Senior Criminal Defence Lawyer (PAL4) - Flexible Hours

Ministry of Justice - New Zealand; Hamilton; On-site; NZD 131,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

4.4 weeks holiday leave

Flexible work hours

Online PD portal

Inclusive networks

Job summary

The Public Defence Service in Hamilton, part of the Ministry of Justice, seeks a Senior Criminal Defence Lawyer (PAL 4) to deliver high‑quality representation to legally aided clients, manage a varied caseload, and appear in High Court or Court of Appeals when required.

You will mentor junior lawyers in a collaborative team, contribute to our values of respect and integrity. PAL4 remuneration ranges from NZD 130,614 to 179,876 per year, with starting pay set by skills and experience.

Qualifications

• Have a PAL4 level listing and be qualified to practice law in New Zealand.
• Demonstrated credibility with judges, peers and the legal community.
• Enjoy working in a collaborative, supportive team.
• Willingness to share legal expertise and brainstorm ideas.
• Empathy and ability to relate to a wide range of people.

Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality defence representation to legally aided clients.
• Manage a varied caseload of criminal matters, including high-profile cases.
• Appear in High Court and Court of Appeals when required.
• Train, mentor and supervise junior lawyers.

Skills

PAL4 level

Credibility with judges

Team player

Mentor junior lawyers

Education

Qualified to practice law in New Zealand

Job description

The Public Defence Service in Hamilton, part of the Ministry of Justice, seeks a Senior Criminal Defence Lawyer (PAL 4) to deliver high‑quality representation to legally aided clients, manage a varied caseload, and appear in High Court or Court of Appeals when required.

You will mentor junior lawyers in a collaborative team, contribute to our values of respect and integrity. PAL4 remuneration ranges from NZD 130,614 to 179,876 per year, with starting pay set by skills and experience.