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Perfectionism in the legal profession: Secret weapon or secret shackle?

Published:
24 Oct 2023
News
Perfectionism in the legal profession: Secret weapon or secret shackle?

There are plenty of double-edged swords in today’s world. Technology, social media, ambition – to name a few. But in the legal profession, none comes sharper than perfectionism

Often touted as a lawyer’s secret weapon for success, perfectionism can boost productivity and improve your case results. But there is a shadow to this trait.

We spoke with Shona Rowan, a people and culture consultant, high-performance coach and best-selling author, on how to spot, harness and tackle perfectionism – for a constructive and sustained legal career.  

How to wield your perfectionist sword rather than fall on it… 

 

The allure of perfectionism 

It’s a tale as old as time. A lawyer pours over their case notes, searching for mistakes and missed details. Then they strut into court, armed with hidden knowledge and confidence – and argue their way to a glorious win.

What got them over the line? Their meticulous attention to detail. Their penchant for perfectionism.

While this exact scenario may not play out daily, you’ve likely experienced a similar moment. When perfectionism helped you achieve a successful result – or won you praise.

Shona says that’s because the competitive nature and high expectations of the legal profession encourage this way of working.

There is a constant need for expertise from lawyers. So, they’re incentivised to produce exceptionally high-quality work – and often work diligently to create it. I see many high achievers with perfectionist tendencies.

But there can be some collateral damage in this quest for excellence.

 

The downside of perfectionism 

One of perfectionism’s biggest pitfalls? Analysis paralysis. 

This is when people are unable to make a choice or complete a task due to fear of making mistakes,” Shona says. “Their need for impeccable results brings this excessive attention and revision.”

This overthinking (and, at times, procrastination) often results in a time drain – and pulls attention away from other crucial tasks.  

On top of that, perfectionists tend to struggle with delegation and overwork. And when you combine these factors, you get an emotional toll: high stress, anxiety or even burnout.” 

So it is important to consider the impact perfectionism may be having on your personal and working lives. It could take a toll on your health and wellbeing, it may also take a toll on your efficiency and productiveness.

 

The causes of perfectionism 

While it’s tempting to pinpoint a root cause of perfectionism, there are many reasons it occurs.

Our thoughts, beliefs and expectations create perfectionism. And those are shaped by our life experiences. So, if you've had a lot of criticism, rejection or unrealistic expectations in the past – either professionally or personally – you’re more likely to experience perfectionism.”

Other factors like our workplace culture, parental relationships and past trauma can contribute to perfectionist tendencies. Shona encourages lawyers to reflect on their identity and life experiences to uncover their own unique reasons.

"Personality traits like high levels of conscientiousness and self-criticism can predispose people to perfectionism," Shona says. "As can past trauma, as can the family environment or parental style we grew up with. Even societal norms that emphasise achievement and success can further propel perfectionism - and don't forget the impact of social media."

 

Spotting (and stopping) perfectionism in its tracks 

So, now you know why perfectionism occurs. How can you tell if it’s adversely affecting you?

You need to be on the lookout for a few things internally,” Shona explains. “Do you feel increased stress or anxiety? Check in with your body. Are you physically exhausted from overwork?

Then have a look at your external world. Have you missed (or nearly missed) deadlines, are you struggling to sleep or maintain healthy relationships? If yes, that’s a pretty clear indication you’re in the grips of perfectionism.” 

Checklist:

  • Increased levels of stress, anxiety or depression
  • Insomnia or physical exhaustion from overworking
  • Reduced productivity, missed deadlines or analysis paralysis
  • Pervasive strained relationships
  • Lower levels of happiness, energy or satisfaction in your personal or professional life

Say you’ve identified perfectionism lurking in your professional toolkit, the next question becomes: how can you harness its strengths while curbing its excesses? According to Shona, the first step is unpicking your relationship to perfectionism. 

This is about challenging how you see perfectionism. If you tell yourself it’s a badge of honour, your subconscious will continue to drive it. It’s deep work that takes time, and there’s no shortcut.”

