Johnson Winter Slattery Reviews

There is a lot of opportunity to move up the ranks at JWS. You are able to start being considered for a promotion to senior associate around the 4-5 PQE mark as you develop skills and begin to settle in a practice area.

The firm has recently expanded upon its pro bono practice group in the last two years. In this time, I have worked within a community legal centre on secondment, and have assisted some of our pro bono clients. The firm is often well-represented at charitable and industry events supporting our pro bono clients, as well as engaging with other stakeholders related to particular social issues, such as domestic violence, violence against women, and social justice.

Terrific internal culture. Junior staff are free (and encouraged) to engage directly with partners. High degree of professionalism and emotional intelligence across the firm.

Diverse. Many women including at senior levels. LGBT safe.

I assist on a variety of matters; my title or official team does not limit what I can work on. There are no 'rotations', which means from the get-go I have been assisting on client matters in areas such as ASX compliance, property, dispute resolution, litigation and more.

So far, my mentor and buddy have been great; they are accessible and give me constructive feedback.

Nice office space, generally each person gets their own office. Dress code for men is smart casual - most wear a buttoned up shirt and dress/shirt pants, suits and ties are only required for court or client meetings.

Interview was good, felt conversational and easy. Drinks with members of the firm after the interview is a good touch as you get to speak to more people and in a more relaxed environment.

Competitive salary as a grad which is awesome.

Various CPD sessions are run on different areas of commercial law. External CPD sessions are also sometimes offered. These can be informative.

There are obviously some busy periods that require extra hours but for the most part there is no pressure to stay late and work long hours. You are encouraged to leave at a reasonable hour. I know a lot of friends at other firms who work weekends and all hours of the night but that is not encouraged at JWS.

Recycling stations, encouragement to work digitally and not print too much