touch. You can reach us here: Emails: [email protected] or [email protected] Socials: Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter or reach out to me directly here.

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Commonwealth Bank, the reigning Innovator of the Year details how innovative thinking has evolved in accordance with changing client expectations and technological advancements. Hosts Jerome Doraisamy and CBA National Director of Professional Services Daniela Pasini speak with Gilbert + Tobin chief knowledge and innovation officer and partner Caryn Sandler about what innovation means to her and her team and how innovation has changed in the last two years, the most influential factors driving new thinking in law firms, managing client expectations and the most important considerations in pursuing meaningful innovation. Ms Sandler, who won the Innovator of the Year category at the 2021 Partner of the Year Awards, also details the pace of change in innovative thinking during the age of coronavirus, responds to findings from CBA’s most recent Legal Market Pulse report, predicts what firms will focus on when it comes to tech and digital transformation in the future, and also reflects on G+T Innovate and where her firm’s initiatives are headed. CBA was the principal partner for the 2021 Partner of the Year Awards. To learn more about its professional services offerings and its recent Legal Market Pulse report, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

According to Olaf Kretzschmar, there are at least seven different client types that a lawyer will come across over the course of their career. Understanding how each of these clients thinks and operates is fundamental in ensuring optimal client service delivery, as well as purpose, as a legal professional. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by One IP International managing director and chief executive Olaf Kretzschmar to talk about his experience of migrating from Germany and establishing an international legal practice, overcoming hurdles posed by his accent and background, lessons learned from dealing with different types of clients and the extent to which lawyers must employ psychology to breed good relationships. The pair also discuss the worldly team of legal professionals that Mr Kretzschmar has built over the years, the myriad client types that he and his colleagues have identified and how they deal with those different personalities and needs, why lawyers should always be looking out for new and different client types and what excites him about the future of navigating client relationships. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Research shows that nearly half of all US-based lawyers have executive or careers coaches. At a time of market turbulence and vocational uncertainty, it is time for Australian lawyers to do the same. On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with Coaching Advocates, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes former general counsel Claire Bibby and former law firm partner Lara Wentworth – both of whom left legal practice and helped co-found global lawyer coaching outfit, Coaching Advocates – to discuss the myriad environmental factors presenting professional challenges for lawyers of all stripes (including but not limited to the Great Resignation). The trio unpack how these factors, and the broader issues presented by the age of coronavirus, offer opportunities to reflect, whether lawyers are or should be open to change, what we mean by professional coaching and why it is so important, why lawyers should be unafraid of seeking such external guidance and what they can glean from such relationships. Ms Bibby and Ms Wentworth also detail how lawyer clients should be approached in accordance with their idiosyncratic needs, why it is incumbent upon lawyers to consider coaching as Australia looks towards a post-pandemic landscape, how and why Coaching Advocates can assist in that journey and the services they offer. To learn more about Coaching Advocates, click here. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

With consumers increasingly demanding ethical business practices, one of the biggest priorities for law departments this year must be to bolster standards and expectations for a business’ suppliers and partners, says one award-winning GC. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Accenture strategic partnerships global legal lead Annie Haggar (who won General Counsel of the Year at the 2021 Australian Law Awards) to discuss the nature and state of affairs in ecosystem relationships, the need to respond to increasing consumer demand for ethical business practices, identifying practical steps to operationalise change and balancing proactive and reactive action to improve supply chains. Ms Haggar also delves into where improving supply chains sits in the triage of urgent priorities in 2022, opportunities that can and will arise from solving supply chain issues, how doing so can elevate one’s sense of self as a legal professional, lessons learned from such tasks, and becoming more than just a GC in such action. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

