Nicole Saunders

What inspired you to pursue a career in law?

I was originally studying and training to be a professional contemporary dancer but had a friend who was studying law. Out of interest I read one of her assignment papers… then a course book… then ended up enrolling the next year. What really drove me was a lack of knowledge of what to do when people ‘wronged’ me or others, and the confidence I felt after discovering the law. I’m a firm believer that knowledge is power. Even now that’s what inspires me.

 

How did you choose your area of specialisation?

One of my first legal related jobs was at a prestigious barristers’ chambers. I was lucky enough to watch a few of them appear in Court and was hooked from there. The way these intelligent people could explain complex areas of law was beautiful and seemed effortless. There are not many things that provide the same adrenaline rush as appearing before a Judge and convincing them you’re right.

 

Can you describe a typical day at your firm?

Emails… emails… and emails… just kidding! My typical day can range drastically from reviewing documents, researching niche areas of law and providing advice, to preparing Court proceedings and appearing in Court. I love the variety that the litigation team offers and that I’m always learning new areas of law.

 

What skills do you find most valuable in your current role?

Time management and communication. When my schedule gets busy it’s even more important to communicate clearly and early, to clients and my team. This manages expectations and keeps everyone happy. You’ll be well on your way to developing these skills through law school. However, for those who find it a challenge, keep working on it like I have. Implement small daily habits that work for you. These skills will keep developing throughout your career and really are a core foundation to your practice.

 

How does your firm support professional development and career growth?

The Firm, and importantly the partners, recognise that each person requires their own tailored path for professional development and career growth. There is no one size fits all path at Wynn Williams, and that’s pretty unique. The process is collaborative and driven by what you want to achieve. If you have goals of becoming a partner in ten years, then great! But equally, if you have goals to travel and work overseas in three years, then that’s equally as great and your development path will be tailored to put you in the best position for when that time comes. I really appreciate how the Firm views all staff as people with personal and professional lives, and they’re realistic about what that might look like.

 

What are the firm’s values and how do they influence your work?

People matter, always excellent, and owning it! The values really speak for themselves. When focusing on people at the core of my work – whether that be a client’s goals or desired outcome, who they are, what they do, or where they come from, and even their financial position, this all produces excellent work for each client. From there, it’s easy to own what you’re doing!

 

How does the firm handle work-life balance for its employees?

With the exception of a few matters that require long hours, we are encouraged to go home at 5:00pm and not work over the weekend. There is a firm-wide appreciation that we all work hard, so equally must rest well and have a life outside of work.

 

What opportunities for advancement exist within the firm?

Advancement at the Firm is merit-based. If you’re driven and want to progress in the Firm, then there will always be support and an opportunity to do so.

 

How does the firm stay ahead of industry trends and changes?

Wynn Williams has many international clients and partnerships which places us at the forefront of discovering new industry trends and changes. One of our current projects that have evolved from this is the incorporation of AI into our firm and day-to-day practice.

 

What advice would you give to someone considering a career at your firm?

Choosing where you work needs to be a conscious choice, not just because there’s an opening and an income. If you can find people that align with your values, who inspire you, and respect your learning journey both personally and professionally, you’ll set yourself up for an enjoyable career. I can confidently say I’ve found that at Wynn Williams.