You don’t have to lower your standards. But you do need to learn to accept that not everything deserves your time and energy to the same degree."

 

Shona's 5 practical steps to help you manage your perfectionism 

1. It all starts with reviewing our mindset and psychology: So the first step is to challenge the way you view perfectionism....is it really the be-all and end-all? Could it be creating lots of additional stress in your career and in fact, be holding you back? Is it really helping you perform better? What does it even mean to be perfect?

2. Learning to accept that not everything deserves the same amount of time and energy: I always say to my clients aim for excellence over perfection. Consider your time, resources, and objectives. Many times, done is better than perfect.

3. Embracing a growth mindset, see mistakes as opportunities for learning and improvement: Remember we are all a work in progress and be kinder to yourself when this happens.

4. Focussing on your strengths more than your perceived weaknesses: Perfectionism can cause us to focus on the negative aspects of ourselves or our development areas and lose touch with all our amazing strengths.

5. Seeking coaching or support: Knowing this information at a conscious level is not enough. It takes time, application and commitment to address the stress, self-criticism and negative thoughts, beliefs and associated behaviour patterns that often come with perfectionism.

It can be helpful to dive into quality resources – like Shona’s book ‘The Psychology of Successful Women’ or ‘The Gifts of Imperfection’ by author and professor Brene Brown – to practise identifying and harnessing perfectionism. After all, practice drives progress. 

 

A note on imposter syndrome while we are at it

Where Batman has Robin, perfectionism has imposter syndrome. So, let’s touch on this fickle phenomenon while we’re here.

Imposter syndrome is this pervasive feeling of self-doubt, inadequacy and incompetence despite evidence of success,” Shona explains. “People who struggle with it often feel a sense of intellectual fraudulence, or like they're not as good, capable or smart as others.”

According to Shona, it often goes hand-in-hand with perfectionism. And together, they can create an unhealthy cycle of self-doubt, unrealistic expectations and self-judgment.

Studies show that 80% of lawyers experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers, compared to 70% of the general population. That’s a concerning statistic."

While there may be some motivational benefits to imposter syndrome (and perfectionism), like driving individuals to work harder for success and adhere to high standards, prolonged imposter syndrome can lead to disadvantages.

"It can lead to career stagnation and hinder long-term achievement as people with imposter syndrome often say 'no' to opportunities as they don’t feel good enough, or smart enough, and have a fear of being found out as a fraud. This may lead them to avoid challenges and opportunities for growth and career progression," Shona explains.

"Prolonged imposter syndrome can erode self-esteem and self-worth, making it difficult for individuals to appreciate their accomplishments. The constant pressure to prove oneself can lead to chronic stress and anxiety and eventually burnout and exhaustion over time."

 

Pain points for lawyers

Early in their career: Many lawyers experience imposter syndrome during their early years in practice. The transition from law school to real-world legal practice can be daunting, and the pressure to prove oneself can be intense.

Job transitions: Lawyers may feel imposter syndrome when transitioning to new roles or areas of law, moving to a different firm, or transitioning from private practice to public service.

Promotions and advancements: Interestingly imposter syndrome can become more pronounced as lawyers progress in their careers and take on higher-level roles. The increased responsibility and visibility may lead to self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy.

Comparisons with peers: Lawyers often compare themselves to their peers, and this constant benchmarking can contribute to imposter syndrome, especially when colleagues appear to be more successful or confident. 

We need to be talking about this – reducing the stigma and normalising it in the profession. So people can seek support and achieve balance, longevity and success in their careers,” Shona says. 

 

Embracing a healthier approach for a better life

The road away from the confines of perfectionism and imposter syndrome is paved with practical strategies. Reflection techniques, such as journaling and asking yourself challenging questions, are invaluable. Shona says these will keep you alert to the comparison trap and other negative mental health impacts. 

“While it may sound counterintuitive in the legal world, remember that good is generally better than perfect. And it may even propel your career.” 

Now you have greater insight into understanding perfectionism we hope this can help build a more balanced approach to your work. 

