Flexible/Hybrid Location  |  Full-time |  Fixed-term

This role is part of a new initiative being developed by the ALS to provide high quality legal advice, referral services and support to clients in custody. 

This role would suit someone with a passion for program design. 

About the ALS

Born out of a protest movement, the Aboriginal Legal Service (NSW/ACT) Limited is the primary legal service for Aboriginal people in NSW and the ACT. Our vision is to achieve social justice and equity for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, families and communities.

We offer a diverse, inclusive and supportive work environment. We’re passionate about what we do and we work hard. The ALS values the health and wellbeing of our employees and we are proud to offer flexible work practices. Staff can choose to take advantage of benefits including salary packaging to maximise take-home pay.

About the role

The Senior Solicitor will be responsible for: 

• Provide high quality legal advice, referral and minor assistance services to Aboriginal clients in custody
• Demonstrate continuing respect and support for Aboriginal cultural practices in dealing with clients, their families, communities and staff; as an employee of the ALS, continue to learn about the customs and history of local Aboriginal people
• Record all data in an orderly and professional manner, including the recording of all data on the ALS file covers as required for statistical purposes
• As directed, act as a mentor to more junior solicitors regarding law and procedure and the operations of the ALS, and contribute to the delivery of CPD and CLE
• Assist with the development of submissions on law reform and represent the ALS at meetings, conference and seminars as requested
• Provide and record referrals for clients to assist them in resolving their legal matters
• Provide considered, independent, balanced and professional legal advice
• Ensure all policies and practices are ethical and comply with the ALS’s policies and workplace health and safety legislation and promote the establishment of equal employment and access in accordance with agreed statutory policy

Your skills and experience

• Knowledge and appreciation of the cultural and social needs of Aboriginal people combined with continuing respect and support for Aboriginal cultural practices in dealing with clients, their families, communities and staff
• Legal qualifications and a NSW Practising Certificate with a minimum of 4 years’ experience in Criminal Law or related areas
• In-depth knowledge, understanding and of criminal law, including practice and procedure
• In-depth knowledge of the justice sector and referral pathways
• Ability to identify legal needs and provide appropriate advice, minor assistance and referrals  
• Excellent written and oral communication skills combined with strong time management, interpersonal, legal research and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work autonomously within a criminal law environment, meet conflicting deadlines and manage a busy workload
• Ability to display sound judgment and proven capacity to provide high quality legal representation and advice to Aboriginal clients
• Ability to meet deadlines, work without supervision and manage a diverse workload, together with high level conceptual, analytical and research skills
• Demonstrated commitment to the effective implementation of Workplace Health & Safety and Ethical and Diversity practices in the workplace

How to apply

• Download the application package for this position

• Please submit the completed application package to the HR team at [email protected]

• Direct any questions to [email protected]

Applications for this position close at 29 September 2023