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Principal Lawyer, Serious Crime
Brisbane
Are you passionate about social justice and committed to ensuring fair access to the legal system? At Legal Aid Queensland, we don’t just practise law – we use it as a tool to empower the most vulnerable in our community. As a Principal Lawyer in our Criminal Law Services team, you’ll lead from the front, working on complex and high-profile cases while mentoring a team of dedicated professionals. If you’re ready to take the next step in your career and leave a lasting impact, we want you on our team.
Job details
| Position status | Permanent |
|---|---|
| Position type | Full-time |
| Occupational group | Justice & Legal |
| Classification | PO6 |
| Workplace Location | Brisbane Inner City |
| Job ad reference | QLD/656653 |
| Closing date | 08-Sep-2025 |
| Job duration | |
| Contact person | Leigh Smith |
| Contact details | 07 3917 0308 Access the National Relay Service |
About Legal Aid Queensland
Legal Aid Queensland's vision is to be a leader in a fair justice system where people are able to understand and protect their legal rights. Our purpose is to provide quality, cost effective legal services to financially disadvantaged people throughout Queensland.
We embrace diversity, flexibility, learning and continuous improvement to deliver quality legal services. The work is challenging but rewarding - and that is why staff wellbeing and work/life balance are a top priority for us.
About the role
As a Principal Lawyer, you'll:
- Represent clients in criminal law matters, including preparing cases, instructing counsel, and appearing in court.
- Manage and supervise a team of professional and administrative staff, fostering an inclusive and high-performing workplace.
- Lead operational planning, resource allocation, and reporting to meet strategic goals.
- Contribute to law reform, policy, and procedural improvements to enhance Queensland's criminal justice system.
- Develop and deliver continuing legal education and community engagement initiatives.
About you
To excel in this role, you'll need:
- Admission (or eligibility for immediate admission) as a legal practitioner in Queensland, with a current practising certificate and High Court registration.
- Proven expertise in criminal law, including advocacy and case management for complex matters.
- Strong leadership skills, including team management, performance development, and conflict resolution.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills, with the ability to connect with clients with complex needs using trauma-informed practices.
- A commitment to ongoing professional growth and ethical legal practice.
Find out more about the role and how to apply in the attached role description.
As a member of the Legal Aid Queensland Community, you will receive:
- A 36.25 hour working week (full time hours)
- Generous salary packaging
- Employer super contributions of 12.75%
- Flexible working hours
- Study leave for approved work-related courses.
Find out more about working in Legal Aid Queensland here: https://www.legalaid.qld.gov.au/About-us/Careers
Further information
We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.
We are committed to building inclusive cultures in the Queensland public sector that respect and promote human rights and diversity.
Documents
Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.
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LAQ Employee Benefits (PDF, 277KB)
Information Package for Applicants
LAQ Information Kit for Applicants (PDF, 448KB)
Information Package for Applicants
Position description - PO6 Lawyer (crime) (PDF, 161KB)
Role Description
