Legal Research Officer

About Us

Court Services Victoria provides corporate services and facilities to support the performance of the judicial, quasi-judicial and administrative functions of Victoria's courts and tribunal, Judicial College and Judicial Commission.

Collectively, Victoria's Supreme, County, Magistrates', Children's, and Coroners courts, the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT), the Judicial College of Victoria, the Judicial Commission of Victoria, and Court Services Victoria (CSV) are referred to as the `Courts Group'.

Our people enable the Courts Group to deliver on each jurisdiction's own strategic priorities while also pursuing strategic opportunities that are interconnected and deliver benefits more broadly.

VCAT

The Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal (VCAT) is a justice service that resolves a wide range of disputes for the Victorian community, including renting, planning, and consumer disputes. VCAT is committed to delivering an accessible service for all Victorians and is transforming our digital products and services to make it faster, easier, and more convenient for people to come to the tribunal.

About the Role

The Legal Research Officers support VCAT members by conducting independent legal research, assisting with evidence analysis, and aiding in the preparation of decision drafts.

The Early Career Program involves Legal Research Officers undertaking their work across any of VCAT's Divisions and practice areas. This will involve rotations in any of the following areas: Administrative, Building and Property, Civil Claims, Human Rights, Owners Corporation, Planning and Environment, and Residential Tenancies.

The roles work closely with and under the day-to-day direction of the Senior Advisor to the President and are based in the President's Chambers. You will also work closely with VCAT Divisional leaders and more generally, VCAT members, to assist with case management of proceedings. The roles will also assist in the management of cases that may be transferred to a court under s77 of the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal Act 1998.

Responsibilities will include:

• conducting thorough and independent legal research, assisting in evidence analysis and providing well-researched insights and summaries to support decision-making
• assisting with research and drafting of decisions and other legal documents with accuracy and attention to detail
• building and maintaining strong working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders
• supporting the development of guidance materials and assisting members in managing proceedings
• analysing and triaging section 77 referrals to enable the efficient disposition by senior and presidential members

There are multiple roles available; all of fixed term duration until 12 January 2028

About You

The ideal candidate/s will have a strong interest in the administration of justice, particularly those with experience in litigation, dispute resolution and/or a background in legal research. You will have a drive to success and demonstrated ability to perform under pressure and with the capacity to work well in a small team.

Demonstrated experience in legal research will be highly considered.

Qualifications

A law degree from a recognised university (or in your final year of study).

How to apply

Click the `Apply Now' button, ensuring you include the following in your application:

• resume
• a short cover letter
• academic transcript/s

Other information

CSV is the employer of staff at Courts Group. CSV has a firm commitment through its Koori Employment Plan to increase participation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people across our workforce.

We value the unique backgrounds, experiences, and contributions that each person brings to our community and encourage and celebrate diversity. Those from the LGBTQIA+ community, women, people of all ages, with disabilities, culturally and linguistically diverse people, and those who are neurodiverse, are encouraged to apply.

We aim to create a workforce that reflects the community in which we live.

If you require adjustments to the recruitment and selection process or require an alternative format to any of the application material, please don't hesitate to email the contact person listed in the advertisement.

As part of our commitment to a safe and respectful workplace, CSV conduct pre-employment checks, including reference checks, police checks and misconduct screening. These checks are handled confidentially, with care and are a standard part of our hiring process to ensure the right fit for both candidates and Court Services Victoria.