Title:  Solicitor Advocate - Statewide

Department:  Solicitor's Office
Location: 

Statewide, NSW, AU

Requisition ID:  1206

NSW Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions

Solicitor Advocate

 

Prosecution Officer (Lawyer) Level 5

Temporary, for an initial period of up to 12 months

$226,369. Package includes salary ($200,608 p.a.), employer's contribution to superannuation and annual leave loading.

 

About us

 

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) is the independent prosecuting authority responsible for the prosecution of all serious indictable offences committed against the laws of New South Wales.

 

Our vision is to be a dynamic prosecution service recognised for our excellence and leadership. We act with integrity, by behaving ethically and professionally.

 

We are committed to a diverse and inclusive workplace by providing ongoing support and opportunities for all staff.

 

The role

 

The ODPP seeks senior lawyers who have well developed advocacy skills, excellent communication skills and extensive knowledge of criminal practice and procedure to prosecute jury trials in NSW.

 

Opportunities may be available in Campbelltown, Dubbo, Gosford, Lismore, Newcastle, Parramatta, Penrith, Sydney, Wagga Wagga and Wollongong. A Talent Pool will be created to fill vacancies across the office which may arise over the next 18 months.

 

As a Solicitor Advocate, you will

  • Conduct trials in the District Court and more complex matters in the Local and Children’s Court.
  • Certify charges and conduct case conferences.
  • Negotiate early guilty pleas where appropriate.
  • Provide high level legal advice to and on behalf of the Director.
  • Lead, guide and mentor other ODPP lawyers.

 

About you

 

  • Demonstrate extensive knowledge of criminal practice and procedure to prosecute jury trials in NSW.
  • Have well-developed advocacy skills and mentoring capability, and highly proficient oral and written communication skills.
  • Hold a degree or diploma in law and admission as an Australian legal practitioner. Candidates must be eligible for an Australian Practising Certificate and must have one issued or approved by the Law Society of NSW prior to commencement in the role.
  • Have a current driver's licence to work either at a regional office or on circuit in a regional location. 

 

Why choose the ODPP

 

As the prosecuting authority of NSW, the ODPP offers unique career opportunities. You will:

  • Receive mentoring from experienced Crown Prosecutors.
  • Undertake challenging work that makes a difference to the community.
  • Enjoy excellent working conditions, including flexible work practices, with a strong focus on staff wellbeing, health and safety (including access to 24/7 EAP services, a Wellbeing Check Program, access to special Fitness Passport rates, and workplace adjustments).
  • Have the opportunity to join five affinity groups including First Nations, Disability and Neurodiversity, People of Diverse Genders and Sexualities, Women, and Cultural and Linguistic Diversity. These groups foster inclusion by providing a network for social connection, support, advocacy, and a platform to share experiences and stories.

Interviews

 

The interview process will include capability-based assessments which may require your time or attendance on more than one day. It is expected that shortlisted candidates will be available to attend an interview in the weeks commencing 3 March and 10 March 2025. Please note that assessment tasks may be provided 24 hours in advance of your scheduled interview.

 

How to Apply  

 

Please read the Role Description and address the key accountabilities and focus capabilities when preparing your resume and cover letter. Please see below submission instructions.   

 

Applicants must submit:

 

1. A cover letter [maximum two pages] that highlights your claim for the role and demonstrates your suitability by addressing the following targeted questions.

 

By reference to your knowledge and experience detail clearly what you have done as an advocate and explain how that:

a) Would enable you to be an efficient and effective advocate for the Crown.

b) Demonstrates superior negotiation skills.

c) Demonstrates that you have ability as a leader and mentor.

 

2. Submit an updated copy of your resume [maximum 3 pages] with relevant skills and experience and detail how these relate to the capabilities of the role. 

 

3. Include (in table format) a summary of trials conducted as an advocate.

 

Please apply via jobs.odpp.nsw.gov.au, reference number 1206.

 

When completing the online application form, you will be asked to indicate your office location preferences, provide the contact details of two relevant referees (who can speak from a Supervisory perspective), and consent to a Criminal History Record Check. Please be aware that judicial officers may be contacted for feedback.

 

Closing date: Tuesday 11 February (11:59pm)

 

Enquiries: Craig Hyland Solicitor for Public Prosecutions - (02) 9285 8733  

 

Further Information

Learn more about the ODPP here: About us | ODPP (nsw.gov.au)  |Code of Conduct

To learn more about First Nations People and the ODPP: First Nations People and the ODPP | ODPP (nsw.gov.au).

Benefits of working with the ODPP: Benefits We Offer | ODPP (nsw.gov.au)

 

For general enquiries or if you require any reasonable adjustments to be made to support you during the recruitment process, please contact Bianca Burgess, Recruitment Business Partner on (02) 8268 2693 or recruit@odpp.nsw.gov.au. If you experience technical difficulties when submitting your application, please email recruit@odpp.nsw.gov.au and a response will be sent during business hours.

 

The ODPP values diversity and supports all staff to reach their full potential. The Office welcomes applications from First Nations people, culturally and linguistically diverse people, people identifying with diverse genders and sexualities, people with disability and other diversity groups. If you have individual requirements that need to be accommodated in order to participate in the selection process, please indicate this in your application.