Legal Associate

Position OverviewLegal associates assist with researching cases, points of law, preparing matters for hearing including other related matters for first instance judges and of the Court. Legal associates are responsible for providing assistance to judicial officers during court hearings and other administrative support to judges, as required. In addition, legal associates perform court support duties.
Legal associates primarily provide assistance to designated judges but may be asked to assist other judges if the need arises. Some travel may be required.
Key Responsibilities and DutiesThe occupant of this position:Provides research assistance to judicial officers.Assists judicial officers with the management of cases and, if required, enters data into the Court’s case management system.Assists with the preparation of matters for both the Court and the Judge, with the Judge’s judgment writing as required including head notes, catch wording, and editing in line with the Court’s judgments publication standards.Undertakes judicial associate and client service (court officer) duties, and provides assistance by updating chambers loose leaf series.Assists with the general operation of chambers, when required.
QualificationsIt is a mandatory that candidates have completed (or near completed) a qualification in law.
DesirableA strong academic recordHave completed the family law subject or have an interest in family law.University level public speaking or debating experienceInterest in advocacy as a career.
Selection Criteria Ability to undertake research (including on-line research) and prepare reports and written correspondence.Sound organisational skills including the ability to manage priorities, meet deadlines and work effectively under pressure in a team environment.Well-developed interpersonal skills including tact, discretion, initiative and the ability to communicate effectively with members of the judiciary, the legal profession, the public and other court staff.Ability to operate computer-based equipment and associated word processing and other software.Knowledge, or ability to acquire knowledge, of Family Court functions, the organisation, practices, procedures and terminology.
Salary$79,125 - $86,246 per annum, plus 15.4% superannuation.
Applications close on Monday, 31 August at 11:30pm (AEST).
How to ApplyAs part of your application, you will be required to submit a two-page response outlining your suitability for this position having regards to the selection criteria and duties of the position which are described in the position description (maximum word limit 1000).
Please ensure this document is attached before submitting your application.
If you have any issues with applying, please email recruitment@fedcourt.gov.au
Contact OfficerFor more information, please contact James Colbert via email james.colbert@fcfcoa.gov.au or by phone: on 02 4910 6727
EligibilityEmployment with the Court is subject to the conditions prescribed in the Public Service Act 1999, and the following:Australian citizenship – the successful applicant must hold Australian citizenship;Security and character clearance – the successful applicant must satisfy a Police Records Check, and may also be required to complete security clearances during the court of their employment;Health clearance – the successful applicant may be required to complete a health declaration or attend a medical assessment to confirm their fitness for duty.Interested candidates who have received a redundancy benefit from an APS agency are welcome to apply but note that they cannot be engaged until their redundancy benefit period has expired.
Diversity and InclusionFederal Court Australia is committed to supporting an inclusive and diverse workforce and welcomes and encourages applications from People with Disability.
First Nations peoples, LGBTIQA+ people, people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse backgrounds, mature age workers, as well as young workers and supporting an inter-generational workforce and supporting gender equity and families.
Federal Court Australia will provide reasonable adjustments for candidates to participate equitably in the recruitment process and discuss workplace adjustments to fulfil the inherent requirements of the role.
RecruitAbilityRecruitAbility applies to this vacancy. Under the RecruitAbility scheme you will be invited to participate in further assessment activity for the vacancy if you choose to apply under the scheme; declare you have disability; and meet the minimum requirements for the job. For more information visit: https:// www.apsc.gov.au/recruitability
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply.