Title:  Senior Legal Adviser

Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions

Prosecution Officer (Lawyer) Level 4

Temporary, for a period of up to 12 months

$189,720. Package includes salary ($161,034 - $168,130 p.a.), employer's contribution to superannuation and annual leave loading.

Do you have a passion for criminal law and experience in providing legal advice of a high standard in a fast-paced environment?

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

As Senior Legal Adviser, the role involves the provision of legal advice at a senior level for determination by the Director and the Deputy Directors on a variety of matters regarding the conduct of criminal proceedings. In preparing advice you will review and assess the reports and recommendations made by solicitors within the Office and Crown Prosecutors, evidentiary material, and relevant law, practice, procedure and policies.

We are looking for someone who has a comprehensive knowledge of criminal law, practice and procedure, policies and principles applicable to the conduct of criminal proceedings, including under the Early Appropriate Guilty Pleas reform and Crown Appeals.

With excellent written and verbal communication skills, and outstanding interpersonal skills, you will be able to clearly and succinctly apply this knowledge in the legal advice you provide.

Essential Requirements

• A degree or diploma in law and admission as an Australian legal practitioner.
• You must have obtained a Practising Certificate issued by the Law Society of NSW prior to commencing.
• Demonstrated experience in the provision of high-quality legal advice.
• Comprehensive knowledge of criminal law, practice and procedure, policies and principles applicable to the conduct of criminal proceedings.
• The ability to meet deadlines, handle urgent matters and re-prioritise tasks when required.
• Excellent written communication and interpersonal skills.

Interviews

The interview process will include capability-based assessments which may require your time and presence on more than one day.  

How to Apply

Please read the Role Description and address the key accountabilities and focus capabilities when preparing your resume [maximum three pages] and cover letter [maximum two pages].  You are required to demonstrate your suitability and claim for the role by addressing the following two targeted questions within the body of your cover letter:

1. Outline your experience in resolving complex legal and factual issues in a criminal law environment demanding concise, accurate and high-quality advice within a limited time frame.

2. Describe situations where you demonstrated high level communication skills and liaised with internal and external parties to formulate sound recommendations.

Please apply via jobs.odpp.nsw.gov.au, reference number 1285.

Please note, that when completing the online application form, you will be asked to provide the contact details of two relevant referees (who can speak from a Supervisory perspective), and consent to a Criminal History Record Check.

Closing date: Tuesday 27 May (11:59pm)

Please note that a talent pool will be created to fill temporary vacancies which may arise over the next 18 months.

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)

Enquiries 

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.