Gallant Law Firm Testimonials
Name: Jonathan Brancato
Firm: Gallant Law
Title: Senior Advocate
Why did you choose to work in criminal law?
From a very young age I knew I wanted to be a lawyer.
I wanted to be in the Court room, advocating for others, to ensure no matter the inequality, my clients were receiving a fair and just outcome. I wanted to be the voice for those who felt they did not have one.
Through observing matters in my local Magistrates’ Court, it became increasingly apparent that criminal law solicitors are always on their feet addressing the bench.
This motivated me to study law, alongside criminology, with the one goal of becoming a criminal lawyer.
Why did you choose to work with Gallant Law, what makes working there unique?
I was familiar with the firm and the Founder / Principal Lawyer, Lauren Cassimatis and respected the way she operated as a criminal lawyer. Lauren and her firm adopted a very wholistic approach when representing their clients. They were not simply focused on the procedural matters, rather, they supported their clients beyond the Court room. Each team member works hard, to best assist their client to not reoffend and once again be part of the justice system.
From the outside, it was evident that the lawyers at Gallant Law loved their work. This shone through from their passionate advocacy for their clients.
What other jobs and/or experiences have helped you as a practising criminal lawyer?
Any and all experience will assist an aspiring lawyer. Not only do you need to know the law, but you also need to be empathetic and understand how best to develop a relationship with someone.
My first employment experience was in retail. Here I developed interpersonal skills with colleagues and customers, leadership skills as I managed junior staff members and time management, through the ability to work under pressure on various projects. Whilst on face value these may not appear to be relevant to an aspiring lawyer, they are the foundations which create a great lawyer.
At university I benefited from attending Court and observing criminal lawyers in action, advocating for their client. I also actively sought out work experience opportunities in criminal law practices. Through these opportunities I learnt what it takes to be a criminal lawyer, not only theoretically, but also practically.
How would you describe the culture of Gallant Law?
The founder of Gallant Law, Lauren Cassimatis, has strived to build an incredible culture at her firm, from the very beginning. As a true testament to her, this has been instilled in each employee who passionately uphold Gallant Law’s values.
From the very moment I started with Gallant Law, I felt welcomed and supported by each team member. The firm is an extremely inclusive firm, which is supported by a collaborative team.
There is focus on employee’s development, work life balance and overall wellbeing.
We celebrate each other’s wins and learn from each other’s challenges.
In an area of law which can be emotionally taxing, I am proud to say that my colleagues are also my friends, and we spend time together outside of work.
What advice would you give to a student who is interested in pursuing a career as a criminal lawyer once they graduate?
My advice for an aspiring criminal lawyer would be to make the most of any work experience opportunities. From this, seek out opportunities for ongoing mentorship, so that you have a direct contact in the profession.
It is not enough to watch crime documentaries on Netflix. I found it extremely invaluable toattend my local Magistrates’ Court and observe the business of the Court. I would strongly encourage an aspiring criminal lawyer to do the same, as that is where you spend most of your time. By being in this environment, be open to networking and commenting on solicitors’ appearance work, as you never know where that conversation my lead – work experience or following your university degree, a full-time job.