Criminal Defence Lawyers, Legal Team Managers

1 day ago

Auckland City, New Zealand New Zealand Ministry of Justice Full time

**Te whiwhinga mahi/The Opportunity**

South Auckland has one of the most diverse communities in New Zealand and our Manukau office has an important role in helping some of the most marginalised people in that community. To help in that work, we are looking to appoint lawyers at all levels from PAL 1 to PAL 4 (or the ability to obtain) - who have a strong desire to develop their career in the specialist area of criminal advocacy.

We have opportunities available for:
**PAL 1 - Junior Lawyers**: You will have at least 12 months criminal litigation experience and a strong desire to develop your career in the specialist area of criminal advocacy.

**PAL 2 - Intermediate Lawyers**: taking on more complex matters in the jury trial jurisdiction, while using your skills and experience supervising and developing junior lawyers.

**PAL 3 and 4 - Senior Lawyers**: You will find challenge and satisfaction as part of our group of senior lawyers - representing clients in the more complex, serious and high-profile cases.

**Principal Lawyer (PAL 4)**: You will be recognised as an expert legal practitioner and will be responsible for representing clients in the more complex, serious and high-profile cases. Although you will not manage a team of lawyers, you will act as a role model for your less experienced colleagues, offering support, professional leadership and supervision.

**Legal Team Manager (min. PAL 2)**: Reporting to an Assistant Public Defender, you will manage your own caseload while leading and providing guidance to a small team of junior lawyers.

Please refer to the position descriptions attached for more details.

**He pūkenga tou/Skills and Experience**

We are looking for someone who:

- Is qualified to practice law in New Zealand
- Has confidence in their ability to develop credibility with judges, peers and others in the legal community
- Is committed to being the voice of some of the most marginalised people in the criminal justice system
- Is passionate about criminal justice and ready to contribute to representing clients in the most diverse community in New Zealand
- Is happy to be part of a team who support and rely on one-another

**Mō te tīma/About our Team**

At Tāhū o te Ture - the Ministry of Justice, we're committed to working together for a fair and safe Aotearoa.

The Public Defence Service provides high quality legal advice and representation in a full range of criminal cases. Aimed at helping people access justice, the PDS promotes the values of respect, integrity, service and the delivery of excellent service to its clients.

Joining Te Tāhū o te Ture means you will become part of an organisation that welcomes and supports people of all gender identities, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, disabilities and religions.

**Ka whiwhi koe i te aha/What you will get in return**

As a valued member of the team, you will enjoy benefits such as:

- working in a great community
- an incredible work/life balance with flexible working arrangements
- generous leave entitlements
- first class training and outstanding professional development
- outstanding administrative support
- a competitive salary
- Access to a variety of inclusive and proactive networks, including Pacifica, Māori, Rainbow and Women's
- Free and confidential counselling sessions

As well as other benefits such as discounts on gym memberships, dentists, medical insurance and hearing and eye test contributions.

**Tono mai/How to Apply

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