Loredana Rafo

Graduate Lawyer
Bachelor Law and Bachelor of Business Graduate from UTS

What’s your job about?

I joined Turks Legal in March 2024 as a Law Clerk, eager to explore the dynamic field of general insurance.

In those early days, I was responsible for opening matters, drafting correspondence, and contributing to client reporting. Soon after, I was entrusted with drafting legal documents such as Statements of Claim, Notices of Motion, and even exploring enforcement options for Default Judgment. Under the guidance of my seniors, I had the privilege of managing files and gaining hands-on experience that I never imagined so early in my career.

One of the highlights of my clerkship was taking part in Turks’ mooting competition, where I presented my case before a Mock Judge and was humbled to have my argument preferred over the oppositions. It was nerve-wracking yet exhilarating, and it gave me a glimpse into the advocacy skills required of a litigation lawyer.

Since graduating, I’ve transitioned into a Graduate Lawyer role within the Motor team, where I now manage recovery files. I’ve thoroughly enjoyed learning the intricacies of litigation and building confidence in applying the critical thinking skills developed throughout my studies. Turks has equipped me with the tools, support, and opportunities I need to grow into a capable lawyer, and I’m grateful for the practical, hands-on experience I am gaining. My advice to law students is to embrace opportunities outside your “job description” - that’s where the real learning and growth happens.

What’s your background?

My passion for law began in my teenage years when I recognised its potential to improve lives. That passion only grew through high school, where I excelled in legal and business studies. I graduated from the University of Technology Sydney in 2025 with a Bachelor of Law and Bachelor of Business. Before stepping into the legal profession, I worked in the banking sector, regularly liaising with solicitors and helping clients find financial solutions during difficult times. This role demanded empathy and strong communication, skills that naturally guided me into a career in law.

I began my legal journey in personal injury before joining Turks in my final year of study. Experiencing the culture, support, and breadth of opportunities at Turks confirmed my interest in insurance law. My background in different industries has given me a unique perspective, which I now see as invaluable in my role as a Graduate Lawyer. The relationships I’ve built with colleagues across the firm and the constant opportunities provided by the firm regarding training, skill development and strategy are a constant reminder of why choosing this path is rewarding.

Could someone with a different background do your job?

Absolutely. A graduate role at Turks isn’t just about where you’ve come from. It’s about your passion for the law, willingness to learn, and openness to building meaningful professional relationships. Law school provides the foundation, but it’s the practical experience at a firm like Turks that truly brings those skills to life.

What’s the best thing about your job?

The best part is knowing I’m never alone. Whenever I face a challenge or need guidance, there’s always someone willing to lend a hand. I genuinely look forward to coming into work each day, not only to grow professionally but also to see the friendly faces across teams.

The culture at Turks is supportive, collaborative, and genuinely encouraging. My contributions are valued, and I take pride in seeing the progress on files from start to finish. Working alongside honest, intelligent, and passionate colleagues makes me feel both fulfilled and motivated.

What are the challenges?

Managing tight deadlines and staying on top of the fast faced progression of files can be challenging. However, the team at Turks provides exceptional guidance and support to excel through such challenges and grow in confidence, resilience, and capability.

Jessica Asal

Law Clerk
Law and Commerce student at Macquarie University

What’s your job about?

Turks Legal was my very first job in the legal profession, and I couldn’t have asked for a better place to start. I began 3 years ago in the Employers Liability team, where I assisted lawyers in managing files, collating documents, opening and closing matters, and drafting letters to clients. From there, I rotated into the General Insurance (Motor Vehicle) team, where my work became more hands-on — drafting legal documents such as statements of claim, notices of motion for default judgment, affidavits, and exploring different enforcement options.

Now, I also manage a small list of recovery matters under the guidance of my supervising partner and senior associate, which has been an amazing opportunity to take ownership of files while still having strong support. I regularly conduct investigations, prepare legal audits and reports to update clients on the status of their matters, and draft letters of advice recommending next steps.
Each rotation has given me the chance to work closely with talented lawyers who take the time to provide feedback and share their knowledge. This has really helped me grow in confidence — applying what I’ve learned at university to real-world situations and building the skills I’ll need as a future lawyer.

I would recommend Turks to any law student wanting genuine, hands-on legal experience while studying. The firm has given me incredible mentors, exposure to challenging and rewarding work, and a culture that is both supportive and flexible. I feel grateful every day to be part of a workplace that understands the juggle between uni and work, and I know the experience I’ve gained here will make the transition into life as a graduate lawyer so much smoother.

What’s your background?

I’ve wanted to study law since high school, where I excelled in Legal Studies and English. Before joining Turks, I worked for several years in retail as a customer service representative and also as a tutor. Both roles helped me develop essential life skills — strong communication, confidence, problem-solving, empathy, and kindness — all of which I now use daily as a law clerk when liaising with clients, lawyers or parties in legal proceedings.

I’m currently completing a double degree in Law and Commerce at Macquarie University (4th year). Turks has been my first real step into the legal profession, and the experience has given me invaluable practical skills and a clear pathway into my future career.

Could someone with a different background do your job?

Yes — strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a willingness to learn are key. Law school certainly helps to build those skills, but it’s practical experience at a firm like Turks that really brings them to life.

What’s the best thing about your job?

Definitely the collaborative culture. The lawyers here are approachable, supportive, and genuinely invested in helping clerks learn and grow. I feel that my contributions are valued, and I love seeing my research, drafting, and client updates play a real part in progressing matters.

What are the challenges?

Like any legal role, the work can be fast-paced with tight deadlines, but at Turks you’re never left to manage it alone. The supportive environment, combined with the flexibility to balance university and work, makes it a place where you can rise to the challenge and grow in confidence at the same time.

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