Lawyer PAL2
Public Defence Service - New Zealand
Auckland, New Zealand · Full Time
Be the first to apply
- Experience
- Any
- Salary
- NZD 74,490 – NZD 95,403 / year
- Openings
- 1
- Posted
- 2 weeks ago
- Work mode
- In office
- Education
- Qualified to practise law in New Zealand
- Eligibility
- People who are qualified to practise law in New Zealand and have PAL 2 approval are eligible to apply.
- Resume
- Required to apply
Where you'll work
Job description
Opportunity
Public Defence Service North Shore is seeking an experienced criminal defence lawyer to join its Albany office in a PAL 2 position. This is a strong opportunity for someone who wants a varied workload, a supportive team environment, and room to grow their criminal advocacy career.
Role overview
Reporting to a Legal Team Manager, you will provide defence representation to legally aided clients, handle a broad mix of criminal files, assist intermediate and senior lawyers, and help coach and guide junior lawyers.
About the work
The role suits a motivated criminal litigator who is confident working in a busy legal environment and enjoys contributing ideas, sharing knowledge, and working collaboratively.
About Public Defence Service and the Ministry of Justice
The Public Defence Service is part of the Ministry of Justice and serves the wider justice sector. The team delivers legal advice and representation across a wide range of criminal cases, with a focus on access to justice and service values such as respect, integrity, and excellence. The Ministry also provides central business services, infrastructure, and support to enable the work of the PDS.
The organisation values an inclusive workplace and welcomes people of all gender identities, ages, ethnicities, sexual orientations, disabilities, and religions.
Benefits
This position comes with 4.4 weeks of annual leave, access to a structured national training programme, professional development pathways, supervision support, and a laptop plus mobile phone.
Salary
The offered salary range is $74,490 to $95,403 per year, depending on experience and skills.
Application information
Applications close on 21 June 2026. The employer may begin reviewing CVs before the closing date and could invite candidates to interview early. Applicants are asked to submit a CV and cover letter through the careers website. For questions, contact [email protected].
Additional notes
Applicants must hold PAL 2 approval and be qualified to practise law in New Zealand. The role is based at the North Shore, Albany office and is a full-time onsite position.