Policy Lawyer

The Law Society of New South Wales is looking to employ a Policy Lawyer to join the Social Justice and Public Law Reform Team, Policy and Practice Department, on a full-time permanent basis.

About us

The Law Society of NSW is the voice of the legal profession and represents the interests of more than 37,000 members across the state. As part of this mission, our Policy and Practice Department initiates and shapes debate about law reform and the administration of justice in NSW by working closely with 18 specialist policy committees. Our high-performing, collaborative team of Policy Lawyers play a critical role in delivering this advocacy agenda.

About the role

The Policy Lawyer provides effective and efficient secretariat support to designated committees of the NSW Law Society Council, including research and policy advice, and to provide advice and assistance on practice matters to the profession.

What you will be doing

• Support designated Committees, taking into consideration particular actions required by the President, the Council, CEO, Director or Principal Lawyer and Team Leader.  This includes liaising with practitioners and other Law Society staff on issues arising from the Committees, drafting submissions, correspondence and reports as required and ensuring the timely completion and distribution of agenda papers and minutes. Committee areas might include Criminal Law, Family Law, Children’s Legal Issues, Diversity & Inclusion and Indigenous Legal Issues.
• Provide assistance to the President, Council, CEO and Director of Media through the preparation of briefing notes and other material on policy and practice issues as required.
• Undertake research on practice issues and policy development as required, including the preparation of material for the Law Society Journal, Monday Briefs and the Law Society website.
• Provide accurate, timely and effective practice information and assistance to members of the profession on practice matters in the areas of responsibility of the officer’s designated committees.
• Respond to telephone enquiries and correspondence from the legal profession regarding concerns about policy issues affecting practice.
• Establish and maintain effective working relationships with internal and external stakeholders.

About you

• Legal qualifications and holder of, or eligible to hold a NSW practising certificate.
• Experience in the development of legal practice policies, submissions, papers, and recommendations in at least one of the areas of legal practice addressed by the designated Committees.
• High level professional/technical knowledge of the legal profession and demonstrated commitment to regularly keeping abreast of recent developments in this area.
• Working knowledge of all relevant legislation related to the practice area of the designated Committees.
• Previous exposure to representational activities (desirable).
• Previous exposure to working with committees (desirable).
• Practice experience in one or more of the designated areas (desirable).
• Demonstrated research and policy development skills, including the ability to carry out legal and general research, including internet based research.
• Superior written and oral communication skills.
• Interpersonal skills of a high order.
• Strong organisational and time management skills.
• Ability to work and participate constructively as a team member.
• Effective computer skills.
• Ability to work with minimal supervision and to demonstrate initiative.
• Displays integrity and willingness to comply with the Law Society's confidentiality requirements.
• Willingness to work out of hours to attend Committee meetings.
• Ability to adapt to a changing and flexible work environment.

To apply

The Law Society of New South Wales is committed to building and maintaining a respectful and inclusive workplace, appointing the best person for the role and supporting diversity. 

Applications must contain a CV and cover letter that outlines your key experience and motivations for this role.