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In this week’s episode of the ‘Happy Lawyer Happy Life Podcast’ I had the pleasure of interviewing lawyer Nitika Balaram.  Nitika is everything we want to see in the next generation of lawyers- passionate, caring and so very determined.  But I have come to know Nitika this past year as a fun and creative soul- just last week she baked the most amazing cake for my youngest daughter’s birthday!  So baking and law- is there really a connection?  Well probably not but like so many of my guests on this show, Nitika has found her ability to be the best lawyer she can be is directly connected to her capacity to make time in her life for the people and passions that make her happy.

Nitika has a wicked laugh, can see the good in almost anything and is the perfect guest for a week when we are all coming to grips with our new socially strange world!  She spends her days working at the Women’s Legal Service on the Gold Coast- a role that brings her great purpose but also comes with incredible challenge.

In this interview, Nitika and I also chatted about-

• If Nitika was not a lawyer she would have been a baker and is an expert cake maker from home!
• How Nitika ended up settling in Australia after growing up between India and New Zealand.
• The education system in Australia compared to Nitika’s experience overseas.
• The positive and negative aspects of great school grades when deciding on a career out of high school.
• Nitika  attended Bond University and shares why it was the perfect place for her.
• Nitika started her law studies at age 17 and was admitted at the young age of 21- we discussed the pro’s and cons of starting law so young.
• After noting the mental strain students face in University, she started the “Mentally Healthy Bond” Club at Bond University.
• The competitive atmosphere of the University students and the statistics of mental health in students.
• Mentors throughout Nitika’s career have been essential to her growth.
• For Nitika her natural response was to do commercial law, however, after volunteering at the Women’s Legal Service, Nitika decided that her focus will stay in  Family Law.
• Nitika is currently 4 years into her legal career and her advice to her 17-year-old self.
• The grief and trauma that Family Law clients experience.
• Nitika’s observations of the difference between community legal and private practice law firms.
• The importance of cross-referrals for families affected by Domestic Violence.
• Nitika has experienced a greater capacity to help clients within the community sector.
• Dealing with difficult caseloads and how Nitika assists her clients going through often tragic circumstances.
• Why baking brings to much joy for Nitika.
• Filling your own cup first so you can help others.
• Nitika’s advice to students – including finding your passion and purpose in your career.
• Nitika encourages us to contribute to the Women’s Legal Service or volunteering in some capacity.
• Nitika’s Happiness Tip.

Sit back and enjoy this interview with Nitika Balaram

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Learn more here about upcoming events and courses and connect with Clarissa Rayward at the ‘Happy Lawyer Happy Life’ knowledge centre-  A community for lawyers who want to make the best out of their life in and outside of the law.   

Listen to last week’s episode here