According to the new Regional and Suburban Lawyer of the Year, practitioners who work outside of CBDs are “very well placed” to meaningfully navigate the looming post-pandemic marketplace and sustain successful businesses, given what has been learned in the last two years. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Glissan & Associates lawyer Rebecca Watters to talk about what drew her to work in a suburban legal practice, working across Sydney, managing a diverse clientele, garnering a broader perspective on one’s local community, and why having such close connections to those around you makes one a better lawyer. Ms Watters also discusses what it meant to her to win Regional and Suburban Lawyer of the Year at the 2020 Australian Law Awards, current and looming challenges for lawyers working in the suburbs as well as opportunities on the horizon, lessons for other suburban lawyers based on her success and what local contributions she is looking forward to making in the near future. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Working in a legal clinic operating outside of her university not only exposed Juris Doctor student Nipuni Barandiwattage to critical legal skills, but also completely shaped the direction that she wants to take the rest of her budding legal career. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Naomi Neilson is joined by final-year juris doctor student Nipuni Barandiwattage to chat about her time working as a volunteer with La Trobe University’s Wills and Wishes Clinic, which delivers vital advice on will writing, power of attorney, medical decision makers, and more.  Nipuni shares how working with the clinic exposed her to incredible opportunities and allowed her to expand on important legal skills. Having found the program by chance, Nipuni said that being involved also inspired a new career direction.   As part of the episode, Nipuni also shares her thoughts on the recent digital developments in wills and why the recent COVID-19 pandemic gave the profession a good push towards remote execution. She also responds to some of the more vocal criticisms on this development and explains why it’s the way of the future.  We also have an important discussion about what it is like to be a young woman of colour in the profession and what needs to change: starting with putting commitments about diversity into action and making changes at the student level.  Listen below now! If you have any questions about the episode or if there are any topics that you might want us to look into, please reach out – we would love to hear from you!  We’re also always open to new guests so if you have an exciting story to tell, if you’re standing out as a student or graduate, or if you can offer some tips for our young lawyers, get in touch. You can reach us here: Emails: [email protected] or [email protected] Socials: Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter or reach out to me directly here.

Award-winning practitioner Cassandra Heilbronn has, over the years, built a sizeable brand as “Lawyer Cas”. When she accepted a role as chief of staff for a private family office in Saudi Arabia, she had to grapple with not referring to herself as a practising lawyer anymore and what that meant for her professional identity. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Ms Heilbronn to discuss the exciting new role she has accepted in Saudi Arabia and what that job entails, deducing whether or not she can still refer to herself as a lawyer and what that emotional process entails, the sense of pride that one attaches to being a member of the legal profession and having an evolving sense of who one is. The pair also discuss adapting one’s professional brand to suit changing circumstances, setting new vocational targets for one’s self, redefining what it means to be a modern legal professional (particularly in an ever-changing marketplace), how such evolution pertains to the looming “Great Resignation”, and how Cassandra feels about the future of her profession – whether she returns to law or otherwise. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In 2020, Calli Tsipidis won the In-House Lawyer of the Year and Rising Star of the Year (In-House) categories at the Women in Law Awards. Here, she discusses how she approaches her work and the factors she believes have led to her success. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Foxtel Group legal counsel Calli Tsipidis to discuss the work she does with Foxtel, how the work of her and her team was impacted by the age of coronavirus, how an increased workload opened the door to new opportunities and how she adapted to changing circumstances. Ms Tsipidis also talks about the importance of being passionate about one’s area of work, the need to have a separation between home and work, putting one’s self in the best possible position to win awards and succeed professionally, being authentic, why it is so important to put one’s hand up for recognition, and what she is most proud of. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

When it comes to effective utilisation of digital and social media, some law firms are performing well, while others are “putting in pretty dismal efforts”. Garnering better engagement in 2022 is shaping up to be critical to the success of burgeoning practices. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Social Law Co. founder Tegan Boorman (who won the Thought Leader of the Year category at the 2021 Women in Law Awards) to discuss why a successful social media strategy is so fundamental moving forward, how firms across the country are faring, the most common mistakes that firms make and why, and the flow-on financial costs of not getting socials right. The pair also talk about the extent to which business owners can and must be upskilling on social media, how much time those firm leaders should be dedicating to socials, the balance between proactive and reactive content, the place for trial and error, learning lessons from one’s peers and where such business tasks sit in the triage of urgent responsibilities. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

