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Selection criteria

Preparing your application

Applications for 2009 articles of clerkship program will open on 7 December 2007 and close 21 January 2008.

Once applications have opened you will be invited to submit your application via the website. The application form will require you to:

  • address the selection criteria 
  • attach a resume including details of three referees 
  • attach a copy of your academic transcript.

Selection criteria

  • Appropriate tertiary qualifications
    Applicants must have completed a law degree.
  • Commitment to VLA values
    A demonstrated prior connection with legal aid or similar, either as an employee or through work experience at VLA, or by working as an employee or a volunteer at a community legal centre or other similar organisation.
  • Analytical thinking
    Ability to understand and work through problems systematically in order to derive logical and rational solutions.
  • Communication skills
    Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing, ability to negotiate, ability to listen.
  • Judgement
    The ability to identify an appropriate cause of action.
  • Team orientation
    Participation in and facilitating team effectiveness. Acting in a way that demonstrates consideration for others feelings and needs.
  • Attention to detail
    Completion of tasks to a high standard.
  • Time management
    Completion of tasks within the time allocated.
  • Initiative
    Ability to determine, obtain and/or offer resources as required.

If you are applying for the rural regional role you will be asked to also address the selection criteria below: (This is in addition to the above criteria).

  • Rural regional role
    Ability to demonstrate a connection to their rural regional community.

How we short-list applicants

The selection panel short-lists applicants for an assessment centre based on the selection criteria. As competition for VLA’s articled clerkship positions is very strong, those who do not sufficiently respond to the selection criteria are unlikely to be short-listed.

It is important for applicants to give specific examples demonstrating they have the skills and experience required. The more information provided, the better informed the selection panel will be about your suitability for a position as articled clerk at VLA.

Before preparing an application, you should first read our guidelines for job applications.