We are currently looking for a Solicitor to join our Access to Justice team. This is a full-time permanent role (35 hours per week, no billable hours) with a hybrid working model, located in Martin Place in the heart of Sydney's CBD.

About us

The Law Society of NSW is Australia's largest and most influential membership association for solicitors. We are not all lawyers, but we work together to support the legal profession and ensure a just society for all.

About the team

The Access to Justice Team is dedicated to improving access to justice across New South Wales. Through various programs, we endeavour to help people with their legal needs in a way that is fair and accessible to all, irrespective of wealth and status. We also operate a legal information service to members of the Law Society to assist them in their practice.

About the role

The Solicitor, Access to Justice, under the supervision of the Director, Access to Justice, is responsible for the provision of in-house pro bono legal representation and case file management and assisting the Director, Access to Justice in operating the Law Society’s Pro Bono Scheme.

What you'll be doing

• Assessing applications for pro bono legal assistance, including through conducting means and merit assessments based on the Scheme’s guidelines.
• Referring eligible matters to solicitors who are registered with the Scheme.
• Assisting with enquiries about the Scheme and providing information about eligibility requirements for assistance.
• Having carriage of in-house pro bono matters in the areas of family law, criminal law, care & protection, immigration, civil and administrative law matters. This will include, but is not be limited to, drafting legal correspondence and documents, appearing in court at mentions, directions, interim and final hearings.
• Providing representation at mediations and other forms of dispute resolution in relation to in-house pro bono matters.
• Prepare accurate and concise briefs and instructions to Counsel in a timely manner.
• Escalating any issues that need addressing to the Director, Access to Justice.
• Conducting legal research and preparing administrative work accurately and promptly.
• Participating as a team member of Access to Justice to ensure the service is covered in a professional manner at all times and in particular to assist the Director, Access to Justice where necessary.

About you

• Admission as a Solicitor to the Supreme Court of New South Wales and be the holder of a current NSW Practicing Certificate (or be eligible to obtain one).
• Experience in an in-house law practice or law firm (desirable).
• Experience in a high volume customer service environment (desirable).
• Well-developed legal analysis, drafting and advocacy skills.
• Capable of listening and assimilating information from others, identifying various potential outcomes and consequences, presenting persuasive arguments and winning concessions while maintaining relationships.
• Highly developed communication skills with a professional manner.
• Proven ability to use clear and concise language in correspondence.
• Ability to practise open communication, lead by example and effectively provide honest and constructive feedback.
• Ability to plan and organise self and others to ensure the timely completion of tasks.
• Ability to appropriately prioritise problems, gather and analyse the right information to identify symptoms and causes and identify the right people to involve to reach better conclusions.
• Demonstrated ability with computer skills, including MS Office.
• Contributes effectively to a team environment.
• Excellent communication skills.
• Displays a commitment to quality client service, values the supplying of accurate and timely information and relates to people from diverse backgrounds.

To apply

The Law Society of New South Wales is committed to building and maintaining a respectful and inclusive workplace, appointing the best person for the role and supporting diversity.

Applications should contain a CV and cover letter that outlines your key experience and motivations for this role.