There are times, in the course of legal practice, where lawyers will have to push back against rudeness, aggression, combativeness or intimidation. Knowing how and when to push, without disadvantaging one’s clients, is a skill learned over time. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back Executive Legal managing partner Jahan Kalantar, who recounts stories of pushing back against judicial officers, legal practitioners and clients where the moment calls for it due to perceived inappropriate behaviour or conduct. The pair talk about what it means to find one’s voice and stand up for one’s self in the context of day-to-day legal practice, how this has manifested for Jahan and what the consequences have been. Mr Kalantar also details why finding one’s voice is so inextricably linked to one’s duties as a legal professional, how it makes one feel to stand up for one’s self, knowing when to take a stand, whether the mainstreaming of virtual proceedings makes it easier or harder to take a stand, and broader reflections on the need to uphold one’s responsibilities as a lawyer. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

The combination of lawyers wanting a change, together with law departments expanding with roles they previously hadn’t needed, has created a flurry of recruitment activity in-house. How will this unfold? On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back G2 Legal Australian director Daniel Stirling to talk about the volume of recruitment in the in-house market as we move into the new year, the sectors that are seeing movement and what kinds of professionals law departments are seeking right now. The pair also discuss what kinds of lawyers are looking to move into in-house positions, whether employers have to offer in-house secondments in order to keep staff long-term, whether the increased demand for in-house positions will continue or if it is just a flash in the pan, and how best employers across the board can attract and retain the best talent. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

In an ever-changing professional landscape, it is fundamental for lawyers to wear many hats. Doing so allows for diversification and better connection – personally and professionally – with one’s self. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes Legal Kitz partner and Business Kitz founder and chief executive Sarina Eggers-Stable to discuss tapping into one’s creative side, being a multifaceted legal professional, owning and operating multiple businesses and cross-referring between those businesses. The pair also dive into the need for boutique legal practitioners to build such diversified offerings in the post-pandemic new normal, actively encouraging staff to be more involved with external business opportunities, whether it will be easier for lawyers to get involved in such extracurriculars moving forward, and the benefits of opening one’s self up to such vocational potential. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Having turned down partnership at a firm in her native United Kingdom to follow a different vocational path, Charlotte Smith has learned how to better manage her energy, tap into a mindset of potential and discover confidence in herself, even when things are difficult. It is from this journey that she has discovered how lawyers can practise without limits. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by San Francisco-based executive coach Charlotte Smith to discuss what it means to be a limitless lawyer, how this does apply, and has applied, in her own life, whether there are black-and-white rules or if being limitless means different things to different people, and whether lawyers are becoming more in-tune with their personal and professional needs. The pair also reflect on the need or otherwise for a certain quantum of stress and trauma in order to thrive, practical steps to live and practise in a limitless fashion, tapping into the “zone of genius”, and exploration of new innovative approaches to law. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

When in-house lawyers talk to each other, they often find that they are all grappling with the same problems. Better understanding how to navigate those challenges, and facilitating such growth and development for corporate counsel, is fundamental for their ongoing success at a critical juncture. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes Are Media general counsel, company secretary and general manager of corporate Adrian Goss, who was recently elected as vice-chair of the global board of the Association of Corporate Counsel. The pair talk about why it is important to put one’s hand up to serve the in-house legal community, the need for professional collegiality, what one can glean from such extracurricular work, what he hopes to achieve for in-house lawyers around the world, how he sees the role of legal counsel changing in the coming year and what Australian lawyers can learn from their global counterparts. Mr Goss also delves into life as a legal counsel in the media industry, the issues and challenges that come with such work, the evolving opportunities in a changing market, the considerations with acquisitions and how best the law department can assist, and what he enjoys about his work. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Leaders in law are increasingly aware that people’s needs are changing, and with that, client demands are shifting. Ensuring that businesses can get the most out of their lawyers in the post-pandemic market requires new-age thinking, including considering what can be learned from elite sportspeople. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Frontier Performance founder and principal Pancho Mehrotra to discuss what high performance in professional services means and what can be gleaned from sportspeople, the biggest mistakes that leaders in law make, creating an “attraction business”, and the current headline challenges impeding high performance within legal teams. The pair also reflect on the presence of jealousy and domineering attitudes within law firms and how these sentiments are balanced against wellness needs and happiness, evolving perceptions of psychological safety, addressing environmental issues in more substantive ways moving forward, and learning lessons from global corporate behemoths. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

