Legal Counsel
Office of the Chief District Court Judge
Permanent Full Time
The Opportunity
The Legal Counsel to the Chief District Court Judge provides expert, 'fit for purpose' legal advice and support to the Office of the Chief District Court Judge to ensure decisions of the Office have a sound legal basis.
The role works closely with the Chief District Court Judge, providing legal advice to support the discharge of the Chief Judge's statutory role of ensuring the orderly and efficient conduct of the business of the court. This includes the provision of advice on strategic, constitutional and operational issues affecting all parts of the District Court, as well as issues of judicial administration, including judicial terms and conditions and complaints about judicial conduct.
The Legal Counsel also oversees the Judges' Clerks, providing coaching, mentoring and day‐to‐day guidance, fostering a supportive learning environment. This position is based in Wellington and reports to the Director, Office of the Chief District Court Judge.
Key Responsibilities
* Provide sound, well‐researched and legally accurate advice to the Chief District Court Judge and District Court Judicial Leadership team.
* Lead and guide the development of complex legal advice, including oversight of projects involving significant risk or uncertainty.
* Drive development, review and continuous improvement of legal frameworks, methodologies and processes to enhance quality and consistency of legal advice.
* Lead the provision of instructions to counsel where the District Court is named as a party in proceedings before the senior courts.
* Mentor and support the Judges' Clerks to develop their capability and ensure high‐quality research for their Judges.
Qualifications & Experience
* Recognised law degree.
* Admitted as a Barrister and Solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand and holder of an annual practising certificate issued by the New Zealand Law Society.
* Minimum of 8–10 years post‐qualification experience.
* Significant legal experience with demonstrable expertise in relevant fields.
* Proven ability to provide intellectual and professional leadership across organisations, including mentoring and developing junior staff and peers.
What You Need To Be Successful
* Sound understanding of New Zealand's constitutional framework.
* Demonstrated understanding of the District Court's statutory framework.
* Clear appreciation of the distinct roles of the Office of the Chief District Court Judge and the Ministry of Justice.
* Understanding of the structure, operations and business of the District Court.
* Understanding of the stance expected when the District Court is a party in proceedings before senior courts.
* Ability to communicate complex legal issues clearly and confidently.
* Ability to adapt quickly, manage competing priorities, and respond to changing needs.
* Excellent relationship skills and confidence to engage with and obtain the trust and confidence of the judiciary.
About Us
The Office of the Chief District Court Judge, known as the Chief District Court Judge's Chambers / Te Whare o Ngā Kaihautū Waka o Te Kōti-ā-Rohe o Aotearoa, is a small, high‐impact team that provides administrative, advisory, operational and strategic support to the District Court Judicial Leadership team. Joining Te Tāhū o te Ture – Ministry of Justice means you will become part of an organisation that welcomes and supports people of all gender identities, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, disabilities and religions.
Benefits
* 4 weeks holiday leave.
* Flexible work hours where possible.
* An online professional development portal.
* Access to a variety of inclusive and proactive networks.
See our full range of benefits here.
Salary
The appointing salary for this role will be between $130,129 and $179,192 based on skills and experience.
How to Apply
To apply, click the Apply button below to be directed to our Careers Website. You can view a detailed position description here, as well as complete an online application form by attaching your CV and cover letter.
Applications close on 31 May 2026; however, we will be reviewing CVs as they come in and inviting successful candidates to interview before the close date.
If you have any questions, please contact .
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