APS 4 – Legal Associate & APS 4 – Deputy Associate

Job Description

APS 4 – Legal Associate & APS 4 – Deputy Associate This advertisement is looking to fill APS 4 non-ongoing positions for both: APS 4 – Legal Associate – FCFCOA Division 1 APS 4 – Deputy Associate (Legal) – FCFCOA Division 2 As part of your application, you will be required to prepare and submit a one-page applicant response document in relation to the advertised role including your preferred role. If no preference is provided candidates will be considered for both roles. APS 4 – Legal Associate – FCFCOA Division 1 Purpose of Position Legal associates assist with researching cases, points of law, preparing matters for hearing including other related matters for first instance judges and of the Court. Legal associates are responsible for providing assistance to judicial officers during court hearings and other administrative support to judges, as required. In addition, legal associates perform court support duties. Legal associates primarily provide assistance to designated judges but may be asked to assist other judges if the need arises. Some travel may be required. Key Responsibilities and Duties The occupant of this position: Provides research assistance to judicial officers. Assists judicial officers with the management of cases and, if required, enters data into the Court’s case management system. Assists with the preparation of matters for both the Court and the Judge, with the Judge’s judgment writing as required including head notes, catch wording, and editing in line with the Court’s judgments publication standards. Undertakes judicial associate and client service (court officer) duties, and provides assistance by updating chambers loose leaf series. Assists with the general operation of chambers, when required. Qualifications It is mandatory that candidates have completed (or near completed) a qualification in law with a strong academic record and have completed the family law subject. Selection Criteria Ability to undertake research (including online research) and prepare reports and written correspondence. Sound organisational skills including the ability to manage priorities, meet deadlines, and work effectively under pressure in a team environment. Well-developed interpersonal skills including tact, discretion, initiative, and the ability to communicate effectively with members of the judiciary, the legal profession, the public, and other court staff. Ability to operate computer-based equipment and associated word processing and other software. Knowledge, or ability to acquire knowledge, of Family Court functions, the organisation, practices, procedures, and terminology. Deputy Associate (Legal) – Division 2 Purpose of Position The Deputy Associate is part of a small team who assist the Judge in the day-to-day management of Chambers and Court. This role also assists with the preparation of Court materials for the judge and involves undertaking legal research and assisting with judgment preparation as required. Key Responsibilities and Duties Assist in the conduct of Court proceedings, including the transcription of orders, ensuring the orderly conduct of matters and general Courtroom management. Assist the Associate in the day-to-day management of chambers including responding to enquiries and, as required, managing the Associate inbox on behalf of the Judge. Undertake legal research as required by the Judge, including identifying relevant legislation, summarising key legal authorities and preparation and maintenance of legal research materials. Assist the Judge with the management of cases and, as required, enter data into the Court’s case management systems to reflect the outcomes of Court events. Assist with the preparation of matters for both the Court and the Judge, which may include the preparation of case summaries, general file maintenance and other tasks as required. Assist the Judge with the preparation and delivery of judgments, which may include undertaking complex legal research as well as editing in line with the Courts’ judgments publication standards. Assist with the general operation of chambers. Other duties, as required. Qualifications It is mandatory that candidates have completed (or near completed) a qualification in law with a strong academic record. Selection Criteria Well-developed interpersonal skills including tact, discretion, initiative and the ability to communicate effectively with members of the judiciary, the legal profession, the public and other court staff. Ability to undertake legal research (including online research) and prepare reports and written correspondence. Demonstrated organisational skills, including the ability to manage priorities, meet deadlines and work effectively under pressure in a team environment. Demonstrated high-level keyboard skills and ability to use relevant software applications including Microsoft Office applications and the Internet. The ability to adapt to changing situations and priorities and participate in collective work practices. The ability to travel on circuits. Employment Conditions Employment with the Court is subject to the conditions prescribed in the Public Service Act 1999, and the following: Australian citizenship – the successful applicant must hold Australian citizenship. Security and character clearance – the successful applicant must satisfy a Police Records Check, and may also be required to complete security clearances during the course of their employment. Successful applicants engaged into the APS will be subject to a probation period. Diversity and Inclusion Federal Court Australia is committed to supporting an inclusive and diverse workforce and welcomes and encourages applications from People with Disability. First Nations peoples, LGBTIQA+ people, people from Culturally and Linguistically Diverse backgrounds, Mature age workers, as well as young workers and supporting an inter-generational workforce and supporting gender equity and families. Federal Court Australia will provide reasonable adjustments for candidates to participate equitably in the recruitment process and discuss workplace adjustments to fulfil the inherent requirements of the role. RecruitAbility applies to this vacancy. Under the RecruitAbility scheme you will be invited to participate in further assessment activity for the vacancy if you choose to apply under the scheme; declare you have a disability; and meet the minimum requirements for the job. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are strongly encouraged to apply. #J-18808-Ljbffr