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Juggling full-time work, parenting and PLT possible through the College of Law, says Kerala Drew

Published:
04 May 2022
News
Juggling full-time work, parenting and PLT possible through the College of Law, says Kerala Drew

Despite achieving First Class Honours from a top-ranked British university, Kerala Drew found the path to qualifying as an Australian lawyer fraught with roadblocks. She had worked and volunteered through England, Hong Kong, China and Malaysia, but securing local work experience - and joining the Women Lawyers Association of Queensland, where she now sits on the Board as student advisor - proved crucial. 

We caught up with Kerala to learn how she landed her first job in law, what set her College of Law PLT experience apart from prior study, and what advice she might have for lawyers looking to join the Australian legal profession.

 

What was your first job in law? What led you to your current role? 

I ended up getting my first real job in Australia by volunteering as part of my PLT placement. I always knew I was interested in criminal and family law and stumbled across a Gumtree post noting that Wallace Davies was looking for PLT students. I jumped at the opportunity, and volunteered for a month. I then ended up getting a paid job in employment law, but one week in, Wallace Davies rang, and offered me a paid position. I felt so guilty leaving the employment law firm, but thankfully they were so understanding. I knew my heart was in criminal and family law and I haven’t looked back since! 

 

Where do you work now, and what is the most rewarding aspect of your role?  

Four years on, I’m still at Wallace Davies. However, I’ll soon be moving to the Bar. This has been a goal of mine since I was around 10, so I am very excited to finally reach this milestone. I am really excited to see what the future holds, and I am looking forward to putting into practice the skills I have been working on for the last few years. 

The most rewarding aspect of my role is securing a good outcome for a client in court. It sounds like a cliché, but you genuinely have the ability to massively impact people's lives as a criminal and family lawyer, and truly make a difference. This might be securing gradual time with children for a father who has been absent in their lives, or ensuring a young person has no criminal conviction recorded. I thoroughly enjoy my days as a duty lawyer, which means I attend upon the courthouse and see all of those who have notices to appear, or who have been remanded in custody. The work is fast paced, stressful and often unpredictable, but it is in this role I find I truly thrive.

 

How have your PLT studies helped with what you do at work? 

My PLT studies have helped me in so many different ways. Firstly, it has no doubt helped my time management skills. I studied full time, whilst working full time, whilst parenting full time! Juggling all those different demands at one time was a lot, but it taught me the importance of setting a schedule, and following it. 

A side tip I always have is to put in deadlines for a few days before things are actually due. That way, even if something pops up out of the blue that needs to be dealt with urgently, hopefully you can still meet your assignment or filing deadlines. 

Secondly, my PLT studies essentially kickstarted my career! Had it not been for the work experience component, I may have never ended up where I am today. The work experience component also allows students to explore different areas of law, before they fully commit to one area of practice. I think if you are unsure which area of law you may enjoy, having the chance to explore different areas to see what they are actually like is invaluable. 

 

What has set your PLT experience apart? 

The flexibility was by far what set the experience apart. Having access to most of the material online as soon as the course started was invaluable for a type A person like me. It meant I could plan my work schedule to align somewhat with my study schedule – fitting in assignments in my slightly less hectic weeks at work. It also meant if you are juggling family life, you could study in the evening once the children had finally settled for the night. 

Essentially you were your own boss with respect to managing the work, which worked really well for me. The support you receive is second to none – I would often email my tutors with any questions I had, and the oral feedback you receive after your assignment is invaluable. I still use the textbooks from the College of Law to this day.

 

You've studied and volunteered around the world. What advice would you have for well-travelled lawyers keen to practice in Australia? 

For those who have practised abroad, or are seeking to start their career in Australia, be prepared for a lot of setbacks. It was frustrating for me to have to re-study a number of university modules to ensure I complied with the Priestley 11, and I felt like I hit roadblock after roadblock. Keep the end goal in sight, as it is so worth it when you finally reach that goal. 

