Day in the Life series: Law Graduate

Since joining Brave Legal in 2023, Charlie Hondow has been an integral part of our medical negligence practice, supporting clients through complex matters.

Now, as Brave Legal’s first Law Graduate, Charlie reflects on how her role has evolved from managing the detail behind each file to taking on greater responsibility, developing a broader strategic view of litigation and building sustainable habits within a close and supportive team.

Tell us how you came to Brave Legal and what you did prior to becoming a Graduate?

During my first year of university, I began working as a Legal Assistant at a mid-tier law firm. I worked closely with a lovely junior lawyer and we stayed in touch. She later reached out to let me know her friend, Jyoti, was looking for a legal assistant. I’ve always been grateful for that connection and it demonstrated to me how valuable it is to maintain relationships with former colleagues and other professionals in the industry. You never know where it might lead you!

I’ve now been with Brave Legal for two and half years, progressing from Legal Assistant to Law Clerk, and now to the firm’s first Law Graduate.

What does a usual day look like?

Each day can vary so much!

A large part of my role involves liaising with my clients and keeping them updated. I might have a few client appointments throughout the day – sometimes an initial meeting with a new client where I am taking instructions and providing preliminary advice, and other times I will meet with existing clients to update them on the progress of their matter. I’ll also confer with medicolegal experts or barristers.

I then spend time drafting correspondence to clients, experts and defendant lawyers, preparing briefs to Counsel and reviewing evidence such as medical records and reports.

A big focus in my graduate role is thinking about how to progress each matter as efficiently as possible, considering both court timetables as well my individual client’s circumstances and needs. I’m also developing a broader view of each file, which involves assessing the evidence we currently have and identifying what is still needed to build the case.

Working in a boutique firm also means I’m very involved in the day-to-day running of my matters. My experience as a Legal Assistant and Law Clerk has been so beneficial in my graduate role, as I have the skills to manage both the administrative and legal work on a file.

I’m also balancing my Graduate Diploma of Legal Practice alongside my full-time work, so I set aside dedicated time during the week to keep on top of my studies.

Do you have your own files or are you shadowing others?

I have my very own files!

I work very closely with our Principal Lawyer, Bree, who supervises my work. We collaborate on strategy and planning, but I’m also given a lot of autonomy in progressing my matters. It’s a very safe, supportive environment to learn in which I’m very grateful for.

Do you get to talk to real clients?

I do, and it is very rewarding. I really enjoy meeting new clients and seeing their matter through from start to finish. I pride myself on my clear communication, regular updates and compassion as I know engaging a lawyer can be a very daunting process.

What has been the biggest learning curve so far?

The biggest learning curve in my transition from administrative support to graduate has been developing a more strategic view of each file. Rather than focusing only on the next court deadline or following up a medical records request, I am now thinking more holistically – critically looking at what evidence we have and what is needed, considering budget and what settlements can be expected in the coming months, and what steps I can take to move my matters toward resolution.

I’m learning the skills that extend beyond file work such as building and maintaining professional relationships, developing my litigation skills and staying up to date with developments in the personal injury space.

How do you manage the pressure of helping clients who are unwell and keeping yourself well?

It can be quite tricky to balance at times but that is also what makes this area of law so rewarding. I’ve learnt the importance of clear and regular communication, as a lot of our clients’ worry tends to come from uncertainty or feeling out-of-the-loop. I focus on transparency and setting realistic expectations on timeframes and prospects. Progressing a file as efficiently as possible supports both the clients’ and my own wellbeing – it’s not in anyone’s interests for a file to unnecessarily drag along on for years and years.

When I’m dealing with difficult or distressing material, I try to approach it through the lens of how I can use it to assist my client’s case. I am also mindful to avoid unnecessary exposure to upsetting content where it isn’t required for the work I’m doing.

I am also very intentional about maintaining my work-life balance, especially so early in my career. I think it is so important to build these habits early on. I consciously take proper breaks (with lots of Pepsi Max!) and try to completely switch off when I’m not working. I am also very fortunate to work with the most incredible team who are brilliant for debriefs or to have a laugh, which is so important given nature of the work and the heavy subject matter we often deal with.

Tips for law students about preparing for your Graduate year?

Be kind and be curious!

I would also really encourage focusing on building friendships and professional connections, whether that’s through university or work experience. The network you build up in these early years will have such a big impact on your career and your growth, which also trickles down into your success in your role and the outcomes you can achieve for your clients.

Also, make sure you set yourself up with healthy, sustainable habits – have transparent conversations about your capacity and workload, and don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.