Juris Doctor

My name is Monique Connell, and I am the Director of the Juris Doctor Portfolio for 2026.

Prior to commencing law school, I completed a Bachelor’s degree in Commerce, majoring in Human Resource Management with a minor in Marketing. Following graduation, I worked as a Human Resources Advisor for two years, where I gained first hand exposure to the practical operation of workplace laws, dispute resolution, and advocacy in real-world settings. While I valued my time working in HR, I always knew that I would ultimately pursue law. I am now about to enter my third year as a Juris Doctor student, and I continue to find the JD both challenging and incredibly rewarding.

One of the aspects I have loved most about the JD is that no two people share the same story or background. Our cohort is incredibly diverse, ranging from working professionals with years of experience who are seeking to change industries or upskill, to those who have wanted to study law for as long as they can remember. We all bring with us a unique and valuable set of skills developed through prior degrees and professional experiences, whether in business, IT, politics, the arts, fashion, finance, or beyond. This diversity not only enriches our learning experience but also reflects the collaborative and multidisciplinary nature of legal practice itself.

The JD Portfolio aims to provide students with ample opportunities to meet their peers, develop meaningful relationships, and foster a strong sense of community that you can rely on and draw support from over the next three years. Law school can be demanding at times, and having a supportive network can make a significant difference both academically and personally. This year, we have some very exciting events planned, including a winery tour, picnic catch-ups, an O-Week pub crawl, and more to come throughout the year. These events are designed to be inclusive, relaxed, and accessible to students at all stages of their JD journey.

In addition, the Competitions Portfolio will be bringing back a JD-focused Moot competition. Mooting is a fantastic way to consolidate the material you learn throughout your studies while developing key legal skills such as research, written submissions, oral advocacy, and confidence in legal argument. Participating in moots can also help you stand out to employers when it comes time to seek legal employment. Even if you have never mooted before, JD-focused competitions are designed to be supportive and educational, and I would strongly encourage all students to get involved.

I am also very fortunate to be working alongside our Juris Doctor Officer, Bronte Forster, who brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to the portfolio. Bronte currently works as a legal administrator, providing her with valuable insight into the practical workings of the legal profession, as well as the expectations of legal workplaces. She also has extensive experience in event coordination and planning, which will be instrumental in delivering engaging, well-organised, and enjoyable events for JD students throughout the year. Together, we are committed to creating opportunities that are both professionally enriching and socially rewarding.

I am very much looking forward to the year ahead and to meeting as many of you as possible. Whether you are keen to compete, attend social events, or simply connect with fellow students, the JD Portfolio is here to support you and help you make the most of your time at La Trobe Law School.

If you have any questions, please feel free to email jd@latrobelsa.com