Junior Solicitor - Family and Child Protection

About the role

The Junior Solicitor provides high-quality, culturally safe legal services to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients in civil, family law and child protection matters. Working under the supervision of senior legal practitioners, the role contributes to achieving positive legal outcomes for clients through the provision of legal advice, representation, advocacy, research and case management.

Key responsibilities

• Provide legal advice, representation and advocacy in civil, family law and child protection matters

• Manage a supervised caseload in accordance with ALRM policies, professional obligations and funding requirements

• Prepare court documents, correspondence, briefs, chronologies, affidavits and other legal materials

• Appear in courts and tribunals as appropriate to the level of experience and supervision

• Assist clients to understand legal processes, options and outcomes

• Provide referrals to appropriate legal and non-legal support services where required

• Deliver services that are culturally respectful, trauma-informed and client-centred

• Conduct legal research and analysis to support case preparation and legal advice

• Review, analyse and summarise material obtained from government agencies and other sources

• Work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams across ALRM

About you

• Admission as a legal practitioner of the Supreme Court of South Australia and the High Court of Australia, or eligibility for admission

• Permanent work rights

• Ability to hold and maintain a practising certificate

• Current National Criminal History Check and Working with Children Clearances (or ability to obtain)

• Strong legal research, analytical and problem-solving skills

• Ability to communicate effectively with clients from diverse cultural and social backgrounds

• Well-developed written communication skills, including drafting legal documents and correspondence

• Sound organisational and time-management skills with attention to detail

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and legal practice systems

• Demonstrated ability to work respectfully and effectively with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and communities