FAQs

Graduate and Clerkship Recruitment

Does Clayton Utz offer vacation work?
Clayton Utz conducts vacation clerk programs in the majority of our offices across Australia.

Is there any opportunity for a vacation clerk to complete a rotation in another office?
Yes, we have scholarships for clerks to gain experience in our other offices and at a firm in London.

What is the timeline for applications?
Our National Timetable is available here.

Should I send a CV or covering letter?
To apply for a graduate and clerkship position, please visit cvMail. cvMail provides an online application facility so you can submit your details using a standard format. You can attach a CV or covering letter to this online application if necessary,

Do applicants supply university results?
Yes, applicants must attach a copy of their transcript with their cvMail application.

Does Clayton Utz accept postal applications?
Clayton Utz does not accept postal applications. All applications must be submitted via cvMail. Should you have any problems submitting your application online, please contact cvMail.

When will I hear about the status of my application?
Receipt of applications will be acknowledged by email. Subsequent to this, candidates can expect to hear from us within two weeks of the closing date.

What does the recruitment process for vacation clerkships and graduate positions involve?
The recruitment process involves structured interviews with both legal and human resources representatives.

Am I eligible to apply for a position on the Clayton Utz graduate recruitment program?
Minimum requirements are as follows:

• applicants should be studying an Australian Law degree
• in addition we are particularly interested in any of the following disciplines: Commerce, Accounting, Business, Science, Information Technology, Arts and Engineering
• if applicants have a degree from a university outside Australia, we may ask for it to be accredited against Australian standards
• applicants should have the legal right to work in Australia (i.e. hold citizenship, permanent residency or a visa entitling them to work in Australia)

What is Clayton Utz looking for in an applicant?
We seek candidates who have a demonstrated record of part time work (legal and/or non-legal), extra curricular activities, leadership roles and strong academic results.
We look for the ability to:

• build and maintain effective client relationships
• express ideas and concepts both verbally and in writing
• creatively solve problems
• balance priorities and tasks
• demonstrate leadership potential
• be open to change and diversity

What is the normal process for an entry-level solicitor (articled clerk, trainee solicitor or graduate)?
Entry-level solicitors complete an intensive orientation period where they meet representatives from different parts of the firm and are taught about company systems. They also take part in skills classes and team building activities. They then join their first rotation which lasts for six months. Entry-level solicitors usually complete three rotations in different workgroups. The total rotation period is eighteen months.

Is there any opportunity to complete a rotation on secondment to a client?
Yes, occasionally we select entry-level solicitors to send on client secondments.

Are entry-level solicitors and vacation clerks able to choose their workgroups for rotations?
We do everything we can to accommodate individual preferences, whilst also taking into account both the business requirements of the firm and the popularity of some practice groups. Our primary aim is to ensure career satisfaction. It is a good idea to research our practice areas before attending an interview.