Criminal - Litigation Solicitor

Criminal Defence Lawyer (short term contract or permanent) - Woodward ChrispDo you want to live in a mild climate where you can walk, ride or take a short drive to work?Woodward Chrisp is a well-established and respected law firm based in Gisborne, offering a wide range of legal services including criminal defence. Our team of 43 is working in spacious offices, with modern technology and excellent support staff. We pride ourselves on being a local firm responsive to and integrated into our local community, and we are dedicated to providing high-quality legal representation to clients across Gisborne and beyond.We are currently seeking a talented lawyer with criminal law advocacy experience to join our team. The ideal candidate will have 2-3 years PQE and PAL1 approval with Legal Aid Services (or the ability to gain such a listing), completed duty lawyer training,  a strong understanding of criminal law, and a passion for advocating for justice. Building credibility with judges, peers and others in the legal community will be important to you. As part of a tight team you will enjoy exchanging ideas and brainstorming solutions, and happy to provide mentoring to junior solicitors. You will have empathy and the ability to relate to a wide range of people.You will have a range of cases to work on, mainly in the criminal area, but previous civil law experience in family law, property law and employment would be a bonus. You will have your own PAL1 files as well as the opportunity to work on PAL3 and 4 cases.  What we expect from the ideal candidateA friendly enthusiastic attitudeAbility to get on with a wide range of peopleAbility to work independently with excellent time management skillsA sense of humourGreat organisational skills What we offerAn experienced, friendly teamEmphasis on work life balanceOngoing training and great mentoringA variety of workCompetitive salary based on experience Apply today through Seek with a cover letter and CV - don't miss this opportunity!