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March 2015 | Colleen Martin Special Counsel from Westgath
I became a lawyer because …
of the intellectual challenges it would provide me with over the course of my career.
I am really proud of …
my career and the role model I am for my children.
You can have it all …
but in my experience that means you have to be flexible and willing at times to make (and accept) compromises – when your world consists of a never ending list of competing priorities you constantly need to adjust or realign your expectations so you can make it through the day.
A key mentor who influenced my career is …
Peter Harris, a consultant at the firm I was first employed at as a legal receptionist/secretary while I contemplated my future calling (having then deferred my Arts degree). Peter portrayed all the skills and values of someone who held his position within the legal profession in the highest regard. Peter was an excellent role model who was generous with his knowledge and time, he fostered my analytical skills as well as my eagerness to learn. It was Peter who first encouraged my self-belief that a profession in the law was a goal within my reach. Since completing my legal degree I have had many mentors over the years who have in some way guided or supported me to shape my career. I am indebted to them all. The positive impact their support has had in terms of my career is a reason why I prioritise the formal and informal mentoring relationships I have with other lawyers.
If I wasn’t a lawyer …
I would be an artist or graphic designer, or perhaps a contestant on the next season of The Block. I have always had a strong interest in the arts and although it has been many years since I have painted an oil painting I like to think I use my “creative side” when I “think outside the square” to devise strategies for clients in the context of litigious matters.
Before I started at Corrs Chambers Westgarth…
I completed my legal degree in Western Australia and worked in a commercial law firm in Perth from 2002 until 2005.
I am extremely grateful for …
the support of my husband and the understanding of my two beautiful children. I am also grateful for the opportunities which a career in the law has provided to me over the years, including not only being involved in high profile litigation but also assisting pro bono clients to address legal issues, the resolution of which often has a significant and positive impact on their lives.
One of the key legal initiatives I am involved in …
is the implementation of Corrs’ reconciliation action plan which includes investigating opportunities within the firm to increase Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander employment, training and development opportunities. A related initiative I am involved in is the firm’s roll out of cultural awareness training.
I am also currently involved in a pilot program providing legal services to prisoners at the Port Phillip Prison, an initiative between Corrs and Justice Connect.
Outside of the law …
I enjoy spending time with my two children, cycling, reading and renovating.
The best advice I ever received was ...
don’t worry about the things that you cannot control.
