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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic criminal law practice and mentor aspiring lawyers.
- Company: Join the Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service, dedicated to justice for Aboriginal communities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, meaningful work, and a supportive, culturally rich environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to shape the future of legal practice.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in community justice and systemic change.
- Qualifications: Experienced lawyer with strong advocacy and leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 120000 - 120000 £ per year.
Location: Preston, VIC
Employment Type: Full-time | 6-month fixed term | mid-May start
Salary: $120,000 + super
Lead with Purpose. Drive Real Change. Join a service where your leadership directly contributes to justice outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is seeking an experienced Managing Lawyer (Criminal Law) to support the Principal Managing Lawyer in leading a high-performing and values‑driven criminal law practice. This is a rare opportunity to step into a senior leadership role that combines strategic oversight with hands‑on advocacy, mentoring, and impact.
About Us
The Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service (VALS) is an Aboriginal Community Controlled Organisation and the only specialist legal service in Victoria dedicated exclusively to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. For over 50 years, VALS has delivered culturally safe legal representation and holistic support across criminal, family, civil and human rights law, youth justice, and specialist litigation. We are also deeply committed to systemic advocacy and reform.
About the Role
This is a senior leadership role with meaningful scope and influence. You will oversee the day‑to‑day operations of the Criminal Law practice while remaining actively engaged in complex legal work. You will play a key role in shaping team performance, supporting lawyer development, and ensuring the delivery of high‑quality, culturally safe legal services.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the day‑to‑day operations of the Criminal Law practice, including court rosters, file allocation and after‑hours services
- Supervise, mentor and support criminal law solicitors, paralegals and volunteers
- Conduct regular case planning, supervision, and career development reviews
- Appear as advocate across Magistrates', Children's, County and Koori Courts
- Manage and undertake complex criminal law matter casework, including serious indictable matters
- Ensure the delivery of culturally safe, high‑quality legal representation
- Contribute to staff training, community legal education, and in‑house professional development
- Represent VALS in stakeholder forums, networks, and law reform or policy advocacy
- Foster a collaborative, inclusive and high‑performing team culture
What You'll Bring
- Unrestricted Victorian Practising Certificate and substantial post‑admission experience
- Advanced criminal advocacy experience
- Demonstrated ability to lead, supervise and develop legal practitioners
- Strong understanding of issues impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the justice system
- Excellent communication, leadership and stakeholder engagement skills
Mandatory Requirements
- Law Institute of Victoria Accredited Criminal Law Specialist
- Employee Working with Children Check
- National Criminal History Check
- Valid Victorian Driver's Licence
- Proof of Australian work rights
Why Join VALS?
- Meaningful work that contributes to community justice and systemic change
- Supportive, values‑driven and culturally rich workplace
- Opportunity to lead and mentor the next generation of criminal lawyers
- Work within a holistic, client‑centred legal service model
Managing Lawyer - Criminal Law in Preston employer: Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service
Contact Detail:
Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Managing Lawyer - Criminal Law in Preston
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with folks in the legal community, especially those involved with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander issues. Attend events, join forums, and don’t be shy to reach out on LinkedIn – you never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for justice! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, make sure to highlight your commitment to culturally safe legal practices and advocacy. Share stories that demonstrate your experience and dedication to making a difference in the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching VALS and its impact. Understand their mission and values, and think about how your skills align with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re all about.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and contributing to meaningful change in the legal landscape.
We think you need these skills to ace Managing Lawyer - Criminal Law in Preston
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Managing Lawyer role. Highlight your experience in criminal law and any relevant leadership roles you've held, as this will show us you're a perfect fit for our team.
Showcase Your Passion: We want to see your enthusiasm for working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Share any experiences or insights that demonstrate your commitment to justice and cultural safety, as this is key to our mission at VALS.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your skills and experiences, making it easy for us to see how you can contribute to our high-performing team.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! This ensures we receive all the necessary information and helps us process your application smoothly. We can't wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Victorian Aboriginal Legal Service
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your criminal law knowledge, especially as it pertains to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Familiarise yourself with VALS' mission and values, and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their goals.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Managing Lawyer, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and mentor others. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed teams or supported junior lawyers in the past. Highlight your approach to fostering a collaborative and inclusive team culture.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions that assess your problem-solving skills and decision-making in complex legal situations. Think about past cases you've handled and be ready to discuss your thought process and the outcomes. This will show your practical experience and strategic thinking.
✨Engage with Cultural Competence
Since VALS is dedicated to providing culturally safe legal services, be prepared to discuss your understanding of the issues impacting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in the justice system. Show your commitment to cultural competence and how you can contribute to VALS' mission.