Associate - General Practice

Fluid Recruitment; Nelson; On-site; NZD 110,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Fluid Recruitment is assisting a Nelson law firm to find an Associate or Senior Associate. This newly created role offers flexibility in positioning and is ideal for lawyers who enjoy variety and building strong client relationships.

You will manage your own files, work directly with clients, and collaborate with experienced practitioners across the firm. The work spans general practice matters, including property, trusts, estates and commercial transactions, with opportunities for professional

Qualifications

• Several years of experience within a New Zealand law firm.
• Confidence managing files and building lasting client relationships.
• Strong communication skills and a practical, solutions-focused approach.
• Interest in developing your practice and taking on greater responsibility.

Responsibilities

• Manage your own files and work directly with clients.
• Collaborate with experienced practitioners across the firm.
• Handle a broad range of matters across general practice areas including property, trusts, estates and commercial transactions.

Skills

NZ law firm experience

Client relationship building

Strong communication skills

Solutions-focused approach

Practice development interest

Job description

The Opportunity

Nelson's legal market is currently very busy! We have a number of our clients fully locked in to planning for 2027 and ensuring they have the right people in place to support their clients and future growth.

This particular opportunity is newly created for the firm and as such offers some flexibility as to how it is positioned, but would suit someone comfortable operating at an Associate or Senior Associate level and operating in a broader general practice capacity.

It is an excellent opportunity for a lawyer who enjoys variety, values strong client relationships and is looking for a role that offers both professional development and a fantastic lifestyle. With a broad and established client base, the firm offers exposure to a diverse range of general practice matters, including:

• Residential and commercial property transactions

• Trusts, wills, estates and succession planning

• Commercial and business transactions

• Rural property and other private client matters

The successful candidate will have the opportunity to manage their own files, work directly with clients and collaborate with experienced practitioners across the firm.

About You

We are keen to hear from lawyers with a background in general practice, property, commercial or private client work who are looking to take the next step in their careers.

Ideally, you will bring:

• Several years of experience within a New Zealand law firm

• Confidence managing files and building lasting client relationships

• Strong communication skills and a practical, solutions-focused approach

• An interest in developing your practice and taking on greater responsibility

You don't need experience across every area of general practice. Lawyers with a strong background in one or two of these disciplines who are interested in broadening their experience are encouraged to apply. More senior candidates will also be considered.

Why Nelson?

For lawyers considering a move from one of New Zealand's larger centres, Nelson offers an appealing combination of quality legal work and an outstanding lifestyle.

Known for its sunshine, beautiful coastline and thriving local community, Nelson offers easy access to Tāhunanui Beach, the Abel Tasman National Park, mountain biking, walking trails and the wider Tasman region.

With shorter commutes and so much to enjoy outside the office, it's a location where you can build a rewarding legal career without sacrificing your time away from work.

Interested?

Whether you're already based in Nelson or considering relocating to the top of the South Island, we'd welcome a confidential conversation.

With firms planning ahead for 2027, now is an ideal time to explore your next move. We are happy to discuss potential start dates with candidates considering relocation or a move in the new year.