Criminal Lawyer | 3–6 Years PAE

Criminal Lawyer | 3–6 Years PAE

Smith Cambridge Lawyers | Bundall, Gold Coast

Criminal, Domestic Violence & Traffic Law | Full-Time | Premium Salary Package + Career Progression

Build Your Career with One of the Gold Coast's Leading Criminal Defence Practices

At Smith Cambridge Lawyers, criminal law isn't just one area of our practice—it's what we do.

Our reputation has been built on fearless advocacy, meticulous preparation and achieving outstanding outcomes for our clients. As our firm continues to grow, we are looking for an ambitious and highly motivated Criminal Lawyer (3–6 years PAE) who wants to take the next step in their career within a respected specialist practice.

This is an opportunity to work on a diverse and challenging caseload, appear regularly in court, develop your advocacy skills and work alongside the firm Principal.

If you enjoy being in court, thinking strategically and making a genuine difference to people's lives, we'd love to hear from you.

About the Role

You'll have carriage of your own files while receiving support and mentoring from experienced practitioners.

Your work will include:

• Criminal and traffic law matters from commencement through to finalisation.

• Regular appearances in the Magistrates, District, Supreme, Children's Court and Court of Appeal.

• Bail applications, sentence hearings, committals and trials.

• Police interviews and watchhouse attendances.

• Prison visits and conferences with clients.

• Domestic and family violence matters.

• Negotiations with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions and Queensland Police Service.

• Briefing and instructing Junior and Senior Counsel in complex matters.

• Developing strong relationships with clients and delivering practical, strategic legal advice.

No two days are the same, making this an ideal role for someone who enjoys variety, responsibility and advocacy.

About You

We're looking for someone who is passionate about criminal defence, understands that being a criminal defence lawyer isn't a 9am -5pm job, and enjoys being part of a collaborative, high-performing team.

You'll bring:

• 3–6 years Post Admission Experience in criminal law.

• Current restricted/unrestricted Queensland practising certificate.

• Experience independently managing criminal law files.

• Strong advocacy and courtroom presence.

• Excellent drafting, negotiation and communication skills.

• Commercial awareness and sound legal judgement.

• A proactive, organised and client-focused approach.

• Current Queensland Driver Licence and personal vehicle.

What Sets This Role Apart?

Unlike larger firms, you'll enjoy genuine responsibility, meaningful client contact and regular advocacy from day one.

We offer:

• Competitive salary package based on experience.

• Performance incentives and genuine opportunities for career advancement.

• Exposure to high-quality private, complex criminal law matters.

• Regular court appearances throughout Queensland.

• Direct mentoring from experienced criminal defence practitioners.

• Modern offices in the heart of Bundall.

• Supportive team environment.

• Ongoing CPD and professional development.

• A collaborative, down-to-earth culture where your contribution is genuinely valued.

Travel & Flexibility

This position involves regular travel to courts throughout the Gold Coast, Brisbane and surrounding South East Queensland, together with correctional centres, police watchhouses and client conferences as required.

Criminal law is fast-paced and often unpredictable. There is an expectation that you will be available to assist clients outside standard business hours, including urgent police interviews, bail applications and other time-sensitive matters if required.

We recognise the commitment this requires and ensure these expectations are appropriately reflected within your overall remuneration package.

Why Smith Cambridge Lawyers?

Our clients place enormous trust in us during some of the most difficult moments of their lives. We are committed to ongoingly raising the bar and providing exceptional legal representation with professionalism, integrity and compassion.

We're proud of the culture we've built—one that values teamwork, accountability, excellence and continuous professional growth. If you're looking for a long-term opportunity where your advocacy is valued and your career can genuinely progress, this is the role for you.

Apply Now

If you're ready to join a criminal law firm where you'll enjoy quality work, regular advocacy and real career progression, we'd love to hear from you.

Please apply through SEEK with:

• Your current CV.

• A cover letter outlining your criminal law experience and why you're interested in joining Smith Cambridge Lawyers.

All applications will be treated in the strictest confidence.