The future of the legal profession lies in the hands of today's young lawyers. They are the thought leaders, the drivers of change and the people who have the vision and ambition to excel in the profession and deliver something positive to their clients, their firms and society at large.

So who are today's best young private practice lawyers and what makes them tick? Lawyers Weekly sought out seven outstanding young lawyers, all within their first five years of practice and all showing immense promise in their chosen fields of practice. They are a mixed bunch, working within some of Australia's best law firms, with most also leading on social, political and pro bono issues within and external to their workplaces.

Talking to these young lawyers, whose interests and outlooks on life and work vary, it is clear that they all share a passion for what they do, and it is this passion which has driven them to achieve early success in their careers.

It is also clear that the priorities of today's young lawyers are not solely work-oriented, with pro bono work, social conscience activities, extra-curricular pursuits, world travel and the ability to have a good laugh also high on the agenda.

And, if these young lawyers are anything to go by, the future of the legal profession appears to be in very good hands.

Click on the images to meet the 2010 Young Guns:

>> Jnana Gumbert, Director, Stacks/Goudkamp

>> Eliza Evans, Lawyer, Minter Ellison

>> Darren Fittler, Lawyer, Gilbert + Tobin

>> Liz Hamshary, Lawyer, Clayton Utz

>> Fergus Green, Lawyer, Allens Arthur Robinson

>> Kylie Lane, Senior Associate, Blake Dawson

>> Clayton James, Lawyer, Freehills