* Support Aboriginal clients and communities through skilled, impactful advocacy
* Provide legal advice, manage caseloads, and represent clients in court daily.
* $87,212 - $90,691 + super + salary packaging & leave loading
Job: | Full-Time | Permanent | Coffs Harbour, NSW | $87,212 - $90,691 (Based on Experience)
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.
Your Impact
As an integral member of the Criminal Law Practice, you will champion the rights of Aboriginal clients in criminal matters, delivering expert legal advice, preparing briefs, and representing clients across a range of courts. You will manage a dynamic caseload while upholding the highest standards of culturally informed, professional, and effective advocacy. Each day, you will:
* Provide high-quality, culturally appropriate legal advice and representation to Aboriginal clients, including preparing briefs and appearing in Local, Children's, District Courts, and Court Circuits.
* Manage a busy and diverse caseload while maintaining up-to-date knowledge of Criminal Law, court procedures, and ALS policies.
* Communicate effectively with clients, including those with complex needs or vulnerabilities, and ensure culturally sensitive engagement.
* Maintain professional and ethical standards in file management, legal practice systems, and compliance with ALS policies and legislation.
* Work collaboratively with colleagues, mentor junior solicitors, and contribute to law reform initiatives, meetings, and professional development activities.
* Travel as required to regional and other ALS offices to support client representation and legal service delivery.
Your Story & Strengths
You are a highly skilled and dedicated legal professional with a deep understanding of, and respect for, the cultural, social, and historical contexts that shape the lives of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. You combine legal expertise with a strong commitment to achieving justice and supporting community well-being. Key strengths include:
* Strong understanding of and respect for the cultural, social, and historical needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander clients, families, and communities.
* Ability to identify and address legal issues affecting socially and economically disadvantaged Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
* Legal qualifications with a current NSW Practising Certificate and up-to-date knowledge of Criminal Law practice and procedure.
* Excellent communication, legal research, analytical, and problem-solving skills, with strong time management and the ability to meet deadlines.
* Capacity to work autonomously, manage a diverse workload, and travel to various ALS offices as required.
* (Desirable) Experience in Criminal Law, including appearances in Local, Children's, District Courts, or Court Circuits.
Our Journey Together
At ALS, you'll find a career that truly matters, one where your work has purpose and impact every day. We are proud to offer a supportive and rewarding environment with 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) check for this role.
We are committed 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 at
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible, as we are moving quickly with this recruitment process.