Applications close 13 December
As a Graduate Solicitor you will complete a 2-year graduate program with WLSQ to train, develop skills and build expertise in the areas of family law, domestic violence and child protection. Graduates will rotate between the Case Work and Advice teams to gain exposure to and learn from experienced solicitors in each of the legal programs at WLSQ. At the conclusion of the graduate program, graduates will be equipped with the necessary skills and experience to undertake direct client services with the potential for permanent placement with WLSQ.
ABOUT THIS ROLE
Key Responsibilities:
1. Undertake the delivery of WLSQ legal services as a solicitor in the Graduate Program under the supervision of a Team Leader:
- Observe and provide supervised legal advice and case work client appointments in the areas of family law, domestic violence and child protection.
- Observe and provide supervised representation work in the Federal Circuit and Family Court of Australia, Magistrates Court and Children’s Court as a solicitor advocate or briefing counsel where appropriate.
- Provide services to women through a trauma informed practice framework.
- Undertake the provision of legal services in accordance with the laws and regulations governing the legal professional and the mandatory requirements under the National Association of Community Legal Centres Australia (CLCA) Risk Management Guide.
- Provide duty lawyer services for domestic violence matters in designated Magistrates Courts.
- Develop and maintain stakeholder engagement with key agencies who work with priority access groups.
- Advise the Team Leader and Practice Director on issues relating to operational and/or legal risk.
- Work collaboratively with WLSQ social workers and other staff to provide legal information and guidance and to consult with other staff to provide appropriate non-legal referrals as required.
- Ensure risk assessment and safety considerations are routinely and comprehensively addressed in legal work undertaken providing support, information and advice to clients experiencing domestic violence.
- Liaise with external agencies and make client referrals where services are more appropriately provided or should be supplemented through accessing another service.
- Contribute to the development and delivery of community legal education and law reform activities of WLSQ as required.
- Foster a collaborative team culture for staff and volunteers which is professional, productive and supportive and consistent with the WLSQ Values and feminist principles.
- Any other tasks as requested by the Team Leader and/or Practice Director
2. Provide legal assistance to solicitors undertaking client work including:
- Word processing, preparing and editing documents such as correspondence to the Court, other legal representatives in the legal proceeding and the client, in addition to drafting and finalising file notes.
- Assistance with court appearances, including attending court to observe and provide legal support, and appearing and instructing counsel where appropriate.
- Assisting with managing client relationships and handling client enquiries.
SELECTION CRITERIA / SKILLS AND CAPABILITIES:
Employee Wellbeing:
The work performed by WLSQ involves providing legal and social support services to women and their children impacted by Domestic and Family Violence and / or Sexual Violence. All staff employed by WLSQ will be privy to or will take part in conversations with people who have experienced traumatic situations and it is likely some of our clients may still be experiencing the effects of trauma. In addition to the regular and comprehensive training and support provided by WLSQ, you will have to be mindful of your personal wellbeing and employ strategies to minimise impacts (if any) on your wellbeing.