Te Haeata/The Opportunity
Looking for a challenge along with a varied caseload? Enjoy working in a collaborative and supportive environment? Have a strong desire to develop your career in criminal advocacy? This is a truly exciting opportunity.
The Public Defence Service (PDS) is looking for a motivated and experienced criminal litigator to take up the role of Lawyer PAL1 at our Hamilton office. Reporting to the Legal Team Manager you will:

• Deliver high quality defence representation to legally aided clients
• Manage a varied caseload of criminal matters
• Provide support to intermediate and senior lawyers

He pūkenga tou/Skills and Experience
To be successful you must be passionate about criminal justice issues and:

• Have a PAL 1 approval level, or close to obtaining, and be qualified to practice law in New Zealand
• Have confidence in your ability to develop credibility with judges, peers and others in the legal community
• Enjoy sharing legal expertise, exchanging ideas and brainstorming
• Have empathy and the ability to relate to a wide range of people

This is a challenging but truly satisfying role and our lawyers love what they do.

Mō te tīma/About our Team
At Te Tāhū o te Ture - the Ministry of Justice, we're committed to strengthening people's trust in the law of Aotearoa, New Zealand.
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.
The Public Defence Service (PDS) 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.

He aha ngā painga o tēnei mahi mōu/Why you will enjoy working here
"You never know what each day will bring. I love the rush the job can bring whilst being able to sit and critically think about a legal issue." (Claire)
We will provide you with:

• Access to a well-designed and embedded national training programme,
• Professional development and opportunities to progress
• A professional supervision programme
• A laptop and mobile phone

See our full range of benefits here.

Utu ā-tau/Salary
The appointing salary for this role will be between $72,490 and $100,642 based on skills and experience.

Tono mai/How to Apply
To apply, click the Apply button below to be directed to our Careers Website. You can view a detailed position description here, as well as complete an online application form by attaching your CV and cover letter.
Applications close on Wednesday 30 October 2024; however, we will be reviewing CVs as they come in and inviting successful candidates to interview before the close date.
If you have any questions, please contact recruitment@justice.govt.nz