How Leo Cussen-Organised Placements Work for Aspiring Lawyers

Exciting times ahead as you embark on your journey to becoming a lawyer, and the team at Leo Cussen is here to support you every step of the way. As part of the PLT, you’ll get to practice the skills you’ve learned in a real-world setting through the professional placement component of the program.   

Here’s how it works. 

Self-Organise or Let Leo Cussen Help? 

At the start of your PLT program, you’ll decide whether to arrange your own placement or have Leo Cussen handle it for you. Early on, you’ll meet with our team to explore your options to help you choose the best path for your schedule and career goals.

If you choose Leo Cussen to arrange your placement, you’ll complete a preference form outlining your preferred locations, organisations, and areas of law. We’ll then match you with one of our partner organisations based on your preferences, ensuring your placement aligns with your interests. Leave the logistics to us.

Then, you’ll complete a 15-day placement (or 20 days in WA) under the supervision of an experienced lawyer—giving you hands-on experience that’s crucial for your legal career. We’ll guide you throughout, answering any questions.

Key Placement FAQs

  • 1. How long does the placement last?

    Placements are 15 days (105 hours) in all states except Western Australia, where they’re 20 days (140 hours). Completing the full placement is required to meet the admission criteria for the legal profession.

  • 2. Do I have to organise this myself?

    You can either self-organise or have Leo Cussen arrange the placement for you. Let us know your preference before the program census date. If you self-organise, we’ll assist you by reviewing your placement arrangements, but you’re responsible for securing it. 

  • 3. Is there a part-time placement option?

    Leo Cussen-organised placements are full-time at the end of your program. However, self-organised placements can be part-time. We can provide guidance on this option throughout your studies.

  • 4. When can I do the Leo Cussen-organised placement?

    Placements occur after your PLT ends. Available placement periods are listed on the Program Dates & Fees page of our website, and you’ll be notified of dates before the census date. You must choose a placement that starts after your program finishes.

  • 5. Where can I do my placement?

    Leo Cussen offers placements in major Australian capital cities. If you’re interested in regional placements, we’ll try to accommodate you, though this can’t be guaranteed.

  • 6. Who supervises me during my placement?

    Your supervisor must be a qualified lawyer with at least three years of post-admission experience and a current practising certificate. In some cases, you may be supervised by a judge or tribunal member.

  • 7. Is there a fee for Leo Cussen-organised placements?

    Yes, there’s a fee for us to source your placement. This fee can be paid via FEE-HELP for eligible students if selected before the census date.

  • 8. What if I change my mind after the census date?

    If you initially chose Leo Cussen to organise your placement but later want to self-organise, the fee is non-refundable. If you switch to Leo Cussen-organised placement after the census date, we’ll try to help, but placements can’t be guaranteed, and the placement fee will apply.

PLT placements are designed to help you gain valuable experience and ease your transition into the legal profession. Whether you self-organise or let us help, you’ll be supported every step of the way.  

Got your own questions, we’re here to help. Feel free to reach out to us at info@leocussen.edu.au