Seasonal Clerkships with Carter Newell

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to join Carter Newell as a seasonal clerk? Well look no further! 

The People & Culture team at Carter Newell have prepared ‘a day in the life’ to give you some insights into the opportunities a seasonal clerkship has to offer as well as some tips to help you prepare your application. 

A Q&A session with the People & Culture team at Carter Newell.

What does a day in the life look like for a clerk in this program?

Thanks to the broad exposure and rich learning opportunities our clerks enjoy, each day looks different and there’s always something new to experience. You might start the day at a professional development session, learning about the latest trends in law or sharpening your skills. Following that, you could be in a client meeting, observing how seasoned lawyers interact with clients and handle their matters. After lunch, you might shadow your buddy, getting a firsthand look at their daily tasks and responsibilities. Afternoons could see you heading to court to witness the legal process in action, or staying in the office to research and draft legal documents. Depending on your team, you could also prepare for trial, analyse case law, or help brainstorm strategic legal approaches.

What sort of networking opportunities does this role provide?

Our seasonal clerks benefit from unique and valuable opportunities to build their network – including direct access to acclaimed lawyers and partners who can provide mentorship and career advice. From social events to professional development sessions and client meetings, there are many ways to broaden your professional network as a Carter Newell clerk. You can also meet peers who will become your future colleagues in the industry!

How can one use this program to excel in their future career as a lawyer? 

A seasonal clerkship is the best way to build a solid foundation for your legal career as you gain practical experience and immerse yourself into different practice areas. We encourage clerks to be fully engaged in activities, ask questions, have an open mind, and seek feedback – using this time to identify strengths and opportunities for improvement. Networking is crucial – connect with partners, mentors, and fellow clerks to build a professional network to support your career growth.

How many practice areas will I be exposed to throughout the program?

Our clerks rotate through two different practice areas, which helps uncover where interests and strengths lie. You might work in areas such as construction, projects & infrastructure, corporate law, commercial litigation, insurance, and more.

Could this clerkship lead to a potential graduate role with the firm?

Absolutely! At Carter Newell, we have many team members who started as clerks, flourished in the role, and have subsequently risen through the ranks, enjoying a long and rewarding career here. Those who thrive are the ones who are dedicated, adaptable, and genuinely interested what they’re doing. Building strong relationships and showcasing your skills can pave the way for a lasting career opportunity with Carter Newell.

What makes a clerkship at Carter Newell unique or what sets it apart from other clerkships?

Our supportive and collaborative culture, mixed with our high calibre of expertise and work, is what sets us apart. For clerks, it means an unparalleled learning experience with opportunities to work closely with partners and senior lawyers. Our values of Continuous growth and High-performance mindset drive a strong emphasis on professional development, manifesting in regular training sessions and mentorship programs. The diversity of practice areas and exposure to complex matters make this clerkship a unique and invaluable stepping stone in your legal career.

Our tips for Clerkship applications:

• Research the firm and tailor your cover letter: Show that you understand the firm’s values, culture, and practice areas. Mention specific reasons why you want to work there and how you can contribute.
• Make sure your CV is clear and easy to read: Highlight your relevant experiences and skills and avoid clutter. Use bullet points and concise language to make your CV impactful – and make sure to proofread!
• Be authentic and confident: Let your personality shine through. Firms are looking for candidates who not only have the skills but are a cultural fit.

Carter Newell offers both Summer (November – December) and Winter (June – July) clerkships.