Criminal Lawyer

Location: Preston VIC

Employment Type: Full Time | Fixed Term (with potential to become ongoing)

Organisation: Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS)

Salary: $87, $93, Super + Salary Packaging

The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation (ACCO) and the state's only specialist legal and support service dedicated to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. Established in 1973, VALS provides culturally safe legal advice and representation across criminal, family, civil, and human rights law, youth justice, and specialist litigation.

We are seeking a passionate and dedicated Criminal Lawyer to join VALS. In this role, you will deliver high-quality, culturally safe legal services and advocacy to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients across Victoria.

Working within the Criminal Law Practice, you will represent clients in the Magistrates', County and Koori Courts, contributing to social justice, community empowerment, and systemic change within a culturally safe and supportive environment.

• Appear as an advocate in various courts including the Children's Court, Magistrates Court, County Court and Koori Courts in order to represent clients of VALS in criminal matters.
• Deliver a quality legal service by conducting casework in criminal law matters for members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
• Appear as an advocate in various courts, including the Children's, Magistrates', County and Koori Courts, to represent VALS clients in criminal matters.
• Conduct high-quality casework in criminal law for members of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community.
• Participate in the on-call after-hours roster ("Night Phone"), providing emergency legal advice, and appear in Bail and Remand Courts on a rostered basis (including evenings, weekends, and public holidays).
• Contribute to community legal education projects, law reform initiatives, and VALS programs.
• Maintain collaborative relationships with Victoria Legal Aid and other key community organisations.
• Stay informed about relevant legal developments and professional obligations.
• Travel across Victoria as required to deliver services — a driver's licence is essential.

• Admitted or eligible for admission as a Legal Practitioner in Victoria.
• Demonstrated experience providing advocacy, advice, and casework in criminal law matters.
• Strong understanding of criminal law and court procedures.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
• Commitment to social justice, cultural safety, and self-determination.
• Collaborative team player with emotional intelligence and respect for others.

• 17.5% Leave Loading
• 5 additional days of annual leave on top of the standard 20 days
• Generous salary packaging up to $15,900 via Maxxia
• Opportunity to work alongside a passionate, culturally committed team
• Ongoing professional development and training opportunities
• A supportive, inclusive, and culturally safe workplace environment

To apply, please provide:

• Your current resume, including education, professional experience, and two referees

Submit your application the subject line: 'Application for Criminal Lawyer at VALS'

VALS actively encourages and supports Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander people to apply. This designated position provides a culturally safe, supportive, and inclusive environment where your knowledge and lived experience are highly valued.

Please note:We do not accept unsolicited resumes from employment agencies. No fees will be paid to agencies submitting candidates without a valid written agreement.