NSW Department of Communities and Justice
Regional Program Graduate Solicitor
Enables services to work together to support everyone's right to access justice and other help for families, and strengthen the promotion of early intervention and inclusion, with benefits for the whole community.
Legal
Full-time
Office | Sydney, NSW, Australia
Visa sponsorship · No
Entry Level · A role for someone with underlying potential, good motivation and ability to learn. Typically no direct experience is required.
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Why NSW Department of Communities and Justice
The DCJ is the lead agency in the new Stronger Communities Cluster. The department enables services to better work together to support everyone's right to access justice and other help for families, and strengthen/bolster the promotion of early intervention and inclusion, with benefits for the whole community.
Working together in the Stronger Communities cluster means we can continue to deliver services with a more unified and collaborative approach. There is now a greater focus on prevention and early intervention, faster responses, more seamless operations, less duplication of effort and better outcomes.
About the role
About the role The Regional Graduate Solicitor Program is a structured program designed for new lawyers to gain hands-on experience in criminal law while making a meaningful contribution to regional communities.
The program requires:
- Initial intensive training: A 2-week induction program with experienced trainers and advocates.
- Initial placement in Sydney for up to 6 months, working in CBD and metro offices to build foundational legal skills.
- After completion of the initial Sydney placement candidates will then undertake a mandatory 12-month placement in a regional location (Broken Hill, Dubbo, Moree, Tamworth, or Wagga Wagga). You must be willing to relocate to any of these locations, depending on office needs.
- A temporary, Sydney-based or regional role after your 12-month regional placement, ensuring continued career development.
- Dedicated mentoring and supervision throughout the program to develop your legal and advocacy skills. As a Regional Graduate Solicitor, you will provide legal advice and representation to clients, appear in court, and collaborate with stakeholders to deliver high-quality, culturally sensitive legal services.
About you We are seeking dedicated and adaptable new lawyers who:
- Are prepared to relocate regionally for a minimum of 12 months as a requirement of the program.
- Will be admitted as legal practitioners by June 2025 (or earlier).
- Have less than 12 months post-admission experience (PQE).
- Are committed to developing expertise in criminal law.
- Have a valid driver’s licence and the ability to travel, including overnight stays.
- Are committed to providing culturally safe legal services and working with diverse communities.
What you'll be responsible for
- 📂
Legal Research
Conduct legal and factual research to collate findings, and inform business and legal decisions.
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Legal Operations
Review laws and standards to implement, update and maintain the organization’s policies, standards, and procedures.
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Legal Advisory and Risk Management
Advise on the whole spectrum of legal matters that apply to the business and its offerings.
Skills you'll need
- 🤝
Negotiation
Persuades others to shift their views and/or behaviours with the goal of reaching consensus
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Critical thinking
Identifies and synthesizes patterns and trends amongst various sources of information to reach a meaningful conclusion, perspective or insight
- 🔍
Attention to detail
Accurately identifies and rectifies discrepancies or errors that exists in information and deliverables
Meet the team
Provide legal and administrative support to solicitors in a legal practice group.