Graduate Role

You will be based in our office, on Auckland’s North Shore. Rotate through three areas of expertise before taking up specialisation – Trusts, Commercial and Property. From the outset, you’ll be involved in a diverse range of work and have direct client contact.

We foster a supportive and collaborative work environment. As you rotate through teams, you’ll receive mentorship from experienced solicitors and dedicated support from the director who oversees staff development.

In this role you are encouraged and supported to complete your professional legal studies course.

All applicants will be required to email documentation to us.

EMAIL TO:

reception@davenportslaw.co.nz

SUBJECT MATTER:

Graduate Role

Email to include:

• CV
• Cover letter
• Academic Transcript
• References

Meet Ella Field

SOLICITOR, DAVENPORTS LAW

What made you choose this firm for your graduate role?

I chose to work with Davenports Law because it was evident that the firm had a good culture, which was a culture that I wanted to be a part of. My first impression of the firm was that staff members were warm and approachable and very capable at what they do. This was proven to be correct very quickly after I started working for Davenports. The culture at Davenports has really shaped me into the lawyer I am today.

How does being a graduate differ from your time as a clerk (if applicable)?

The main difference between my role as a solicitor to my previous role as a law graduate would have to be the greater autonomy I have to lead my own client files. It is a great feeling to be trusted to lead client meetings by myself, but to always know that there is a lot of support behind me if I have questions or feel as though it would be in the best interests of the client to have another senior lawyer with me during the meeting. During my time as a law graduate, I was able to be a part of many meetings with clients which were led by either one of the directors or more senior lawyers, through this I was able to learn how to lead my own meetings, which really helped to grow my confidence.

What has been your experience working with senior lawyers and partners?

The senior lawyers and directors at Davenports are very approachable and helpful when I ask questions. I truly never feel as though I am left to figure things out alone, which would be a scary feeling to have as a young lawyer! It is so great to work in a firm where questions are welcomed.

How has the firm supported your transition from law school to legal practice?

The firm has supported my transition from law graduate to lawyer in many ways. There is a really strong focus at Davenports on mentoring, and I think this is the main way that I have been supported in my journey from law graduate to lawyer. Many staff members at Davenports are and have been mentors to me both in my legal career but also personally. I am grateful to be surrounded by such amazing and intelligent people every day, who I know genuinely care about me as a person, as well as caring about how I am doing work-wise.

What advice would you give to new law graduates?

My best piece of advice I would give to new law graduates is that you will never regret asking a question if you are feeling unsure about something. Another piece of advice would be to find a firm that has a culture that suits who you are as a person. This has made my life at work really enjoyable as a new lawyer.

If you could give one piece of advice to your past self before starting this job, what would it be?

When I was first admitted as a lawyer, I remember becoming very aware that my work really mattered and did have consequences. This was quite the difference from university when your work only affects you and your grades. There were times at work where this worried me as I was fearful about making mistakes and the major consequences that they could have. Obviously, this is a reasonable fear to have as a young lawyer who is constantly learning! I will always remember one of my mentors telling me that having a level of fear is a good thing to have, as it means that you will be careful and cautious in your work, which is needed in your role as a lawyer. However, she also reminded me that you have to work hard to not let this fear consume you, or you will never get anything done for your client! I am always working towards this balance in my work. Human error cannot be avoided completely but taking my time and always asking questions to staff who are more senior than me are both ways that mistakes can be reduced.