"The justice system is very different": How this Filipino lawyer navigates a legal career in Australia

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Atty. Michelle Martinez, a former Philippine lawyer, now serves as a community lawyer in North Whittlesea, offering free legal services akin to the Public Attorney's Office (PAO) in the Philippines. Credit: Filipino Australian Lawyers Association

In this episode of Trabaho, Visa, atbp., we feature a career in the legal profession in Australia through the story of community lawyer Michelle Martinez. Discover the differences between studying law and becoming a lawyer in the Philippines and Australia.


Key Points
  • Atty. Michelle Martinez, a former Philippine lawyer, now serves as a community lawyer in North Whittlesea, offering free legal services akin to the Public Attorney's Office (PAO) in the Philippines.
  • She highlights the differences in legal systems between the Philippines and Australia, with Australia's focus on mediation and rapid case resolution.
  • Michelle provides essential legal support to Filipino migrants, particularly in family law and family violence cases, while advocating for awareness of legal rights and access to justice.
The information in this story is general in nature. For advice on individual situations, please contact a career or migration expert.

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