Criminal Lawyer 3-10yrs PQE - Sunshine Coast

_{04th August, 2026}

We are a well-established Sunshine Coast law firm with years of history supporting our local community.
 
Known for our strong advocacy and practical approach, we act across a broad range of complex and high-stakes matters, from litigation through to criminal defence, giving our lawyers exposure to meaningful, career-defining work.
 
This firm fosters a genuinely supportive and collaborative environment, with a strong focus on mentoring, development and long-term career progression.
 
Our team is committed to delivering exceptional client outcomes and making a real difference when it matters most, with a long-standing reputation for professionalism, expertise and client care.
 
What we offer

• Salary from $130,000 - $160,000 + super + bonuses
• Genuinely flexible work arrangements with WfH days and leave early Friday's
• Exposure to complex and high-profile criminal matters
• Mentoring from accredited specialists and senior practitioners
• A collegiate, supportive and genuinely collaborative team culture
• The opportunity to take carriage of your own files with appropriate autonomy
• Ongoing professional development to further strengthen your advocacy and technical skills

About the role

• Managing a diverse criminal law caseload
• Appearing regularly in Courts
• Conducting pleas, bail applications, hearings and instructing in trials
• Advising clients on complex legal issues, strategy and risk
• Liaising with counsel, experts, police and other stakeholders
• Supervising and mentoring junior lawyers and support staff (where appropriate)
• Contributing to the continued growth and development of the criminal law practice

About you

• Admitted as a legal practitioner in Queensland
• 3-10+ Yrs PQE, with a strong focus on criminal law 
• Demonstrated experience managing criminal matters with a high degree of autonomy
• Confident advocate with regular court appearance experience
• Strong working knowledge of Queensland criminal procedure and evidence
• Excellent written and oral communication skills
• Sound judgement, attention to detail with a strong work ethic
• A genuine commitment to criminal law and achieving strong client outcomes
• A practical, hands-on and client-focused approach
• Collegiate, professional and comfortable working in a highly collaborative environment
• An interest in mentoring or supporting junior team members

 
If this sounds like a role/firm you'd be open to exploring, please apply today or reach out to Seth Dekker or Marie Holloway via marie@optio6talentpartners.com.au for a confidential chat.