Do you have a passion for criminal law, a commitment to social justice, and the drive to make a positive change in people’s lives? This is no ordinary legal role. Join Legal Aid Queensland as a Senior Criminal Lawyer in the Solicitor Advocates team and contribute to our vision of creating a fair justice system. Work with an organisation celebrated for its integral role in protecting the rights of Queenslanders and providing quality legal services to support the most vulnerable in our community.

Job details

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

Every day poses new challenges. As a Senior Lawyer at Legal Aid Queensland, you'll be at the forefront of defending justice, with opportunities to:

• Represent and advocate passionately for children and adults in complex criminal law and quasi-criminal law matters across all court jurisdictions in Queensland.
• Be part of an elite team delivering duty lawyer services and representing clients in trials, sentencing, hearings, higher court mentions and appeals.
• Mentor and guide the next generation of attorneys within Legal Aid, sharing your expertise in criminal law while fostering a culture of continuous growth.
• Collaborate with diverse stakeholders in the criminal justice system, driving policy improvements and law reform that enhance Queensland's legal landscape.
• Engage in trauma-informed practice and serve as a beacon of justice to communities in need.

About you

We need professionals who bring more than just sharp courtroom skills — we seek leaders with a commitment to social justice and a drive to shape the future of the legal community. The ideal candidate will have:

• Extensive experience and proven expertise in complex criminal law, evidence, and ethics.
• A forensic and critical thinking approach to legal practice, with sound knowledge of criminal law procedures and the justice system.
• Stellar communication, negotiation, and advocacy skills, paired with the ability to work effectively with clients experiencing complex challenges, using trauma-informed care principles.
• Leadership instinct – if you thrive mentoring junior lawyers and building a positive team environment, you'll excel in this role.

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.

Documents

Before applying for this vacancy please ensure you read the documents below.

• LAQ Employee Benefits (PDF, 277KB)
  Information Package for Applicants
  
  LAQ Information Kit for Applicants (PDF, 448KB)
  Information Package for Applicants
  
  Position description - PO5 Senior Lawyer (crime) (PDF, 143KB)
  Role Description