Applying for admission is an exciting step towards becoming a lawyer, but there’s more to the process than showing you’ve completed your law degree and Practical Legal Training (PLT).

You’ll also need to demonstrate your suitability to enter the legal profession, prepare the required documentation and understand your disclosure obligations. Here are some important things to know before you start your application.

1. Requirements vary between states and territories

The admission process is managed by the relevant admitting authority in each Australian state and territory, so the requirements and documentation you need to provide can vary.

Before you start preparing your application, check the guidance provided by the admitting authority where you intend to apply. This will help you understand what information you need to provide and give you time to gather the relevant documents.

2. Admission considers your suitability to enter the profession

Completing your academic and practical legal training requirements is only part of the admission process. You’ll also need to demonstrate that you are a fit and proper person to enter the legal profession.

Lawyers hold a position of trust and become officers of the court. As part of your application, the admitting authority will consider qualities such as honesty, candour and your understanding of the professional responsibilities that come with practising law.

3. You may need to disclose more than you expect

An important part of your application is disclosing matters that may be relevant to your suitability to enter the profession.

Depending on the requirements in your jurisdiction and your individual circumstances, this could include matters relating to:

• academic misconduct
• criminal offences
• traffic infringements
• financial matters
• social security matters
• disciplinary action in another profession
• other conduct relevant to your character or suitability

These are examples rather than an exhaustive list, so always check the requirements of your relevant admitting authority.

4. Having something to disclose doesn’t necessarily prevent admission

If you do have something to disclose, it doesn’t necessarily mean you won’t be able to become a lawyer.

The circumstances surrounding the matter are important, as is the way you approach your disclosure. Your application is an opportunity to demonstrate candour and show that you understand what happened, why it matters and what you have learned from the experience.

Being open about relevant matters is an important part of demonstrating your suitability to enter a profession built on trust and professional responsibility.

5. Give yourself time to prepare

Depending on your circumstances, preparing your admission application may involve gathering supporting documents and providing detailed information about matters you need to disclose.

Starting early gives you time to understand the requirements, collect the information you need and seek guidance if you’re unsure about any part of your application.

If you’re uncertain about whether something needs to be disclosed, check the guidance provided by your admitting authority and seek advice before submitting your application.

6. You’ll need someone to move your admission

Once your application has been approved, you’ll need an admitted lawyer to move your admission.

Your mover attends your admission ceremony and formally asks the court for you to be admitted to the legal profession. This could be a lawyer you know through work, mentoring or your professional network.

For Leo Cussen PLT students, our experienced team can provide guidance throughout the admission process. Our lawyer mentors also regularly move the admissions of students they have supported throughout their PLT.

Preparing early, understanding your obligations and asking questions when you’re unsure can help you approach your admission application knowing what to expect.