What early insights did completing an internship with White & Case give you?
As the saying goes, school prepares you for the real world. The internship was an opportunity to put law school knowledge into practice, from real case analysis to assisting with preparing loan documentation.
That said, an internship is also when you recognise that knowledge is unlimited, and it is important to stay inquisitive. The associates at White & Case are confident, and always eager for knowledge—they are genuinely interested in what they are doing, and they share a strong internal drive to succeed. This has made me realise that I get out what I put in. Having a perennial eagerness to improve in everyday situations, and the willingness to accept constructive criticism is vital to being a good lawyer.
What do you think is most exciting about the White & Case experience in Hong Kong?
First of all, it is working alongside talented, compassionate and hardworking lawyers. Partners and associates here are knowledgeable about not only their own fields of practice but other areas of practice, as well. Notwithstanding that I am a junior, associates have no doubts about trusting me with responsibilities. The level of support and guidance that I receive from colleagues cements a collaborative environment. There is always transparent and collective communication across teams, and I never hesitate to reach out. All this gives me the confidence to pursue my goals and achieve more.
Tell us briefly about your day-to-day responsibilities as a trainee in your current and previous seats.
Investment Funds was my first rotation. I was mainly responsible for reviewing subscription agreements and managing the workflow for investors’ subscriptions. I also assisted in drafting limited partnership agreements and side letters etc.
During my second rotation, in Debt Finance and Restructuring, I coordinated and handled the ‘conditions precedent’ work streams and execution processes. I also joined calls and meetings with various parties to negotiate commercial terms.
In Dispute Resolution, one highlight was when my colleagues and I represented clients in an enforcement action against a Chinese real estate giant, and an injunction proceeding. These cases entailed conducting legal research on court procedures, drafting court papers and transaction documents, and preparing bundles.
Currently, I am on my overseas secondment rotation the Corporate Mergers & Acquisitions team in the Melbourne office. I am drafting ancillary documentation and coordinating and managing various workflows.
Aside from day-to-day work responsibilities, it is exciting to be part of the Hong Kong Pro Bono Committee. The Committee holds monthly meetings to discuss potential pro bono matters and plan Firm-wide events.
How do you think your overseas rotation in Melbourne will benefit your career?
An overseas rotation certainly gives me a new perspective of how globally connected the world is. It is where one can gain a deeper understanding of a client’s global needs and risk appetites, and work on another dimension of multijurisdictional matters. This perspective comes into practical use when tailoring advice for international clients, particularly with a general background in Australian commercial law.
An international rotation also provides an opportunity to meet international teams and broaden my professional network. From a personal growth perspective, the experience of working in a culturally different environment has pushed me out of my comfort zone to take on new opportunities and challenges.
3 pieces of advice for yourself when you were a student...