 

About Shona Rowan

Shona Rowan is a people and culture consultant, high-performance coach, keynote speaker and best-selling author. She is also the founder of The Psychology of Successful Women Career Acceleration Program and Podcast. 

Shona has over 15 years of international experience working with Fortune 500 companies, professional service firms, entrepreneurs, business owners and career-minded individuals to accelerate their careers, overcome imposter syndrome, maximise performance and accelerate their success. 

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LLM graduate Ilvana Nanic shares why she finds family law so rewarding, and her advice to lawyers interested in studying The College of Law LLM.

Meet Best Graduating Student in Commercial Litigation, Dominique Mayo

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Meet Best Graduating Student in Commercial Litigation, Dominique Mayo

Explore how an LLM helped best graduating student (commercial litigation) Dominique Mayo advance her career.

How to break into family law with Jo Bragg

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How to break into family law with Jo Bragg

Jo Bragg, a solicitor in regional Tasmania, started as a generalist lawyer. Her personal experience of separation, along with increasing client demand, prompted her to move into family law. Insights spoke to Jo about what attracted her to family law, what her day-to-day life looks like in practice, and her advice for lawyers looking to move into the area.

How ESG will impact your area of practice in law

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How ESG will impact your area of practice in law

Four years ago, ESG (Environmental, Social and Governance) principles barely registered, even today many people are left asking – “what is ESG?”. In a nutshell ESG is a framework that is used to assess a businesses’ sustainability and ethical performance. ESG principles are an ever-growing part of doing business today. For those wanting to know more about ESG the College of Law will be holding a free ESG in Australia seminar Thursday 18th of May onsite at the College headquarters in Sydney and online. 

The future has never looked brighter: words from our CEO on the College’s big move

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The future has never looked brighter: words from our CEO on the College’s big move

After more than 50 years at St Leonards, The College of Law is moving into the heart of Sydney’s CBD in early 2022.

A Lawyer's Guide to Getting Published

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A Lawyer's Guide to Getting Published

Looking to enhance your area of legal expertise via publication? Academic journals have long been a popular option for lawyers to establish a strong reputation in their practice area.

Navigating Family Law Changes: Insights from the LLM Program

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Navigating Family Law Changes: Insights from the LLM Program

Kathryn Kearley webinar on navigating recent the family law changes and the College of Law's family law postgraduate programs.

Reclaiming your career after a career break

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Reclaiming your career after a career break

Insights explores the issue of when lawyers decide to take a temporary break from the law, and what both lawyers and employers can do help experienced legal professionals return to the profession.

NSW introduces combined Succession & Probate Lists: Key Updates

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NSW introduces combined Succession & Probate Lists: Key Updates

Recently, the Supreme Court of New South Wales introduced combined Succession & Probate Lists, applicable to family provision claims and contested probate applications. Queensland is also trialling a Wills and Estates List and there are likely to be further implications for other jurisdictions. We spoke to College of Law Lecturer Josephine Pignataro, Special Counsel at HWL Ebsworth, about what you need to know and how this will impact your practice.

REVEALED: The College’s most popular on-demand CPD short courses for 2024

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REVEALED: The College’s most popular on-demand CPD short courses for 2024

To prepare you for what’s next, let’s unpack the College of Law’s 5 most popular on-demand CPD Digital Subscription courses. It’s the best way to keep your skills sharp – and your mind engaged.

From procrastination to passion

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From procrastination to passion

Overcoming procrastination is quite simple: passion. There must be an internal desire, not dependent on anything except ourselves. That’s why we enable our learners to choose the courses and practice areas that matter most to them - from family law to advocacy - we’re helping lawyers reclaim their power and focus on the areas that they are passionate about.

Your Guide to a Career in Legal Operations

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Your Guide to a Career in Legal Operations

In Australia, the legal profession is evolving rapidly, driven by technological advancements and complex demands from clients and employers. Legal operations professionals, not necessarily with legal backgrounds, are pivotal in integrating new technologies, project management, and process improvements to meet modern market needs.

