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When I decided to study law , I had to first sit exams to determine if I had the required mental aptitude . I achieved the necessary marks and enrolled in the Legal Practitioners Admission Board ( LPAB – USYD ) course . I took only one subject to begin with , still doubting myself . Ironically , I achieved fourth place out of 500 + students in my first subject , so that gave me confidence to continue , albeit slowly .
I once again took on one subject , then enrolled in two subjects at a time and worked full-time . In the last 18 months of the LPAB course , I was studying four subjects and worked full-time . ( I placed first in Family Law and Trade Practices , fourth in Wills / Estates and fifth in Employment Law .)
The process of study did become easier ! When studying I didn ’ t compare myself to others , as I believed we all had our own strengths and weaknesses : I could only compete with myself and do my best , and I continue that philosophy in my business today .
The LPAB course , although not considered prestigious in law , is regarded as a rigorous course to complete , and those who complete it have the ability to manage whatever is placed before them . Why ? You had to be a self-starter , disciplined and selfsufficient to learn law and complete the course , with very little assistance !
After 14 + years in medicine , my first legal job was as a Judges Associate in the Federal Circuit Court . Then I worked as a solicitor for about 15 months prior to sitting the Bar Exams . I was naive prior to enrolling to sit the Bar Exams , and I didn ’ t know any barristers to chat to . I thought solicitors sat the Bar Exams and passed , ( i . e . no one failed ), and onwards and upwards they went , with their tutors ‘ assisting ’ them in their first year , establishing a successful practice after that . I did not realise what is involved at all .
I sat and passed all three Bar Exams in my first attempt . I moved into my first chambers as a barrister , not knowing one chambers from another , nor the reputation of one solicitor ’ s office from another . I am no longer naïve though .
ISSUE 2 : JAN - MAR 2017 27