Junior Solicitor, Criminal Law Practice

• $84,673 - $88,050 - Relative to your previous experience
• Hit the road, fight for justice, and stand up for First Nation communities
• Grow your career and enjoy perks like salary packaging, leave loading & more

Job: | Full-Time | Permanent | Nowra, NSW

The Aboriginal Legal Service (ALS) was established in a critical act of self-determination over 50 years ago as part of the Aboriginal rights protest movement. We provide high-quality, culturally safe legal and support services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people throughout NSW and the ACT, and fight for social justice and equity for our communities.

What Will You Do?

Join a passionate, high-performing team where your work truly matters. As a Criminal Law Solicitor, you'll stand up for Aboriginal clients in court, handling bail, sentencing, hearings, and more. You'll bring your smarts, independence, and teamwork to a role that's as rewarding as it is dynamic.

Each day you will expect to:

• Provide high-quality, culturally appropriate legal advice and representation to Aboriginal clients across criminal law matters.
• Manage a busy caseload, prepare briefs, and represent clients in Local, Children's, District Courts, and Court Circuits (including travel).
• Maintain up-to-date knowledge of criminal law, court procedures, and ALS policies while ensuring ethical and professional standards.
• Communicate effectively with clients, including those facing complex personal challenges, and work collaboratively within a skilled legal team.
• Support law reform initiatives, mentor junior solicitors, and contribute to the ALS community and cultural practices.
• Manage legal files, court schedules, and technology systems to maintain an efficient and organised legal practice.

Who Are We Looking For?

A passionate and skilled legal professional who understands and respects the cultural, social, and historical needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities, and is ready to make a real impact. If this sounds like you, check out the essential criteria below

• Strong understanding of legal issues affecting socially and economically disadvantaged Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
• Hold legal qualifications with a current NSW Practising Certificate (or ability to obtain immediately) and valid WWCC (or ability to obtain immediately).
• Excellent communication, legal research, time management, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently, meet deadlines, and manage a diverse workload.
• Respect for Aboriginal cultural practices and awareness of clients' social and cultural needs.
• (Desirable) At least 6 months' criminal law experience, including court appearances across Local, Children's, District Courts, and Court Circuits.

Why Join Us?

At ALS, you can discover a fulfilling career that truly makes an impact in the community. We also offer our staff a range of generous benefits including:

• Not-for-profit salary packaging to reduce your tax burden, which means you get to keep more of your hard-earned money in your pocket
• Annual leave loading of 17.5%, ensuring that you are rewarded for your time off and can enjoy a well-deserved break.
• Career and professional development opportunities

At ALS, we are committed to upholding the highest standards of safe recruitment practices. Therefore, it is essential that candidates either possess or have the capacity to obtain a current and valid Working with Children (NSW) or Working with Vulnerable People (ACT) check for this role.

We are focused to providing equal opportunities to all candidates. If you identify as a person with a disability and need any adjustments or support with your application including throughout the recruitment process, please let us know by reaching out to our Talent Team