Junior Criminal Defence Lawyer, Waitakere Public Defence ServiceMOJ/1442590Focus on criminal defence – become an expert in your area of lawEnjoy comprehensive professional development programmes and career opportunitiesBe the voice of justice for our communities' most marginalised peopleWe are looking for a junior level lawyer who has completed (or is eligible to complete) duty lawyer training and has obtained or is close to obtaining PAL 1 approval, and who has a strong desire to develop their career in the specialist area of criminal advocacy. The successful candidate will join the team in our Waitakere office, based in Henderson. We are a supportive and welcoming team of around 25 legal and support staff with a range of experience and huge opportunity to develop and share your criminal defence skills in a busy and sometimes challenging environment.The Public Defence Service (PDS) is New Zealand's largest criminal law practice, providing 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.You will find challenge and satisfaction with a varied caseload, including trials and appearances. You will have expert and talented colleagues around who will mentor you and support your development to the next level of your career. The PDS is well known for its comprehensive professional development programme in criminal litigation and is considered an excellent training ground and full of opportunities for a successful legal career.To be successful you must be passionate about criminal justice issues and be qualified to practice law in New Zealand. You will be developing an ability to build credibility with judges, peers and others in the legal community. As an important member of a close-knit team you will enjoy exchanging ideas and brainstorming - and providing support and light relief when required. You will have empathy and the ability to relate to a wide range of people. This is a challenging but truly satisfying job and our lawyers love what they do.The PDS is part of the Ministry of Justice and the wider justice sector. The ministry provides centralised business services, infrastructure and support to the work of the PDS.There is always something new to learn which contributes positively to my experience as a Junior Lawyer, this is due to the variety of cases that PDS undertake and the supervision and support that is available to us. PDS is a fantastic training ground for new lawyers. (Sophia)Salary range: $60,092 - $84,836Joining the Ministry of Justice means you will become part of an inclusive organisation that values you and the communities we serve. It's important to us that our workplace is one where our people feel healthy and safe, supported and able to be themselves at work. We value respect as the foundation for building a positive workplace culture where diversity is welcomed and celebrated.How to applyTo apply, click the Apply button below to be directed to our Careers Website. You can view a detailed position description at the site, as well as complete an online application form by attaching your CV, cover letter and a copy of your academic record.For tracking purposes, all applications must be submitted via our online process.Applications close on Sunday 09 August 2020. If you have any questions please contact **********
