Saunders & Co has an ongoing tradition of employing university undergraduates as summer clerks and research clerks for work experience purposes. Many have gone on to become permanent members of staff, right through to partner level.
We commence our annual search for new "Saunders People" at the University of Canterbury Law faculty careers evening, being held this year on 8 March. Our current summer clerk, Rachel Mortiaux, offers an insight into life at Saunders & Co (we edited out all the bad bits).
Saunders & Co has a culture that is unique.
It provides one with the opportunity of an exciting legal career balanced with social options. It is greatly satisfying working in an impeccably professional yet friendly environment with the chance to take part in social, sporting and legal activities. Saunders & Co is no boring, run of the mill firm, but exciting, and challenging. It is a firm that espouses and models exceptional professional standards coupled with community care and involvement.
Summer clerking at Saunders & Co allowed me to work alongside the best lawyers in Christchurch and gain valuable hands-on experience. I was immediately given responsibility and opportunities to be creative, productive, and part of a rewarding work environment. I have enjoyed a lot of court time and am often putting into practice what I have learnt at University. I have been given an extensive range of tasks, covering many different areas of law. Such experience is invaluable and gave me incredible insight into how to apply New Zealand law.
As a summer clerk, Saunders & Co has given me an exciting opportunity to be part of a fantastic, unique and professional team who have involved me, and supported me throughout my time at the firm. I can uncategorically say the staff at Saunders & Co are the best I have ever worked with. They are fun and outgoing, and easy to build rapport with. I've found the staff to be very real and approachable people. Therefore they have integrity and I believe these qualities are what enables the firm to enjoy the stunning reputation it seems to have in the community.
Saunders & Co focuses on the client, always, not on making money. This is what makes them stand out. They are fun and know how to balance work with family life. I have always wanted to work somewhere where I have felt excited to come to work every day. Saunders & Co has provided me with that experience.
As a summer clerk, I went into the firm with high expectations. Saunders & Co exceeded all of them. They continue to do so. They not only provide outstanding legal service to clients, but outstanding mentoring and education to their staff. I have never felt so part of a team, yet been given every opportunity to shine as an individual.
Summer clerking at Saunders & Co has been an invaluable and unforgettable experience.
Excellent law firm to deal with. Excellent communciation and service.
Property Owner