Also, don’t be afraid or ashamed to start your career by volunteering. I found it so difficult to find paid work, notwithstanding the fact that I had worked/volunteered in England, China, Hong Kong, and Malaysia and had achieved first class honours from one of the top universities in England. 

Once you start to have a few recognised Australian law firms, or workplaces on your CV, I found it so much easier to find work. 

Finally, join as many different organisations or societies as you can. I have made some fantastic friends and colleagues through the Women Lawyers Association of Queensland (WLAQ) and I am now on board as their student advisor.

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Parting ways in a relationship is never easy, and family lawyers are generally the first professional separating couples encounter when they end a relationship. For all of these reasons Angela Harbinson created The Separation Guide, which aims to make separation and divorce simpler, more manageable and less stressful.

Kyiesha Faulkner: How the Indigenous Business Handbook is transforming lives

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Kyiesha Faulkner: How the Indigenous Business Handbook is transforming lives

Starting a business is never easy. What step should you take first? How do you negotiate the ins and outs of your legal requirements if you’re not a lawyer? Even for a seasoned lawyer these steps are complicated…And what if you also face unique cultural considerations and complexities?

Self-awareness: The surprising foundation to a thriving legal career

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Self-awareness: The surprising foundation to a thriving legal career

There’s no doubt the legal sector can be an intense work environment. Thanks to heavy caseloads and fierce competition, lawyers and other legal professionals are facing stress, anxiety and burnout on a concerning scale. But according to executive transition coach and CEO at Lucent Global, Ellie Scarf, it doesn’t have to be this way. There’s one tool that can help you manage a plethora of professional challenges. That tool? Self-awareness.

5 tips on how to avoid common ethical breaches for lawyers with Athol Opas

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5 tips on how to avoid common ethical breaches for lawyers with Athol Opas

The law is a complex field heavily reliant on knowledge, interpretation and advice. This makes for a profession that can have far reaching consequences and, as a result, lawyers are held to high standards. Athol Opas presents annual ethics updates to firms to keep them abreast of recent cases of misconduct and/or common ethical breaches. We spoke to Athol to find out about the most common ethical breaches lawyers should be mindful of and to gain his top tips on complying within ethical obligations. 

What are the top negligence claims facing lawyers today?

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What are the top negligence claims facing lawyers today?

The College of Law investigates which legal practice areas are most at risk of negligence claims and why. We spoke to Lawcover’s Legal Risk Manager Glenda Carry about the practice areas most affected by negligence claims, what behaviours can lead to adverse claims by clients, and what risk mitigation strategies law practices can put in place.

When commercial acumen meets common courtesy: Ankurpreet’s LPMC story

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When commercial acumen meets common courtesy: Ankurpreet’s LPMC story

Ankurpreet Singh was thrust into a costly commercial conflict, which made him determine to pursue a legal career. To make his dream a reality, he enrolled in the College of Law’s LPMC – where he bolstered his business competence and confidence.

How to get into Wills & Estates with Rick Christie

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How to get into Wills & Estates with Rick Christie

Rick Christie, owner of ChristieLaw and committee member of STEP NSW, had always been attracted to the personal side of wills and estates. Insights spoke to Rick about how he came to specialise in wills and estates, what advice he might have for lawyers looking to move into the area, and what role industry organisation STEP can play for lawyers keen to become specialists.

The differences between law school and legal practice

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The differences between law school and legal practice

Discover the key differences between law school and real-world legal practice, including handling complex cases, simplifying legal jargon, managing tight deadlines, and developing essential soft skills.

New Resolution Institute and The College of Law partnership to maximise skills and experience

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New Resolution Institute and The College of Law partnership to maximise skills and experience

Resolution Institute and The College of Law are pleased to announce an exciting new partnership aimed at establishing a symbiotic cooperation which will maximise the resources of both organisations through mutual collaboration and the sharing of expertise and efforts in education and training.

