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17 April 2019

Five minutes with Katelyn Gillert

Katelyn Gillert, graduate in our commercial team, has worked with Cooper Grace Ward for just over 12 months. We asked her to tell us in her own words what life at Cooper Grace Ward is like, and a few of her past experiences and favourite things.

What made you decide to become a lawyer?

I can’t point to a particular time where I decided I wanted to be a lawyer. However, there was always something so prestigious and distinguished about the law and I think I’ve loved it for a long time. It’s not an easy career, even from the very first day of university. But nothing worth achieving ever comes easy. I guess I like a challenge.

How long have you worked at Cooper Grace Ward for and what brought you to that position?

I have been with Cooper Grace Ward for 1 year now in the Corporate Commercial team. Before joining Cooper Grace Ward, I was with another law firm in the city for 4 years working primarily in the Wills & Estate space.

If you could invite three people for dinner, dead or alive, who would they be and why?

Kate Middleton, Duchess of Cambridge – her sense of fashion is incredible and I’m a huge royal fan.

Ed Sheeran – every party needs great music.

Heston Blumenthal – you would never be quite sure what we’re eating, but I bet it would be amazing.

Where is the best place in Brisbane to go for a drink or dinner after work?

Mr Percival’s on the new Howard Smith Wharves for drinks with a great view.

Mr Chester Wine Bar in the Valley does fantastic food – the interior design and aesthetic is also amazing!

What’s the best advice you’ve ever been given?

Back yourself – you are more capable than you know.

Do you have any hobbies/interests outside of work?

Trying a new breakfast spot on the weekend or baking the trickiest recipe in a cook book.

If food was hobby, that would be mine.

Complete this sentence: If I weren’t a lawyer, I would be…

In the airforce. I had some exposure to the air cadet program through my high school. I have always had a great deal of interest in, and respect for, our defence force.

What do you think will be single biggest issue facing the legal space in Australia in 2019?

The uncertainty in the lead up to a federal election has an impact on both our clients and the law firms who represent them. The second half of this year could be a season of change and busyness.

What do you love about your job?

I love that I am continually learning something new. That feeling of finally understanding a concept, or a complex situation, is hard to top. I also love that we are fiercely loyal to our clients in the pursuit of what is best for them. Knowing that my training, education and experience will be exactly what someone else needs to navigate a stressful situation is incredibly rewarding.

Something you might not know about me is that …

I got married in 2015 at the Brisbane Powerhouse.

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This publication is for information only and is not legal advice. You should obtain advice that is specific to your circumstances and not rely on this publication as legal advice. If there are any issues you would like us to advise you on arising from this publication, please let us know.

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