What can I expect to be doing during CLIP?
The mission of CLIP is to provide participants with the opportunity to learn and engage with private criminal defence practice. Throughout the CLIP program, you can expect to be involved in court observations, a tour of the Melbourne legal precinct, the chance to speak with experienced criminal defence barristers and solicitors, participate in panel discussions, shadow a solicitor, and gain hands-on skills through mock advocacy training and workshops.
CLIP has been created to give you the best possible insights into a career in criminal law. You can anticipate attending court, reviewing briefs, meeting clients, having Q&A sessions with lawyers – from first years to firm Directors – and meeting key industry players.
The CLIP program is designed to foster your learning, encourage questions, and engage actively through a blend of hands-on, observational, and interactive sessions to further your legal education and develop your understanding of our complex criminal jurisdiction. The CLIP team will be there to support you every step of the way.
When do applications open and close for CLIP?
JUNE CLIP
Applications Close 22 May 2026 at 5pm
Interns Announced 5 June 2026
Welcome Function 19 June 2026
CLIP Program 22 June 2026 to 24 June 2026 inclusive
OCTOBER CLIP
Applications Close 15 September 2026 at 5pm
Interns Announced 9 October 2026
Welcome Function 23 October 2026
CLIP Program 26 to 28 October 2026 inclusive
Does it cost anything to participate in the program?
No, participation in the CLIP program is free. CLIP is a voluntary internship program, designed for you to gain practical experience and genuine insight into the world of criminal law.
Who are the lawyers hosting CLIP?
Emma Turnbull Lawyers is your team that will be hosting the CLIP internship program.
You can find out more about the lawyers and the firm’s work here.
How can participation in CLIP help my career?
Throughout the duration of the CLIP program, you will have the opportunity to ask questions, observe lawyers in action, and engage in hands-on skills workshops. By immersing yourself into the world of criminal law, this program will provide you with genuine insight into what it is like to work as a criminal defence lawyer.
At the program’s conclusion, you will receive a CLIP letter of completion, which can be attached to your future job applications. CLIP is designed to provide you with firsthand involvement in the world of criminal law, and the opportunity to engage in discussion with industry professionals who have a wealth of knowledge, experience, and advice for those interested in criminal law.
Will I receive a letter of completion of the program?
At the program’s conclusion, you will receive a CLIP letter of completion, which can be attached to your future job applications.
Can I use the letter of completion as a reference for future job applications?
Yes! Your CLIP letter of completion can be attached to your future job applications. It is our hope that your participation in CLIP will encourage you to pursue a career in criminal law and we would be thrilled to support you in that journey.
