Life at Allens
Clerkship applications: your questions answered
What's a clerkship at Allens really like? Get the inside scoop on what's involved and the opportunities you'll have as we answer some of the most frequently asked questions from students themselves.
How do you make your clerkship application stand out, and what does Allens look for?
Do your research and be prepared! Put your application together early, and don’t be afraid to personalise your cover letter.
We’re proud that there isn't an 'Allens' type'. We know that diverse perspectives help solve complex problems, strengthen teams and enrich client relationships. The more you enjoy working with a diverse range of people, the greater your success will be.
Do you have any advice for students applying for a clerk position at Allens?
Our top four tips to keep in mind while completing your clerkship application include:
- Be specific in your cover letter and interview answers.
- Do your research about the firm and be curious and interested about the work we do.
- Submit all the documents that are requested.
- Have a genuine interest in commercial law and the types of matters that Allens is involved in, as you'll need to demonstrate this throughout the recruitment process.
What work does Allens offer a clerk?
Our clerks work with some of the most experienced lawyers in Australia and encounter first-hand the type of work we do at Allens. You’ll have the opportunity to be part of a team, assisting with real-world matters, all while your performance coach and buddy support you along the way to help make the most of your clerkship.
You’ll be involved in some of the most complex domestic and global transactions and we’ll work with you to develop your understanding of commercial law and build your skills, providing the foundation you need to become a successful lawyer.
Our clerkship program is a stepping stone to bigger things, with many clerks going on to become graduates with us. Here is a quick rundown of what you can look forward to as a clerk at Allens:
- a personalised induction program that introduces you to our people and the work we do;
- on-the-job training with support from a partner and a junior lawyer, who will act as your performance coach and buddy;
- learning opportunities across practice groups, as we don't work in silos;
- the chance to work on real matters with many of Australia's and the world's top 100 companies;
- the opportunity to get involved in community and pro bono work, and learn about our committees and interest groups;
- the chance to learn about working within our alliance with Linklaters and about secondment opportunities;
- seminars that help to build a strong foundation of skills to help you become an excellent lawyer and thrive in our ever-changing world;
- social events, where you will really get to know us; and
- the opportunity to network with some of the best in the profession.
Does Allens offer clerkships to students outside their penultimate year?
Yes, we also accept applications from students in their final year of law.
Does Allens offer a graduate program?
Yes, we do have a graduate program, and we endeavour to fill our graduate positions through our clerkship program.
What is the progression path of a graduate lawyer at Allens?
As a graduate at Allens, you’ll complete two 12-month rotations in different practice areas. We don’t work in silos, so you won’t be limited to working with only one partner or by your practice areas. There’s no substitute for the depth of insight that comes from working with different teams.
You’ll work on complex transactions with leading organisations. And, you’ll have the opportunity to apply for a client or international secondment to London, Dubai or Asia via our Linklaters alliance.
Following the graduate program, you may then have the opportunity to progress to an associate role with a team you completed a rotation with.