“Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they have the heart.” – Elizabeth Andrews
Volunteering is a business of the heart; it is the inherent passion within us to do good and serve others, most commonly through community development, community engagement and community service. In the legal industry, volunteering assumes many forms, but most commonly through assisting at community legal services or non-profit or non-governmental organisations.
Getting involved in volunteer work, whether it be associated with the legal field or not at any point in your career is an incredible way to further enrich your career goals and your resume. Ultimately, volunteering provides an opportunity to gain a richer perspective on practising law in an evolving industry and career market. Employers see the immense benefits with volunteering as it reflects your commitment to your passions and professional interests, as well as determining whether you are a well-rounded individual which would fit into their company culture.
Volunteering can be especially valuable to your resume if you have limited legal work or experience and are trying to break into the legal field. It is an excellent opportunity for mentorship and to broaden your work experience, whilst also learning to foster strong relationships between the wider community. Community legal centres are prime examples of places where you can volunteer and provide training for foundational practical skills which employers recognise such as interviewing and communicating with clients, senior lawyers and other third parties through drafting emails, letters or speaking over the phone.
My volunteering experience at the Western Sydney Community Legal Centre earlier this year was incredibly rewarding and fulfilling, and provided clarity on my future career goals. It undoubtedly shaped the way I perceive the legal field by provoking self-reflection and appreciation for our justice system whilst highlighting the intrinsic injustices individuals within our community encounter on a regular basis. Additionally, the practical legal skills I gained throughout my volunteering experience not only assisted me in landing my current employment, but made me a more valuable member of my community and workplace.
Furthermore, volunteering is an ideal platform to expand your network and relationships, opening doors to job opportunities and invaluable mentorship and guidance. Committing your time to volunteering is also a brilliant way to assist in developing or clarifying your future career path if you have not given it much thought. If you are participating in the Brennan Justice and Leadership program, volunteering is a way to accumulate your Brennan hours.
The legal field is an industry that has the value of community embedded within evey aspect of it. Hence, volunteering, whether it be in the legal field or otherwise, not only boosts your resume and job prospects, but significantly contributes to the advancement of the community and encourages the adoption of a holistic worldly outlook which you can apply to various facets of your life and career.
Jessica Trinh