Based on 37 surveyed graduates working at Clayton Utz. Read on to get an insider’s view on life as a graduate.
4.2
Based on 37 reviews
Pros & Cons
The CU firm culture and the people we have the privilege of working with. The culture is very supportive and inclusive, making it a great working and learning environment.
The people, the culture and the support. The outstanding pro bono vision we have as a firm. The excellent diversity and inclusion initiatives which allow everyone to bring their whole selves to work.
The work is challenging, interesting and diverse. The people are down to earth and will go out of their way to help you and mentor you.
Excellent training including constant opportunities to attend sessions for further learning and patient teachers
Great top-tier reputation and quality of clients and work. Very welcoming and laid back culture with great coworkers and partners. Excellent support during Covid-19 pandemic.
The work is often demanding and stressful, which is not unique to Clayton Utz, but rather a feature of the profession. As a graduate this can make the job difficult at times.
Being in the transactional group, the hours can fluctuate and there are peaks and troughs which can sometimes result in an irregular work schedule. However, the partners and senior leaders of the firm are very supportive of flexible work arrangements which allow us to adapt to these schedules.
No full time pro-bono roles for young lawyers
Sometimes the workflow can be unpredictable and the balance between very quiet weeks and very busy weeks can be difficult to maintain and get used to.
If you are in a team that doesn't have much work or only document review
What Insiders Say
7.9
Career Prospects
7.9
Career Prospects
Progression is quite structured, particularity through the graduate program. Senior associate level is not achieved until 5 years PQE minimum.
The firm's CSR commitment appears to be fairly strong and genuine. We have a workplace giving program, donate and volunteer for many community partners across the different offices, and provide pro bono legal services where requested.
The culture is social and supportive. The people at CU genuinely enjoy working with one another as well as socialising outside of work ours. The firm has various sporting teams that we can join and often hosts social events such as dinners, Christmas parties and various social outings throughout the year.
There are excellent panels and groups that are open to all employees. There is a genuine desire to start as many conversations as possible and to obtain insights from experts and internal employees.
As a junior I am given a good level of both responsibility and guidance. I don't generate much work for myself but can rely on seniors in the team getting in touch each day with varied, interesting work for me to assist with. Usually involves drafting, research and matter management
Facilities are modern and well maintained and close to city area. Full kitchen is provided with coffee and tea facilities, fruit, biscuits, muesli bars and snack provided. Dress code is business Monday-Thursday and casual on Fridays.
Be yourself and express your personal passions and interests in your application. You will stand out more if you present yourself true to who you are rather than a person you think the company may be looking for.
Training is excellent. There are frequently training seminars and workshops to expand your skills in basically any area. There are often CLE seminars which expand your knowledge in different areas.
The firm is flexible regarding working from home or from the office. The firm also regularly encourages employees to discuss flexible working arrangements with their supervisors where necessary.
The firm is conscious and uses environmentally friendly products in the cafe/kitchen. There are also signs in the office printing rooms reminding staff to reduce printing where possible.