General counsel, and law departments, who move to take on more responsibility for their businesses will have a “real opportunity to make a difference”. Being visible, Teresa Allan believes, ensures the work of that department is more significant and consequential. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Capgemini vice-president, general counsel and ethics and compliance officer Teresa Allan to discuss lessons learned from undertaking acquisitions in the age of coronavirus for law departments, taking on more work so as to ensure the legal team has a seat at the table, and how such increased workload improves the standing of the law department. The pair also delve into striking the right balance between proactivity and reactivity in taking on more work, personal reflections on being more than just the general counsel, practical guidance for those looking to broaden the scope of their work and navigating pushback to such a move. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

When she founded her practice, Alison Cusack had never even worked in a law firm, let alone run one. Nevertheless, she found her niche at an early stage and has thrived ever since, establishing herself as a leader in a niche field. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Cusack & Co founder and principal Alison Cusack to discuss the day-to-day for a maritime lawyer, how and why she moved from in-house work to running her worn firm, her attitude towards deal-making, supply chain issues in the age of coronavirus and flow-on impacts for shipping businesses. The pair also talk about popular culture references to maritime issues, sexism in a male-dominated industry, lessons from evolving litigious environments, why Alison has no interest in “stealing others’ clients”, becoming an industry leader in a specific industry and how her niche practice can afford to stay in its lane and not diversify. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

For the immediate past president of the UTS Law Student Society, being involved became much more than picking up important legal skills and making connections. In addition to the rewarding experience and accomplishments, it was an opportunity to learn how to manage a leadership role from the very beginning of her legal career. In this episode of The Protégé Podcast, host Naomi Neilson is joined by former UTS Law Student Society president Vicky Kuo to chat about her experience over the last four years, as president but also in other positions within the organisation. The episode is another spotlight on why law students should be getting involved too. As part of the episode, Vicky discusses all of the advantages to getting involved: from making important connections with other members, learning how to manage a whole organisation, and picking up skills that will be useful in the real legal world. We also talk about what it meant for Vicky to step into a leadership position, particularly as a woman in law, at such an early stage in her legal career. “It meant a lot to me to be able to be in a leadership position, knowing that perhaps there’s someone out there who maybe wants to be in a similar position a few years down the track and they’re able to see that it’s possible,” Vicky shares. The episode also touches on how a psychology degree has helped her experience in law and explores her interest in pro bono legal work. Have a listen to the episode below! If you have any questions about the episode or if there are any topics that you might want us to look into, please reach out – we would love to hear from you! We’re also always open to new guests so if you have an exciting story to tell, if you’re standing out as a student or graduate, or if you can offer some tips for our young lawyers, get in touch. You can reach us here: Emails: [email protected] or [email protected] Socials: Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter or reach out to me directly here.

2021 has been an extraordinary year for Australia’s property market. There is much that legal professionals can take away, from those looking to get their foot in the door to those wanting to expand their portfolios. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back recurring guest Cullen Haynes, director of sales at Legal Home Loans, and Josh Jaramillo, legal lending specialist at Legal Home Loans, to discuss their reflections on the year that was, the “post-lockdown mindset” for lawyers, and changes in lending services governance laws. The trio also delve into what is firing up investors at this juncture, whether or not there is more stock coming onto the market, what benefits still exist and will be apparent for lawyers moving forward, and how lawyers can and should be perceiving Australia’s property market as we head into the new year. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Leaving the bar to become an in-house lawyer may seem an uncommon vocational journey. However, for one award-winning practitioner, the move has been a natural, seamless transition. On this episode of The Corporate Counsel Show, host Jerome Doraisamy welcomes back returning guest Matthew Littlejohn, a Darwin-based barrister-turned-manager of litigation at the Office of the General Counsel in Victoria, to discuss his experience as a barrister in the Northern Territory and what he learned about himself in that time, why he wanted to move in-house and what he does in his new role, and what the transition has been like. The pair also discuss the practical and professional skills one learns as a barrister that are transferrable to an in-house role, whether law departments should be recruiting from the bar, if barristers make for better in-house counsel than those from private practice, and what those already in-house can bring to the bar table if they wish to make that vocational shift. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