Navigating Age Discrimination In The Law With Tile Imo

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Navigating Age Discrimination In The Law With Tile Imo

Bias and age-based discrimination remains an issue in the workforce, despite legal protections. In this article, we delve into the intricacies of age bias claims with Tilé Imo, Associate Director of Caxton Legal Centre. We explore the evolving legal landscape, effective strategies for litigating age discrimination cases, and the emerging trends that lawyers need to be aware of to best serve their clients.

Major changes ahead with the Family Law Amendment Bill 2023 in progress

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Major changes ahead with the Family Law Amendment Bill 2023 in progress

Major changes are coming that will impact the family law system and the way practitioners operate in Australia. The Family Law Amendment Bill 2023 is currently under debate in parliament and after its third reading, it is now under review with the Senate Legal and Constitutional Affairs Legislation Committee. The College of Law will provide legal training support when the Family Law Amendment Bill commences, but in the meantime, we spoke with College of Law adjunct lecturer Kathryn Kearley to find out about the most important changes.  

Graduates, prize winners honoured at the Winter 2022 Academic Awards Ceremony

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Graduates, prize winners honoured at the Winter 2022 Academic Awards Ceremony

The College of Law recognised over 200 graduates of its Postgraduate Specialisation Programs at the 2022 Academic Awards Ceremony on 1 August. These awards included the Master of Laws (Applied Law), Master of Applied Law (Family Law), Graduate Diplomas of Applied Law and Graduate Diploma of Family Dispute Resolution Practice (FDRP).

How to get a government job in law: everything you need to know

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How to get a government job in law: everything you need to know

Embarking on a legal career in local, state, or federal government can be an exciting move. There are many pathways for development, a broad range of practice areas, and often a healthy work-life balance. These roles are highly rewarding, and highly competitive, the College of Law tells you everything you need to know about landing a government job in law.

From LLB to Parliament – Australia’s Politicians-Turned-Lawyers

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From LLB to Parliament – Australia’s Politicians-Turned-Lawyers

Australia’s recent change in leadership has set the nation’s eyes on Malcolm Turnbull. Over the coming weeks and months, the newly appointed 29th Prime Minister will reveal his mettle as a national leader.

From ballroom dancing to the law: Meet PLT alum Helena Angela Hanna

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From ballroom dancing to the law: Meet PLT alum Helena Angela Hanna

While completing her law degree and Practical Legal Training with the College of Law, Helena Hanna also kept up with her interests outside of studies. Learn more about Helena and her law degree experience.

How to merge your love of music with your legal career: Chelsea's story

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How to merge your love of music with your legal career: Chelsea's story

Learn how Chelsea Donoghue merged her lot of arts and law: How she managed her study while on world tours, what she loves most about her work at Sanicki Lawyers, and what’s next.

Graduates and prize winners recognised in June ceremony

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Graduates and prize winners recognised in June ceremony

Graduates and prize winners celebrated their achievements, received their awards and honours remotely due to continuing COVID-19 restrictions.

How AI is being used in Family Law

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How AI is being used in Family Law

To understand where legal AI use cases are showing up within family law, the College spoke with two highly experienced practitioners who have incorporated AI into their legal practice in different ways. Fiona Kirkman, principal at Kirkman Family Law, embraced ChatGPT early on in her practice, while Jenna Downy, solicitor at Family Law Matters, helped train LawY, an AI legal research assistant.

How to exit your job gracefully in law

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How to exit your job gracefully in law

For the 1 in 4 Australian lawyers considering leaving their job, the current job market is tipped in their favour. However, Australia’s legal profession is tight-knit and relatively small, so reputation matters. If you are leaving your role for fresh challenges, here are our top tips on how to exit your job gracefully in law, from the College of Law’s National Careers Advisors Ruth Beran and Susan Pincus.

