K&L Gates is a global law firm with a strong presence in Australia, offering diverse career opportunities for law students and graduates. The firm has a strong reputation for providing solutions that meet the demands of a global economy.
K&L Gates operates one of the largest global law firm networks, with more than 45 offices across five continents, including Australia. In Australia, the firm has established its footprint in four major cities: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and Perth. These offices are strategically positioned in key business hubs, enabling the firm to cater to local and international clients with nuanced understanding and adaptability to regional and cross-border matters. With a large Australian team, K&L Gates offers clients world-class service while fostering a collaborative environment for aspiring legal professionals to thrive.
The culture at K&L Gates emphasizes collaboration, diversity, and professional development. The firm fosters a supportive, inclusive work environment where diversity of background and thought is highly valued, creating a workplace where all employees feel empowered to contribute and grow. This culture is bolstered by initiatives focused on wellness, inclusion, and leadership development. K&L Gates provides law students and recent graduates with ample resources for training and mentorship, ensuring they are well-prepared for the demands of a dynamic legal career.
K&L Gates has grown into a leading global law firm through strategic mergers and expansions. Formed in 2007 through the merger of U.S.-based firms Kirkpatrick & Lockhart and Preston Gates & Ellis, K&L Gates has continuously expanded its global footprint, which now spans Europe, the Americas, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific. This strategic growth has cemented its reputation as a top international firm providing solutions that meet the demands of a global economy, emphasizing integrity, innovative practices, and deep industry knowledge.
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Early careers
K&L Gates offers a structured 12-month graduate program in Australia, featuring three practice group rotations, allowing participants to explore various areas within the firm, from corporate law to litigation. Graduates work alongside experienced lawyers on high-profile cases, gaining practical skills and industry insights. Each graduate is paired with a mentor for support and guidance, with additional training workshops and career development sessions to build a solid foundation for their legal careers.
For penultimate-year law students, K&L Gates offers clerkships in Melbourne and Sydney, providing hands-on experience in commercial law. The clerkship program includes practical activities like client meetings, court visits, and involvement in real legal cases. Clerks receive structured feedback from supervisors, attend workshops, and have networking opportunities to connect with partners and associates, giving them invaluable insight into the daily life of a commercial lawyer and the firm’s culture and values.
K&L Gates also provides career paths for allied professionals who play a critical role in supporting the firm’s operations. These roles include positions in finance, human resources, marketing, and administration. The firm values the unique perspectives and skills of allied professionals, offering tailored development programs and training sessions to enhance their career growth. At K&L Gates, allied professionals are integral to the firm's success and are encouraged to pursue long-term career growth within the global organization.
Resources & Topic Summaries
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