“There’s no way I would have been able to work in some of the city firms and received the same level of support and understanding that they’ve given me.”
Shenayde’s love for legal studies in high school ignited a small spark within her – one that would eventually lead her to a career in Law as a Paralegal on the South Coast. Growing up in Brisbane and later Wollongong, she has always loved living by the coast.
She initially pursued English Literature at the University of Wollongong before transferring to Journalism the following year. However, shortly after, she had to defer her studies due to surgery. During this time, she reconsidered her career path, realising that her passion for law had never faded. “I had a niggling feeling about law that never went away,” she explains. Seizing the opportunity, she switched to Law at Central Queensland University, where she could study online to balance her health and studies at the same time.
Unlike many of her classmates, Shenayde does not come from a family of lawyers. Nevertheless, she knew she had found the right path. Her decision was further validated when she began working part-time at Carter Ferguson Solicitors while completing her studies, a role that proved to be a game-changer for her career. “I have learned more working in a law firm than I ever have from university. Law in practice and law in theory are two entirely different things,” she says.
Shenayde has discovered a strong passion for commercial litigation, drawn to its intensity and the way it utilises the court system to resolve disputes that parties cannot settle on their own. As a Paralegal on the South Coast, eagerly awaiting her admission as a Solicitor, she plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between clients and Solicitors. “My role is to gather all the background information, conduct further research, draft the advice and court documents, and then pass it over to Deb, the Solicitor I work with. She reviews and finalises the advice and court documents, before providing our advice to the client or filing the documents with the court. “
She also works closely with Josh, a Legal Admin Assistant who is following in her footsteps. He’s studying law while gaining hands-on experience at the firm. “When I step forward into my role as a Solicitor, he’ll need to step up as well. He’s looking forward to it.”
Shenayde’s journey hasn’t been without challenges. Multiple pelvic surgeries throughout her university years and career have meant it has taken her longer than she initially hoped to reach this point. However, she remains optimistic. “I am really excited, I feel like I’m ready.” She credits Deb, Paris, and the rest of the Carter Ferguson team for their unwavering support and flexibility, which allowed her to balance work with her health needs. “There’s no way I would have been able to work in some of the city firms and received the same level of support and understanding that they’ve given me.”
Choosing to work at a regional firm was a deliberate decision for Shenayde, as their values align closely with her own. “I speak with some of my friends who work in city solicitor’s offices, and they mention that their colleagues often work in isolation with headphones on. That’s worlds apart from how our team interacts and collaborates throughout the day. One of my friends told me that if anyone leaves before 6:30 p.m., it’s seen as leaving early, which is just awful.”
Shenayde’s journey as a Paralegal on the South Coast has been one of persistence, passion, and resilience. As she prepares to take the next step in her career as a Solicitor, she looks forward to continuing to learn, grow, and contribute to the field she has worked so hard to be a part of.
Interested in a Career as a Paralegal or Solicitor on the South Coast?
A career in law offers the opportunity to work in a dynamic and impactful field, whether as a paralegal supporting legal teams or as a solicitor advocating for clients and interpreting the law. Legal professionals play a crucial role in upholding justice, advising businesses, and representing individuals across various legal areas.
Studying law provides essential knowledge of legal procedures, key legislation, and professional responsibilities, along with practical skills in legal research, analysis, and advocacy. With diverse career pathways in corporate law, criminal justice, human rights, and more, law offers exciting opportunities to make a real difference. Find out more about the steps involved in becoming a Solicitor.
