Henna Holt
Whether you are a law student, recent graduate or a
young professional, the thought of working
outside Australia might have crossed your mind.
Living as an expatriate
and practicing law in a completely new environment is exciting to say the
least, but what are the things worth considering before launching off with
applications? If you set your mind on working, for example, in the European
Union area, visas are not the only thing you need to think about. Like
ethnographic cultures, law firm cultures are very different. The type of
culture you choose is as important as the area of law you want to practice,
plus it doesn’t hurt to like what you do.
Firm Culture
Cultural differences in and outside the firms will
vary from country to country. Having witnessed how law firms operate in the
Nordic countries and the EU, I can give a few pointers to consider when working
in small or big firm. First and foremost you are expected to be on time or few
minutes early in Finland, Sweden, Norway and Denmark. Being late is not only
considered disrespectful, but it also sends out a message saying you might not
be taking things seriously. Secondly, once the names are on the paper and you
have a new job under your belt, you are not expected to work around the clock
to dedicate your whole life to the firm. Especially in the Nordic area, people
value work-life balance so much there is specific legislation not only for
working overtime but also for paid parental leave and annual holidays.
What you are expected to do is to do your job with as minimal supervision
as possible and with essential language skills, typically English and the
local, but the more the merrier! Once in, many new lawyers are chosen in hopes
of them becoming long-time business partners in the future. Law students and
recent graduates have high employability and many choose to work in firms when
studying and off semester.
Working in Europe
In central EU things are slightly different. Depending
on the size of the firm the hours can be draining, the pace fast or slow, and
both the languages and practices used challenging at first. For example in
Italy, Spain, France and Germany fluency in the language is usually a must,
however since many aren’t fluent in English, an Australian could easily swipe
everyone off their feet and find many asking them for grammar advice – this
could come in handy in learning to speak like the locals, so it works both
ways. Young and mature lawyers are expected to stay in late but the over-all
firm culture and atmosphere are less strict and tad softer than up north.
For example in Brussels, the heart of Europe and European politics, many firms
are slow-paced, filled with friendly people eager to help you any way they can.
In a city where long lunches are common, you are encouraged to get to know your
colleagues in a way it enables great teamwork and supportive atmosphere. With a
custom like this comes responsibility too; you are entrusted with bigger tasks,
especially if you have a background in English law (never underestimate the
importance of common law heritage!.)
What about Australia’s common law partner UK? Since
London is the ultimate business place in the EU and major commercial hub
worldwide, prepare for fast-paced office environment with long hours. City
lawyers in big firms can work an average of 70 – 80 hours per week and trainees
are no exception. The firm culture is strict and hierarchy definitely exists. If
you want to have a better work-life balance but stay in England, working
outside the city in a regional firm might not be a bad idea. The key tip to
success overseas is to do as much research beforehand as possible, talk to
locals and learn from them.
This article
was written by Henna Holt. This is part of series post about what to
consider when working or looking to work in law firms outside Australia. Born
in Northern Finland, Henna has special knowledge about the field not only in
the Nordic countries but also within the EU. Henna is a law student in England,
UK and holds a Master’s degree in Social Sciences (Sociology). You can connect with her on twitter (@tinhenno)
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