Nationally Accredited Mediator Training Course Guide

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Nationally Accredited Mediator Training Course Guide

Download our Nationally Accredited Mediator Training handbook, if you are considering adding mediation to your skill set. Inside you'll find everything you need to know about the course.

Vale Kay Smith

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Vale Kay Smith

On Monday 15 August 2016, Kay Smith, one of The College of Law’s longest serving and most respected people died after a short illness.

Kay’s legal career began when she gained her qualification in Law through the NSW Legal Practitioners Admission Board. Kay then obtained a position as an articled clerk with a city firm at a time when there were very few openings for women in the legal profession. She was admitted as a solicitor and established a legal career. She moved from private practice to the College of Law in 1983 – the start of a 30 year career at the College.

A Guide to Cross-Qualifying as an Australian Lawyer in the UK

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A Guide to Cross-Qualifying as an Australian Lawyer in the UK

The College delves into the key requirements, steps involved, and potential challenges of cross-qualifying as an Australian lawyer in the UK. We spoke to Duha Al Hassnawi, an Australian foreign lawyer based in London, for her insights on the dual qualification process. Duha is currently enrolled in The College of Legal Practice’s SQE1 prep course.

Dispute Resolution Postgraduate Programs Course Guide

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Dispute Resolution Postgraduate Programs Course Guide

Download the Dispute Resolution Postgraduate Course Guide to learn how our program can equip you with essential skills to resolve conflicts effectively and build a rewarding career in this growing field.

Graduate Certificate in International Arbitration Practice Course Guide

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Graduate Certificate in International Arbitration Practice Course Guide

Download the Graduate Certificate in International Arbitration Practice Course Guide and unlock the skills needed to navigate complex, cross-border legal disputes with confidence and efficiency.

Property Law Postgraduate Programs Course Guide

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Property Law Postgraduate Programs Course Guide

Download the Property Law Postgraduate Course Guide and discover how our specialised program can help you build expertise and thrive in this dynamic field.

Graduate Certificate in Applied Law Guide

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Graduate Certificate in Applied Law Guide

Looking to boost your legal career but not ready to dive into a Master of Laws (LLM)?
 
The Graduate Certificate in Applied Law might be the answer.
 
Offering a flexible and affordable way to upskill, the Graduate Certificate is a popular option for busy legal professionals looking to sharpen their skills or master a particular field.
 
Download this course guide to receive more information. 
How to have the career you want with John Poulsen

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How to have the career you want with John Poulsen

How do you transcend the daily grind to do work you love? When can a career become a calling? What steps can you take to achieve the career you want? We spoke to John Poulsen, former CEO of Squire Patton Boggs and Principal of People Passion Performance, for his insights on getting the career you want informed by an illustrious career in law and leadership.

50 years of expertise in one CPD solution

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50 years of expertise in one CPD solution

For 50 years, the College of Law has led the way in practical legal education.

We stand in our own lane – empowering practitioners to become the best lawyers they can be. How? With innovative, hands-on training that evolves with the demands of the legal profession.

Our CPD Digital Subscription is built on this legacy.

The legal ramifications of the Queen’s death are surprisingly small

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The legal ramifications of the Queen’s death are surprisingly small

We talk to the College of Law’s Adrian Deans, Academic Policy & Quality, James Crittenden, Head of Short Courses and CPD, and Lewis Patrick, Chief Academic Officer, about some of the pragmatic impacts of the Queen’s passing on the law and Australian legal profession.

3 Key Insights from the State of Separation Impact Report: Making Separation Simpler

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3 Key Insights from the State of Separation Impact Report: Making Separation Simpler

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.

Your Guide to a Career in Property Law

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Your Guide to a Career in Property Law

Download your guide to a career in property law for everything you need to know about property law in a nutshell, the personal strengths of a property lawyer, the core expertise of a property lawyer, related areas of expertise, and the career prospects in property law.

How to Become a Partner Guide

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How to Become a Partner Guide

This guide will help you navigate the first steps towards becoming a partner. It will help you reflect on your own motivations, assess your skill set, and determine the best path forward in your career.

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.

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