On Monday 16 September 2026, the students in the criminal law practice area of the Deakin Law Clinic were fortunate to visit the County Court of Victoria and hear directly from Judge Pillay and his Associates.

The visit provided students with an insight into the day-to-day work undertaken by the Court and the important role it plays within Victoria’s justice system. Judge Pillay and his Associates spoke about their own professional experiences and career journeys, offering students a practical perspective on the different pathways that can lead to a career in law and the broader legal profession.

A particularly engaging part of the visit was the opportunity for students to consider questions relating to sentencing principles. His Honour posed a series of questions to the students, encouraging them to think critically about how courts approach sentencing and the various considerations that may be relevant when determining an appropriate sentence.

The discussion provided students with an opportunity to move beyond the theory of the law and consider how legal principles are applied in practice. It also highlighted the importance of careful reasoning, advocacy and an understanding of the individual circumstances of each case.

Visits such as this provide an invaluable opportunity for students to engage directly with members of the judiciary and gain a greater understanding of the realities of legal practice. Hearing from Judge Pillay and his Associates offered students not only a deeper appreciation into the work of the County Court, but also encouragement and guidance as they consider their own future post-graduation.

We are grateful to Judge Pillay and his Associates for taking the time to speak with the students and for providing such an informative and engaging session.