Curated Careers with Terri Homans
Commercial Litigation is not "Suits"
Antoni Berardone
Commercial Litigator & Mediator
5 April 2026
Listen on audio
Episode Description
Commercial litigation is often portrayed as high-stakes courtroom drama. In reality, it is procedural, detail-heavy work with significant pressure and responsibility. In this episode, Queensland commercial litigator and accredited mediator Antoni Berardone explains how disputes between businesses are actually managed and what the day-to-day work involves.
In this episode you will learn:
• the difference between solicitors and barristers in a litigation matter
• what commercial litigators actually spend most of their time doing
• how mediation works and why many disputes resolve before trial
• why academic performance does not always translate into legal capability
• the realities of workload, pressure and burnout in litigation careers
Who this episode is for
• Students considering a career in law
• Early-career lawyers questioning litigation
• Career changers exploring legal pathways
• Anyone wanting a realistic view of how disputes are resolved
Real jobs. Real insight. No Gloss.
If this episode changed how you see careers, explore more conversations or learn how Curated Careers can support your next step.
Key Takeaways
Law is built on detail and patience. Most of the work happens behind the scenes - reading, analysing and thinking deeply to find what really matters.
Your role changes as your career grows. Junior lawyers learn the foundations. Senior lawyers manage strategy, judgement and pressure. Experience can't be rushed.
Good lawyers need more than good grades. Clear communication, confidence and self-awareness matter just as much as academic results.
Thinking bout this career?
Download the Career Brief sheet (5 min read)