Charlie Gattorna, a UWA Bachelor of Arts student, recently interned with the Legal Practice Board of Western Australia (LPBWA) through the McCusker Centre for Citizenship (the Centre), gaining valuable behind-the-scenes insights into the legal system, an Outstanding Intern Award nomination, and ongoing employment.
Majoring in Law and Society as well as Political Science and International Relations, Charlie was drawn to apply for the Centre’s internship program as an opportunity to put her skills into practice while further developing them in a setting aligned with her values and interests.
“The Legal Practice Board plays a critical role in promoting the administration of justice and ensuring the legal profession operates with integrity and accountability. In my Project Intern role, I was involved in reviewing External Examiner Reports, which are vital for ensuring regulatory compliance and professional accountability within the legal profession,” she explained.
“I assessed whether trust records had been properly maintained in accordance with the Legal Profession Uniform Law (WA) and the Legal Profession Uniform General Rules, and I flagged any irregularities for further review. These processes play a key role in protecting clients and reinforcing public confidence in the legal profession by promoting transparency and accountability.”
Stephen Ramsay, Director Risk Mitigation and Review at LPBWA, said that Charlie had distinguished herself as an exceptional intern, delivering results well beyond expectations.
“In a major data-intensive project, Charlie’s attention to detail and proactive problem-solving propelled the work far ahead of schedule. Her professionalism and impact earned her our nomination for the Centre’s Outstanding Intern Award and a part-time role upon completing her internship,” Mr Ramsay said.
Charlie said the internship experience had sharpened her critical thinking, communication and leadership skills, her ethical awareness and commitment to social justice.
“I aspire to become a socially engaged and aware leader who contributes meaningfully to the community,” she said.
“I now have a significantly broader understanding of how strong, independent institutions and behind-the-scenes regulatory work contribute to justice and public trust in a fair legal system.
“I have a new appreciation of the importance of accountability, transparency, and ethical oversight in safeguarding the rights of individuals and communities, and the opportunity to continue rewarding and meaningful work in my ongoing paralegal role with LPBWA.”