Juggling full-time work, parenting and PLT possible through the College of Law, says Kerala Drew

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Juggling full-time work, parenting and PLT possible through the College of Law, says Kerala Drew

Kerala Drew found the path to qualifying as an Australian lawyer fraught with roadblocks. Learn how she landed her first job in law, what set her College of Law PLT experience apart from prior study, and what advice she might have for lawyers looking to join the Australian legal profession.

6 tips to build your brand and leave a lasting impression

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6 tips to build your brand and leave a lasting impression

Here are 6 tips to help you leave a lasting impression and showcase your worth. 

Graduate spotlight: Stella Richards on how the shift from health to law was like ‘learning a new language’

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Graduate spotlight: Stella Richards on how the shift from health to law was like ‘learning a new language’

Since completing her Practical Legal Training (PLT) at the College in 2023, Stella Richards has been a valued part of the commercial team at leading Australian law firm Russell Kennedy. But she started out in a different field entirely. Stella’s story shows that hard work, determination and a good deal of courage can lead you to your perfect career – even if you change direction once or twice along the way.

Top 10 Most Influential Court Cases of the Last 40 Years

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Top 10 Most Influential Court Cases of the Last 40 Years

To mark our 40th anniversary, The College of Law recently ran a survey asking for your view on the top 10 most influential High Court of Australia cases over the last 40 years. The responses you provided us showcased a range of landmark cases, spanning from Indigenous land rights, to clashes between territory and Commonwealth, to the David-vs-Goliath legal struggles of refugees.

5 tips on taking your legal career overseas and to new heights!

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5 tips on taking your legal career overseas and to new heights!

Do you fantasise about foreign cities, buzzing cultures and access to connected world hubs? As a lawyer you are well placed to explore these very things and expand your career lens. Helen Tung, barrister, senior counsel and teaching fellow at the College of Law, has led an impressive legal career working across the UK, UAE, America, Australia and Japan. We asked Helen for her advice to lawyers wanting to take their legal careers to the world stage.

Top 10 Most Expensive Legal Settlements in History

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Top 10 Most Expensive Legal Settlements in History

Billion-dollar companies who fall foul of the law, or billionaires who fall foul of a spouse, can result in eye-watering legal settlements. In the case of class actions, financial payouts can be a major way to provide recompense and right wrongs. Here is our top 10 list of the most expensive settlements in history… costly class actions, pharmaceutical payouts and extravagant divorces.

The Road to Becoming a Company Secretary

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The Road to Becoming a Company Secretary

There is no shortage of reasons to hire a law graduate for a job that isn't solely legally focussed. Among the new lawyers graduating from law school every year are some of our generation’s best, brightest and most hard-working prospective employees and it’s not just law firms that are sitting up and taking notice.

Creating a Strategic Plan For Your Law Firm

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Creating a Strategic Plan For Your Law Firm

Sue-Ella Prodonovich of Prodonovich Advisory shares her tips for creating a solid business strategy for your law firm. 

How lawyer Brid Heffernan went from Irish recession to a career in legal transformation

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How lawyer Brid Heffernan went from Irish recession to a career in legal transformation

Brid Heffernan has grown through legal recruitment, litigation ops and support, and legaltech - the quintessential business of law. We caught up with Brid to trace her unlikely and impressive trajectory and experience with The College of Law.

5 steps to stand out as a lawyer: Get ahead of the legal competition

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5 steps to stand out as a lawyer: Get ahead of the legal competition

How do you stand out in Australia's competitive legal market, filled with talented solicitors? We spoke with Shona Rowan, a people and culture consultant, high-performance coach, and bestselling author, about what it takes to rise above the rest. Here, she shares five expert steps to help lawyers reach their full professional potential.

What are the legal implications of the Voice?

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What are the legal implications of the Voice?

Throughout the 2023 referendum, some have expressed uncertainty over the legal impact and implications of the Voice. We spoke to Associate Professors Elisa Arcioni and Andrew Edgar of the University of Sydney Law School to gain clarity over how the Voice came about, what it can (and can’t) do, and what legal practitioners need to know about the Voice.

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