Associate - Civil Dispute Resolution

Saunders & Co; Christchurch; On-site; NZD 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive remuneration

Mentorship

Development opportunities

Job summary

Saunders & Co in Christchurch is seeking an Associate in its litigation team based in the Christchurch CBD. The role offers mentorship from senior lawyers and the autonomy to handle client work with a hands-on team.

You will engage with various practice areas, focusing on civil dispute resolution, while collaborating closely with partners. You will be given opportunities to appear in court, mentor junior lawyers, and participate in workshops and client-hosting events, helping to build leadership

Qualifications

• 5–7+ years PQE in a similar litigation role.
• Strong initiative and ability to think on your feet.
• Excellent client-facing skills and confidence in person.
• Team player with ability to manage multiple priorities.
• Strong time management and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Mentor junior lawyers and engage in upskilling activities.
• Support senior authors on complex matters and client work.
• Occasionally appear in court and handle client matters.
• Develop skills and career with autonomy and challenge.

Skills

Client communication

Mentoring

Leadership

Time management

Prioritization

Job description

Jora New Zealand will close on 9th September 2026. Thank you for being with us, we are cheering you on as you continue your career journey.

Saunders & Co – Christchurch, South Island

An opportunity has arisen in our litigation team based in Christchurch CBD. The role presents a unique opportunity to join one of Canterbury’s most successful mid-size firms, servicing a local community while being exposed to a variety of practice areas, predominantly focusing on civil dispute resolution working closely with a talented, hands-on team and partners.

As an Associate, you will be a trusted mentor to junior lawyers, and will have the opportunity to join the other Associates and Senior Associates in the firm to engage in upskilling workshops and client hosting nights, building out your skillset from technical to leadership.

About the role

This opportunity will suit someone seeking strong mentorship from experienced leaders and senior authors, and the ability to get stuck into client work with a healthy dose of challenge, plus a higher level of autonomy in your role compared to many other firms.

You will be given opportunities to get into court as often as possible, and will support senior authors on more complex matters, while mentoring and developing junior lawyers.

The role offers opportunities to step up and challenge yourself, with a strong focus on developing your skills and your career.

About the team

The team brings a wealth of litigation knowledge and experience. They are also approachable, friendly, and enjoyable to work with, fostering a collaborative and supportive environment where everyone can thrive.

What we are looking for

• Approximately 5-7+ years PQE in a similar role
• A strong level of initiative and ability to think on your feet
• Excellent people skills and confidence in dealing with clients face-to-face
• Team player mindset and an ability to manage multiple priorities
• Strong time management and organizational skills

Why work for us

• Competitive remuneration and staff benefits/wellbeing offering
• Supportive team and wider firm, with hands-on mentorship and development opportunities
• Progressive firm with a strong focus on people and culture