For Janya Eighani, a “partners on commission” model is not just a way to be innovative and chip away at traditional practice methodologies – it is also a way to better support a community of consulting principals and garner broader business and vocational benefits for her firm. On this episode of The Boutique Lawyer Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Lehman Walsh Lawyers managing partner Janya Eighani to talk about the “partners on commission” model that her firm established during the COVID-19 pandemic and why, the challenges that have arisen since the introduction of that model and how the firm has managed those, and how the model is advantageous for all parties involved. The pair also discuss the lessons learned from this model, the myriad personal and professional benefits to the firm implementing the model, turning one’s firm into a multi-service offering, new perspective that arises (personal and professional), and ensuring that one’s firm can compete against the big end of town. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

Following a “very active” year, capital markets lawyers should be preparing themselves for a “really interesting” 2022, says one leading partner, who notes that the Australian market will “always support” the right transactions. On this episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Baker McKenzie partner Antony Rumboll, who returns to the podcast to discuss the year that was in capital markets, whether the lessons from 2020 were still applicable this year, how secondary capital raisings unfolded in 2021, how predicted increases to interest rates will impact upon transactions, and the evolving nature of leadership for lawyers in this space. The pair also dissect the evolving nature of relationships with clients, predictions for the capital markets space in 2022 and the daily experience of lawyers, how best those lawyers can adapt to those predictions and better serve clients, and what there is to look forward to in the new year. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

When she bought her first home at the age of 21, Annature founder and chief executive Amreeta Abbott couldn’t believe how many documents she had to sign in person. Having worked across professional services strands as a tech entrepreneur, she understands better than most the inextricable need for more efficient processes as we move into a post-pandemic market. On this episode of LawTech Talks, host Jerome Doraisamy is joined by Ms Abbott to discuss her personal and vocational journeys, how she feels the legal profession is faring relative to other industries when it comes to uptake and meaningful utilisation of technologies such as eSignatures and identification verification, what further change needs to occur in law (both legislative updates and community perceptions), and what sectors of the profession are upping the ante. The pair also delve into the extent to which change is client-driven or led by lawyers, better navigating pain points with eSigning and identity verification, why technology helps one evolve into a better, more modern lawyer in addition to making one’s life easier. Elsewhere, the pair talk about Annature, its purpose within the legal profession and benefits it currently offers for lawyers. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!

On this special episode of The Lawyers Weekly Show, produced in partnership with LexisNexis, host Jerome Doraisamy and LexisNexis Pacific managing director Greg Dickason discuss how the age of coronavirus has changed the risk management landscape and how technology can and will help professionals navigate that landscape. The pair dive into what risk management means (particularly in the new-look market), major current and looming risks, profession-wide cognisance of risk management responsibilities at this critical juncture, opportunities to better navigate risk management considerations, the need to utilise data, the fundamental importance of leveraging technological platforms and avoiding inherent tech risks. They also unpack the need to proactively plan and review business operations, what constitutes best practice when it comes to risk management, the inextricable link between success and risk management, the quantum of tech proficiency needed in order to succeed, and what platforms LexisNexis offers to help professionals moving forward. To learn more, listeners can click here or call 1 800 772 772. If you like this episode, show your support by rating us or leaving a review on Apple Podcasts (The Lawyers Weekly Show) and by following Lawyers Weekly on social media: Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.   If you have any questions about what you heard today, any topics of interest you have in mind, or if you'd like to lend your voice to the show, email [email protected] for more insights!