Larna, a former HALC intern, and now qualified solicitor, reflects on her time at the coal face…

“When I joined HALC to do my practical legal training, I got so much more than a legal placement.  I was welcomed into the organisation with open arms. The encouragement and respect the HALC solicitors showed me gave me the courage and confidence to apply and extend my legal knowledge independently.

Some of the highlights for me included working directly with clients, preparing legal submissions, representing a client in a conciliation conference after he was unlawfully dismissed from his job, and preparing for and attending a three day Tribunal hearing for a refugee client in immigration detention.

I experienced great fulfilment, a significant improvement in my legal ability and the satisfaction of being able to help some of the most vulnerable people in our community.

I’ve now gone on to secure a management role in the medico-legal field where the skills I gained at HALC have ensured a smooth transition into my legal career.”