Working at Coulter Roache

Coulter Roache places great emphasis on creating a happy and friendly work environment for its staff, which is reflected in its relationships with clients.

Staff are kept informed of all major developments and participate on internal committees such as Library and Precedent Committees as well as attending Work Group meetings. Lawyers actively participate in local networking functions, clubs, associations and legal industry activities. The firm also conducts annual Performance Appraisals and all staff are encouraged to participate in training.

Our lawyers attend weekly internal CLE training as well as seminars and workshops in Melbourne conducted by the LIV, Leo Cussen Institute and other legal training organisations. The firm also has an active pro bono program and many lawyers hold Board or Committee positions with local charity and welfare organsations.

The firm has an active Social Committee that arrange staff functions and participate in local charity events including:

Traineeships (previously Articled Clerkships)

The firm usually recruits 1-2 articled clerks per year. The Clerks undertake 3 four month rotations including Litigation/Family, Property & Wills, and Corporate & Commercial, thereby providing them with a comprehensive grounding and understanding of the basics in all areas of law. The Clerks are supervised directly by a Partner and are given the opportunity to learn valuable drafting, negotiation, strategic and evaluation, and practice development skills. They attend weekly CLE training and attend seminars and workshops in Melbourne conducted by the LIV, Leo Cussen Institute and other legal training organisations. Clerks are encouraged to assist with Pro Bono work, to become a loaned Executive with United Way and to volunteer at the local Barwon Community Legal Centre.

Michael Johnston – Articled Clerk 2007 "Having started in the Commercial group for my first rotation, I worked directly with 2 Partners in the firm on various matters within my first 2 months, including some complex shareholder disputes. In addition, I was given some of my own files to handle, which certainly helped me develop good client relations skills. By being actively involved in files from the outset, I gained invaluable experience that has helped me develop my legal practice. I am now a first year lawyer in the Commercial Group".

Cherie Ford – Articled Clerk 2006 "Having worked at Coulter Roache while completing my degree, during my articles period I was largely responsible for my own files. However, I was also given the opportunity to work closely with the firm's lawyers and partners to gain experience and further develop my practical legal skills including attending client interviews, advising, legal research and drafting. I am now a second year lawyer in Commercial and Property with my own clientbase".

Application Process: The firm adheres to the LIV Articled Guidelines.

2009 applications: Closed - Trainee already appointed

2010 applications: Deadline 30 January 2009

Interviews: Commence 2 February 2009 (unless student otherwise authorised by LIV)

Offers: Monday 2 March 2009
Please send applications: marked HR Manager to info@coulterroache.com.au or post to PO Box 700 Geelong VIC 3220. Include your resume, academic results and referees with contact details.


Summer & Winter Clerkships

The firm accepts applications for Work Experience throughout the year including the University mid year and end of year breaks. We are currently booked out during University breaks to 14 March 2009! Students may still apply to do two weeks unpaid work experience during semesters in 2008 and 2009. To apply, send your resume with academic results and requested dates to info@coulterroache.com.au

Job Applications Litigation Lawyer Our busy litigation team is currently looking for a litigation solicitor with 1-4 years experience. The successful candidate will gain a broad range of experience which will include acting for clients in: general civil litigation, construction disputes, challenges to decisions of Planning Authorities and defending regulatory enforcement actions for retail and energy clients.  This position will offer a high level of client contact as well as the opportunity to work closely with more senior lawyers, consultants and partners on larger commercial disputes. The ideal candidate will present with excellent interpersonal skills, a commitment to a high level of client service, excellent analytical and research skills and have a sound knowledge of civil procedure. They must be flexible, friendly and enjoy working as part of a team. Please send applications: marked "Confidential to HR Manager" to info@coulterroache.com.au or post to PO Box 700 Geelong VIC 3220. Include your resume, academic results and referees with contact details. We are also happy to accept resumes at any time from those with strong existing experience in the legal profession as lawyers, paralegals, clerks or administrative assistants.