Starting your legal career can feel uncertain. You’ve completed your studies, but knowing what employers are looking for in a graduate isn’t always obvious. While your legal knowledge is important, employers are often looking beyond your degree to the skills, experiences and qualities you’ll bring to the workplace.

What employers are really looking for

Legal knowledge is only one part of the picture.

Employers are looking for graduates who can communicate clearly, work collaboratively and build professional relationships. They want people who show initiative, demonstrate genuine interest in the role and are ready to contribute from day one.

Technical skills may get you an interview, but your communication, professionalism and attitude are often what set you apart.

Experience doesn’t have to be legal

Many students worry they don’t have enough legal experience. In reality, experience gained outside the legal profession can be just as valuable.

Roles in customer service, retail, administration or other client-facing environments help develop transferable skills, including:

• Communication
• Teamwork
• Time management
• Problem solving
• Working under pressure

The key is being able to explain what you’ve learned and how those skills apply to a legal workplace.

Tell your story with confidence

Employers understand you’re applying for your first legal role. They’re not expecting years of experience.

Instead, they’re looking for graduates who can reflect on their experiences, identify their strengths and clearly communicate what they can bring to the role.

Being able to explain your motivations, interests and achievements with confidence can make a significant difference during applications and interviews.

Do grades matter?

Academic results are important, but they’re only one part of the recruitment process.

Employers also consider your practical skills, experience, communication and overall fit for their organisation.

Strong grades alone won’t secure a role, and average grades won’t necessarily prevent you from succeeding. Demonstrating capability across a range of experiences is equally important.

Where can your legal career take you?

Many graduates begin their careers in private practice, but there are many pathways into the legal profession.

Graduates also build successful careers in:

• Government
• In-house legal teams
• Community legal centres
• Corporate organisations
• Not-for-profit organisations

Your first role is just the beginning of your legal career, not the destination.

Build the skills employers value

Practical Legal Training (PLT) gives you the opportunity to develop the practical skills employers are looking for before you begin your legal career.

At Leo Cussen, you’ll build capability through realistic client matters, immersive practical learning and guidance from practising lawyers, helping you graduate with the confidence to take the next step.