Are you passionate about criminal law and social justice? Do you thrive in challenging environments where your advocacy, analytical, and leadership skills make a real difference? Legal Aid Queensland is looking for a dedicated Senior Lawyer to join our Appeals Team, contributing to important and high-profile criminal law matters in Queensland.

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

As a Senior Lawyer in the Appeals Team, you will play a crucial role in representing clients across various courts, including the Court of Appeal, the High Court of Australia, Children's Courts and other jurisdictions. You will be responsible for preparing complex criminal law matters, instructing counsel, and personally appearing in cases, including criminal appeals and Dangerous Prisoners (Sexual Offenders) Act 2003 (DPSOA) applications. Additionally, you will provide expert legal information and advice to clients and stakeholders while supervising and mentoring Legal Aid Queensland lawyers.

This role also involves contributing to legal policies, procedures, law reform, service delivery initiatives, and operational team planning, ensuring the continued improvement of work practices within the appeals team.

About you

We are seeking a legal professional with:

• Admission, or eligibility for immediate admission, as a legal practitioner in Queensland, a current practising certificate, and entry in the High Court Register of Practitioners.
• Extensive knowledge and experience in criminal law procedures, evidence, ethics, and representing clients in complex appeals.
• Excellent advocacy and representation skills, including experience in superior courts and with clients requiring trauma-informed practice.
• Strong ability to build relationships, mentor others, and provide expert legal advice.
• A commitment to social justice, self-development, and high professional standards.

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, Appeals (PDF, 430KB)
  Role Description