Job Description
Just Defence Lawyers is a leading criminal defence practice based in Sydney, recognised for its work in serious, complex and high-profile criminal matters. We appear across all jurisdictions, including appellate courts, and are known for meticulous preparation, strategic thinking, and fearless advocacy.
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Our work demands precision, judgment, and intellectual rigour. We operate as a highly collaborative team where standards are high, expectations are clear, and professional development is a priority.
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Why Join Us
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You will work on serious indictable matters, complex litigation, and appellate work. This role offers meaningful exposure to strategic case preparation and higher court practice.
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Mentorship and Development
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You will work closely with the Principal in complex matters, gaining direct exposure to litigation strategy, appellate preparation, and advocacy development.
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Leadership and Growth
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This role is suited to a lawyer who is ready to develop as a managing lawyer — supervising junior lawyers and law clerks, contributing to practice management, and helping drive matters forward as part of a senior team.
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We are a genuinely supportive and team-focused practice. Matters are prepared collectively and strategically, not in isolation.
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About the Role
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We are seeking a Criminal Defence Lawyer with 2+ years PAE who is ready to step into a role that combines advocacy, litigation support in complex matters, and team leadership.
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This role is not primarily a file-owning role. Instead, the successful candidate will play an integral part in:
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Assisting the Principal in serious and complex matters
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Supervising and guiding junior lawyers and clerks
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Contributing to the strategic preparation of trials and appeals
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Assisting in the management and coordination of matters across the practice
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You will be expected to demonstrate maturity, judgment,



and the ability to support both clients and team members in demanding and quick-moving matters.
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Skills and Experience
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The successful candidate will demonstrate:
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Minimum 2 years post-admission experience in criminal law
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Strong drafting and analytical skills, including affidavits, advices, submissions, and court documents
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Work diligently and efficiently with minimal supervision
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Have strong and proven client management skills
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Advocacy experience in pleas, hearings, and release applications
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Experience assisting in District Court matters, Supreme Court matters and appellate work (or strong interest in appellate advocacy)
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Experience instructing counsel in complex matters
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A sound understanding of NSW and Commonwealth criminal law practice and procedure, including Practice Notes
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Excellent written and verbal communication skills
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Strong organisational and case-coordination skillsThe ability to work collaboratively in a structured team environment
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The ability to supervise, mentor, or assist junior team members
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Professional judgment, reliability, and attention to detail
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A second degree in science or engineering will be highly regarded but is not essential.
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Responsibilities
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Your responsibilities will include:
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Assisting the Principal in the preparation and conduct of serious indictable matters, trials, and appeals
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Assisting in appellate preparation, including research, drafting, and coordination of materials
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Supervising and supporting junior lawyers and law clerks
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Contributing to the management and coordination of matters across the practice
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Appearing as an advocate where appropriate
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Regular appearances in the Local Court, Children's Court, and District Court, with exposure to Supreme Court and appellate jurisdictions
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Liaising with clients, counsel, prosecutors, and other legal professionals
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Assisting with practice management tasks and ensuring firm procedures and standards are maintained
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Maintaining exceptional standards of client communication and file preparation
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📌 Criminal Defence Lawyer 2+ Years Pae (New South Wales)
🏢 Just Defence Lawyers
📍 New South Wales